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Casting Directors Advice on Auditioning by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Sep 23rd



Kim Williams:
"Make strong, confident choices. If you go a little bit bigger than necessary, it's okay. We can pull you back from that, but at least we know there's something there that can be worked with. And it's important to come in with the right mindset. There are so many things that are outside of your control as far as booking the role, but your job is to give a good performance. If you do that, the producers, directors and I will remember you and think of you for future projects. Rushing is a huge thing too. I find myself often giving the note to slow down and think of what you're saying."

Jessica Sherman:
"I think the big one for me happens before they even come into the room. It's a lack of knowledge of the casting process. The idea to keep in mind is that by the time you book the role, especially for TV roles, there's been approximately 30 people that have had to sign off to say that you're the person. So the best person may not always be the one who gets the role.
The person that everyone can agree on gets the role.
Having that background information is a huge asset to actors because it kind of takes the pressure off a little bit as far as their experience in the room.

Christine Sheaks:
"Don't come in unprepared. If an actor has 10 auditions that day and then takes two seconds to look at the material, it'll show. I always tell actors to have their agents call me if that's the case. If I can give them a later time or another day, I would rather do that than have them come in unprepared. Also, actors should never bring in a prop. The only exception is a cell phone, which is okay because it's not distracting."

Joey Paul Jensen:
"The biggest mistake you can make is allowing room for doubt. Doubt leads to insecurity, and insecurity will lead to mistakes. Small mistakes, such as forgetting to print your sides or leaving your belongings in the room after auditioning, are really just manifestations of the root issue of doubt. The antidote is to connect to your identity as a storyteller. When you're auditioning, you're a part of a bigger story being told.

#actor #audition #casting


SAG Wardrobe & Hold Update by Matthew Gross  •  last post Sep 23rd

SAG Talent ONLY - this rule does not apply to Non Union Talent). (As Of Today) Extras casting companies can NO longer ask Sag talent to bring “voluntary wardrobe options”, they now have to specify the “amount” needed & talent will receive a wardrobe bump for each option they are asked to "bring", whether they use all of the attire or not. Sag will be cracking down on this rule as of today. We were told that all extras casting companies in town received their last warning from Sag & will no longer be asking for "voluntary options". If an extras casting company asks you to bring "voluntary options" you can anonymously report this to Sag. If you bring 10 voluntary options, you will get 10 wardrobe bumps whether all options are used or not. Also just a friendly reminder that extras casting companies cannot put (extras/stand ins/doubles) on "hold" or "on avail" without paying a full session fee (We know some extras casting companies are still abusing this rule). They are supposed to be only "checking your avail, so they can submit you" and then "rechecking your avail again at the time of booking". If someone is "holding" or "on availing" you, make sure you are paid a full session fee. You can anonymously report this to Sag. The rules were made for everyone to follow...if a couple specific companies are not following these rules (we already know they are not), nothing will change if you don't speak up.


This announcement was emailed to me from Casting Networks.

Actor Grace Duah is doing an AMA today! by Sam Sokolow  •  last post Sep 22nd

Hey all - Grace Duah, a Stage 32 Executive, professional Actress (Gossip Girl Reboot on MAX), screenwriter, and producer is hosting a 24-hour Ask Me Anything ("AMA") in the Writer's Room Lounge today, focused on writing dialogue that stands out to talent. This is a great chance to ask Grace any questions you have about her journey or your craft and career. 


Here is her AMA Link: https://www.stage32.com/lounge/vip/Ask-Me-Anything-AMA-9-22-to-9-23-Writing-dialogue-that-stands-out-to-talent

And remember, if you aren't a member of the Stage 32 Writer's Room you can get a first month free by signing up here: https://www.stage32.com/writers-room/plans-vip

D Tips in 30(Sneak Peek): CASTING & your SOCIAL MEDIA by Diakeim Lyles  •  last post Sep 22nd

D Tips in 30(Sneak Peek): How important is your social media to the casting process?

