When becoming an actor, there’s lots to think about, especially when it comes to thinking about safety for actors. When we go to drama school, there’s a big emphasis on keeping our instruments safe through vocal and physical warm-ups. But what about dealing with agents and casting directors? How do we know who to trust? What about contracts, auditions and keeping ourselves safe on set?
In this guide, I’ll give you some top tips on keeping yourself safe as an actor in every aspect, from your craft to the business side of the profession.
Physical Safety As An Actor
Our bodies are our instruments when it comes to acting, so it’s really important to take care of ourselves physically. Here are some of the best ways you can look after physical safety for actors.
Eat well and drink enough water.
We can’t perform unless our bodies are running on enough good fuel!
Get enough sleep
No matter what, you will always feel run down if you do not get enough sleep. Rest is paramount to making sure you’re physically and mentally well.
Always do a physical and vocal warm-up.
This is crucial, as it will stop our bodies and voices from coming to any harm when we’re performing.
You can check out my post on warm-up techniques if you need any help getting into the swing of this.
Another thing to consider is reducing your alcohol consumption and quitting smoking. These can take their toll on our bodies and voices and make us less able to keep ourselves physically well.
Mental Wellbeing Advice For Actors
While this is being discussed more and more, mental health is something that is often neglected when it comes to the actor’s craft. However, it is extremely important when it comes to a craft that requires so much vulnerability and emotional commitment from us. Here are some tips for taking care of your mental health.
Make time for self-care
If you neglect your mental and emotional well-being, it is sure to suffer. Make sure you make time every week for self-care, whether that’s doing things you enjoy, pampering yourself, visiting friends or journalling and meditation.
Make sure you have a solid support system
Reach out to friends and family and make sure you have people to talk to when times get rough.
If you have any specific mental health concerns, see your doctor or get in touch with a therapist ASAP. There is always help available if you feel like you’re struggling.
Make sure to separate yourself from your character
When we become invested in our character’s lives, it can be hard to get back to ourselves. Always make time for hobbies and people in your own life and reconnect with them regularly.
Check out my guide to self care for actors or more advice on looking after your mental health.
Safety At Auditions
Safety for actors at auditions is a massive deal. You’re going into a potentially new space with people you may not know. However, there are a few steps you can take to keep yourself safe at auditions.
Always do background research on the company or casting director.
Most reputable companies/CDs will have their information online, which you can view from a reliable source. Make sure people are who they say they are before you decide to meet them. Look at their work history, as well as any mentions of previous people they have worked with.
Steer clear of paid auditions.
Never pay for auditions. These are exploitative and should always be avoided.
Check the location of the audition.
Auditions should be in a public space, not at someone’s home or at a hotel room. If it is, do not attend.
Don’t take your clothes off
Don’t take your clothes off, even if you’re auditioning for a role that involves nudity. While you may be asked to wear form-fitting clothes so they can see your figure, you should never be asked to be nude in any audition.
If you feel unsafe, feel free to take someone with you to the audition. This can help you feel more at ease and make sure you’re safe wherever you go.
Safety When Dealing With Agents
Anyone can become an agent. That means while there are lots of amazing agents out there, there are also some who will try to take advantage of you. By keeping an eye out for a few things, you can keep yourself safe when dealing with agents.
Avoid agents who require sign-up fees
This is a way of making money out of you before the agent has even done any work for you. This is a scam and should be avoided. No reputable agent will ask for sign-up fees.
Check that the agent has reasonable commission rates
UK agents usually take about a 10-15% commission rate. US agents working with SAG-AFRTA must take no more than 10%. Any more than this is a massive red flag.
Check for unreasonable expectations
If an agent requires you to get headshots with a specific photographer or requires that you take classes with the agency, then they are manipulating you into paying them more money.
Always read your contract
Make sure there are no super long lock-ins, ways that your freedom is restricted, or ways for them to micro-manage your career.
On-Set Safety For Actors
Okay, so, you’ve been taking care of yourself, you’ve navigated the audition process safely, and you’re on set. What now? There are lots of things to think about when you’re on set, so having some surefire ways to keep yourself safe is crucial.
Listen to and follow safety procedures
Simple, but this can make the world of difference to navigating potential hazards on set.
Make sure there’s enough food and water
Again, your physical wellbeing is paramount and should be taken care of by the crew unless advised otherwise on small sets.
Look after your body temperature
If you’re on a cold set, make sure there are big coats and hot water bottles on standby. If you’re on a hot set, make sure there’s shade, water and fans so you can cool off. If you feel unwell, make sure to tell someone.
Only ever do what you’re comfortable with on set
‘No.’ is a full sentence. If you are being asked to do something that makes you uncomfortable, you do not have to do it. It is the director’s job to accommodate the needs of the cast and keep everyone safe on set.
Make sure there is an intimacy coordinator for intimate scenes
Intimacy coordinators make sure everyone’s safety is prioritised when filming intimate scenes and are an absolute must-have for any film that includes them. Again, you can and must say no to anything you are uncomfortable with.
Join your union
They are there to protect you legally and financially when it comes to work, contracts, safety standards and compensation. In the UK, this is Equity. In the US, this is SAG-AFTRA. If you have any concerns or questions, you can contact them and they will be able to help
Concluding Keeping Yourself Safe As An Actor
As you can see, there can be quite a few things to think about when it comes to safety for actors. However, by following these tips, you can make sure to prioritise your comfort and safety when at work.
My ultimate advice for keeping yourself safe is to trust your instincts and don’t doubt yourself when you feel like something’s not right. We should not have to deal with situations where we feel unsafe or uncomfortable at any time. If you feel like something’s not right, you should do your best to avoid that situation.
Thank you for reading, and well done for prioritising your wellbeing as you navigate this industry.
