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Drama Major

Is majoring in drama a bad decision if I want to become an actress?

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Subject: Career question for you

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Leah’s Answer

Completing formal education is good for your mind and soul. I have a degree that I started when I was 18 and finished when I was 38 as a single mother with 3 children and none of it was online!

I started.
I finished.
I was committed and people in the acting world appreciate commitment .

If you’d like to learn acting techniques and history and practice a lot, yes, Go!

If you’d still like to act while in school, you most certainly can!

Commercials and local theater will be flexible with your education schedule.

Or, create your own shows and perform on or off campus.

That’s impressive on your resume!

You can find out more about my education and acting experience on IMDB.com
by searching for Leah Renee-K , my IG: @leahsprmiami or FB: Leah Renee-K.

Please feel free to keep in touch and ask anything anytime!

Keep your dream alive!!!

Wishing You a
Peaceful and Prosperous Day!

Leah Renee-K

Leah recommends the following next steps:

Set up a college visit to a performing arts college!
Go see a free or paid production at a college and see if you can imagine yourself up there performing!
Go audit (see if you like…the first one is usually free) an acting class.
Thank you comment icon This is sure awesome advice which will provide inspiration to many. Michelle M.
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Muhammad’s Answer

Majoring in drama can be a beneficial decision for individuals aspiring to become actors. Pursuing a drama major offers a comprehensive foundation in acting techniques, theatrical history, script analysis, stagecraft, and other essential aspects of the performing arts. Here are some reasons why majoring in drama can be advantageous for aspiring actors:

1. Skill Development: A drama program provides a structured environment to develop and refine acting skills. Through classes, workshops, and practical experience, students learn various acting techniques, including voice projection, physicality, character development, improvisation, and stage presence. These skills are crucial for aspiring actors to create believable and compelling performances.

2. Exposure to Different Genres and Styles: Drama programs expose students to a wide range of theatrical genres and styles, including classical plays, contemporary works, musical theater, experimental theater, and more. This exposure helps actors develop versatility, adaptability, and a broader understanding of different performance techniques and aesthetics.

3. Networking Opportunities: Drama programs often provide opportunities for students to collaborate with peers, faculty, and industry professionals. These connections can lead to future collaborations, referrals, and recommendations that are valuable when seeking acting opportunities. Additionally, drama programs often organize showcases, productions, and industry events, providing students with opportunities to showcase their talent to agents, casting directors, and other industry professionals.

4. Training in Related Areas: Alongside acting, drama programs typically offer training in other aspects of theater production, such as directing, playwriting, stage management, and technical theater. Gaining knowledge in these areas can provide actors with a well-rounded understanding of the overall production process and enhance their ability to collaborate effectively with other theater professionals.

5. Personal Growth and Self-Expression: Majoring in drama allows individuals to explore their creativity, gain self-confidence, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the human experience. Drama programs often encourage self-reflection, empathy, and emotional intelligence, which can greatly benefit actors in their character portrayals and overall artistic development.

While a drama major can provide a solid foundation, it's important to note that formal education is not the only path to becoming a successful actor. Many actors have achieved success through practical experience, workshops, community theater, and networking opportunities outside of academia. Ultimately, the decision to major in drama should be based on your individual goals, interests, and learning preferences.

Remember that becoming a professional actor often requires perseverance, dedication, and continuous learning even after completing a drama program. It's crucial to supplement formal education with practical experience, auditions, and ongoing professional development to thrive in the competitive field of acting.
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Michelle’s Answer

Majoring in Drama is never a bad idea if you want to be an actress. It is what you should major in. A decision you might want to consider is whether or not you need a college degree to be an actress.

If you major in Drama, my advice is to pick a minor course of study, whatever your second interest may be. I have a Bachelors degree in Theatre with a minor in Social Science and did/do both careers at different times. You will want something to - as they say - "fall back on" as acting work is conditional, depending on many factors.

Although acting does not require a degree, some people get the degree plus go for a teaching credential and teach acting in high school or college level. Regardless, I do know that the degree in Theatre carried weight for me, especially fresh our of college when I got a job in professional theatre soon after. A degree in anything will be to your benefit regardless of what you major in. Just a bit of trivia : The well known actor, Tom Hanks, went to the same university I did but he was two years ahead of me. He didn't go for the degree, though and look how far he has gotten. I also know some actresses in L.A. who never took an acting class in their lives and have won awards.

If you want to act, I would say to immerse yourself in instruction, auditions and practice either in formal academics or in the community. Experience is also a factor. You may want to do community theatre while stufying in college. You're right there in L.A. - great for you ! It's one of the richest theatre regions, as you know, as well as for television and film. Other regions of the U.S. are emerging, too.

I had such a rewarding academic experience as a theatre student, so I naturally advise people to go the academic route. In your senior year, you will wonder what will happen after you graduate, but taking the steps that you think are right for you will guide you as will your intuitive judgement. Since you are right there in the entertainment capitol of the world, you have many resources, colleges, and chances for work right at your fingertips !

Best wishes and no matter what decision you make or which avenue you take, I wish you all the best in a fun and rewarding career !
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