Do you have what it takes to be the next big Hollywood star? Or perhaps you instead see your name in lights on a Broadway marquee? Maybe you just want to see your name in the program of your next high school musical?

If any of these scenarios sound like you, then you obviously want to be an actor someday. But can just anyone be an actor? Don't you need to be born with natural talent? What if you don't look like a “movie star"?

Don't worry about any of those things! If you want to be an actor, you can make it happen. Don't believe us? Turn on the television and flip through the channels. We bet it won't take long for you to find someone that looks like you. Not every actor looks like a “movie star." There are roles out there for people of all ages, races, shapes, and sizes!


Actors are just storytellers at heart. Instead of reading a story aloud, they act out the story in the form of a movie, television show, or play. They pretend to be someone else and, if they're good at it, you see them as that person rather than an actor playing a role.

We often think of actors as “movie stars" when, in reality, most actors aren't famous at all. Think about your favorite television show or movie. You can probably name one or two of the actors that star in it. Maybe you can even name three, or four, or more. But watch it again and count the total number of actors involved.

There are probably dozens and dozens of actors that you can't name. But they're actors! And they're making a career out of doing what they love…even if they're not “movie stars!"

Acting can be tough work, though. Most actors spend a lot of time trying out for roles — called auditioning — and then memorizing their lines, practicing, and performing. The final product you see might only look like a couple of hours' worth of work, but you'd be surprised if you knew how many hours went into the production you saw!

There are many ways to become an actor. Many colleges and universities have drama programs that will teach you the ropes. Of course, many actors get into acting simply by jumping in with both feet and giving it a try. From school plays to community theater productions, there are many acting opportunities you can take advantage of close to home.

Wonder What's Next?

We hope you’ll want to read tomorrow’s Wonder of the Day ogre and ogre again!