Being an actor in Vancouver can be a thrilling experience. The city has a booming film and television industry, with countless opportunities to audition for some big roles. But let’s face it – auditions don’t always come daily, and sometimes, the bills still need to be paid. Enter side hustles. Finding the right side gig can help you stay afloat while working toward your acting goals without completely throwing off your audition schedule. Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities that complement your acting career and offer flexibility.
So, what are the best side hustles for actors in Vancouver? Let’s dive into a few industry-related options that won’t ruin your chances of nailing that next big audition.
FREELANCE VOICEOVER WORK
Voiceover acting is one of the best side hustles for actors in Vancouver. It’s a great way to earn money while keeping your acting muscles warm. With Vancouver being home to many animation and video game studios, the demand for voice talent is strong. You could voice characters in animated films, commercial ads, or even video games.
The beauty of voiceover work is that you can do it from anywhere – at home, in your own time. You don’t have to worry about being stuck in a studio for hours on end. And, the best part? It won’t interfere with your audition schedule. You can record lines in between auditions or in the evenings after your day’s done. All you need is a good microphone, a soundproof space, and some basic editing skills to get started.
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT FOR CREATIVES
Many actors find themselves needing extra income, and social media management for fellow creatives is a perfect gig. You know how important it is for actors to maintain a strong online presence, and that includes everything from Instagram to TikTok and beyond. You could help other actors, filmmakers, or small production companies manage their social media platforms. This could involve creating content, scheduling posts, interacting with followers, and even running ads.
This side hustle allows you to use your creative skills in a way that’s still tied to the entertainment industry, while also being super flexible. You can work on these tasks when you have free time between auditions, and you won’t have to stress about missing any important meetings or callbacks. Plus, you’ll learn a lot about the business side of acting in Vancouver, which can always be helpful for networking.
TEACH ACTING CLASSES OR WORKSHOPS
If you’ve been in the industry for a while, you likely have tons of knowledge to share. Teaching acting can be a rewarding and lucrative side hustle. Whether you’re running your own workshops or offering private lessons, teaching acting to students is a flexible gig that aligns perfectly with your career. You can teach at local acting schools, offer private coaching, or even organize small group classes.
This is a great way to stay engaged with the craft while making money on the side. Plus, it keeps you sharp – explaining techniques to others can deepen your own understanding of acting. And the best part? You get to set your own schedule. You can choose to work around your auditions and make time for gigs that fit your lifestyle.
FILM PRODUCTION ASSISTANT (PA)
If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of a film set, becoming a production assistant could be a fun way to dive into the production side of things. In Vancouver, the film industry is alive and thriving, with productions happening year-round. PAs often work in entry-level roles that can vary from administrative tasks to hands-on work on set.
This side hustle gives you a unique behind-the-scenes view of how things come together in the film and TV world. It’s also a great way to network and build industry connections. While being a PA does involve some long hours, it’s important to note that the hours are often flexible. You can work on smaller projects in between auditions, giving you a chance to earn money and get more familiar with how everything works on set.
MODELING FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS OR DESIGNERS
Modeling is another excellent side hustle for actors, especially in Vancouver, where there’s a big demand for talent in print advertising, fashion, and commercial shoots. Modeling for photographers or designers allows you to stay within the creative industry while getting paid for your time. Whether it’s for a local brand, an up-and-coming designer, or an independent photographer, you can book shoots that fit around your audition schedule.
The beauty of this gig is that you’ll often be working with people who are also in the entertainment or fashion industry, meaning your connections could lead to acting opportunities. Plus, as an actor, you’re already familiar with the importance of looking natural on camera, so this is a gig you can excel at.
EVENT HOSTING OR MODERATING
Event hosting or moderating is another great side hustle for actors in Vancouver. Many events, from corporate functions to community gatherings, are always in need of someone who can speak confidently in front of a crowd. As an actor, your training helps you with public speaking, crowd engagement, and staying calm under pressure. This is a great way to make extra money while doing something you’re good at.
The schedule is typically flexible, and you can easily book events during times that won’t conflict with auditions. You can also start small with local community events or corporate webinars and work your way up to larger gigs. It’s a fun way to stay in the public eye and build your reputation as a host or speaker.
ONLINE CONTENT CREATION (YOUTUBE, TIKTOK, ETC.)
Creating content online is a fantastic way for actors to build their personal brand and make money on the side. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok are perfect for actors to share their craft and connect with their audience. Whether you’re sharing acting tips, behind-the-scenes moments from your auditions, or even showcasing your performances, this side hustle allows you to express your creativity on your own terms.
The beauty of creating online content is that you get to control the schedule. You can post when you have the time, and you don’t have to worry about making a huge commitment to any one project. Plus, if you build a big enough following, you can monetize your content through ads, brand partnerships, and sponsored posts.
TOURISM-RELATED JOBS IN VANCOUVER
Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, and it’s a tourist hotspot. For actors who have an interest in Vancouver’s history, culture, or natural beauty, tourism-related jobs can be a great way to make money. Consider becoming a tour guide or working with local tourism companies. Whether it’s walking tours, bike tours, or even kayak tours, these jobs offer flexibility and the opportunity to learn more about the city.
The best part? You get to work outdoors and stay active, which could be a nice break from long hours in a studio or at home preparing for auditions. Plus, interacting with visitors from around the world can help boost your networking skills.
CONCLUSION
Finding a side hustle that works with your audition schedule is important for any actor in Vancouver. The side gigs listed here not only offer flexibility but also keep you in the creative space, which can be inspiring and motivating as you continue your acting career. Whether it’s voiceover work, teaching, modeling, or exploring a tourism-related gig, there are plenty of options that won’t interfere with your acting goals.
Remember, it’s all about balance. With a bit of planning and some flexibility, you can pursue a fulfilling side hustle while still putting your focus on acting in Vancouver. Take your time, explore your options, and find the hustle that works best for you!