Actors

Also Called: Actor, Actress, Comedian, Performer

What Actors do

Play parts in stage, television, radio, video, or film productions, or other settings for entertainment, information, or instruction. Interpret serious or comic role by speech, gesture, and body movement to entertain or inform audience. May dance and sing.

  • Collaborate with other actors as part of an ensemble.
  • Portray and interpret roles, using speech, gestures, and body movements, to entertain, inform, or instruct radio, film, television, or live audiences.
  • Work closely with directors, other actors, and playwrights to find the interpretation most suited to the role.
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Work Context

  • Work With Work Group or Team
  • Physical Proximity
  • Contact With Others
  • Electronic Mail
  • Time Pressure

Tools

  • Microphones
  • Camera tripods
  • Notebook computers
  • MP3 players or recorders
  • Digital cameras

Technology

Web page creation and editing software
Facebook
LinkedIn
Video creation and editing software
Apple Final Cut Pro
YouTube
Electronic mail software
Email software
Microsoft Outlook

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening
  • Social Perceptiveness
  • Critical Thinking

Knowledge

Arts and Humanities
music, dance, visual arts, drama, or sculpture
English language
Communications
multimedia
Math and Science
sociology and anthropology
psychology
Business
customer service

Education

  • 45% Less than high school diploma
  • 21% Bachelor's degree
  • 16% High school diploma or equivalent

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

  • Artistic (Creator)
  • Enterprising (Persuader)

Work Styles

  • Cooperation
  • Persistence
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Dependability
  • Initiative
  • Social Orientation

Values

  • Relationships
  • Achievement
  • Independence

Abilities

  • Memory
  • Verbal
  • Ideas and Logic

This is what Actors across the country typically make.

$13.00 / hour
$27,040 /year

Entry Level

$20.50 / hour
$42,640 /year

Median Level

$100.01 / hour
$0 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Average

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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