Jim Jarrett
Acting Teacher
Jim Jarrett is an Acting Teacher and the Founder of The Meisner Technique Studio based in San Francisco, California. With over 30 years of experience, he specializes in teaching The Meisner Technique and is Sanford Meisner's last teaching protégé. Over the years, Jim has established schools in Los Angeles, California, Hawaii, and Sun Valley, Idaho. He also travels the world annually as a guest teacher at universities, performing art schools, and theater companies throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. His flagship school is located in the heart of the Presidio in San Francisco, California.
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Q&A Comments (11)
Can you become an actor with no experience?
Yes, although do keep in mind that acting is considered one of the most competitive industries out there. You can get started gaining experience in easy places like your local theater, acting workshops, a school drama club, or student/independent films.
How do I get better at acting?
Learn to not get distracted by the audience, the camera, or anybody else around you except the people you're performing the scene with. Audiences won't feel that a scene is truthful unless the actors are completely present and feeding off of each other's performances.
Is a portfolio required for acting?
Pretty much, yes. It should include a professional headshot, any experience you've had (which can be from things like student films and independent films), and a quality resume.
