40+ Perfect Gifts for Actors in 2024 [Theater or Film]
Key Takeaways:
For the film actor, grab a film clapboard (it will look great displayed in their home, and it’s under $20!). For the stage actor, try a personalized rehearsal bag. For the book lover, pick up this top-rated book about getting better at auditions. For any actor who wants to keep developing their skills, get them a subscription to Masterclass – they have acting courses taught by Samuel L. Jackson, Helen Mirren, Natalie Portman, and more!
Do you have an actor in your life?
Whether they act on the stage or film, they will love these gifts!
As an actor and writer myself, I know that all actors (amateur or professional) must find ways to stay motivated, creative, and expressive.
After all, regardless of genre, we are storytellers first and foremost.
I’ve talked with many acting colleagues about the best gifts that they’ve received, and the ones that get top marks are those that inspire and help actors continue doing what they love!
From fun mugs as t-shirts to acting classes, we have something for everyone on this list. Read on to discover the best gifts for actors!
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What Are the Best Gifts for Actors?
Let’s take a look at some fantastic gift options for actors. Whatever you choose, just make sure it comes from the heart – after all, that’s what good acting is all about!
Top Gifts Overall
Introducing the ultimate Rehearsal Bag for performers! Think of it as the gym bag for the acting world. This sleek and professional bag is just the right size to carry all your essentials to rehearsals. Crafted from lightweight white cotton with striking black trim, it combines style with practicality.
Personalize it with your name to make it uniquely yours. The bag is made from 100% cotton canvas without lining, can hold up to 30lbs, and features a durable, heat-pressed design with premium vinyl that's soft, stretchable, and fade-resistant. Size: 18.5" wide, 4.8" deep, 15" high.
Socks are an essential, yet often overlooked item. That's why they make such fantastic gift!
These socks are cute and comfy, and serve as a constant reminder that "all the world's a stage". These socks will make your favorite actor feel like the star they are!
Looking for a useful and educational gift for an aspiring actor? Samuel L. Jackson’s Masterclass is a great choice.
This online course, led by the legendary actor, offers valuable insights into role selection, performance techniques, and the business aspects of acting, including securing an agent and mastering auditions.
Additionally, Masterclass provides courses from other acclaimed actors like Helen Mirren and Natalie Portman - and, gifting them a subscription to Masterclass will give them access to all the classes!
Looking for gifts for the film lover in your life? Check out the Cinephile card game! This "stylish and addictive card game for film nerds" will be a hit at any party or gathering.
With 150 cards and multiple ways to play, it's the perfect gift for the movie buff or actor in your life.
For those with a passion for filmmaking, a film clapboard is an incredible gift. This essential tool is used on all film sets, marking scenes and aiding in the precision of each take. It also offers visual assistance to the director and crew, ensuring every shot is perfect.
Gifting a clapboard signifies your support for the film industry - it's both practical and symbolic. If you're hunting for a unique gift for a movie lover, a film clapboard is a great choice!
This book is a must-have for anyone aiming to shine in the acting world.
Authored by Shurtleff, a highly experienced and respected figure in acting, it goes over essential skills like mastering different acting styles, finding the right pace in performances, and avoiding over-acting.
Shurtleff also shares valuable techniques for self-improvement and overcoming challenges on stage. This book offers a wealth of knowledge for actors dedicated to their craft!
Wearable Gifts
Looking for a special gift for your actor friend? This actor t-shirt is a great way to show them you know how hard they work.
Plus, there are lots of colors to choose from, so you can pick one that fits their style perfectly. It's a gift they're sure to wear with a smile!
Check out this awesome "Theatre Is My Sport" sweatshirt – a perfect gift for anyone who loves theatre, acting, or musicals.
These sweatshirts are not only stylish but also high-quality and super soft, making them a unique addition to your wardrobe.
Any aspiring thespian will be thrilled to receive this beautiful and inspirational piece of jewelry. The delicate heart-shaped pendant is made of high-quality copper and engraved with the empowering words "She Believed She Could So She Did."
This necklace is the perfect reminder for anyone following their dreams that anything is possible with a bit of faith and determination. It also makes a lovely opening night gift for seasoned actors!
Acting is a tough job that involves a lot more than just learning lines – think early mornings, long days, and late nights. So, what's a great gift for an actor who already has everything?
A fun t-shirt that shows you understand their busy life! The "I Can't, I Have Rehearsal" t-shirt is a perfect choice. It's a playful way to show your support for their dedication to acting.
Looking for the perfect present for the actors you know? Check out this theater bracelet! It's made from top-notch materials that are hypoallergenic, so it won't rust, change colors, or tarnish.
The bracelet features a charm with comedy and tragedy masks, which is a great way to show love for theater and acting. Plus, it comes in a fancy velvet bag, making it a great gift for any special event.
