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Stop Using Ring Lights Wrong in Auditions –The Right Fix by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Sep 24th

Stop Using Ring Lights Wrong in Auditions –The Right Fix

https://youtu.be/VJOVZdafj3M

Many actors use ring lights the wrong way. And, it makes their audition look bad. Watch the video and learn some important tips on how to use a ring light properly and about another lighting system that can be used in conjunction with a ring light.

Have you ever used a ring light? If so, leave a comment and let us know how you placed the light or lights to make your face look clean and sharp.

What to Do When Your “Type” Changes by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Sep 21st


Knowing your “type” is a crucial tool for any actor.
While actors frequently book roles outside of or against type, having an understanding of what kind of
first impression you make on casting professionals can help you streamline your auditioning process.
Many introductory acting courses discuss how to figure out what your type is.
Less talked about is the fact that it changes.

So what then? You’ve gotten used to marketing yourself one way, what happens when you realize you’re being seen in a new light?
Here are some tips to ease the transition.
Know the signs. For better or worse, type is based heavily on physical appearance. This means that whenever you go through a distinct change of appearance (changing hair length or style, gaining or losing significant weight, altering the tone of your personal style) your type may change with it.

Age is another big factor. As you get older, you will naturally cycle through many different types. A good way to know your type is changing is the type of auditions you’re getting. If you’re accustomed to getting roles like student, assistant, intern, etc., and are suddenly seeing a lot more parents, teachers, and bosses, you may be growing into a new type.

New headshots. Keeping headshots up to date is always important, but never more so than when you’re rebranding. If you don’t want to ditch your current headshots completely, consider adding a couple of shots to your roster that suggest your new type. Restyle. If you’re reading for parent roles but still dressing like a college student, it may be helpful to consider switching up your style (at least professionally).

A haircut and a slight outfit tweak can do wonders to suggest a character consistent with the types you’re reading for.
Embrace it. It’s an easy thing to want to fight your type. But remember, a new type is not a life sentence. It doesn’t mean you’ll never play a role outside that type.
It just means that your bread-and-butter auditions, your commercials and day player roles, might look different.

#actor #casting #audition #headshot #role #type

Believe!! by Evangeline Lilly  •  last post Sep 20th

everything gon be fine ❤️

Theme Park Acting Work by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Sep 20th



If you’re looking beyond typical TV and film auditions for work, you may want to consider working as a performer at a theme park. Being in a different atmosphere other than on a set can be quite liberating. It lends itself to a more spontaneous and therefore at times more challenging experience for you as an actor. Working at a theme park can be a great experience and fun as well. Here’s how you can ace an audition and become a theme park performer. 

1. Don’t dress like a character you think you look like. This is a big, glaring mistake that a lot of performers make going into the audition and it’s problematic for a lot of reasons. First, it looks desperate. You must keep in mind that working as a theme park performer is a normal job and it can be a bit overwhelming if you’re a super fan showing up dressed like a character. It can also be interpreted as you telling casting what you think you should be cast as which is their job, not yours. Also, it really inhibits you because it may make it difficult for casting to see you beyond what you came dressed as. This can jeopardize your chances of getting hired. Just come well groomed and dressed in something nice, neutral, and comfortable. You may have to do some basic movement choreography so dress in something that allows you to move. 

2. Be friendly, have energy, and smile the moment you arrive. Eyes are everywhere and the entire process is an audition. Just because you think someone isn’t looking your way doesn’t mean that no one is looking at you or that the audition is over or on a break. 

3. If you don’t get cast your first time, don’t give up. There are plenty of people who get hired after one, two, three, or more auditions. You may not have booked the job simply because there wasn’t anything that fit your look or type at that very moment. That can change anytime and more often than not it does! 

4. Always be ready. Between auditions, stay ready by continuing to build your skill set as a performer. Work on your body movement, singing, improv, accents, and willingness to step outside your comfort zone by challenging yourself. This way you’ll be more than ready for anything. 

