Acting can be an exciting and rewarding job for teens who are passionate about performing. Whether you're dreaming of being on the big screen or just looking for local theater opportunities, this guide will help you find the best acting jobs for teens. We'll cover how to get started, where to find jobs, and how to manage your earnings with Modak.

Also, we’ll dive into how teens can earn money using the Modak Makers app and how they can use their Visa® debit card¹, designed for kids and teens, to receive payments for jobs or allowances without any monthly subscription fees⁴.

Why Acting Jobs Are Great for Teens

Acting offers a unique opportunity for teens to express their creativity, build confidence, and develop communication skills. It's also a great way to meet new people and gain experience in a competitive industry. Plus, acting jobs can often be flexible, allowing teens to balance school and other commitments.

How to Get Started in Acting

1. Build Your Skills

Before you start looking for acting jobs, it's important to develop your skills. Consider taking acting classes or joining a drama club at your school. These activities can help you learn the basics of acting, improve your stage presence, and gain experience.

2. Create a Resume and Headshot

Having a professional resume and headshot is essential for landing acting jobs. Your resume should highlight any relevant experience, such as school plays, acting classes, or community theater. Your headshot should be a high-quality photo that shows you in your best light.

3. Join an Acting Agency

Joining an acting agency can open up more opportunities and provide you with guidance from professionals in the industry. Agencies can help you find auditions and negotiate contracts, making it easier to navigate the acting world.

Where to Find Acting Jobs for Teens

1. Online Job Boards

There are several online platforms dedicated to acting jobs, such as Backstage and Actors Access. These websites list auditions and casting calls for various projects, including films, TV shows, commercials, and theater productions.

2. Local Theater Groups

Community theaters and local drama groups often have opportunities for teens to audition for roles. These can be a great way to gain experience and build your resume.

3. School and College Productions

Participating in school or college productions is another excellent way to gain experience. Many schools have drama clubs or theater departments that put on regular performances.

4. Social Media

Follow casting directors, theaters, and production companies on social media. They often post casting calls and audition notices on their platforms.

When following casting directors, theaters, or production companies online, be cautious of potential security risks, especially for teens. Verify that accounts are legitimate, avoid sharing personal info, and be wary of unsolicited messages asking for money or promising roles. Teens should consult with a parent before engaging with unknown entities. Stay informed and protect yourself while using social media.

Types of Acting Jobs for Teens

Theater Acting

Theater acting is a great starting point for young actors. Local community theaters, school plays, and drama clubs offer numerous opportunities for teens to get involved in live performances. These roles can range from small parts to leading characters, providing valuable experience and exposure to the world of acting.

Film and Television Roles

Film and television roles are highly sought after and can be more challenging to secure. However, many productions are specifically looking for teen actors. These roles can include commercials, TV shows, movies, and web series. Getting an agent can be beneficial in finding these opportunities.

Voice Acting

Voice acting is an exciting field that requires a different set of skills. Teens can lend their voices to animated characters, audiobooks, video games, and commercials. This type of acting allows for flexibility and can often be done from home with the right equipment.

Tips for Successful Auditions

1. Prepare Thoroughly

Before an audition, make sure you understand the character and the script. Practice your lines and work on your delivery. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel.

2. Dress Appropriately

Choose an outfit that is simple and professional. Avoid anything too flashy or distracting. Your goal is to keep the focus on your performance.

3. Be Confident and Positive

Auditions can be nerve-wracking, but it's important to stay confident and positive. Remember that casting directors are looking for potential, so even if you don't get the part, it's a valuable experience.

Managing Your Earnings with Modak

Deposit Your Earnings

Any money you earn from acting jobs can be deposited directly into your Modak account. This makes it easy to manage your finances and track your earnings. With your own Modak Debit Card, you can spend your earnings responsibly and monitor your transactions through the Modak app.

Create Payment Links

For gig-based acting jobs, you can create payment links through Modak. This allows employers to pay you easily using their card, making the payment process smooth and hassle-free.

