AGGREGATED ACTING FORUMS

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Starting this weekend...Acting Workshop: Build Your Successful Preparation Process!

Starting this weekend...Acting Workshop: Build Your Successful Preparation Process!

Posted on Jan 16th

In this exclusive Stage 32 4-hour workshop, you will develop your acting process so you feel confident that you are delivering to the best of your abilities every time. You will also be exploring intensive scene-study work to help you create captivating performances. Guiding you through you audition, scene study, and character process is esteemed actor Ryan Cartwright. Ryan has over 30 years of professional acting experience and training and he has developed a robust acting process that he will share with you to incorporate into your own process to consistently elevate your work. Ryan has starred in numerous TV series and movies including BONES, MAD MEN, THE BIG BANG THEORY, KEVIN CAN WAIT and ALPHAS. He has an extensive understanding of what helps book roles in the casting office and what directors delight in seeing on set, and is passionate about teaching other actors the secrets to success.PLUS! Ryan will provide you with exclusive handouts to help you hone your acting process. Downloads include:-The Audition Process Beat Sheet-Filming Day Checklisthttps://www.stage32.com/classes/Acting-Workshop-Build-Your-Successful-Preparation-Process

Update for actors!

Update for actors!

Posted on Jan 16th

Hey Superstars! I have some great news for you. Casting directors have OFFICIALLY started in person auditions again. I just left my first in person audition of the year earlier today. To be honest, it felt so good to be back in front of casting vs submitting a self tape. I feel like it's extremely hard to book with a self tape because casting was seeing a lot more talent via self tapes. Now there's hope again for all the actors like me who like the energy they get when auditioning in front of casting. Let's go!!!

Stage 32 + United Airlines Descend Upon Park City This Week!

Stage 32 + United Airlines Descend Upon Park City This Week!

Posted on Jan 15th

In Stage 32's effort to contribute to diversity, equality, and inclusion in the industry, next week we will be in Park City shining a light on female and non-binary filmmakers and the impact they make on entertainment. Learn more in today's blog!https://www.stage32.com/blog/stage-32-united-airlines-descend-upon-park-city-this-week-3609

A tentative question.

A tentative question.

Posted on Jan 13th

This is perhaps the dumbest question I have ever had because I should have asked this question at FADE IN. I have all but completed a script, set in the South Pacific, and at no point is race mentioned. I approach that subject as the director's concern, how he or she sees the characters --Concerning the current social environment, I would ask if my script is sunk before it hits the water.The narrative involves two old-school men, with old-school ways, masculine of course. Cast alongside them are three strong women, but is that enough? Is there a market? Strange days indeed.

A tentative question

A tentative question

Posted on Jan 13th

I have a script all but complete. The story involves three old war horses (veterans) . They are old school, masculine, they are cast with strong women. In this current social environment, is it enough to include strong women? Or is the project sunk before it is in the water because it contains masculine characters, traits, and themes?It is set in a South Pacific country, at no point is race mentioned.

The Dangers Of Getting Top Production Value For Zero Cost

The Dangers Of Getting Top Production Value For Zero Cost

Posted on Jan 13th

Tennyson Stead talks about the danger of cutting corners with the safety and well-being of cast and crew on set, in exchange for production value. This is an IMPORTANT topic. Please read this blog, post in the comment section, and share this blog with others.www.stage32.com/blog/the-dangers-of-getting-top-production-value-for-zero-cost-3608

Lew Bracker Interview: James Dean Stories

Lew Bracker Interview: James Dean Stories

Posted on Jan 11th

Hi actors!If you're a fan of James Dean, I wanted to share this interview series with you. Lew Bracker was a very close friend to James, and he recounts a lot of amazing stories about their friendship, filming all his films, working with Natalie Wood, and more. He talks about James's approach to acting/filmmaking as well. Some of his stories are from his book "Jimmy and Me," which is a must-read! It's super fascinating looking back on this era of Hollywood.I hope you enjoy it. I did this interview back in 2022.Part 1: https://youtu.be/v8mv6ZRcrB8?si=tv2bNg9ZP_hTd-OHPart 2: https://youtu.be/mRHad4n92eg?si=xxW3nWhVECvjI7q6Part 3: https://youtu.be/GwgPh5v8rd8?si=3klri1X3Z8V1yh4U

