Being an actor typically involves more time looking for work than actually working as an actor. For those who want to keep their skills sharp while earning an income amid the auditions, these three non-traditional jobs fit the bill.
Standardized Patient. Actors portray patients, simulating symptoms to help train and test medical students. The focus is typically on improving doctor-patient communication and developing a caring, sympathetic bedside manner. Many people are familiar with the portrayal of standardized patients in the Seinfeld episode “The Burning” though in reality the work is not nearly so dramatic. Pros: As the work requires realistic, accurate and repeatable portrayls of patients, side effects include being able to flex some acting muscle and keep the skills up in between auditions, particularly for on-camera acting. Cons: The focus is ultimately on the students’ performance, so this is not the ideal venue for actors who crave the limelight and audience applause.
Historic Interpreter. While Colonial Williamsburg is likely the best known place for historic interpreters, there are a number of historic sites and museums which focus on living history and employ actors to engage their visitors to enhance their overall experience in a positive way. Although much of the day-to-day tasks involve giving people directions or posing for pictures, interpreters need to be familiar with many details about life in the past, particularly the mundane. Often, interpreters will always stay in character while they are in costume as portrayed in the popular South Park episode “Super Fun Time”, though rarely to that extreme. Pros: Actors can hone their improv skills and sharpen their wit while on the job, as the gig is very much like street theater. Cons: The heat. Most positions as historic interpreters are part-time, temporary positions during the peak summer season. Frequently they perform outdoors while wearing period garb, which usually includes multiple layers and keeps the amount of exposed skin to a minimum.
Promotional Model. You don’t have to be a “model-type” to be a promotional model. You do have to be engaging and approachable, as you’re hired to help promote brand awareness for the client’s product. This usually takes the form of giving out free samples or coupons. Sometimes, the projects are more involved and require product demonstrations or even appearances in mascot-like character costumes. Pros: Promos are typically scheduled on weekends, so conflicts with other gigs or jobs are minimal, and sometimes you get to keep the leftover free samples. Cons: Shifts almost always require you to be on your feet for up to eight hours, so the work is sometimes more physically demanding than people realize.
Although these three jobs seem ready-made for performers, acting experience is not a prerequisite for any of them. These could also be a good fit for individuals interested in education, directly interacting with the public, or simply working in a non-office environment. Opportunities for these types of jobs are available in most major metropolitan areas across the country. Openings may not appear in typical job listings, however, so those interested in pursuing this type of work might need to contact the medical schools, historic sites and promotional staffing companies directly to find out who’s hiring.