#actor #casting #themepark
 


Preparing for Auditions: 7 Guided Script Approaches That Land You The Job by Maurice Vaughan  •  last post Sep 19th

Joey Madia shares seven approaches that could help you land acting gigs, like “Marking Up the Script,” “Starting at the End of the Characters Arc,” and “Vocal Quality, Rhythm, and Pace.”


www.stage32.com/blog/preparing-for-auditions-7-guided-script-approaches-that-land-you-the-job-3860

Free Actor Web Design - my wife and I are looking to help a few of you here by Michael Karpienski  •  last post Sep 18th

Hello! I'm an MFA Creative Writing degree holder, novelist and fellow actor looking to help a few of you here to build up my actor web design portfolio and get the word out about our work. DM if you can use some help! Would love to consider building your website for free to get the word out about my wife and my work! Thanks, Michael - ‪(201) 380-1019‬ / hello@michaelkarpienski.com Web design examples of our work: https://graycetoon.com/ https://liviahetes.com/ https://idaespevik.com/ https://iamrissa.com/ https://lorettaawilliams.com/ https://nathaniel-goodwin.com/ https://kirageiger.com/

California's new laws protecting talent by Sam Sokolow  •  last post Sep 17th

Gavin Newsome has signed new legislation in California protecting performers and their likenesses from being exploited by AI without compensation. This was a big sticking point during the SAG-AFTRA strike and having legislation backing it up can be helpful for performers. Things are evolving fast and protecting California's citizens who make a living with their talent is a potent step. What do you think of these new laws? https://deadline.com/2024/09/ai-bills-gavin-newsom-hollywood-performers-1236091802/

Crazy Thing I Did for This Insanely Unusual Job! by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Sep 17th

Crazy Thing I Did for This Insanely Unusual Job!

https://youtu.be/5J3tprCwBds

I have done many types of acting jobs. In my 40 years as a full-time actor, I have done TV shows, feature, independent, student and training films, TV commercials, radio spots, narrations, stunts and commercial modeling projects. I have also done a couple of promotional projects. In this video, I share with you a crazy thing I did for this insanely unusual job. If you experienced an unusual job, share it here.

Ask Me Anything (AMA) Wednesday 9/18 to Thursday 9/19- Pursuing Opportunities As A Performer by Omari Washington  •  last post Sep 16th

Hey Superstars! Omari here. I'm an actor, producer and screenwriter. I'm thrilled to be doing an AMA in the acting lounge on Wednesday, September 18th. I moved to Los Angeles 13 years ago from Chicago to pursue my acting dream. It's been quite the journey to say the least. I joined SAG-AFTRA in 2018. Since joining the union, I've had the pleasure of being a co-star on network t.v. shows like All-American, Good Trouble, Lethal Weapon, The Bold and the Beautiful and a few other shows. Also, I've starred in over 10 feature films and 20 plus short films. In my career thus far, I won 4 best actor awards for my performance as "Alex" in the award-winning short film "Gracefully Broken". Which is a film I wrote, executive produced and starred in that went on to win over 20 awards worldwide. Currently I have my first feature film "Back Burner" produced by my production company L3 Productions, in post production and can't wait to release this film to the world. It's a film about a sou chef who has a burning desire to be the Yum Networks next superstar but standing in his way is the disrespectful executive chef he works for. I had the pleasure of starring in the film, as well as being the co-writer, executive producer and director for this project.

I'm excited to answer all the questions you may have about pursuing opportunities as an actor. I feel like my experience has lead me to a lot of really good projects and I would love to share some gems with you on how that can happen for you as well. Have a great week and I look forward to having a good time in the acting lunge with you all this Wednesday!

Voice Over Advice for Success by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Sep 15th



Find the Hints in the Script to Determine the Direction of Your Read.

You are usually given direction as to how your read should sound. Sometimes the direction can be a little confusing and even conflicting.

For instance, a message can be encouraging, inspirational, upbeat, excited, or empathetic. Know how to identify words and visual explanations in a script that will give you strong hints as to which direction your read should go. Some key words to look for to know what sounds to apply include “dimly lit” (intimate/close to the mic), “personal” (one-on-one/friendly), “you can be assured” (trustworthy), “imagine” (inspirational), and ”children playing” (warm and friendly). Written descriptions of how the spot is framed such as “pan in,” “tight shot,” or “wide shot” also send you direct messages regarding the emotional feel that your voice should convey.

