Beyond the Spotlight

: How to Survive and Thrive in the Real World of Acting and Performing Arts

Stephen Bull, Alexa Morden

This evidence-informed roadmap shows you how to thrive in an industry where rejection is part of the job and only 2 per cent of actors make a living from performing. Beyond the Spotlight is your survival guide and inspiration for building a fulfilling career in the performing arts. Whether your chasing your first role or questioning your place in the industry, Beyond The Spotlight offers guidance and skills for any stage of your career.

Beyond the Spotlight pulls back the curtain on the performing arts industry, revealing what it really takes to succeed.

This book helpfully attests to the trials, tribulations (and sometimes triumphs!) of being an actor, through a practical and actionable lens.

Phil Dunster, Actor & Emmy Award Nominee

This book is like a long overdue chat with a best friend and a world-class coaching session rolled into one.

Matt Holt, Award-winning Screen Director

This book helps free the human underneath the actor, which is vital for happiness, career longevity and mental health.

Elena Kirschner, Talent Agent

ISBN: 9780719845918

Width: 156mm

Height: 234mm

Pages: 160

Published: January 27, 2026

Format: Paperback

DR STEVE BULL is a performance psychologist with over four decades of experience coaching elite performers, Olympic athletes and business leaders.

ALEXA MORDEN is a professional actor, coach, speaker, and creator of The 98% podcast, an acclaimed resource for actors and creatives.