We have found 19,246 posts across 4 actor forums:
Moving to LA in 2023. by been_dying • last post Jun 21st
I'm moving to LA with my girlfriend from WI in the second half of 2023. We've both got degrees (25 y/o), she's got good experience under her belt with work. I'm not going into this with hopes of being the next big actor, just planning on acting and whatever happens happens. Those of you who live or have lived in LA for this stuff, what would be the piece of advice you'd give me before I make this big change?
Worried I'll be distracted by friends/important people in the audience. by jennyvasan • last post Jun 21st
This weekend I'm in two evenings of short plays: performing in one, directing another. I got drafted late to perform and, not being a super experienced actor (I've done sketch and improv and music recitals but not much actual acting), I'm getting a little nervous about it because a lot of people I know are coming, including people from the office and some people I admire a lot. One is a friend's partner who's a successful performer in her own right. I'm nervous about blanking in front of them. This is a new one for me. As I memorize the lines I imagine them all out there watching — especially the successful one — and I feel really nervous! I'm worried I'll start thinking about them, lose my train of thought, and tank the play. Tips on tuning out the audience — no matter how many people in it love and support you — and just focusing on character and lines? I'm just so worried about drawing a blank in front of all of them.
Actors In LA by langolier27 • last post Jun 20th
Hi everyone, I am curious to hear your thoughts on an idea I had for a service that helps actors just starting out get more on camera experience. It would be a micro-budget production company you would hire to help you develop a scene or short film to showcase your acting, it would offer script review, on camera direction, full production i.e. lights and sound, and you would own the rights to all of the footage to be used however you like. Is this something you would be interested in? If you would be interested in this service what would be a reasonable value for it? Thanks for your input! [View Poll](https://www.reddit.com/poll/vgnuq7)
My First Gig Nightmare by Maddisonjdh • last post Jun 20th
Hey Everyone, *I wanted some advice as a newbie in voice acting. I'd like to share the details of what happened at my first gig and get your feedback. Thank you for your time! I apologize for the wall of text but I figured it's best to give the most information possible to get good feedback on what I could do better next time.* For sake of the story, **Bob is my co-worker and Jim is the client.** ... I've always been told I should get into voice acting, and had companies ask me to do some voice acting work in the past. In a meeting, I had someone I work with who heard my voice ask if I was interested in doing some VO work for a company they work with. The previous VO is getting older (has a smoker's cough) and wanted a replacement (specified they wanted male) but this gentleman I work with insisted I try for the part. I mentioned my inexperience and expressed that I didn't have any demo reel or previous work in VO commercials or infomercials but they insisted I try and that **Jim** just wanted an affordable option. They requested 1.5m of VO for an infomercial in an authoritative and excited tone, but Bob requested it "not be as excitable as the original VO Jim". I accepted the job at $100 as they told me "hourly wouldn't make sense for this type of work" and suggested I only do "hourly for bigger projects." Deadline of Wednesday approaching, I send over the clips individually of each line via mp4 email. I don't hear back till Thursday morning and received a "Jim says your voice is too flat, even though we asked for less cartoonish, we still feel your inflection isn't good enough" so I responded with "Absolutely, when is this revision needed as the original deadline was last night" and got no response for over 12+ hours. His first response was to an email chain titled "Deadline?" that I sent over the following morning hoping for some communication, where he mentioned "I'll see you at the meeting tonight" to which I wrongfully assumed he meant to speak about the deadline. I go to the business meeting, and he forgets to mention anything about the VO work deadline even after we discuss the work. Fast forward to Fathers Day (Sunday) I get a message at 9 pm asking if I have bailed on the project, that revisions are due within 12 hours of the original deadline, that he won't pay me for incurred hours, that I should have had the revisions done today because that was the deadline (I wasn't aware of this), and he states "Why would I give you a deadline for revisions when they were due Wednesday". The issue with this that I have is the math isn't adding up. My question is... if the deadline was 12 hours after Wednesday, and he didn't send the request for a revision until Thursday, and he knew I'd be working with him that day till 9 pm, how could I have possibly gotten the revisions done Wednesday night? Or even 12 hours after the revision request (Thursday morning) if we were working at the same day job till 9 pm? I never got a response about any deadlines till Monday morning when he said it was due today, and that he would have to do the work. TLDR: Bob didn't give me a new deadline for revisions. Gets mad that the revisions weren't done the day he requested the original VO lines, but the request for revision wasn't even sent out till Thursday (when we spent all day at our day job). Says he will not pay me, and that revisions are always due 12 hours after the deadline even if it's 3 am. To all of you voice actors out there, is this normal? What do you do when you accept a job that people then refuse to pay you for after you've already done a lot of work? Do you write contracts? I am looking for any suggestions I can get to better communicate with people in the future and avoid this.
