September 2025

If you have always longed to act on screen, but assumed it is impossible because you didn’t head off to drama school for three years when you were 18, don’t give up your dream. You might be surprised to learn that this is certainly not the only path into the industry. Here’s a look at what really matters for success in film and TV acting. 

What are casting directors looking for?

Casting directors are looking for authenticity, versatility, and the ability to take direction on set. While drama schools provide structured training, they’re not the only place to gain these skills. Today, many actors book roles thanks to part-time training, on-camera workshops, and practical experience rather than a traditional three-year course.

Can part-time acting classes really compete?

Yes, they can. Part-time screen acting classes focus on the skills that matter most for TV and film: working with the camera, understanding eyelines, mastering the art of subtlety, and learning to deliver strong self-tape auditions. Because the classes are smaller and more flexible, you also get more individual attention and hands-on practice.

How much does drama school cost?

Drama schools often require a full-time commitment and significant financial investment, depending on the length of the course and the institution. 

For many adults balancing jobs, families, or other studies, this isn’t practical. Part-time training makes it possible to develop professional skills without uprooting your life or breaking the bank.

So, what’s the best way to get into TV acting?

The truth is there’s no single path into the industry. Some actors go to drama school, others train part-time and gain credits through independent films, commercials, or regional productions. What matters most is consistent training, building confidence in front of the camera, and making industry connections.

If you’re passionate about screen acting and want a realistic, flexible way to start, part-time TV acting classes in Manchester could be the perfect next step.

At one time, the sight of a film crew in Manchester, Leeds or Liverpool would have drawn a crowd, and maybe even been mentioned on regional news programmes. It’s a totally different story nowadays however, as the north of England is regularly chosen as a filming location, and is home to huge studios including the BBC, ITV, and Channel 4.

Film crews up north may no longer cause a stir, but they do mean there’s plenty of opportunities for aspiring actors who are ready for their first role. There’s no need to take the traditional route of moving to London to chase auditions, and perhaps having to make difficult decisions about leaving behind friends and family. 

From gritty dramas to high-energy comedies, northern casting calls are out there if you know where to look. Student films, indie projects, and commercials also provide fantastic experience and can be stepping stones to bigger roles.

You’ll still need to be well prepared to give yourself a chance of landing an entry-level role. Part-time adult acting classes can help you with this aim. You’ll learn how to adapt to the camera, perfect self-tapes, and to understand what casting directors really want to see at an audition. 

Joining a supportive acting class means you’ll practice with others, get constructive feedback, and build confidence in a safe environment. Think of it as your training ground before stepping onto a real set. The classes can be fitted around a busy lifestyle, and you’ll learn invaluable skills that translate into other areas of your life. 

There’s no need to clamber up the perilous slope to Hollywood heights or head for the West End of London any more: with northern productions on the rise, screen and stage acting has never been more accessible. So if you’ve been waiting for a cue to start your dream career, there’s never been a better time.