First Commercial Contract Today

First Commercial Contract Today

Posted on Jan 11th

Last night, I had a surreal dream where Colleen Dewhurst encouraged me to seize an audition opportunity. In the dream, I almost missed out because I didn't have my reading glasses, but she reminded me not to give up before even trying. Fast forward to today, and I received a contract in my email for a project I thought was a comedy sketch—turns out, it's a commercial!It's incredible how life can imitate dreams. This unexpected opportunity reminded me that if you don't believe in yourself, who will? Despite feeling discouraged about finding a commercial agent, I'm now gearing up to shoot a commercial tomorrow, complete with residuals outlined in the AFTRA contract. The journey to this point has been filled with ups and downs, but this experience is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. So here's my lesson from the dream and today's surprise contract: Never underestimate your own potential, and don't let self-doubt hold you back. Dreams can be prophetic, and sometimes all it takes is a leap of faith. Excited for this new adventure and grateful for the reminder to believe in myself.

Less Woo & More Do: The Four P’s To Achieve Results In Your Entertainment Career

Less Woo & More Do: The Four P’s To Achieve Results In Your Entertainment Career

Posted on Jan 11th

In today’s blog, Ava Paloma talks about The Four P’s that can help you achieve results in your entertainment career.Ava is an actress, producer, screenwriter, and founder & owner of WV4 Productions. www.stage32.com/blog/less-woo-more-do-the-four-ps-to-achieve-results-in-your-entertainment-career-3606

Looking for an acting retreat on West Coast

Looking for an acting retreat on West Coast

Posted on Jan 9th

Can anyone recommend an acting retreat, like a 3 to 7-day intensive? I'd like something designed for experienced actors looking for a tune-up. 

Have Agent, Will Travel

Have Agent, Will Travel

Posted on Jan 9th

Hey everyone! Update on my journey towards securing commercial agent representation! For those following my lounge posts, you know I've been diving into the world of Los Angeles-based commercial agents via YouTube videos. One recurring theme that's got me excited? Travel! Commercial actors often jet-set domestically and internationally for shoots. So, naturally, getting my U.S. Passport made it to the top of my to-do list. But, as life would have it, here's where things took an unexpected turn. Last evening, Representative Jimmy Gomez, CA-34, sent out an email announcing a U.S. Passport Fair for his constituents. Props to him for always staying engaged with us! Excitedly, I had my paperwork ready and my passport photo taken, only to find out that all the slots for the fair were taken when I tried to register! Lesson learned: Always keep an eye on all email accounts, especially the ones where career opportunities might pop up unexpectedly. Moral of the story? I'm registering my acting Gmail account with Representative Gomez's office. They provide fantastic services that can boost my career, but missing out due to a slow email check? Not again! Stay tuned for more updates and lessons from this wild ride towards chasing dreams! And hey, let me know if you've got any passport tips or similar experiences. Sharing is caring, right?

The Best Way You Can Begin Acting

The Best Way You Can Begin Acting

Posted on Jan 9th

The Best Way You Can Begin Acting There are several things all actors need to do to begin or take their career to the next level. Use this link to watch and learn the best way to begin and have success https://youtu.be/NIdM29m2VZw If you have any suggestions for other ways for people to begin actingor move their career forward, please share them here.

The Intimidating Talent Agency

The Intimidating Talent Agency

Posted on Jan 8th

I'm doing a lot of research into commercial talent agents. The next one on my list is Firestarter Entertainment. Folks, I took one look at the Woodland Hills tower where this agency is housed and immediately felt intimidated. I looked over the website, and my feelings of trepidation lessened. Then I searched for the agent, Nicole Pryor Dernersesian, on YouTube, and my insecurities melted away. Social media is the job seeking actor's very best friend. Nicole is the type of agent I'd be thrilled to associated with. What did we ever survive as artists before YouTube?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVMaqn8oInY

Acting notes by Director Richard Bazley.

Acting notes by Director Richard Bazley.

Posted on Jan 8th

A clip from my interview with Adam Loretz 'What makes a multi award winning short film?'. Here I talk about how my training in animation has proved useful and has even influenced my Directing in Live Action.