Would a mobile studio service be a useful service or a waste of time and money? by BroderickDolata • last post Jun 20th
I'm a disabled veteran in Idaho who was doing handyman work, but cant anymore due to my disabilities. I have a box trailer I'm hoping to make some passive income on, and wondered if a roving recording studio for rent would be a marketable idea? With all the hype in VO, and so many wanting to dip their toes in the proverbial water, I thought it would be a minor expense on my part to convert my 8x12 trailer into a portable recording studio. It facilitates inexpensive recording time for aspiring voice actors to do their own demo or record a song or two, and they don't have to go into someone's house/home studio, which I know some may be uncomfortable with. This may be a pointless thought, but I figured if other redditers doing VA thought it would have some merit, it might be worth further research. [View Poll](https://www.reddit.com/poll/vgslo7)
The truth about acting; Training by notshakespear • last post Jun 20th
This is a difficult business. Unprecedented amount of people coming into the "acting business" expecting to find the quick, easy road to the top. Not going to happen, unless maybe you are related to somebody very connected. Otherwise, this a tough, long road with ZERO shortcuts, especially now with so many new people trying to do it. Casting directors have to weed through literally thousands of shitty, inexperienced audition tapes to get to the REAL ones. The ones were the actors have obviously trained hard, gone to school, taken classes on technique and continue to do so, observed human behavior, observed their own behavior. Worked at every opportunity they could, being the non-paying student film to the one-line SAG production and so on. The road is a long one. All successful, working actors will tell you how they struggled to get were they are, the patience they had to acquire. If you don't train and study the craft and continue to study and work at everything this craft and business demand, then you will suck. Even those who have a wonderful, natural talent still work at it. Don't let the actors that make acting look easy fool you into thinking that acting is easy, it's not and the BUSINESS of acting is even more difficult. Bottom line: Train and learn and train some more. Do not expect to find a short cut. There are none. Every good actor will tell you so. If you do the hard work, the fun work will come.
Curious about DnD? Practicing VO or networking while gaming? No, this isn't the next Critical Role. by shawsown • last post Jun 20th
Hi, I'm an aspiring VO artist that is also an aspiring super awesome nerdy DnD player. I have a small group that I play with of 3 newb players & one DM that's been playing since the 70s. Dude also loves doing voices but isn't a VO artist. Neither is anyone else except me, yet. We are looking for new players for our little band as one player has been fading away. But even if she doesn't go we would like to grow our little group. Newbies with lots of questions are extremely welcome, as about 40% of our time is spent asking questions. Last game consisted of, "Hey, can I do this?" *Barbarian proceeds to launch himself off 40 foot drop to land on Orc* Next player, "So, I guess I should do this then, right?" *Cat person rogue launches herself off cliff with rope. Faceplants into ground and dies.* Old hats are welcome to join and share experience with us as well. But we are a curious learning bunch. Roleplay varies from talking in character to referring to ourselves in 3rd person. But I would love to get a fellow voice actor or two in. DnD gives you a chance to network, make other VO friends (me & anyone else joining), plus get used to character development, and if you're comfortable use character voices. I'll even give feedback if you like. So, want to play pretend, crack jokes, do voices, maybe talk shop, & kill sone stuff with us? Feel free to DM me or ask any questions or more info in the replies.
Toronto actors — best Facebook groups? by droppedoutofuni • last post Jun 20th
Hello Toronto actors. Common advice I hear is to join FB groups that post auditions. I’m part of some obvious ones (Manns Casting, Jigsaw, etc, even though my agent submits me to most of the eligible ones they post on these) but whenever I join a generic sounding one “Toronto acting auditions” it’s all spam posts or people posting “I want to be an actor how do I get on Netflix”
Do you recommend Scott Sedita's Sitcom Acting Intensive class? by OrualPsyche • last post Jun 20th
I really want to be a sitcom actor and I came across him on a Google search. Would you recommend his classes?
