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If you’re new to screen acting, this is one of the most common (and completely valid) questions people ask before signing up for classes. As with most things, the answer depends on multiple factors. However, it’s probably not as long as you might think.

The first few weeks: feeling awkward is normal

Almost everyone feels strange on camera at first. You’re suddenly aware of your face, your voice, your hands… everything. This isn’t a lack of talent; it’s just unfamiliarity. Acting on camera asks you to do less, not more, and that takes adjustment.

Most beginners start to relax after two to three weeks of regular screen acting classes, once the camera stops feeling like a spotlight and starts feeling like a tool.

One to three months: building confidence and control

With consistent training, many actors notice a real shift within the first one to three months. You begin to understand:

• How subtle your performance needs to be for TV
• Where to focus your attention in a scene
• How to stay present instead of being performative

This is usually the point where actors stop worrying about how they look and start concentrating on telling the story.

Three to six months: feeling natural on camera

For most people, feeling genuinely comfortable on camera happens around the three to six month mark. By now, you’ve likely:

• Watched back multiple performances
• Received constructive, specific feedback
• Worked on different scene styles and emotions

The camera starts to feel familiar rather than intimidating, and that’s when performances become believable.

Can you learn camera skills faster?

Progress comes faster when training includes:

• Regular on-camera practice
• Playback and feedback
• Industry-relevant scenes and scripts

Casual practice helps, but structured screen acting training makes a huge difference. Our TV acting classes in Manchester can provide you with the tools and guidance to act with ease and naturalness on screen.   

With the right support, most actors are surprised by how quickly confidence starts to grow.

If you’ve ever thought about acting but talked yourself out of it, chances are one of these myths got in the way. 

So, let’s clear a few things up, because acting in 2026 looks very different from the stereotypes.

Myth 1: You have to start young

This one stops more people than almost anything else. The truth is that casting directors are constantly looking for real people of all ages. Many working screen actors didn’t start training until their twenties, thirties or later.

Myth 2: You must move to London

While London is a major hub, it’s far from the only place opportunities exist. The North of England has a growing TV, film and commercial scene, and regional talent is in demand more than ever.

Myth 3: Acting is only for extroverts

Some of the best screen performances come from quieter, more thoughtful actors. Acting for TV is about truth and connection, not being the loudest person in the room.

Myth 4: You need drama school to succeed

Full-time drama school is one route, but certainly not the only one. Many actors build skills, confidence and credits through part-time screen acting classes that fit around real life.

Myth 5: Acting classes are intimidating

Good actor training environments are supportive, practical and fun. They’re designed to help you grow at your own pace, not throw you in at the deep end.

The reality

Acting isn’t about being “discovered”: it’s about learning, practising and putting yourself in the right rooms.

What can you do if you’re thinking of giving acting a go?

If you’re curious about acting and want flexible, supportive training, our acting classes in Leeds are designed for aspiring actors ready to take that first step.

If you’ve ever wondered whether acting might be for you, you’re not alone. Every year, hundreds of people across Manchester and Liverpool step into their first acting class as adults.

At first, new students are often nervous, excited, and not totally sure what to expect, but most of them quickly realise they should’ve started sooner. So, here are seven simple signs that 2026 might be your year to give screen acting a go.

1. You’re always quoting TV shows

If you’ve ever reenacted a scene from Peaky Blinders or Line of Duty for absolutely no reason… that’s a clue.

2. You want something creative outside work

A lot of adult beginners join because their day job is all spreadsheets and no spark. Acting gives you permission to play again.

3. People tell you you’re “animated”

Maybe you tell great stories, or are naturally expressive and don’t hide your emotions under a bushel. All excellent starting points for screen acting.

4. You’re obsessed with behind-the-scenes content

If you spend more time watching cast interviews than the actual show, it might be time to get on the other side of the camera.

5. You want more confidence

Nearly everyone who joins an acting class wants to feel more comfortable being seen. On-camera training builds confidence fast, giving you invaluable life skills beyond the screen. 

6. You’re curious about TV and film casting in the north

Manchester and Liverpool are booming filming hubs. From BBC dramas to indie films, opportunities for new actors are growing fast.