Michael Keaton on Auditioning

Michael Keaton on Auditioning

Posted on Jan 8th

“I got the job. I’m going to work today.”https://youtube.com/shorts/J0exMiE4UI4?si=09actSLzLiUqva4U

“Don’t You Lie for a Living?”: Margot Robbie, Emma Stone and THR’s Actress Roundtable

“Don’t You Lie for a Living?”: Margot Robbie, Emma Stone and THR’s Actress Roundtable

Posted on Jan 6th

Some great insights, as per, from THR,https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/margot-robbie-emma-stone-lily-gladstone-thr-actress-roundtable-1235778418/

January Phoenix Area In Person Meetup

January Phoenix Area In Person Meetup

Posted on Jan 5th

https://www.stage32.com/meetups/1950

Actors Please Book-Out When Out!

Actors Please Book-Out When Out!

Posted on Jan 4th

Without a book-out notice, the agent might continue to submit the actor for auditions, despite their impending unavailability, leading to frustration by both the casting director who requested the actor and the rep who submitted the actor. There may be any number of reasons why an actor might wish to book-out. Here are a few scenarios:You’re going on vacation for a few weeks and will not be in town to audition.You are feeling sick and need to stay home and get well.You’re already committed to working on another project and the shoot dates of that project would conflict with potential auditions.You are dealing with a major life event, such as getting married, having a baby or a death in the family.You have an important appointment that cannot be broken, such as surgery or a doctor appointment.A Few Key Points About Booking Out: Always send your book-out notice in writing, such as sending it in an email, to ensure there is documentation. Book out well in advance of your scheduled book-out dates, if possible, to give your rep enough time to adjust and prepare for your absence.When in doubt, book-out. If you believe you will be unavailable, but are not sure, book-out anyway. You can always rescind the book-out later. It’s better to book-out and then undo it if you become available, than to wait too late to book-out and have to cancel an audition.Booking out with your reps when you are to become unavailable is an important part of building trust and dependability with your talent agent or manager.#actor #audition  

Audition Coaching-BFA, MFA, and professional auditions

Audition Coaching-BFA, MFA, and professional auditions

Posted on Jan 4th

Hello! I am Lindsay, an experienced teacher and professional actor with years of audition preparation coaching. Along with my MFA in Acting from The Old Globe/USD, I hold a Masters in Education and have many years of experience teaching students at both the high school and college levels.You NEED to stand out during those crucial minutes in the audition room. I'll work with you to perfect pieces and/or sides that showcase YOUR unique talents.What I bring to the table:Strategic selection of monologues showcasing YOURefinement of fundamental acting techniques required for the next levelOpportunity to participate in mock auditionsConstructive feedbackMy students have been accepted to top programs throughout the country and abroadContact me for:Flexible/affordable packagesOnline or in-person sessionsVisit my website for more: www.lindsaybrill.com/teaching

Stage 32's January 2024 Education Schedule!

Stage 32's January 2024 Education Schedule!

Posted on Jan 3rd

Happy New Year, everyone!This January, you'll have the chance to learn from knowledgeable industry executives, music supervisors, showrunner assistants, commercial directors, stunt professionals, actors, showrunners, directors, acclaimed producers, screenwriters, distributors, and representatives.These professionals have worked on PLAYING FOR KEEPS, AMERICAN PASTIME, TOKYO POP, SILVERTON SIEGE, KINGS OF JOBURG, GHOSTS, TRUE DETECTIVE, TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE, ASH VS EVIL DEAD, THE MEG, AQUAMAN, MORTAL KOMBAT, and more.Check out the schedule in today’s blog.www.stage32.com/blog/stage-32s-january-2024-education-schedule-3599

8 Goals for 2024

8 Goals for 2024

Posted on Jan 2nd

We shared this on our YouTube channel yesterday as part of our weekly newsletter. The main question posed is whether you're a "hobbyist" actor or a "career" actor. Either way, practical advice is given when trying to set goals for 2024.https://youtu.be/j8n0BW3AQjY

Actor

Actor

Posted on Jan 2nd

British lunatic looking for more experience preferably as an actor. I thank you.