Practical Gifts
Give the actor in your life a cozy and film-themed gift with this unique blanket, featuring a classic film clapboard design. It's perfect for staying warm during rehearsals or relaxing at home, and it's a great reminder of their passion for acting and movies.
The blanket is also machine-washable, which makes it easy to keep clean and looking great. This film-themed blanket is a practical and stylish gift for any actor who loves the world of cinema!
If you know an actor who is always on the go, a theatre life makeup bag would be a great gift!
It's perfect for storing all their makeup essentials, and the sleek design will look good no matter where they go.
Know an actor dreaming of winning an Oscar? Surprise them with a "Future Oscar Winner" mug!
It's made of strong ceramic and can be used in the microwave and dishwasher. This useful and cute mug is a fun and practical way to inspire your actor friend every day!
Stage/Theater Keychain
Any actor who loves the stage will tell you it's their favorite place to be, where they feel the most themselves and truly alive.
A great gift for these stage lovers is this special keychain that says, "The stage is my happy place." It's not only stylish but also made of durable stainless steel, making it a long-lasting keepsake.
Finding the right gift for an aspiring actor is easy with this cool and encouraging mug from Etsy. It has a fun saying on it, 'I never asked to be the world's best actor, but here I am absolutely crushing it.'
This mug mixes humor with a bit of a pep talk, and it's sure to make your actor friend smile. Perfect for morning coffee or a tea break on set, this mug reminds them of their hard work and success.
Etsy has a huge range of Yoda Best Actor mugs that will make the perfect gift for any actor in your life.
These mugs are printed with a picture of Yoda and are dishwasher and microwave safe. They also come in various sizes so that you can find the perfect one for your actor friend.
Any actor will tell you that one of the most important things to remember is "to thine own self be true." This pen is a thoughtful gift for any actor, with its elegant metal body and wood-colored finish.
But what makes this pen special is the quote from Shakespeare engraved on the barrel!
A well-rested voice is key to a successful performance, but even the most seasoned actor can experience vocal fatigue.
Singer's Saving Grace Professional Strength sore throat spray is a refreshing and moisturizing formula that soothes and replenishes overworked vocal cords. This unique spray contains no alcohol, making it safe for regular use.
For actors, getting better at their craft is a constant journey. One of the best ways to improve is by taking an acting class with a professional coach.
In these classes, you get personal feedback to help you work on specific skills. Plus, it's a great chance to meet and connect online with other actors.
Actors are super busy and often don't have much time to relax and take care of themselves. That's where a TheraBox subscription can be a thoughtful gift.
Each box comes with a fun activity designed to bring more happiness, and seven full-size items for self-care. Therapists pick out the items in each box, focusing on reducing stress and improving daily life. It's a great way for any aspiring actor to take a little time for themselves.
Personalized Gifts
Are you looking for the most thoughtful gifts for the actor in your life? If so, look no further than personalized theater wall art!
This unique gift is sure to be a hit with any theater enthusiast, and it is customized to include the recipient's name for an extra personal touch. Whether you frame the print or display it as-is, it's sure to add a touch of drama to any room!
For a meaningful gift, the LED Family Name Cinema Metal Sign is an excellent choice for actors. You can personalize it with their name, and it's made to last. The sign lights up with fairy lights behind it, creating a cozy, theatrical atmosphere in any room.
These lights can glow for over 250 hours, and the sign comes with a remote control and all the hardware needed to hang it. It's a wonderful, long-lasting gift that brings a touch of drama and warmth to their space.
Cameo From Their Favorite Filmmaker or Celebrity
Looking for a unique gift? How about a personalized video from a beloved film pro, actor, or influencer! Perfect for any occasion, Cameo videos can brighten anyone's day.
Just pick your favorite star, specify the video length and personal message, and voila - you've got a one-of-a-kind present that's sure to impress!
Actors often say their favorite role is the one they're currently playing. You can help them celebrate this role with a special Christmas tree ornament from Etsy.
This personalized ornament can have their name, the date of their performance, and the role they played. It's a really thoughtful way to show you support their latest project, and it'll make them smile every time they see it.
Books and Games
The Professional Actor's Handbook: From Casting Call to Curtain Call
Every actor knows that success in the industry requires a combination of talent, hard work, and luck. But even the most gifted performer can benefit from a bit of guidance for navigating the waters of professional acting!
The Professional Actor’s Handbook: From Casting Call to Curtain Call is a comprehensive guide that covers every stage of an actor’s career, from creating a captivating resume to establishing an online presence. This book is an essential tool for anyone serious about an acting career.
"The Big Book of Improv Games" is a comprehensive collection of over 500 improv games. This guide offers detailed descriptions, tips, and variations for players of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
The book is organized into categories like Scene Games, Guessing Games and Singing Games, and includes appendices with a glossary, game variations, and more!