Full D-Tip in 30 at Dlylescast.com

Comedy Audition Advice From Casting Director G. Charles Wright by Maurice Vaughan  •  last post Sep 22nd

Check out G. Charles Wright's great advice and insight on auditioning for a Comedy role in today’s blog.


G. is a 20-year veteran of TV casting, actor, content creator, producer, and director. He has worked on shows like 3RD ROCK FROM THE SUN, SID THE SCIENCE KID, STAN AGAINST EVIL, and THE MIDDLE.

www.stage32.com/blog/comedy-audition-advice-from-casting-director-g-charles-wright-3495

Blood Rush - Casting Call by Morgan Tock  •  last post Sep 22nd

Hello! This is a casting call for our student film Blood Rush! We are looking for an actor based in Indianapolis, IN; Chicago, IL; and Fort Wayne; IN to play the role of the Stranger. 


Age Range: 40-60
Male

Principal Photography is next weekend (September 29th through October 1st, we will compensate you for housing and ground travel. 

Please share this with anyone you think would be interested in the Stranger!

https://www.backstage.com/casting/blood-rush-2703025/?utm_source=social_share&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=casting_call

Gangster granny gets left with the thugs!! by Lauren Black  •  last post Sep 22nd

Just what does this granny get in to!!!?? https://youtu.be/644P7yphoMs?si=M3VkCcovcUd70ZKe

What to Do When Your ‘Type’ Changes by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Sep 20th



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
 

Looking for serious and positive opinions. by Matthew P Lindemann  •  last post Sep 20th

I wanted to ask my fellow creatives as part of ALOT of research for my next screenplay...What did you LIKE and DISLIKE about the Indiana Jones and National Treasure films and shows? Other works in the genre would be cool as well (I.e. Tomb Raider/Uncharted games) as long as you're real about it, 


Hazmat 

Tomorrow - Elevate Your Acting Reel by Sam Sokolow  •  last post Sep 19th

This is the last chance to sign up for Stage 32's 2-part acting lab where you will gain the tools and personal attention to elevate your acting reel!


Work with Kym Jackson, an actress who has worked on THIS IS US, CRIMINAL MINDS, NCIS: LOS ANGELES, S.W.A.T., SNITCH starring Dwayne Johnson, FATAL AFFAIR on Netflix, and more.

Here's the link to grab a spot while you still can: https://www.stage32.com/classes/Stage-32-2-Part-Lab-Elevate-Your-Acting-Reel

3-Part Acting Lab: Develop Your Professional Audition Process! by Sydney Summers  •  last post Sep 19th

Stage 32 is eager to welcome Ryan Cartwright for his upcoming acting lab. Learn how to create an acting audition process that works for you, with expert guidance from Ryan Cartwright, an actor who has been featured on MAD MEN, BONES, THE BIG BANG THEORY, 9-1-1: LONE STAR and more!


Over three interactive sessions, you will learn how to approach the text - no matter the genre or character - and avoid common pitfalls in scenes. Ryan will teach you how you can and should inject your personal voice and flare into every audition while remaining true to the character. You will learn how to bring depth to your opportunities, even when you only have a few hours to prepare for an audition.

PLUS! Ryan will provide you with exclusive handouts to help you hone your audition process. Downloads include:

-The Audition Process Beat Sheet
-Audition Day Checklist

https://www.stage32.com/classes/Stage-32-3-Part-Acting-Lab-Develop-Your-Professional-Audition-Process

Part 2: 6 More Acting Reel Mistakes Actors Make - How To Make A Great Reel by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Sep 19th

Part 2: 6 More Acting Reel Mistakes Actors Make - How To Make A Great Reel

https://youtu.be/dPQCUmADT68

Do you have any other suggestions for creating a great acting reel? Share your comments so we can all learn from each other.