Acting Tip of the Day

Acting Tip of the Day

Posted on Jan 2nd

So, as some of you know, my BFF Dan and I are looking for commercial agent to represent us. We went through the SAG Franchised Agency and ATA lists. We looked at agency websites, used Google Maps to find their office buildings. We eliminated agencies located in shopping strip malls, apartment buildings, houses, or did not provide an address. We also eliminated agencies that are "referral only". Location of an agency can give us a quick idea of it's net worth. It costs a lot to have an office in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, etc.; therefore, they are clearly earning a substantial income from their talent roster. Then we started snooping around the agencies' social media accounts, specifically YouTube. Wouldn't you know it, we're finding commercial agent interviews on YouTube. This is giving us a big picture look at our prospective commercial talent agent. Are they having fun? Do they look like they care about being agents? What is their encouraging message to interested actors? What information are they sharing about the interview process [so we can be prepared].So far, only one agent was eliminated from our list of possible candidates, because though he seemed interested in being inclusive, clearly his smile was forced. His message was, you better be a money maker or we really don't want you (stated with a pretend welcoming smile). TIP: Check agency social media accounts.Dan and I are looking for agents who foster a creative safe space and a sense of home and community. I'm pleased to announce at the top of our list so far is Bobby Ball Talent located near Warner Bros and the famous Bob's Big Boy Restaurant in Burbank. BBT is in the same building as "Star Trek: Next Generation" star Gates McFadden's theatrical agent SMS Talent. Check out this video Bobby Ball Talent posted on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OulH67y0Fzg

2 Amazing Ways Stand-In-Work Improved My Life

2 Amazing Ways Stand-In-Work Improved My Life

Posted on Jan 2nd

2 Amazing Ways Stand-In-Work Improved My Life Use the link below to watch the video https://youtu.be/pdOIW-5S9Ks I have been so fortunate to have been cast to work as a stand-in on several amazing projects.Having the opportunity to watch and study some phenomenal actors was the best actingclass I have ever taken.And, sitting behind the monitors and listen to the directors and others working on the projecthas been invaluable to me as an actor and person. Hope you really enjoy the video.Have you had any behind-the-scenes experiences? If so, share them so we can learn from you as well.

Coffee & Content: Two Ways To Film The Same Scene

Coffee & Content: Two Ways To Film The Same Scene

Posted on Dec 31st

Stage 32’s founder and CEO, Richard “RB” Botto, shares two great videos in today’s blog.The first video shows you two ways to film the same scene.The second video is an Actresses Roundtable discussion with America Ferrera, Emily Blunt, Fantasia Barrino, Julianne Moore, Sandra Hüller, and Eve Hewson.Grab your coffee/tea/drink and jump in!www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-two-ways-to-film-the-same-scene-3598

5 Tools You Need To Build A Voiceover Business

5 Tools You Need To Build A Voiceover Business

Posted on Dec 30th

Melanie Scroggins shares five essential tools you need to build a voiceover business in today’s blog.Melanie is a Voice Actor, Audio Producer, and Host of The WFH Voice Actor Podcast. She has worked on campaigns for Google, Nintendo, Hyatt, Target, NerdWallet, AT&T, and more all from home.www.stage32.com/blog/5-tools-you-need-to-build-a-voiceover-business-3596

Actor Kurt Yue: Tour of the Actor's Dressing Trailers

Actor Kurt Yue: Tour of the Actor's Dressing Trailers

Posted on Dec 29th

Be sure to check out Kurt Yue's fabulous YouTube channel. He appears in one of my favorite movies "Greenland" during the Air Force base scenes. He's based in Atlanta, Georgia, and his channel is dedicated to acting. My buddy Dan and I love his channel.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f53kvE03WKw

The Actor's Dressing Trailer: Home Away From Home

The Actor's Dressing Trailer: Home Away From Home

Posted on Dec 29th

My friend Dan Logwood and I are looking for commercial talent agent representation. The difficult, lonely process is made much easier with a friend. Again, it's like we're (analogy) a couple of high school students getting ready to graduate. We're hanging out at each other's pad looking over a huge stack of college catalogues (i.e. lists of talent agencies). The sky is the limit. One thing we did last night was address an elephant in the room, the actor's dressing trailer: honey wagon, triple, double. A dressing trailer is to an actor what a cubicle is to the office worker. It can be a sterile and impersonal space; therefore, we asked ourselves an interesting question:How will I personalize my dressing trailer, so I feel at home? If I can feel at home, I can focus on the work ahead.Some of the items we selected include: carpeting, pillows, blanket [some trailer sofas pull out into a bed, so if it is a night shoot maybe sheets and a mattress topper], candles, framed family photographs, music, bath/hand/wash cloths, soft slippers, etc.So, I ask you:How will you personalized your dressing trailer, so you feel at home? What are your essentials, and how do they help you get and stay in character?

