<p>@ActressWannabe I will just chime in to say that I know of 4 girls from our area who are currently in BFA/BA Theatre programs who are in a range from very curvy to quite overweight. However, I also know several girls at the very curvy/plump end of the spectrum who were advised to lose weight before college auditions, and did so. I also know one girl who is very overweight who has now (safely, slowly) lost 50lbs while in college (through diet and exercise) and she plans to lose at least another 50. </p>
<p>Being an extra is about blending in, not standing out. Being an extra should not be your goal. It isn’t even considered “acting” in the industry and shouldn’t be on your resume. There are definitely actual roles for all physical types, although it is undeniably true that for every Tracy in Hairspray, there are dozens of other roles for less plump girls. </p>
<p>Regardless, I would strive to be physically fit, even if overweight. My daughter has been advised in several summer and pre-college workshops that being physically fit is very important. I don’t think that this is just euphemistic code for being slim. I think that acting is actually a very physically demanding job.</p>
<p>As others have said, do not be deterred. Know and embrace your type, and work hard to make your dreams a reality. Good luck!</p>