7. You’ve thought about it more than once

This is the big one. If the idea of trying out your acting chops keeps popping into your mind, that’s your sign.

If this hits home, join one of our friendly, supportive part-time acting classes in Liverpool and take the first step toward discovering your full potential in 2026.

When most people picture launching an acting career, they think of London’s West End or big Hollywood studios, but things are changing fast. The North of England has become one of the UK’s most exciting places to start acting, especially for TV and screen work. So, what’s behind this northern rise?

Is the north really a hub for TV and film right now?

Yes: Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool have all seen a huge boom in film and television production over the last few years. BBC and ITV both have major studios at MediaCityUK in Salford, Netflix and Amazon are shooting across the region, and Liverpool has become a regular stand-in for New York on blockbuster film sets.

For aspiring actors, that means opportunities are no longer limited to London: the casting calls, filming locations, and production jobs are right here on your doorstep.

Do northern actors have an advantage?

Yes, and it’s not just about location. There’s a real appetite in the industry for authentic regional voices and stories. Casting directors want variety, and the Northern accent has never been more in demand. Whether it’s gritty realism or down-to-earth humour, the North’s unique character shines through on screen.

By training locally at acting schools in Manchester or Liverpool, you’re also more likely to build real connections with local casting agents, independent filmmakers, and other creatives working on projects across the North.

How can you get started in the northern acting scene?

Start small, but start now. Join a part-time acting class for adults in Manchester, Leeds or Liverpool to gain hands-on experience, camera confidence, and insight into how the industry really works. 

You’ll meet like-minded people, learn from working professionals, and take your first steps into one of the most exciting creative scenes in the UK, and all without having to move to London.

So, you’ve decided to give acting a go: no doubt you’re hugely excited and just a tiny bit apprehensive. Whether you’ve always dreamed of seeing your name in the credits or you’ve just realised how much you love being in front of a camera, starting from scratch can feel daunting. 

Don’t worry: every actor starts somewhere, and there’s plenty you can do right now to get going.

Start with acting classes that fit your life

You don’t need to quit your job or move to London to train. Part-time screen acting classes are the perfect first step, especially if you’re based in Liverpool or Manchester. You’ll learn how to perform naturally on camera, connect emotionally with scripts, and get honest, supportive feedback from working professionals.

Classes also give you structure, accountability, and a safe space to make mistakes (which is exactly how actors grow). Plus, you’ll meet other aspiring performers who are just as excited (and probably just as nervous) as you are. The community aspect is one of the best parts of training.

Build confidence and practice on camera

It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being real. The best way to learn screen acting is to do it often. Record yourself reading short scenes or monologues, experiment with emotion and tone, and get used to watching your performances back.

The more you practice, the more relaxed you’ll feel when the camera starts rolling. Don’t be afraid to play, laugh at your mistakes, and try again. Every take teaches you something new.

Create a simple showreel and apply for roles

Once you’ve built a few strong scenes in class, you can create a short showreel to showcase your talent. It doesn’t need to be fancy;  just well-lit, well-acted clips that show who you are on screen.

From there, start exploring local castings, short films, and student projects. The North’s film scene, especially around Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool, is buzzing with opportunity. Step by step, you’ll gain experience, credits, and connections.

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. 

If you’ve been taking acting classes in Leeds or Manchester, you’re in a great position as an aspiring actor. The north of England is currently one of the most exciting places in the UK for TV productions, independent films, and theatre. Over the past couple of decades, a thriving performance scene has evolved that no longer plays second fiddle to London.

If you are passionate about a career on screen or stage and ready to take your next steps, here are some places to start looking.

Major TV productions and studios

The TV and film industry in the North is booming, with many flagship British shows filmed here. Manchester’s MediaCityUK in Salford is home to the BBC, ITV, and CBBC, producing household names such as Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, and Peaky Blinders (parts of which were shot in Manchester and Liverpool).

In Leeds, ITV Yorkshire produces Emmerdale, while Channel 4’s new headquarters has brought additional production work to the city. These studios regularly work with casting directors who need local talent for speaking roles, extras, and stand-ins.