Today's AMA - Regina Lee in the Writer's Room Lounge

Today's AMA - Regina Lee in the Writer's Room Lounge

Posted on Dec 29th

Regina Lee, Feature Film & TV Series Producer, Development Exec, and Stage 32 Executive, is hosting a 24-hour Ask Me Anything ("AMA") in the Writer's Room Lounge today, focused on what writers should know about overall, first-look, and pod deals. This is a great opportunity to learn about these key deals that writer's (and producers, directors and actors) strive to make with studios and networks. Here's a link to Regina's AMA so you can hop in and ask her your questions: https://www.stage32.com/lounge/vip/Ask-Me-Anything-AMA-12-29-to-12-30-What-Writers-Should-Know-About-Overall-First-Look-and-Pod-DealsAnd 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

#StuntsAtTheOSCARS

#StuntsAtTheOSCARS

Posted on Dec 28th

We've been rallying for a Stunts Category at The Oscars by posting this banner (pictured) and others like it since 2017. Men and women stunt actors risk their lives each day on the movie set so that we can enjoy an action-packed and believable seamless continuity film. I know a few stunt players and a good friend who did a wire gag on my set and then got stuck on his motorcycle on his way to another gig. He would be proud and love that LAST WEEK this OSCAR-STUNTS Story came out in Variety. https://variety.com/2023/film/news/oscars-stunt-category-discussed-academy-john-wick-director-1235650105/

Actors Need to Practice, Practice, Practice

Actors Need to Practice, Practice, Practice

Posted on Dec 28th

Record yourself reading monologues and short scenes. You can purchase a book of monologues online or through Industry sites giving you hours of potential roles to inhabit. Pick one and practice it 2-3 times, then tape yourself giving the speech. When you rewatch it, take notes on where you want to improve, what lines sounded great, and ideas you have to make it better. Then re-do the speech, recording again until you’re happy with the results. Choose a variety of monologues, not just the ones you’re most comfortable with. This is practice time, so challenge yourself. It may be worth experimenting, rather than going for a set expectation of perfection. Sometimes a different approach can really make a monologue stand out.What happens if you: - Slow your lines down - Stress different words - Put longer pauses in - Change your tone - Switch it up, you may surprise yourself! Try different accents, and consider learning a new language while you’re at it. New skills to add to your resume is always a good thing. #audition #actor #casting #monologue #sides #selftape #script #workshop #video #manager #agent #hollywood #success

Quest to Find the Perfect Talent Agent

Quest to Find the Perfect Talent Agent

Posted on Dec 28th

I started the grueling task of search for commercial talent agent representation. I will begin submitting to agents this August. I'm quickly learning this process is similar to finding and submitting to a university to attend in the fall. Agents however, do not offer promotional videos like colleges. In my mind, I want to find a mid-sized agency that has the connections to move my career forward. Analogy: I want to attend an Ivy League with small classes and a tight-knit community. Rather than a Harvard or Yale that are massive and I may get lost in the shuffle (i.e. ICM or CAA), I want someplace like Denison University (e.g. Clear Talent Group). During this search, I'm mentally creating promotional videos for the talent agencies I'm most interested in to help me visualize the agency and my place within its structure. I created extensive lists of questions for myself and for the prospective talent agents. If you are looking for an agent in Los Angeles, New  York, or anywhere within the continental United States, you can locate them here: ASSOCIATION OF TALENT AGENTS: https://www.agentassociation.com/SAG-AFTRA FRANCHISED AGENTS (NATIONAL LIST):https://www.sagaftra.org/contracts-industry-resources/agents-managers/about-professional-representatives/franchised-agents-listSelecting an agency to represent you is like searching for a university to attend in the fall:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tylcaZAxzuM

Posted on Dec 27th

Brazilian actress in London

Brazilian actress in London

Posted on Dec 27th

Hi, I’m a Brazilian actress and screenwriter and I’m going to London in a few months!! I’d love to have some insight in the industry there so If anyone could give me a hand with that I would love to chat about it!

