Welcome to the world of acting in Vancouver! Whether you’re an aspiring actor fresh out of high school or an acting student working on your craft, you’re in the right city. Vancouver has become known as “Hollywood North” because of its booming film and television industry. Shows like Riverdale, The Flash, and countless Hallmark movies are all filmed right here. It’s an exciting place to start your acting career, and there’s no better time than now. Let’s talk about how to navigate the Vancouver acting scene and, most importantly, how to land that first big break!
FIND THE RIGHT TRAINING
One of the best steps you can take as an aspiring actor is to get trained. Vancouver has many great acting schools, which can give you the skills and confidence needed to stand out. A good Vancouver acting school can teach you the basics of acting technique, help you develop a unique style, and introduce you to industry professionals who can open doors. Whether it’s scene study, improv, voice work, or learning how to perform on camera, these classes provide invaluable practice. Training isn’t just about learning the ropes—it’s about building a foundation that makes you feel prepared for anything thrown your way. When you’re well-trained, casting directors will notice. Plus, being in a Vancouver acting school gives you a chance to meet other actors, directors, and potential collaborators. Networking is everything in this industry!
START AUDITIONING FOR STUDENT FILMS AND INDIE PROJECTS
When you’re starting, experience is gold. Auditioning for student films or indie projects may not bring fame right away, but it will build your resume and give you experience on set. Many film students who are working on projects for their courses need actors for their projects, which means you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get involved. These smaller projects are also a great place to learn about the industry, practice your acting skills, and understand what it feels like to work on a set. Treat every project, no matter how small, with professionalism and commitment. Directors often refer actors to others if they show talent and dedication, so every gig could lead to more.
BUILD YOUR RESUME AND DEMO REEL
A good demo reel is essential. Casting directors want to see what you can do, and a demo reel highlights your range and personality as an actor. Aim to collect footage from every project you’ve done, even if it’s just a student film or a small indie production. Your resume should also reflect every piece of work you’ve completed. Include details about your training, any theater performances, and on-screen roles. Make sure your demo reel is short—usually two to three minutes is ideal. Lead with your strongest clips, as casting directors often only watch the first 30 seconds. If you’re just starting and don’t have footage yet, don’t worry. You can work with a local videographer to create simple scenes that showcase your abilities. Make sure these scenes reflect your type and range, giving casting directors a clear sense of what you bring to the table.
GET HEADSHOTS THAT STAND OUT
Your headshot is often the first impression a casting director will have of you, so invest in high-quality photos that capture your look and personality. Choose a professional photographer who understands the specific needs of actor headshots. It might feel like a big expense at first, but great headshots can make all the difference. Your headshots should look like you on a good day—don’t overdo the makeup or styling. Show different expressions in a few shots so that casting directors can imagine you in various roles. Once you’ve done a shoot, pick a few of the best shots and keep them updated every few years, or whenever your look changes significantly.
FIND A TALENT AGENT
An agent can be a huge asset when it comes to landing auditions. Vancouver is full of reputable talent agencies that represent actors for roles in film, television, commercials, and theater. A good agent will help you navigate the industry and get your foot in the door for auditions you might not hear about otherwise. When you’re ready to find an agent, do some research on agencies that have a good reputation in Vancouver. Many agencies accept online submissions, so gather your resume, headshots, and demo reel, and send them in. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back immediately—it’s normal. Keep training, auditioning, and building your resume, and try again in a few months.
NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK
In acting, it’s often about who you know. Networking in Vancouver can open up unexpected opportunities and help you meet people who can advance your career. Attend local film festivals, theater shows, and networking events. Many actors also find it helpful to join organizations like the Union of British Columbia Performers (UBCP), which hosts events and workshops that are great for meeting other actors, casting directors, and agents. Social media is another powerful networking tool. Follow local casting directors, filmmakers, and other actors on platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Engage with their content in a genuine way, but don’t go overboard. Building relationships takes time, and authenticity is key.
LEARN THE VANCOUVER CASTING PROCESS
Casting in Vancouver often works through a few main avenues. Most professional productions work with local casting directors, and some roles are posted on online casting platforms like Casting Workbook and Mandy. Signing up for these sites is a great way to find auditions, especially for beginners. When applying for roles, follow instructions carefully. Casting directors are swamped with submissions, so make sure your application is clear, professional, and follows the guidelines. Also, remember that self-taping has become a common part of the process. Learn how to set up a professional-looking self-tape, with good lighting, sound, and framing. Practicing this at home can save time and make you feel more confident when it matters.
TREAT EVERY OPPORTUNITY LIKE YOUR BIG BREAK
When you do land a role—whether it’s a commercial, a background gig, or a minor part in a show—bring your best. No matter how small the role may seem, treat it with respect and dedication. Your professionalism, attitude, and ability to work well with others will leave a lasting impression. Directors and producers take note of actors who bring something special to the table, even in minor roles. If you’re reliable and give each role your all, you’ll have a better chance of being called back for more work. Remember, every successful actor started somewhere, often with small parts and short scenes.
STAY PATIENT AND PERSISTENT
The road to a big break can be long, and rejection is just part of the game. Even the most successful actors have faced countless rejections before landing their iconic roles. Keep your spirits up, stay focused on improving your craft, and don’t let “no” hold you back. Celebrate the small victories, whether it’s landing a student film role, getting called back for an audition, or connecting with someone new in the industry. Each step moves you forward, even if it doesn’t feel like it at the time. Acting is a marathon, not a sprint, and every experience counts toward your journey.
VANCOUVER’S ACTING COMMUNITY: EMBRACE IT!
The Vancouver acting community is welcoming, vibrant, and full of talented people. It’s one of the best places to start an acting career, with plenty of resources and support available for newcomers. If you stay dedicated to your path, work hard, and remain open to learning and growing, that first big break will come. So, take classes at a Vancouver acting school, meet people, build your portfolio, and keep putting yourself out there. Your journey to becoming a successful actor might have challenges, but it’s full of exciting opportunities. Keep at it, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish!
Good luck, and break a leg!