Whats the best way to get into acting?

Question:also would having a degree in theatre help??
and what are some tips on getting a agent

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: also would having a degree in theatre help??
and what are some tips on getting a agent

It depends on what kind of acting you want to do.

In general, the best way is to gain experience in and around the type of acting which interests you. I would definitely suggest live theatre as a place to start because it is the best place to learn timing, audience reaction, and all the other subtle arts and crafts of theatre.

If theatre is calling you, find local groups, community theatres, improv groups, etc., and audition, volunteer, or anything else to contribute to a production. You can learn a great deal by watching, but the best learning for acting is gaining experience. You can gain experience by taking classes, which will help give you the special language of acting. It will particularly help if the class does a showcase before a live audience.

There are also particular classes for film and TV technique, which requires a different set of skills.

I don't necessarily think that having a degree in theatre is as beneficial as gaining experience and contacts in the industry. Sometimes, you can find a school that will help with both, but many colleges and universities will give you a foundation that is sometimes at odds with how the actual business of show business works.

Some agents go to productions and showcases looking for new talent, some will only pay attention to names they run across in reviews. My agent only seems to send me on calls after I have dropped by her office. Once you have some experience, if you haven't gotten an agent's attention, send a headshot and resume to agents and casting agents. Follow that with a visit to their offices.