How often do you accept extra work? by nuglesrot • last post Jun 20th
Or do you at all? Especially asking those working or pursuing on a principal actor career. Thanks!
black and white mixed actors by Majestic_Apricot8653 • last post Jun 19th
i’m a mixed actor and i’ve seen tons of casting calls but none that specifically ask for mixed actors they are always asking for either white OR black, so i was wondering what race i would put down and if i would still be allowed to audition for a role that asks for white or black actors and if so, what race would i put down
Nervous about starting a new acting class by letheatredude • last post Jun 19th
I'm signed up for my first acting class in like forever and it starts tomorrow. I'm SUPER excited (it's an intro to TV/Film acting class and I'm desperately looking to get out of the world of musical theatre) but I am nervous. I came from a college program where I had a really bad experience. Most of my acting classes weren't great experiences for me. My main teacher was super passive and judgmental as were a lot of my classmates. I never felt like I could make a mistake or take risks in front of them. The couple of times I tried things that didn't work I got made fun of in front of the entire class by the professor. I mean being vulnerable as an actor is hard enough as it is but that experience definitely didn't help. It's something I've been working on since leaving college but I'm still feeling a little hesitant about tomorrow. Any advice?
Casting Call Club Opinions by Dwayne_Man9323 • last post Jun 19th
Hello. As the heading suggests, I was surfing the web for Voice Acting stuff and came across Casting Call Club. Considering that I'm still a rookie and am working on taking classes, I'm wondering what this site is about. From the looks of things, it seems to be a place where voice actors find work, and there's even a contest for it. But if that's the case, I'm not sure if I should try to post anything, let alone go for the contest. Any advice would be a big help.
Would love to start to get into acting by anonforrareason • last post Jun 19th
Hi all, I am 16 years old and after a recent find I have developed a love and will to pursue my acting career however I have identified a few bumps in my road. Firstly, I would love to start taking acting classes however, growing up I wasn’t your stereotypical actor I was a soccer player for 12 years and after being at the peak of my soccer career, I lost my passion. Then, I started kick boxing at the age of 15 and doing to to now. This then bringing me to the present with ZERO acting experience, but at this age it is fine, the problem is I don’t think my parents would allow me to start acting ( they aren’t shitty parents, I love them and they do everything for me ) but it’s just that they would think that I am just taking the piss and not take me seriously, this being that I just changed sport and have always had the passion of going into the business and economic side of things. They’d assume that I wouldn’t take it seriously and they will just be wasting their money on something that I won’t enjoy. Secondly, I can’t even ask them because I am shit scared that they will think I’m joking as before this I have never even mentioned the possibility of pursuing an acting career and one top of this I have horrible anxiety. Lastly, I live in Melbourne Australia and if I hope on going big time ( foreshadowing ) Melbourne is a shitty location. To begin I am just on YouTube watching the basics of how to do everything such as reading and analysing scripts and just the other basics, then I hope on proving to them that I have what it takes to start taking acting classes. Now my question for you guys is, what is the best course of action to take if I were to get the go ahead from my parents and start acting, what is there to expect in this industry and if I were to have a hidden talent how would I show this to others such as agents etc. if you read this thank you for your time and more thanks if you answer
Landing Representation Through IMDBPro by OgChrisD4 • last post Jun 19th
Hey everyone, Ive had several questions and responses to my previous post on the topic of landing agents or managers through IMDBPro. I wanted to share my experience and strategies on what I found most effective / What often works and what doesn't. By using these methods I have successfully landed a top 25 agent as well as been through a few managers. I know this industry can suck sometimes and without guidance, it can absolutely be frustrating. I'd love to help others out since we are all in this together. I have also previously worked for a talent agency and have seen how they consider their submissions. ​ **IMDBPro** This website is truly your best friend when it comes to finding representation, IMDBPro essentially lists all agents, managers, publicists, and all other categories of entertainment industry information. I would argue that next to actors access, it is the second most important website for an actor. Not only does it list contact information for nearly every agent and manager in the industry, but also ranks them according to popularity and reputation. It also shows nearly every actor and who they are represented by. Have you worked with someone with rep? They most likely have it listed on their page. ​ **What You Need Before Submission:** Agents and Managers get hundreds of emails a day and majority of the time submission applications are close to the bottom of their lists of priorities. You need to make sure your material is as professional as it can possibly be to show that you are serious and not waste any of their time. Why would they take an interest if you don't put in effort. **Headshots, resume, and demo reel are the three most important items you need to include.