Advice

The Top 10 Tips for Becoming a Successful Comedy Actor

In what way are you funny? What's funny about you? Being aware of what makes up your personal "funny"—finding the comedy in yourself and your everyday life—is the first step to becoming a successful comedy actor.

Maria Niora

First impressions can make all the difference, and no one knows that better than Maria Niora. Born in Athens, Greece, she moved to New York City almost three years ago.

Red Light, Green Light

How do I get an agent?" is the No. 1 question I hear from actors.

The Top 10 Mistakes Actors Make When They Sign a Contract

Your primary focus as an actor is your craft. So when you get that part and a deal comes your way, your first instinct may be to sign, sign, sign before the contract evaporates.

10 Plays Every Actor Should Read

Allen L. Hubby, vice president of the Drama Book Shop in New York, asked his staff to recommend 10 plays every performer should read. Not surprisingly, most are classics, but a soon-to-be-classic is included as well.

10 Directors You Should Know

These artists are by no means newcomers to the scene, but they've carved such fascinating and unique niches in their fields and brought such interesting actors to their projects that Back Stage feels you should get to know them.

Click, No Drag

Don't just take someone's word that a photographer is great. There are tons of headshots photographers who are great, but that doesn't mean they are right for you.