Actors opportunity by Rosie Actorsproexpo  •  last post Sep 18th

Young Talent Expo is on Saturday 7th October in London (performers aged 8-19)

Actors Pro Expo North is on Saturday 28th October in Manchester (performers aged 16+)

Both expos will have many exhibitors, performances, networking, on stage interviews all day for just £10 general entry

Each industry led seminar is just an additional £10 each

There is a recordings package for £95 available if you can't attend the expo but want all the insider knowledge!
www.actorsproexpo.com/booking
www.youngtalentexpo.com/booking

Both these expos have an opportunity to PERFORM FOR TOP UK CASTING DIRECTORS AND AGENTS FOR FREE
No general entry ticket needed for this!

You can book a slot for the adult expo by clicking the booking link and scrolling down to Meals 4 Monologues, or on the young performers expo by scrolling to Perform 4 Good.

A donation to our chosen charity is encouraged if selected to perform but not compulsory.

Michael Caine - On Acting by Geoff Hall  •  last post Sep 16th

This was a BBC programme from 1987, I believe and as much as it's about Acting, there's a lot to learn in this video that Directors can learn from. 

For the creatives in this community, I hope you find it all very useful. 

Enjoy.


Want Success? Start Writing Your Own Narrative! by Maurice Vaughan  •  last post Sep 16th

In today’s blog, Erica Wernick (author, speaker, and producer at Hollywood Success Coach) gives some great advice on how changing your mindset can help you find success.


www.stage32.com/blog/want-success-start-writing-your-own-narrative-3490

Comedy, Sensitivity, & Respect by Karen "Kay" Ross  •  last post Sep 15th

Happy Introduce Yourself Weekend, my fellow actors!


It's Kay Ross, your friendly Stage 32 Community Manager, but I'm also a Writer | Producer | Actor | Director - and in preparation for my next directing project, I wanted to get a little deep here in the Acting Lounge.

You ready?

LET'S GO:

I wanted to share this recent round table discussion from The Hollywood Reporter to get y'all's insight into the magic happening around the table. Yes, clearly, they're talking about comedy, they're talking about being a female-identifying person in the industry, and they're talking collaboration - things this group of actresses can all identify with. BUT because they ALSO discuss their individual battles, there is some discussion and learning about what they are going through that they can't all identify with and how they can show up for one another.

For example, at one point, the term "Indian" is used, and Devery Jacobs (Reservation Dogs) kindly informs them that they prefer people outside the community to refer to them as "Indigenous People". So often, we only allow for this kind of learning in an academic setting, but it's so crucial to employ gentle pushback so that every encounter is a productive learning experience, and thus a productive empathetic experience.

What do you think about gentle pushback? What was YOUR big takeaway from this round table discussion?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ck3OUiRrJ0I&t=3s

Chris Pine's "Poolman" by Matthew Gross  •  last post Sep 15th

I was so excited for the release of "Poolman" because Chris Pine selected me for an uncredited role in his directorial debut film. It was wonderful getting to work the scene out with him, because I'm such a huge "Star Trek" fanboy; and any chance to work with Captain Kirk is a dream come true. Unfortunately, the movie is a huge flop. Audiences are walking out on it at the Toronto International Film Festival, and critics are slamming it. The exposure I hoped it would bring my career isn't likely. No one wants to be in a terrible picture. I'm simply heartbroken. It won't have a direct negative impact on my career, but it won't help me get more chances. Ugh! The only thing I can think to do is order some Thai food and relax. How do you deal with professional failure, defeat?


https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/chris-pine-poolman-film-rotten-tomatoes-b2412010.html

Advice for Voice Over 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

 #voiceover #actor

5 Tips To Make Networking Opportunities Valuable by Ashley Renee Smith  •  last post Sep 15th

Hey, Performers!


As we kick-off this month's Introduce Yourself Weekend today, be sure to check out these 5 Tips To Make Networking Opportunities Valuable on today's blog!

https://www.stage32.com/blog/5-tips-to-make-networking-opportunities-valuable-3489