Working With Actors: The Casting Conundrum

Working With Actors: The Casting Conundrum

Posted on Dec 27th

Mark W. Travis talks about a different approach to the casting process than the traditional casting process in today’s blog. Mark is a director, dramaturge, screenwriter, script consultant, theatre director, and CEO at Travis International Film Institute. www.stage32.com/blog/working-with-actors-the-casting-conundrum-3588

Braveheart/ Edward the Longshanks' monologue

Braveheart/ Edward the Longshanks' monologue

Posted on Dec 27th

https://youtu.be/ABQhEou4c9c?si=GgNlvs3wMf3OcdJ3

The Lost Scene

The Lost Scene

Posted on Dec 27th

I have started a series of videos on my YouTube channel where I create an imaginary lost or cut scene from a well known film. I'm doing a monologue by Edward the Longshanks' from Mel Gibson's 'Braveheart' in a recent video.  Suggestions always welcomed, for future videos, I enjoy a challenge)

I had a dream

I had a dream

Posted on Dec 27th

I had a dream I was training on the focus pads with Hugh Grant in a boxing gym.

Great For The New Year!

Great For The New Year!

Posted on Dec 26th

Tips for Better Headshots, According To a Top Acting Coach:- Go pro. Spend money-it’s worth it. Go to a professional who is trained, understands lighting, and takes headshots for a living, not some friend who happens to have a decent camera who “sorta knows a little about photography.” - Opt for personality over glamour. Make sure it looks like you. Chill with the airbrushing. Casting directors expect you to look just like your headshot and will not be happy when you show up looking totally different or 10 years older.- Remember: It’s all about the eyes. Just like with on-camera acting, it’s all about the eyes and what’s happening behind them. It’s your closeup, your moment. Your eyes should be perfectly in focus, alive, and energized, not dead and glazed over.- Pay attention to framing, lighting, and background. In general, a good headshot is chest up with good lighting on your face, and no strong dramatic shadows, unless you are going in for “The Phantom of the Opera.” Three-quarter shots are good for print, and extreme close-ups are good for, well, nothing.- Consider natural light vs. studio. Some photographers do both, as they offer a different look and feel. Natural light gives a very real, “film” look, which I prefer. Studio lighting tends to be a little more polished, with a more neutral backdrop. Both can be wonderful. If you are more of a sitcom actor, perhaps a well-lit studio headshot is more suited for you.- Don’t go crazy with clothing and props. I once saw a headshot of a guy with a bird on his head. Why? Because he wanted to stand out. Let’s not get crazy here. Keep it simple and classy. Professionalism not desperation gets you noticed. A simple, solid shirt with a little texture that fits you.- Go easy with the makeup. Yes, lots can be done with retouching. There is no need to put on tons of makeup. You want to look like yourself on your best day and not look like you tried too hard. Do your hair the way you would for every audition.- Matt Newton, On-Camera Acting Coach#actor #headshot

Here Are my 3 Special 2024 Wishes For You

Here Are my 3 Special 2024 Wishes For You

Posted on Dec 26th

Here Are my 3 Special 2024 Wishes For Youhttps://youtu.be/tqHcVX73swoPlease share any acting plans or goals you have for 2024.This allows us to learn from each other.

Michael Caine on Cary Grant

Michael Caine on Cary Grant

Posted on Dec 24th

In the days of Turner Classic Movies…https://youtu.be/PDBY0A4JnTs?si=TCS8NOkU-x_2Y5RQ

Michael Caine - Use the Difficulty

Michael Caine - Use the Difficulty

Posted on Dec 22nd

Michael Caine, on The Parkinson Show, 2002. Do you have a philosophy of life gleaned from acting advice that you received during a production? https://youtu.be/GAB89fOdA-I?si=6Rv4tpT0WbMaPSl-

Advice wanted! Does this "Blind audition" sound genuine or scammy?

Advice wanted! Does this "Blind audition" sound genuine or scammy?

