Boston’s storied history and vibrant atmosphere create a desirable place for film and TV productions. While it’s only a four-hour trip from New York City, this metropolis offers its own robust and dedicated acting community—whether in theater, film, television, or commercial ventures. The only downside for actors is figuring out how to get their foot in the door. Don’t fret—we’re here to help you become an actor in Boston.
1. Familiarize yourself with the local scene
Researching the local acting community is an excellent way to explore Boston’s acting offerings. Networking helps provide support and guidance for those taking initial steps and wanting to add to their experience. Getting advice from those active in the rich Boston performing arts scene is incredibly beneficial—whether you want to discover the best classes or what casting opportunities are available. Social media is a great place to start, such as exploring local Facebook groups specializing in acting in Boston and New England.
Along with various film and television productions shooting in Boston and the surrounding area, the theater district boasts a variety of options for a budding thespian:
Local theater groups and regional theaters not only let an actor tread the boards, but they can even help you become eligible to join the Actors’ Equity Association.
As this city has notable college and graduate programs (Boston University boasts Julianne Moore, Uzo Aduba, and Marisa Tomei as alumni), there might be a chance to work on student films that will build experience and connections for the future. SAG-AFTRA New England Local’s page can keep you updated on events, news, local resources, and union perks within this area.
2. Get the proper training
Whether you’re a novice wanting to embrace the stage or a new professional looking to fine-tune or expand your skill set, Boston has an acting class for everyone. Learning the craft among your peers is another great way to embrace the community aspect and propel your career forward.
Some of these require prepared auditions, and it’s essential to read the guidelines ahead of time. Entry-level classes range from prestigious acting colleges’ grad and summer programs to improving your stagecraft with specific courses and workshops. Some of the best acting classes and programs in Boston are offered by:
- Artbarn Community Theater
- Boston Arts Academy
- The Boston Conservatory at Berklee
- Boston City Lights Performing Arts School
- Boston University’s College of Fine Arts
- Communication Matters Studio
- CP Casting & Acting Studio
- Dossy Peabody
- Emerson College’s Department of Performing Arts
- Igor Golyak Acting Studio
- Michael Chekhov - Actors Studio Boston
- Wellesley College Theatre Department
Star in a Crime Film + More Nationwide Gigs 3. Nail the Boston accent
Working in Boston and Massachusetts—especially if you’re not a local—means you might be asked to use an accent specific to the region. The slang, intonation, and pronunciation are often imitated, but the line between perfection and caricature is hard to walk. If you want to know how to do an authentic Boston accent, start with some basic rules like:
- “ar” becomes “ah”: “Park your car in Harvard Yard” becomes “Pahk yah cah in Hahvud Yahd.”
- “or” becomes “aw”: “Torn” or “store” becomes “tawn” or “staw.”
- “er” at the end becomes “ah”: “Say hi to your daughter” becomes “Say hi to yaw daughtah.”
- Switch “ah” with “aw”: “Positive” and “college” become “pawsitive” and “cawllege.”
4. Prepare your materials
Having a headshot, acting résumé, demo reel, and self-tape are all important ways to stand out to casting directors in Boston—the biggest include Boston Casting Inc., Slate Casting, and CP Casting Boston. The CP Casting Boston website states, “The bulk of our work entails casting principal day players in film and TV, as we match the right New England person to the part.” There’s also a helpful reminder on the CP Casting site about the difference between a casting director and a talent agent—casting directors do not represent actors or charge fees for auditions or open casting calls.
These three casting companies share invaluable information and resources on their websites, whether about headshot clinics or self-tapes. Courses for different demographics and experience levels are available, and they offer testimonials from Academy Award–winning filmmakers like Alexander Payne (“The Holdovers,” “Downsizing”) and Sian Heder (“CODA,” “Tallulah”).
5. Sign with an agent
The top four agencies in Hollywood (Creative Artists Agency, William Morris Endeavor, United Talent Agency, and the Gersh Agency) are not off-limits if you work or are based in Beantown. However, opting for one of the top talent agencies in Boston is advisable for an actor actively looking to land roles in this area.
- Dynasty Models & Talent Inc.
- Andrew Wilson Agency
- Maggie Inc.
- Webb Sweeney Murphy Talent
- Model Club Inc.
6. Audition!
Be sure to bookmark our list of casting calls in Boston to stay up-to-date on notices. Local hires add authenticity, and there is a wealth of opportunities for films and TV shows of all sizes. Notices for background actors are another area that will further add to your expertise, particularly regarding the nuances of a working film set and what is required to make movie or TV magic.
The Massachusetts Film Office also has a comprehensive library of the productions currently shooting, providing insight into the casting landscape. This site lists the titles that have previously shot in the state, including Heder’s 2022 Oscar winner “CODA” and Rian Johnson’s 2019 whodunit “Knives Out.” It’s evident that the number of film, television, and commercial productions shot in and around Boston is continuing to grow.
