A Guide To Start Your Own Acting School Business

The world of glitz and glamour mesmerizes all. Everyone wants to become the “next big thing” in the film/television industry. There are many people who consider acting as their profession.

Since there are far fewer roles than starry-eyed actors, many turn to acting lessons for an extra edge during auditions. Hence, starting an acting school is a rewarding career. Below is the checklist to establish your acting school business.

Find a Niche

The first and foremost thing is to identify your niche. Decide whether your business will be focused on television, advertisement, film or theatre and whether you’ll cater to actors hoping to break into commercial acting, such as TV ads, or artistic acting, such as plays.

You can also consider catering to children and help them develop their creative skills. Choosing a niche may depend partly on your competition.

Market Research

Research is an important part of starting a business. Conduct a thorough research about your target audience, competition etc and plan your business plan accordingly. It's essential to find out how many competitors you have. If there's too much competition, it may be wise to consider starting the business in a less competitive marketplace.

Location

Scout for an area to establish your acting school, where there is less competition. Rent or buy a studio or small building keeping your budget in mind. You can also start your acting school in old storefront spaces or at your home.

But you’ll need to equip the area with appropriate equipments. Remember to purchase the following important things for your school: dance flooring, mirrors, supplies, furniture, props, costumes and perhaps a small, raised stage.

Teachers

Acting teachers are coaches are an important asset which will bring success to your acting school. Hire the best in the field of acting.  You must ensure that potential teachers have proper training and experience to teach the classes in your curriculum.

Advisory Board

Before opening your school, you need to pick a select panel of theatrical experts and members from film and television fraternity to help guide the school's objectives. The advisory board can be very important for the overall governance of the business. They will provide extra guidance and industry insight to the students. It will increase your credibility when applying for funding and grants.

Marketing

Advertise your school to reach your potential students. Create business cards, fliers and brochures and distribute these around art schools, colleges, theatres, modelling agencies etc. Use social-networking websites to promote and market your business with exciting promotional offers.

Distinguish your school from other schools by highlighting faculty accomplishments or your own achievements as an actor, student testimonials etc. Outline the programs you offer and the type of training and benefits students receive from attending your school.