** Make sure these are all as professional as possible. Headshots should not be low quality or look amateur. Resume should include everything you have worked on, anywhere from one line costars to leads. I personally would leave out any extra work or super small roles that deter from your professionalism. If you are somewhat new to acting with very few credits, training will take up the majority of your resume and that is completely fine, as long as they see you are putting in the work to train it is enough for a smaller agency to show an interest in you. Finally, a demo reel; attach a clip or link of your acting ability, keep in mind that this does not have to be projects you have worked in previously, obviously have a beefed up and professional reel will help but it is not at all necessary. Self tape performances are more than enough, it is not so much how much you've been in, instead they want to see your acting ability and setup as this is what will land you roles and get them $$$. When I submitted I had a self tape reel and it did not seem to affect the process much whatsoever. Unless you are submitting to a top 10 agency with already super established talent this will likely never be a problem. Additional information is also a nice touch. Have you booked a role recently? Let them know! Do you have a website? Let them know! Do you have a reference? Let them know! Remember you are selling yourself it is okay to slightly brag. Why would they believe in you if you don't believe in yourself? **The Actual Email** Keep it short and sweet, it should not take more than 30 seconds to read an email, most rep won't even bother to read if it looks too long or unappealing. You are at the bottom of the actor food chain and unfortunately you must act as such. Start with a simple greeting and state what kind of representation you are seeking (theatrical, commercial, VoiceOver, etc.). Let them know what kind of actor you are, what roles you go for, what demographic you fit in and what what you have booked in the past (callbacks and director meetings are excellent because they let you show that their is an interest in your ability as an actor). If you've received positive feedback from industry professionals also let them know, there's always a chance that someone knows them personally which immediately makes you stand out. End the email with a short request to schedule a meeting. Once you have a meeting scheduled you are already ahead of most people submitting. Be polite and do not sound like a cocky a hole. as harsh as it sound, you need them they do not need you. The subject line is arguably the most important part of the entire email. Do not make it a generic "Submission" or "Seeking Representation". Make it something that catches their attention. State your age range, your ethnicity, and something that makes you unique. Have you trained in something that is interesting or appealing? LIST IT!. You really never know what they are looking for, there may be a hole on their roster that you fit perfectly. Often they will not even check an email if the subject line does not appeal to them. **Submission Methods** What I have done was set aside a couple of hours and go through each and every agent from every agency listed and email them all personally. Most agents will list their contact information right on their page. You have to cast a wide ass net. It is not uncommon to send upwards of 500 emails each time you decide to apply. Some agencies will list something like "We do not accept unsolicited submissions" which I have personally found to be kinda bs. If they are interested they will absolutely get back to you. It is not uncommon to not get a single email back and that is completely fine, you just have to stay persistent and keep trying every few months or so. Even though it might be discouraging, when someone does respond back to you the feeling is amazing. Do not thing of the negatives, be positive and good things will eventually come to you. Ive found that Mondays or Tuesdays between 10AM - 2PM are the best times to submit. These are the times when most agents will be on their computer checking emails and will not be swamped by busy work which allows them to better see your message. ​ **DO NOT GIVE UP** We all know that rejection is a routine part of this industry but you can NOT let it get to you. You MUST stay persistent. Do not focus on the negatives that have happened, stay hopeful for the future since the past is already behind you. ​ I hope this helps you guys and if you need anything at all please PM me!
Trying to become an actor without experience by ChicoTallahassee • last post Jun 19th
I'm a 26M aspiring to become a performing artist. I'm interested in singing, DJ, songwriting, violin, dancing and acting. I don't got much experience in any of those skills, except for some dancing (hip hop) and violin (noob). How do you guys suggest I get started at my age? I'm located in a very remote area.
Seeking female VAs who can do accent work by Macumba_mod • last post Jun 19th
We are looking for some female voice actors for a number of open roles for our podcast radio drama series. Any accent abilities would be a definite plus, as we have a need for Japanese, Dutch, German, and French-accented English parts as well as regional American accents. These are supporting roles, we can pay $3/line. If you are interested, DM me for more information and please include any links to character demos/websites that you may have. Thank you!!!
What jobs do you have while being a voice actor? by DeadliestSaiyan • last post Jun 19th
Im working full time at a warehouse and just started my voice acting career. I'm curious to know what other jobs people here or in voice acting in general have on the side to support them until you finally make enough full time?
How do I find and then pay actors? by FerrariCar12345 • last post Jun 18th
Okay, so I'm making my first "real" short film. By real, I mean that I am looking to hire a couple of experienced actors, and not just use my friends or family. This if for my MFA application for film school, and I have come to realize the best way to get commitment is to pay actors. However, how do I do it? Where do I look? I have no producer, it is just me, the director. Should I contact their manager/agent? Some actors don't have managers so do I just pay them upfront? Do I sign a contract? I also know there are like certain minimums you need to pay actors if they are union. Does union mean they have a manager? If someone could explain some of that to me, I would appreciate it! Thank you!