So you didn’t get into drama school?
The world of acting is not easy. It’s a competitive industry, and getting rejected is something of a rite of passage. But if you’re feeling down about it, don’t panic – you’re not the only one.
Rejections are pretty common, and why wouldn’t they be: drama schools only have a small number of places with thousands of actors applying.
It’s definitely worth trying to enter a drama school again next year. There’s nothing wrong with not getting in the first time so never give up!
If you’re looking into getting a postgraduate course, then having an undergraduate degree first is priority number one. Postgraduate courses are expensive, so it’s easier if you have the necessary qualifications first.
Generally, drama schools prefer students after they’ve gained a few years of life experience and they like actors who are comfortable in their own skin, with the ability to connect to a character emotionally.
13 things to do if you don’t get into drama school
1. Rejection
- Acting can be tough and it’s hard to get discouraged when the rejection letter comes in. That doesn’t mean you should give up on your acting dream.
- Getting rejected is just part of the job.
- Every actor goes through a period of rejection when they’re starting out in this industry. There are always going to be plenty of people that won’t buy into what you do – but if it’s something that you really love, then it’s all worth it in the end.
- If you’re going to base your future on a single attempt then you don’t want to be an actor that badly.
2. Training is key
- Now that you have a whole year to prepare yourself, you can make sure you are making the right choices.
- Basically, if you decide to apply for drama school again next year and hopefully get in, you’ll receive the best acting training an aspiring performer can get as well as leave with some great contacts, a degree that you can actually leverage in the industry and possibly even already be signed by a talent agent.
- You can also try some online acting classes. This may not be the best option for you, but if you have the time and some extra money, it could be worth it!
- Be sure to enroll in acting technique, voice, and movement classes when available.
3. Read
- Try to read everything you can get your hands on, whether it’s novels, plays, or memoirs. Pick up acting books and try to learn things from them.
- Much of what is taught in acting books are the same lessons that drama schools teach.
- Reading about the ins and outs of show business, as well as learning about the craft, can greatly benefit you if you are looking to pursue a career in the industry.
4. Write
- Whether you are a writer or not, chances are you will be called upon to do some creative writing in the modern workplace. Having a foundation in storytelling and character development can help get you started and give you some ideas on what to do when faced with a blank page or screen.
- It helps you learn to think outside of the box and exercise your imagination.
5. Go to the theatre
- Why not take a look at the shows and productions that were put on by drama schools that didn’t accept you?
- Or go to the productions at youth and community theatres?
- You will have the opportunity to explore a wide array of different genres, and you can even take notes on performances that you enjoy and make connections with your other classes.
6. Observe people
- Most people’s lives are vastly different from how they imagined them. They think they’ll be an astronaut, doctor, or famous musician but end up as “just” a doctor, engineer, or store clerk. With this in mind, it’s important to not take today for granted and remember to live your life to the fullest.
- Through finding yourself exposed to different cultures from traveling, going to cultural events, reading or people watching you will have a better understanding of the many diverse characters that exist in the world.
7. Youth theatre
- Youth theatres are a good option for younger actors who are on a budget. They help to develop performance skills, as well as give valuable experience in the role of running a theatre.
- Youth theatre really helps actors get lots of experience and skills, especially writing, directing, and producing skills.
- Building a network of other like-minded professional actors, writers and directors can help you create a community of support and open up new opportunities for collaboration. This is especially the case if you’re looking to collaborate with others on similar projects.
- Notable youth theatres include the National Youth Music Theatre, the Young Company at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre, the Bristol Old Vic Young Company, and the Young Lyric at the Lyric Hammersmith in London.
- But let’s not stop at that. If you really want to take your skills to the next level, consider auditioning for one of the bigger youth theatre groups.
8. Masterclass
- If you want to learn something in a quick convenient way, evening, half-day, one-day, or two-day masterclasses are the way to go.
- Some drama schools run audition technique masterclasses.
- You can also take a masterclass online.
- Masterclass.com offers five hours’ worth of teaching with either Kevin Spacey or Dustin Hoffman for $90.
9. Part-time course
- Many people are turning to online coursework in order to get the training they need in order to break into the industry. There are thousands of courses available, many of which are part-time and available for anyone who is interested.
- These courses have been tailored to be taught in an online setting, making them accessible for students with busy schedules or who live in remote areas.
- They do vary in quality, so before signing up for lessons find out about the tutor and if possible, attend a trial session.
`10. Short film
- Filmmakers are always looking out for the best actors to take on key roles in their films.
11. One on One lessons
- Choose your teacher carefully. Make sure you check their qualifications and see if they are someone you can work with.
- The best way to move forward in your career is to identify and focus on what you are good at and work on improving areas that need improvement. This is the main purpose of taking one on a “one-on-one lesson”.
- It is so valuable to have someone whose focus is solely on you.
- “It’s always good to experiment with different ways of learning how to act. Doing scenes & acting out monologues can be really helpful.”
12. Get noticed
- Missing out on drama school can put you at a disadvantage. You miss the 3 years of rigorous training and also the opportunity to gain your agent there.
- Becoming a professional actor without attending acting school is tough, but if you’re willing to do the work and put in the hours training yourself, it can be achieved. For those who are thinking about becoming professional performers but have not been to drama school, there are many opportunities today.
13. University
- If you are one of the many aspiring performers who have been rejected by drama schools, don’t worry. There are still plenty of things that you can do to improve your chances of being accepted into a drama school. Some students choose to enroll in a performing arts course at university, which offers good options for those who are not confident with their performance skills or if they want to explore different artistic disciplines.
Conclusion
Even if you didn’t go to drama school, it’s important to find ways to practice your craft and grow as an actor.
A good idea for those looking to become an actor is to take a one-year acting course that will give you the skills you need to be able to succeed at an audition next year.
The Drama School 1 year course will be an investment that will put you in a better position if you are not fortunate enough to get into Drama School the first, second, third, or fourth time.
Leave a comment with your opinion or any questions you may have below…