Expect to Be Pulled in Many Different Directions at the Final Recording Session.

The producers can’t afford to have you back to re-record and pay you and the studio a second time, so they may direct you all over the place to cover all possible choices they anticipate the client may want to hear (as the expression goes) “in the can.” Don’t get jittery or nervous. Having you record many different choices does not mean you’re doing it wrong.

- Terry Berland Commercial Acting

#voice #voiceover #vocal #actor

Brandon Lee by Denise Jenner  •  last post Sep 15th

I want to make a screenplay of the life and death and its aftermath of Brandon Lee the son of Bruce lee.  

I desperately need an answer by Dwayne Pagnotto  •  last post Sep 12th

I'm determined to approach the actor Steven Wright's agent with an offer to see if he'd be interested in doing the voice of my cat Jingles for my TV series.But i need to know what i will be asked and what i will need to tell them and show them.


And I need you people to help me.

I have the pilot already written, and the second episode as well. Plus I have six fully detailed follow-up episodes, and four briefly outlined closing episodes to bring the series to its season finale. Plus I have the series bible as well. So all that is covered.

So basically,I just need someone to tell me, what they will ask to see, and what i will need to show them.What things will the agent likely ask me. I have heard that he may already have a producer he' connected with, in which case they may wish to see what i got.

What should i look out for and be aware of. And what things should i or shouldn't i do? You don't need to answer all these questions,I'll take what i can get.

However, a just a brief idea of what i can expect would be a great help.

I apologize if this is in the wrong lounge, but i do not know where else to turn. So i am asking you my friends to please help me. I've posted something like this before and not a single person bothered replying. 

Please do not make me go thru that again. You're my friends, i need your help, this is why we are all here, so please do not disappoint me again.

Thanks everyone.

What You Need to Know About Actors' Modified Local Contracts by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Sep 12th

What You Need to Know About Actors' Modified Local Contracts

https://youtu.be/-WNcNpbN1Vw

All actors must know about local and modified local contracts so you don’t hurt your reputation and career. Watch the video to learn.
Ever work under these contracts? If so, share your experiences with us here.

I’m Ready for Action!!! by Tamika Gemini Marley  •  last post Sep 10th

I’m definitely trying to get in on these reality shows or a game show! If you have any insights or connects please message me! I think the world is missing out on my country pretty self

RSVP for September's In-Person Stage 32 Meetups in Austin, TX & Phoenix, AZ! by Ashley Renee Smith  •  last post Sep 10th

Hey, Actors!


There are 2 FREE Stage 32 in-person networking meetups coming up on Thursday, September 19th! I'm including links to the meetup pages for you all below. If you live in any of these cities or are nearby, be sure to RSVP and seize this opportunity to meet with other creatives in person and help build your local creative community! 

Austin, TX: https://www.stage32.com/meetups/1995/September-Stage-32-Austin-TX-In-Person-Meetup
Phoenix, AZ: https://www.stage32.com/meetups/1996/Sept-Stage-32-Phoenix-In-Person-Meetup

If you're interested in hosting your own monthly in-person Stage 32 meetup to build your local creative community, email me at Community@stage32.com and we can discuss the steps to get started!

RIP to James Earl Jones by Sam Sokolow  •  last post Sep 10th

My first time experiencing his brilliance, grace and immense presence was in John Badham's THE BINGO LONG TRAVELING ALL-STARS & MOTOR KINGS and I was hooked. He took our imaginations on so many rides from Star Wars to The Lion King, Dr. Starngelove to Patriot Games, Coming To America to Field Of Dreams, and countless other indelible roles. Thank you, James Earl Jones. Rest in power. https://deadline.com/2024/09/james-earl-jones-hollywood-broadway-remembers-tributes-death-1236082895/

Are Your Loved Ones Supportive? by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Sep 8th


When you just start your acting career and begin to navigate the unknown maze that is your options for acquiring skills as an actor, you really need all the encouragement and support you can get. This, of course, applies to your friends and family foremost because they are your trusted loved ones who are supposed to have your back no matter what. Right? Not always.

