Name Diana Martin Profession Actress How did you get into this profession? My first acting job was Switch – through an audition. I had no acting experience whatsoever and that I was lucky to get the role for Claire. It was unexpected. After that I did more auditions and got some parts. I also did a few drama courses to gain my skills and confidence. You never stop learning and I still continue to learn. I have so much more to learn like every one of you. Most of my acting is raw. I learn by myself and accept criticism to improve my ability to act. | 
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What does this job involve? When I’m acting, I must be prepared to learn all my lines and study my character for the role. I practise my lines in BSL and look in the mirror to study my expressions. I also study my body language or gestures. 3 words that describe you? Assertive, a worrier and positive. What do you like (generally!)? I love fashion, animals especially Chihuahuas, films, theatre, dancing, chocolate, sleep, photographs, helping with the environment and Brad Pitt! What do you like about your job?
- I love acting because it’s a challenge to play different characters
- having my hair and make up done before filming
- I get to see some famous faces
- I don’t get bored; its always fun.
- Sharing teamwork
- Making friends
- Good pay especially in mainstream dramas!
What are the bad things about your job?
- The hours can be long and tiring.
- It can be stressful to learn your lines by heart and trying to change it into BSL.
- Lots of retakes because you either forgot your lines, or didn’t do it right, over head aeroplanes or
- technical problems.
- Getting rejected after an audition.
- Acting seems to look an easy job to do but when you get into it can cause stress and can be very tiring.
- The acting world can be competitive but it’s always fun.
What do you not like (generally!)? I don’t like spiders, getting worried over global warming, seeing chewing gum sticking on the ground, smoking and violence. Advice for those interested in following a similar career or for pupils planning courses/career generally? I would recommend anyone to take acting courses to enhance your acting ability. I would always advise anyone to study a different subject for a different career, e.g I did a photography degree and used to be a teacher's assistant so it makes it easier for me to earn money. 90% of actors are out of work. Don’t rely on acting as your full time career. It’s not easy but you can have 2 jobs – one as an actor and the other one whichever you want. Lots of actors and actresses work at a bar or as a waiter to earn money for back up. To be an actress/actor you need to be 100% committed and build up some networks with people. You also need to be confident and to have thick skin to accept criticism. If you are determined, then you can do it. E-mail deaf@lgfl.net
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