[custom_adv] Shahnaz Tehrani is an actress, known for The Hostage (1974), Brothers in Blood (1975) and The Guest (1976). [custom_adv] As a dancer, I always breathed from my chest rather than my diaphragm. It helped me access my breath quickly when performing and also kept my belly from expanding and looking bloated. [custom_adv] When I transitioned to acting, this became an issue—I needed fuller breaths from my diaphragm to support a strong voice and to be able to relax on stage (or on camera). [custom_adv] Dance is a great skill to have as an actor. The discipline required for the former is one that will help you in the work required for the latter. You’ll also find that a background in dance will help with movement and comfort as you’re already very connected to your body. [custom_adv] However, keep in mind that your job as an actor is to be a human first and foremost, and most humans can’t do a triple pirouette into a split. If your character calls for some flexibility or movement, use your dance skills. Otherwise, save the leaps for dance class. [custom_adv] As you begin your acting career, it’s important to think about what your goals are. Be real with yourself and chase what you’re most passionate about; time is essential in this field, so don’t waste is with things that won’t progress your goals. [custom_adv] Think about what type of acting you’re interested in: You’ll find commercial work is great for dancers as we usually have the right character, features, and expressiveness. [custom_adv] Even the greatest dancers still do their barre exercises. Same applies to acting. You must continue to go back to the basics like daily vocal exercises, Alexander technique, cold readings, etc. [custom_adv] You know when someone records you speaking and you’re questioning if that’s what you actually sound like? Get used to it, embrace it, and let go of it. As a dancer, we don’t need our voices (unless you’re in a musical); it’s all about using our bodies and faces to express ourselves which means that getting used to using your voice is a must. [custom_adv] Freestyling may be your best dance skill or worst nightmare. Improv will be the same in acting. It’s a useful tool for most successful actors.