Home to stars Angie Harmon and Owen Wilson and series including “Queen of the South” and, well, “Dallas,” Dallas is a rising hub for performers. The city fosters a collaborative spirit, with projects ranging from touring musicals to local web series to commercials. If you’re an aspiring actor hoping to break into the industry in the Big D, this guide is for you.
1. Get to know the Dallas acting scene.
Dallas stands apart from other major acting hubs thanks to its vibrant blend of stage, screen, and commercial opportunities, all set against a backdrop of Southern hospitality and artistic innovation. The city is home to nationally recognized theatrical institutions, including:
It also has several professional film and TV production studios, such as:
2. Refine your acting skills.
Refining your acting skills is essential to standing out in the Dallas market. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your craft, enrolling in one of Dallas’ top acting classes (like the following) will help you build confidence, expand your skill set, and make valuable industry connections.
- KD Conservatory College of Film and Dramatic Arts
- TBell Actors Studio
- The Playground Acting Program
- Dallas Young Actors Studio
How to Become an Actor in Texas3. Prepare your materials.
Before you step into auditions, assembling professional materials is crucial to making a strong first impression in the Dallas acting scene. Your headshot, acting résumé, and demo reel will help you stand out to DFW casting directors, such as:
4. Build community.
Building a strong community is one of the most rewarding steps for any actor hoping to thrive in Dallas. Networking not only helps you find collaborators and mentors, but also keeps you connected to new opportunities and the pulse of the local scene. To find your own D-town tribe, check out the following:
- Groups such as the Acting Improv Workshop, Film Actors and Casting Network, Broadway Dallas, Art House Dallas, Uptown Players, and, of course, SAG-AFTRA Dallas-Fort Worth
- Events such as the Dallas International Film Festival, Pegasus Film Festival, and the USA Film Festival
5. Find gigs.
To find acting gigs in Dallas, use our comprehensive Dallas–Fort Worth casting call database, check local casting agency websites, and follow theater companies, production houses, and agents on social media.
6. Land an agent.
An agent is crucial if you want to really hit it big in acting. They champion your career by finding auditions and jobs that match your goals, helping you keep up with industry trends, negotiating contracts, and offering advice on headshots and reels. Their connections open doors to opportunities you may never find on your own. Some of the top talent agencies in Dallas are:
- Bankston Talent Agency
- Broad Talent
- Callidus Agency
- The Campbell Agency
- The Clutts Agency
- The Dragonfly Agency
- The Horne Agency
- Kim Dawson Agency
- Mary Collins Agency
7. Give it your all git-out.
Becoming an actor in Dallas requires talent, hard work, and a passion for the city’s unique opportunities. If you’re an aspiring performer in the Lone Star State, Dallas could be the perfect place for you to launch your career—and you may just find that everything really is bigger in Texas, including your dreams.
