Abhilash Kaimal graduated from Actors Centre Australia (ACA) in 2020, and has been working steadily since. He’s currently touring nationally with Shake & Stir Theatre Co.’s production of 1984. On screen, Abhilash can be seen on Pieces of Her for Netflix, NCIS Sydney for Paramount/CBS/10 and the AMC+ show, Nautilus. At ACA, he performed in numerous productions, including Frankie and Johnny in the Claire De Lune, The Importance of Being Earnest, and Italian American Reconciliation. He also returned in 2024 for ACA Company’s production of A Doll’s House.
Read on to hear why Abhilash’s chose ACA, how it shaped him personally, and his advice for those hoping to study acting.
ACA: Why did you choose ACA over other acting schools?
Abhilash: I heard from several people in the industry about how great the school and the teachers were, and the audition process really inspired confidence in me. ACA seemed like a place that nurtures, respects and develops talent and skills, rather than forcing artists to conform to a single vision.
ACA: Are you from Sydney originally? What inspired you to study acting?
Abhilash: My family has been around the place but I mainly grew up in Sydney. After graduating high school I did a few other degrees, mainly more sensible options. I hit a certain point where there was just no denying the desire to pursue this dream of mine and took the plunge. I have no regrets in the time I took to take that leap as it all helped me to be the person I am now and I encourage anyone to take a chance on yourself and see what happens.
ACA: How did your time at ACA shape your career and personal growth?
Abhilash: Personally, ACA helped me become much more independent, both professionally and personally. It also significantly improved my work ethic, which I believe is one of the most important things for artists to nurture. Additionally, it shifted my perspective and made me realize that, in the end, other people’s opinions don’t really matter. If you can find happiness and fulfillment in your own growth and keep striving to improve, what more could you need?
ACA: What’s happened since you graduated? Can you share some career highlights or exciting projects?
Abhilash: I’ve been steadily working in the industry since graduating, gaining more experience and understanding my place within it. My perspective on the industry shifts from year to year, but overall, I feel privileged by the work I’ve been able to do and the stories I’ve helped bring to life. I’m also excited about a project I’m currently working on this year. However, since the cast hasn’t been officially announced yet, I don’t feel it’s appropriate to reveal anything without express permission.
ACA: Any advice for someone looking to study acting?
Abhilash: It’s all well and good to read all the textbooks and read all the plays and scripts but the only way to markedly improve or understand where your gaps may lie is to watch people. Watch how they interact with each other, themselves, people they like, people they don’t, etc. Watch films, tv shows, plays and musicals. Watch well reviewed pieces of work and watch works that have been ripped to shreds. Have an opinion on things but don’t be locked into what you already know because you should be changing your opinion.
ACA: What would you say to someone considering studying at ACA? How did ACA prepare you for the industry?
Abhilash: One of the best aspects of my time at ACA was how hands-on and practical the training was. We were constantly working on texts, plays, and screen scenes, which provided invaluable experience and really helped hone my craft. That constant, real-world work not only sharpened my skills but also helped build my confidence. By the time I entered the industry, I felt ready to hold my own and engage confidently with experienced professionals.
Thank you, Abhilash!
