Actors, producers and directors

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Actors, producers and directors express ideas and create images in theater, film, radio, television and other performing arts media. They interpret a writer's script to entertain, inform or instruct an audience. Although the most famous actors, producers and directors work in film, network television or theater in New York or Los Angeles, far more work in local or regional television studios, theaters or film production companies engaged in advertising, public relations or independent, small-scale movie productions.

Actors perform in stage, radio, television, video or motion picture productions. They also work in cabarets, nightclubs, theme parks and commercials, and in "industrial" films produced for training and educational purposes. Most actors struggle to find steady work; only a few ever achieve recognition as stars. Some well-known, experienced performers may be cast in supporting roles. Others work as "extras," with no lines to deliver or make brief, cameo appearances. Some actors also teach in high school or university drama departments, acting conservatories or public programs.

Producers are entrepreneurs, overseeing the business and financial decisions of a production. They select scripts and approve development of script ideas, arrange financing and determine the size and cost of stage, radio, television, video or motion picture productions. Producers hire directors, principal cast members and key production staff members. They also negotiate contracts with artistic and design personnel in accordance with collective bargaining agreements and guarantee payment of salaries, rent and other expenses. Producers coordinate the activities of writers, directors, managers and agents to ensure that each project stays on schedule and within budget.

Directors are responsible for the creative decisions of a production. They interpret scripts, express concepts to set and costume designers, audition and select cast members, conduct rehearsals and direct the work of cast and crew. Directors approve the design elements of a production, including sets, costumes, choreography and music.

Actors, producers and directors work under constant pressure. To succeed, they need patience and commitment to their craft. Actors strive to deliver flawless performances, often while working irregular hours in undesirable and unpleasant conditions. Producers and directors experience stress from the need to adhere to budgets, union work rules and production schedules; organize rehearsals; and meet with designers, financial backers and production executives.

Training and qualifications

Employers generally look for people with the creative instincts, innate talent and intellectual capacity to perform. Actors should possess a passion for performing and enjoy entertaining others. Local and regional theater experience and work in summer stock, on cruise lines or in theme parks help many young actors hone their skills and earn qualifying credits towards membership in one of the actors' unions.

Formal dramatic training, either through an acting conservatory or a university program, generally is necessary. Most people studying for a bachelor's degree take courses in radio and television broadcasting, communications, film, theater, drama or dramatic literature. Many continue their academic training and receive a master of fine arts (MFA) degree.

Many professional actors rely on agents or managers to find work, negotiate contracts and plan their careers. Other actors rely solely on attending open auditions (listed in trade publications) for parts. To become a movie extra, one must usually be listed by a casting agency.

There are no specific training requirements for producers. Talent, experience and business acumen are very important determinants of success. Actors, writers, film editors and business managers commonly enter the field.

Job outlook

Employment of actors, producers and directors is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2010. Although a growing number of people will aspire to enter these professions, many will leave the field early because the work, when it is available, is hard, the hours are long and the pay is low. Competition for jobs will be stiff, because of the large number of highly trained and talented actors auditioning for roles. Only performers with the most stamina and talent will regularly find employment.

Earnings

In 2000, actors, producers and directors held about 158,000 jobs, primarily in motion pictures, theater, television and radio. Because many others were between jobs, the total number of actors, producers and directors available for work was higher. Employment in the theater is cyclical — higher in the fall and spring — and concentrated in New York and other major cities.

Median annual earnings of actors were $25,920 in 2000. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of actors were as follows:

Motion picture production and services $54,440
Producers, orchestras and entertainers 28,310
Miscellaneous amusement and recreation services 13,500

Median annual earnings of producers and directors were $41,030 in 2000. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of producers and directors were as follows:

Motion picture production and services $50,280
Producers, orchestras and entertainers 38,820
Radio and television broadcasting 34,630

Related links

For general information about theater arts and a list of accredited college-level programs:

National Association of Schools of Theater, 11250 Roger Bacon Dr., Suite 21, Reston, VA 20190.

For general information on actors, producers and directors:

Actors Equity Association, 165 West 46th St., New York, NY 10036.

Screen Actors Guild, 5757 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036-3600.

American Federation of Television and Radio Artists-Screen Actors Guild, 4340 East-West Hwy., Suite 204, Bethesda, MD 20814-4411.

Adapted from the Labor Department's Occupational Outlook Handbook.