Earn Additional Money with Modak

Apart from acting, you can also earn money through the Modak App. On average, you can earn up to 800 MBX(2)(3) per week, equivalent to $8 (as of June 2024), by participating in activities such as walking 5,000 steps daily or completing challenges that promote good habits and financial learning. This is a great way to supplement your income from acting.

If you're ready for your children to start learning about finances and developing healthy financial habits, sign them up for Modak today. With our Visa® debit card(1) designed for kids and teens, the intuitive app, and our range of educational tools and rewards, you'll equip your children with the skills to manage money responsibly. Join Modak today and start nurturing a financially savvy future for your family!

Conclusion

Finding acting jobs as a teen can be a thrilling journey. By building your skills, creating a professional resume and headshot, joining an agency, and utilizing various job search methods, you can increase your chances of landing great roles. Manage your earnings with Modak and take control of your finances with useful tools and resources. Explore additional earning opportunities through the app as you grow your skills. Start working toward your acting career today and make the most of the opportunities available to you.

Acting Jobs for Teens: Related Questions

1. What are some other ways for teens to earn money?

Apart from acting jobs, there are several other ways teens can earn money:

• Babysitting: A common and flexible job where teens can earn money by taking care of younger children.
• Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject, offering tutoring services to younger students can be a lucrative option.
• Pet Sitting/Dog Walking: Many pet owners need help with pet care, making this a great opportunity for animal-loving teens.
• Freelance Work: Online platforms like Fiverr and Upwork offer opportunities for teens to provide services such as graphic design, writing, and more.
• Retail Jobs: Many stores hire teens for part-time positions, especially during the holidays.
• Yard Work: Helping neighbors with tasks like mowing lawns, raking leaves, or shoveling snow can also be a good way to earn money.

2. How can teens balance acting jobs with schoolwork?

Balancing acting jobs with schoolwork requires good time management and prioritization. Here are some tips:

• Create a Schedule: Plan your week, allocating specific times for schoolwork, rehearsals, and auditions.
• Prioritize Tasks: Determine which tasks are most important and focus on completing them first.
• Communicate with Teachers: Let your teachers know about your acting commitments. They might offer flexible deadlines or additional help.
• Use Study Breaks Efficiently: Use any downtime on set or between rehearsals to catch up on homework or study.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments, auditions, and rehearsals using a planner or digital calendar.

3. What are the best online job boards for teen actors?

There are several online platforms where teen actors can find job opportunities:

• Backstage: A popular platform for actors of all ages, offering casting calls for film, TV, theater, and more.
• Actors Access: Provides a wide range of casting calls and allows actors to submit their profiles directly to casting directors.
• Casting Networks: Another well-known platform where actors can find job listings and submit applications.
• Mandy: Offers job listings for various entertainment industry roles, including acting.
• Playbill: Known for theater-related job listings, including acting opportunities in stage productions.

4. How can teens improve their acting skills?

Improving acting skills takes practice and dedication. Here are some ways teens can enhance their abilities:

• Take Acting Classes: Enroll in acting classes to learn techniques and receive feedback from experienced instructors.
• Join Drama Clubs: Participate in school or community drama clubs to gain experience and meet like-minded individuals.
• Practice Regularly: Work on monologues, scenes, and improvisation exercises regularly to build confidence and versatility.
• Watch Performances: Study performances by professional actors in films, TV shows, and theater to learn from their techniques.
• Read Acting Books: There are many great books on acting that provide valuable insights and exercises.
• Record Yourself: Recording your performances and watching them can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Seek Feedback: Ask for constructive feedback from teachers, peers, and mentors to continually refine your skills.

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1. Modak is a financial technology company and not a FDIC-insured bank. Checking account and the Modak Visa® debit card issued by Lewis & Clark Bank, Member FDIC. Funds deposited into checking account may be eligible for up to $250,000 of FDIC insurance. The FDIC’s deposit insurance coverage only protects against the failure of an FDIC-insured depository institution.
2. 100 MBX = $1(as of June 2024). This is an approximation and not a guaranteed result. Click here for more information on MBX
3. Walking 5,000 steps a day gives users 10MBX (as of June 2024). This is subject to change at Modak’s discretion
4. Fees for expedited or premium services may apply. Find out more in our Cardholder agreement.