Category: The Essentials
-
Film, TV and Podcast Recommendations from The Spotlight Prize Finalists
From the latest films to groundbreaking television series, discover the shows and sounds inspiring the next generation of actors. For an actor, watching film, television and performance art isn’t just entertainment – it’s a vital form of creative research and a way to fuel the imagination. From the gritty realism of modern war dramas to…
-
How Stage Combat Training Can Benefit Actors
Expert Zhenya Leverett explains how mastering the art of stage combat transforms physical action into powerful storytelling. Many actors view a fight call as a series of boxes to tick – a punch here, a fall there, and a prayer that no one actually gets hurt. But as both a professional actress and a fight…
-
Celebrate World Book Day with Eight Essential Reads for Actors
Enhance your craft and find inspiration with these must-read titles for performers. To celebrate World Book Day, we teamed up with the renowned performing arts publishers Nick Hern Books to curate this reading list for performers. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your physical skills, dive into the psyche of a character, or find your next…
-
Skills That Make You Stand Out According to Casting Directors
Top casting directors reveal the essential skills, from prep to self-taping, that make actors stand out today. The world of acting is always evolving, and so are the expectations of those on the other side of the table – casting directors. We spoke to some of the industry’s top casting directors, including Lucy Casson, Ruth…
-
8 Iconic LGBTQ+ Roles on Television
A look at eight iconic LGBTQ+ characters on television and the performers who portrayed them. Drama and queerness have long been intertwined, but it’s only in more recent decades that LGBTQ+ characters have had a chance to shine on the small screen. With television being one of the most accessible forms of media, it can…
-
Performing Arts Charities
The performing arts industry can be tough and sometimes you may need some support during your career or beyond. We’ve gathered a list of fantastic charities who can offer help should you ever need it. Last updated on 16 October 2025 Whether you need help to make ends meet, support your child in education or…
-
Kahleen Crawford’s Self-Tape, Audition and Showreel Tips
Casting director Kahleen Crawford’s expert advice on self-tapes, auditions and showreels for actors looking to land their next role. Meet Kahleen Crawford (CDG, CSA), a highly respected casting director known for her work on acclaimed films and series like All of Us Strangers, Living, The Buccaneers, The Lost Daughter and I, Daniel Blake. With a…
-
Building Your Brand as an Actor
Discover what personal branding is and what it means for you as a performer. At its core, personal branding is how you show up in the world. It’s about proactively shaping your public image and creating a narrative that aligns with your professional aspirations. Branding is a strategic process that attracts opportunities, enhances career visibility and…
-
Theatre Run Self-Care Tips
How to take care of yourself and stay healthy during the run of a show. A theatre run is a thrilling yet demanding experience. Behind the scenes, it can be a real challenge to maintain your physical health and mental wellbeing. Long hours, emotional intensity and constant physical activity can take a toll if you…
-
6 Tips for Working with Writers and Directors
Learn how to build a creative and collaborative partnership with writers and directors as a performer. Collaboration lies at the heart of every successful stage or screen production. Whether you’re an actor, singer or writer, learning how to work effectively with writers and directors is an essential skill that can elevate not only your performance,…