If you feel as though everyone you know is negative and just plain doesn’t “get it,” then take a moment and see your choice to become an actor from your family and friends’ perspectives. An attorney, a doctor, an accountant, or another mainstream occupation is more acceptable than what they perceive a struggling artist’s life to be, schlepping from audition to audition unpaid and having to attend classes in order to hone your skill set. Your spouse probably sees your decision to be without the proper consideration for your collective future together.

One of the best ways to deal with possible negativity from your family is to try and understand that they really do have your best interests at heart, and their intentions are good.

When your parents or significant other responds to you with anything other than, “Don’t worry. You’ll book the next role,” or “Hey, can I help in any way for your next audition?” simply display that you’re being responsible and earning a living doing something while pursuing your acting career.

If they do see that you are completely immersed in this career and are busy with every opportunity in moving forward then that shows you are to be taken at your word and they should see your commitment to your craft.

Whatever the outcome of your specific relationships, always think positively and embrace the challenges and adventures as you navigate your way as an actor. This is a truly exciting and invigorating process. You can be a part of evoking emotion from strangers as they sit in front of their TVs or in an audience by making them cry, laugh, get angry, and be entertained. You can make them forget everything for just a moment. Now that is worth more than you know.

#actors #support

Sunday View -for-View Exchange! by Donn Swaby  •  last post Sep 8th

Let's finish our week strong with some view-fir-views! Who's game? https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm0841410

Diction Exercises for Actors by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Sep 6th


Diction is the way you talk: your enunciation and the types of words and phrases you use.
These exercises are great for actors to practice:

- Yoga hum: Take a deep breath in, then hum while slowly releasing your breath. Do this 5–10 times.

- Dragon’s breath: Stand with your hands on your stomach and take a deep breath in. Release the breath with a “hah!” on fast, sharp exhales.

- Tongue twisters: Go through any catchy tongue twisters you know, such as:

She sells seashells by the seashore.
We surely shall see the sunshine soon.
Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers
A peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked
If Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers
Where’s the peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked?
How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
He would chuck, he would, as much as he could, and chuck as much wood
As a woodchuck would if a woodchuck could chuck wood
Can you can a can as a canner can can a can?

To practice, say the above tongue twisters slowly and deliberately five times in a row. If you’re able to say them without making a mistake, increase the speed. If you make a mistake, slow back down again. The key with tongue twisters as diction exercises is to only speed up once you’re in control of the words and to go faster and faster until you master them at all speeds. 

- Practice vowels and consonants: Practice saying and singing vowels using different consonant sounds at the front, in the middle, and at the end. For example, slowly and clearly say the words “poke,” “toll,” “boat,” “cope,” and “stone” back to back, focusing on keeping that long “o” exactly the same. 

- Backstage

#actors #voice #vocal #backstage
 

Learn 5 nerve calming exercises & techniques from an Actress from THIS IS US, THE SECRETS SHE KEEPS, N.C.I.S and more! by Sydney Summers  •  last post Sep 5th

In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, you will learn a variety of techniques to help you manage nerves and enhance your performances. You will explore the importance of preparation, memorizing lines, and scene practice, as well as deep breathing and diaphragmatic exercises. The webinar will cover scientifically-backed methods like EFT tapping and Ho’oponopono for anxiety relief and emotional balance. Additionally, you’ll discover positive self-talk and visualization techniques to foster a positive mindset. By the end of the webinar, you will walk away with practical strategies to maintain calmness and confidence, enabling you to deliver your best performances consistently.


To guide you on techniques is Kym Jackson who has a career spanning over sixty feature films and TV series, including hits like THIS IS US and NCIS. Kym has a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in the industry. She is a regular speaker for esteemed organizations like SAG-AFTRA and WIFT, and has taught thousands of actors to navigate the business of acting. Her practical insights and techniques will empower you to overcome nerves and thrive in your acting career.

Kym will provide you with nerve-calming exercises!

-Square breathing techniques
-Chanting techniques
-EFT Tapping technique
-Ho’oponopono technique
-Visualization technique

Sign up link + more webinar info: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/actors-proven-tips-to-calm-your-nerves-on-set-and-in-auditions

Email edu@stage32.com with any questions!