Independent film and theatre

Manchester and Leeds both have thriving indie film and fringe theatre communities. Smaller productions often cast locally, giving new actors the chance to gain on-set experience and build credits. Check out HOME Manchester, which hosts stage productions, film festivals, and local filmmaking events.

On the other side of the Pennines, Leeds Playhouse runs creative engagement projects and sometimes casts emerging actors for community-led shows.

Regional casting calls

Not all acting jobs are advertised publicly, but there are several places you can check for genuine regional opportunities. Good online platforms include Spotlight and The Mandy Network, but local Facebook groups are also well worth checking out if you’re scouting for your first break.

With the summer in full swing, Britain’s outdoor theatres are full of colour, sound and activity as actors perform under the wide open skies. From the enchanting clifftop experience of Cornwall’s Minack Theatre to the leafy grandeur of London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, it’s possible to see everything from Shakespeare to children’s shows. 

If you are considering embarking on drama classes for adults, acting in the great outdoors is not only a thrilling experience, but also good practice. You’ll need to be able to project your voice against the breeze, carry on in the face of a sudden rainshower or seagull invasion, and respond to your environment. 

This helps to hone the skills that all good actors need to master (and casting directors value): the ability to be agile, react to what’s around you, stay focused and ride out distractions or mistakes, or even turn them into creative opportunities. 

Open air acting is a great way to step out of your comfort zone, and realise that great acting is all about presence rather than the pursuit of perfection. Live theatre is magical but also raw and unpredictable, and an outdoor venue helps you to experience it as it is intended to be. 

Great outdoor venues in the UK

If you feel inspired to see some open-air acting action or even go for an audition, here are some of the greatest outdoor theatres to check out. 

The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Cornwall

This historic amphitheatre is carved into a cliff overlooking the Cornish sea, so it would be difficult not to feel transported by the setting, whether you are watching or performing. Live programmes run throughout the summer, and this year it includes The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, based on the best-selling novel. 

There are also performances of Hamlet, Moby Dick, and a modern recreation of a Shakespeare masterpiece, The Tempest in a Teacup. Even if you visit when there’s no performance, you can take a guided tour of the theatre and subtropical gardens during the summer months. 

Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, Chester, Cheshire

This is a pop-up summer venue based on the round design of Elizabethan theatres. It puts on a range of performances throughout July and August, from literary plays to family-friendly fun. This year, there’s The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, Pride and Prejudice, and Alice in Wonderland. 

Brighton Open Air Theatre, East Sussex

This 400-seat amphitheatre embraces diversity, and is a natural home for drag, burlesque and comedy. It also puts on children friendly shows throughout the summer, and a handful of classics. This year, check out Cinderella, Twelfth Night, a Dolly Parton tribute night, and a whole host of live music and comedy nights. 

Many people are drawn to acting because they dream of performing on the stage or screen, but at our acting classes in Liverpool, you’ll also be taught a more overlooked skill: how to act for radio. As demand rises for entertaining podcasts and audiodramas, there’s a growing market for talented voice actors. 

Radio can also be a more accessible and manageable way for older actors to break into the industry. Here’s what to know about voice acting. 

A growing market

At one time, radio acting was limited to a few drama slots on Radio 4 or commercial voiceover work. However, with the rise of streaming platforms such as Audible and BBC Sounds, audio dramas and ‘talking books’ are finding a new audience. There’s also a growing demand for skilled voice actors for animations, gaming, and advertising. 

The challenges and advantages of voice acting

Voice actors rely on their control of tone, rhythm and breathing to communicate feeling and meaning. With no visuals to rely on, they need to make their character so believable and compelling that they come alive in the imagination of the listener. This takes skill, but they are learnable skills that will get better with tuition and practice. 

The advantages of voice acting for older actors are also worth considering: it means you can bypass any character stereotyping based on your appearance or age, and this can open up a much wider range of roles and genres. 

You don’t need to worry about camera angles, hair, makeup and costumes, so you can pour 100 per cent of your focus into character and storytelling. 

Older actors are often rich in life experiences, and they have a voice inside them that is authentic and lived in. That’s definitely something worth sharing.