As the de facto entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas attracts all kinds of creatives—from singers and dancers to, of course, actors—looking to make it big in the entertainment industry. But how does one become an actor in Las Vegas, and how does the City of Lights differ from anywhere else?
1. Get to know the city’s unique acting scene.
Las Vegas is world-renowned for its plethora of performance options, in which variety and talent are on clear display at every turn. There’s always a show, installation, or something to see or do—meaning there’s a unique and eclectic scene of performers from around the world that a newcomer can join. Its most popular theaters include:
- The Smith Center
- The Palazzo Theater
- Encore Theater
- The Venetian Theater
- Pearl Theater
In addition to the city’s famed live entertainment, available acting gigs range from commercials and ads to (increasingly more) film productions. Still, Vegas is no L.A., so acting here isn’t likely to make you the next big household name—but opportunities still abound.
2. Refine your acting skills.
Once you’ve made your way to Sin City, the best next step is to find your people and hone your craft. While Las Vegas isn’t home to the most prestigious acting academies, here are some top-notch spots to network with fellow local actors and improve your skills:
- Bright Star Acting Academy
- DK Acting Class
- DreamTraxx Studios
- Goldman Penn - Actor’s Academy
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas - Department of Theatre
3. Prepare your materials.
No matter the city you’re in, there are a few key materials that performers should have before they start hitting up agents and showing up to auditions. Every job wants to see your acting résumé, so start by preparing one that succinctly reveals what you can bring to a production. Showing a director that you have experience that makes you an asset is key to landing any job, including acting roles.
Since a résumé can only go so far in proving your skill, it should also be supplemented by a portfolio that demonstrates those skills more explicitly. Seeing is believing, after all. Show off your stuff with a demo reel that encompasses your best, specifically any acting experience that’s relatable to the project you’re auditioning for. Headshots can also prove your fit for a part by demonstrating the aesthetic qualities you bring.
4. Build community.
There’s only so much preparation a person can do on their own, so it’s important for every aspiring actor in Las Vegas to build a network that can help lift you up even further. Attend and join local meetups that can put you into contact with other actors to create your own acting community, such as:
5. Land an agent.
Once you’ve prepared a portfolio that’ll really knock the socks off any casting director reviewing it, it’s time to put it in their hands. Actors trying to catch their big break in Las Vegas should submit their materials to one of the city’s top-notch talent agencies:
- Baskow Talent
- BESTAgency
- Envy Model Management
- TNG Agency
6. Audition for roles.
Check out our Las Vegas casting call page for parts and keep an eye out for roles that fit your aesthetic, skill, and experience level. Submit the appropriate requested materials and practice for an audition that will really win over the casting director.
7. Persevere.
Becoming a successful actor in Las Vegas (as anywhere), isn’t just about skill level—it’s also about enduring the often long and arduous journey from failure to success. Treat every opportunity like the learning experience it is and keep reintegrating that knowledge into yourself. Don’t let past failures stop you from auditioning. Stay dedicated to your craft, and success is certainly around the corner.