Actors In Theatre, Film And Advertising

Actors for TV productions , theatre, films and commercials are in great demand. They are regularly used as supporting actors to compliment the main characters.

Leading actors

In the vast majority of cases, leading actors trained professionally. Singers , dancers and models also count as the ‘main actors’ at their respective events. They shape the course and plot of the production and are always chosen first at the casting as the main actors.

Supporting actors

Without supporting actors, a film wouldn’t exist. They appear in feature films, TV series and sometimes also in the theatre. They travel on the train, sit in the background of the pub or walk down the street- the roles are normally small with a few lines, however they remain an indispensable part of the plot. A film wouldn’t be authentic or realistic without them. Because they are mostly used for the background of scenes , they aren’t usually trained actors.

Amateur actors

Amateur actors and actresses are untrained performers who don’t act as their main profession. They are often booked for jobs with a lower budget, because they are cheaper to book than full-time actors (especially smaller roles that don’t require acting skills). Extras and background actors are also exclusively actors without acting training . If a non-professional actor is used as a minor, supporting or leading actor, acting talent is preferred but never essential. Non-professional actors have further advantages: they are still unknown and also authentic. For some productions, they are therefore far better suited than professional actors. Especially in reality TV shows and films for advertising, untrained actors appear more natural than trained actors and actresses. Nevertheless, some acting experience is required.

Bit-part actors

Anyone can present themselves as a bit-part actor. For film productions such as adverts, people are constantly being sought to be in the background of the shot and either do not speak or play small speaking roles. These actors are often referred to as extras, which is not an exact description of their job. The extras are instructed to walk through the shot at a very specific moment. The term extra comes from the theatre where it means to take part in a large group scene without any acting role. In contrast, bit-part actors normally take on small roles with text. Whether they order a drink in a restaurant scene or make a remark in passing on the street, they appear alongside the main actors for one or two scenes in the film.

Getting paid as a bit-part actors

Small actors are paid per day depending on the role and the time required. They receive a fee of 120€ - 180€ per day and additional buyouts in advertising. Further payments for speaking text or for bringing private items for film purposes are possible. The calculation of the fee usually comes down to "simple small performance", "upscale small performance" and "noble compar series". Travel and accommodation costs are not usually covered for extras, but overtime is paid if you work after 10pm. 

Child actors

Child actors act in film, theatre, radio and advertising. There are special youth labour protection regulations such as time limits and declarations of consent. Sometimes, twins or triplets are hired for really young roles, so they can take turns at work. Otherwise, productions may use doubles for young children who wouldn’t be recognisable. This means they can stick to the working hours in accordance with the youth protection regulations.

If you are interested in working as an actor for such a variety of roles, you can register online at starboxx at any time. We look forward to hearing from you!