I haven't done it myself, but have quite a few connections (can elaborate if needed). In general, casting directors like to see you work within the constraints of a character, but somehow make them your own at the same time. For example, how Lydia (Beetlejuice) on Broadway is still Lydia, but each actress gives her slightly different mannerisms that make their version of her unique. Whether that's movement, changes to tone and vocal inflections, or even minor visual details that give a character a little more personality.

Of course, this varies depending on exactly what you want to get into. The advice above is more for visual acting like theater and, to some extent, film.

Voice acting relies more on your ability to control your voice, show off your range of voices, and evoke emotion.

As far as agents, honestly I wouldn't look for one right away. Many opportunities let you self-represent to begin with, as not everyone getting into the industry will have an agent right away.

As for where to find opportunities, try keeping up with talent forums and the social media accounts of known performances (Beetlejuice on Broadway in particular does open auditions nearly every year). Productions are constantly looking for new talent, and even being an extra on set can be helpful for getting your foot in the door and making connections. Sites like CastingCall, Playbill, and Backstage are always good places to check, but film especially tends to be more social media based nowadays. Some companies also have an Audition section on their sites (Disney being one of these).

Vax said:

I have been doing stage acting for about five years. I know a few people in the voice acting industry as well, though.

Evergreen said:

I haven't done it myself, but have quite a few connections (can elaborate if needed). In general, casting directors like to see you work within the constraints of a character, but somehow make them your own at the same time. For example, how Lydia (Beetlejuice) on Broadway is still Lydia, but each actress gives her slightly different mannerisms that make their version of her unique. Whether that's movement, changes to tone and vocal inflections, or even minor visual details that give a character a little more personality.

Of course, this varies depending on exactly what you want to get into. The advice above is more for visual acting like theater and, to some extent, film.

Voice acting relies more on your ability to control your voice, show off your range of voices, and evoke emotion.

As far as agents, honestly I wouldn't look for one right away. Many opportunities let you self-represent to begin with, as not everyone getting into the industry will have an agent right away.

As for where to find opportunities, try keeping up with talent forums and the social media accounts of known performances (Beetlejuice on Broadway in particular does open auditions nearly every year). Productions are constantly looking for new talent, and even being an extra on set can be helpful for getting your foot in the door and making connections. Sites like CastingCall, Playbill, and Backstage are always good places to check, but film especially tends to be more social media based nowadays. Some companies also have an Audition section on their sites (Disney being one of these).

It depends on the job! Auditions can vary, depending on what the casting directors want. A lot of auditions are online nowadays and usually involve taking a video and submitting it, usually if you performing a provided segment and maybe filling out an interest form or writing a letter explaining your background, while others will have a Zoom meeting or require you to travel to them and do an in-person audition.

As far as working once you've gotten into the industry, most work in studios or wherever they're performing. Voice actors are the only ones that might be able to work from home, if they have professional level equipment and can ensure a quiet background for their audio. It's pretty 50/50 for voice actors depending on the production what you'd need to do, but most prefer you come into the recording studio instead (if they have one). Size of the production will also cause this to vary, since smaller and indie projects are less likely to have a full scale setup and might be a little more lenient on where you work.