Actorpreneur: A Working Actor's Guide" by Jade Asha is a must-have for actors who want to take control of their careers. This guide offers practical advice on everything from creating your own work and marketing yourself using technology and the internet, to handling unique acting challenges like intimate scenes and photoshoots.
Jade, an award-winning actor and filmmaker, combines her own experiences with insights from her roles as a casting director, agent, and producer. This book is a complete resource for actors at all stages, helping them stay busy and navigate the unpredictable world of acting.
Every actor knows how important it is to stay motivated, especially when dealing with tough parts of the job like rejections, periods of unemployment, and the unpredictable nature of the industry.
The Pocket Book of Quotes: An Actor's Guide to Motivation is a great help in these times. It's a small book you can take anywhere, filled with inspiring words from successful actors, directors, and producers.
For actors, the best gift ideas are those that help them relax and unwind after a long rehearsal or performance. This Springbok 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle is the perfect gift for any actor.
The finished size of the puzzle is 30 inches by 24 inches, and it features a precision cut that ensures an interlocking, heirloom-quality puzzle. The unique cut of the pieces also makes it easy for actors to take on the challenge of the puzzle after a long day of rehearsal.
For actors who love a good challenge, the 3D Wooden Puzzles Vitascope is an awesome gift. It's perfect for keeping their brain active and giving them a creative project to work on. They can bring to life 58 frames of modern film clips by turning a wooden handle.
This puzzle takes about 6 hours to put together, making it a fun activity for their free time or in between rehearsals. Plus, once it's all set up, it's not only a great decoration but also something they can be really proud of.
Hollywood is known for being hard to get into, with loads of people trying to become stars. But the right help can turn things around. The Hollywood Survival Guide for Actors is a great present for those aiming to shine in the entertainment industry.
It’s a complete guide that offers tips on everything an actor needs, like how to create a standout headshot, write an impressive resume, ace auditions, and make important connections.
Need a gift for a theater enthusiast? Be A Broadway Star is your answer!
In this unique board game, players become stars, showing off their acting and singing skills, and playing guessing games. It's great for groups of 2-6, making it ideal for any party or family get-together.
For anyone looking for a great book for an aspiring actor, Jenna Fischer's "The Actor's Life: A Survival Guide" is a top pick. Fischer shares her own journey, offering practical tips on things like getting the best headshot and staying away from scams.
The book is both honest and humorous, making it an essential read for anyone aiming for success in the entertainment industry.
Copy of their Favorite Play or Movie Script
As any actor knows, one of the best gifts you can receive is a copy of your favorite play or movie script. It serves as a reminder of your love for acting and provides you with a valuable resource that you can refer to repeatedly.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a new role or want to brush up on your lines, a script is an invaluable tool. An actor will always appreciate a well-chosen script.
Tickets to a Play or Musical
Few things are more exciting for an actor than seeing a live performance. While many actors see plenty of live shows as part of their work, they often don’t enjoy them as much as they would like.
That’s why tickets to a local play or musical make such great gifts for actors. Not only will they be able to appreciate the artistry of their fellow performers, but they’ll also be able to get a firsthand look at what goes into putting on a successful production. Best of all, they’ll be able to do it from the comfort of their own seat!
Gift Card to the Movies
There are many different types of actors, from those who perform on stage to those who appear in movies or on television. No matter what type of actor you are, a gift card for the movie theater is always a welcome present.
Film enthusiasts will appreciate being able to choose their own movie, while those who don’t get to the cinema so often will enjoy being able to see the latest release.
Movie Skills Training
Every actor knows that to be successful in the industry, they need to have a wide range of skills. They need to be able to play a variety of roles convincingly, and they need to be able to do at least some of their own stunts.
For those aspiring actors out there, the best gift you can give them for their acting journey is movie skills training! Firearms training, horseback riding, stunt or stage-fighting training, and fencing lessons are all fantastic skills for any actor hoping to make it big in Hollywood (or on the indie circuit!).
What Are Gifts for Actors?
When it comes to finding the perfect gift for an actor, the options are endless.
If you know the recipient’s favorite play or movie, you can pick out a piece of memorabilia related to the production. For example, a fan of Shakespeare might appreciate a copy of one of his plays, while a lover of musicals might enjoy a CD of their favorite show tunes.
In my case, I love acting in, writing, and watching genre movies and I’m always happy to receive gifts related to my favorite movies – t-shirts, action figures and posters would top that list!
If you’re unsure what the recipient’s taste is, you can always opt for a more general acting-themed gift, such as tickets to a local theatre production, a gift certificate to an acting school, or a fun item that celebrates their love of acting.
If your favorite actor is a horror fan, you can also check out my list of the best horror gifts or even my list of the best gifts for creatives!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a unique gift that will show your support for an actor or actress, consider one of these ideas.
There’s something here for everyone, from personalized theater signs to acting classes. Thanks for following my guide on the best gifts for actors!
May your actor friend or loved one always break a leg at their performances!
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