How to Become an Actor in the UK: Your Ultimate FAQ Guide

Becoming an actor is rarely a straight path—just ask Octavia Spencer, Jonathan Groff, or Aaron Paul. Spencer built her career through smaller roles, Groff got his big break via casting notices, and Paul was discovered at a competition. Each journey is unique, but one thing’s consistent: you need to be prepared when opportunity knocks.

Whether your goal is to shine on stage in the West End, land a role in a Netflix series, or become the next voice of an animated icon, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to start your acting career in the UK.

What Types of Acting Jobs Are There?
The acting world is incredibly diverse, offering several career paths based on your skills and interests:

🎥 On-Screen Actor
These actors perform in front of the camera in TV shows, films, or digital content. Roles range from lead characters to commercials and background work.

🎭 Theatre Actor
Performing live in plays, musicals, or immersive theatre, stage actors bring stories to life in front of a live audience. London’s West End is a global hotspot for theatre.

🎙 Voice Actor
Using only your voice, this type of acting involves work in animation, radio dramas, audiobooks, commercials, and video games.

Many universities offer training through degrees like Acting BA (Hons) and Music Theatre BA (Hons), which include specialised modules in stage, screen, and voice performance to help you build a versatile skill set.

Why Is London a Great Place to Start an Acting Career?
London is often called the theatre capital of the world, and for good reason. With around 40 West End theatres and countless Fringe venues, it’s a hub for live performance.

Beyond the stage, London also hosts major film and TV productions. Studios like Shepperton (used by Netflix and Amazon Prime) offer growing opportunities for screen actors. The city is also home to many industry insiders—agents, casting directors, producers—making it an ideal base for networking and auditions.

Where Can I Find Acting Auditions?

Finding auditions is one of the first hurdles for any aspiring actor. Here’s where to look:

Backstage – One of the most reliable platforms for casting calls in the UK and beyond.

Spotlight – A professional casting directory widely used by agents and casting directors.

Mandy – Offers listings for a variety of acting jobs, including independent and student productions.

Social Media – Follow casting directors and theatre companies on platforms like Twitter and Instagram for audition notices.

📋 Becoming an Actor then Register with a Casting Agency

An essential step in breaking into the industry is getting representation. Consider registering with established casting agencies to increase your exposure. One such agency is We’ve Got Talent, a respected agency that helps connect actors with casting directors for theatre, film, and television roles.

By signing up with agencies like We’ve Got Talent, you gain access to exclusive casting calls, professional guidance, and potential opportunities that may not be publicly advertised. Ensure that your portfolio, including your headshot and CV, is polished and up-to-date before submitting your details.

Do I Need to Attend Drama School?
While not required, attending a respected drama school can boost your training, industry connections, and credibility. Top UK schools include:

Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)

London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA)

Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Royal Central School of Speech and Drama

These schools offer intensive, conservatory-style training and often invite agents and casting directors to student showcases.

What’s the Cost of Living in London for Actors?
Living in London can be expensive, especially when starting out. Key costs include:

Rent: £700–£1,500 per month depending on location and shared accommodation.

Transport: A monthly Travelcard for Zones 1–2 costs around £150.

Acting Expenses: Headshots, classes, and union fees can add up quickly.

Budget wisely and consider part-time work in hospitality or retail while auditioning. Some actors also supplement their income with teaching or freelance gigs.

Final Thoughts: Be Ready for Your Break
There’s no single route to becoming an actor—but staying committed, constantly improving your craft, and being ready when the opportunity comes is key. Whether you’re drawn to the spotlight of the West End or the camera lens of a streaming series, the UK has a wealth of opportunities waiting.

So sharpen those monologues, update your headshots, and dive in. Your acting journey starts now. Click here to register with We’ve Got Talent