Posted on Dec 21st

Hi everyone, I was recently emailed by someone claiming to work for [a huge film production company], stating they found my profile on a [very well established private casting page I pay for] and that they are casting for a film in Greece, and invited me to attend a "blind audition". I copy the message I received below. In the audition, the 'team' was muted and off camera, and towards the end of the audition the 'team' became unresponsive. After 10 mins I left the call and followed up with an email. They got back to me 24 hours later stating "the electricity in [their] building" went down and they have since replied to my followup email asking for their social media very quickly (though they provided just an IMDb page and the company's website. Now, the emails are written in a professional manner and if it is genuine, wow. I have tried to cross-reference the name of the person who reached me with IMDb pro and although they match, I am not able to locate any personal social media so as to confirm the person behind the emails is the person on IMDb pro.I'd love your take as I had never done a blind audition before and am now a little concerned about the security of this professional casting page I am a member of. Part of me thinks I am being hyper-vigilant and should let it be, but the worst in me worries I have been scammed and that someone is using this very successful person's name to reach actresses.Any advice would be much appreciated, thank you!- - - - - - -The message I received was:"Hello and welcome to our online auditions! We want to take a moment to explain the unique format we're using today.You'll notice that we, the audition hosts, will remain blind and muted throughout your performance. This approach is intentionally designed to create a focused and unbiased audition environment for you.By removing our presence from the screen and muting our audio, we aim to minimize any potential distractions and ensure that your performance takes center stage. Our focus is entirely on your talent, not on our reactions or comments.Please don't interpret our silence as indifference; it's quite the opposite. We're here to support you and give you the space to showcase your skills without any external influences. After your performance, we'll provide feedback and engage in discussions to help you shine even brighter."- - - - - - - -

My Memories of the Late and Great Actor Andre Braugher

My Memories of the Late and Great Actor Andre Braugher

Posted on Dec 19th

I had the privilege of seeing Andre for nearly two years while working on the ground breaking NBC TV show Homicide: Life On The Street.I share my memories about this very special actor in my latest quick tip video:https://youtu.be/XexpalwxyvoDid you ever meet or watch Andre Braugher perform? If so, share your thoughts with others.

Capturing the Perfect Shot: 5 London Photographers for Stunning Actor Headshots and Expert Portfolio Tips

Capturing the Perfect Shot: 5 London Photographers for Stunning Actor Headshots and Expert Portfolio Tips

Posted on Dec 18th

In this article, I have listed my top five London photographers who have received excellent feedback from both casting directors and actors. I have also included some tips on preparing and utilising your actor portfolio.It's worth noting that there are many great headshot photographers out there, and this list is by no means exhaustive. https://www.reflectionscareercoaching.co.uk/post/london-photographers-for-actor-headshots

Actor Callbacks

Actor Callbacks

Posted on Dec 17th

Getting a callback means that the casting team is intrigued by you and your acting, but they may not be totally sold yet. On top of watching you perform, they might also question you about your acting approach and experience. This is the time to showcase your range, ability to portray your character, and overall skill set.  Expect to perform the same material in the same way as in your first audition—but know that you might be asked to make a few changes, such as reading a scene with different emotion or really diving deep into your character’s personality.Callbacks often mean performing a scene with another actor so the director can see if you mesh well with others.The casting director brought you back because your type and performance worked for the character and for the tone of the show. Unless you are given specific notes for the callback, do the exact same performance when you come back in but be open to adjustments.Don’t get locked into your choices. In a callback, the director, producer, and creative team may have you take an adjustment and try the scene a different way. Spontaneous decisions are your best friend so practice various versions of the audition just to be prepared.#actor #audition #callback 

Bryan Cranston’s advice to Actors

Bryan Cranston’s advice to Actors

Posted on Dec 17th

Nothing to say here, just watch and then…https://youtu.be/oGEEMspTr5o?si=jozljuzp30NCuc98

Finding the Right Commercial Talent Agent

Finding the Right Commercial Talent Agent

Posted on Dec 15th

I decided to free up my schedule by hiring a talent agent to represent me commercially (commercials and industrials). Selecting agents to submit to is similar to selecting a university to attend. I'm taking the following steps:1. Visit SAG-AFTRA and the ATA websites for commercial agents.2. Visit each talent agency website. a) If there is no website, I skip that agency.b) If there's a website but no information (e.g. "About"), I will skip that agency.c) If the website says, "Submissions by referral only", I skip it.3. Read reviews on Yelp. Not all agencies have Yelp reviews.4. Check with California Secretary of State to see if the agency is up-to-date on their tax filings.5. Visit the Better Business Bureau website to check for complaints leveraged against the agencies.6. Check to see if there are past or pending lawsuits against the agent/agencies; if so, what is claimed in the filing.Hopefully this information will help me make an informed decision prior to in-person interviews with agents/agencies.

What to Do When Your “Type” Changes

What to Do When Your “Type” Changes

Posted on Dec 13th

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 

The "Choreography and Blocking in Performance" course

The "Choreography and Blocking in Performance" course

Posted on Dec 13th

The "Choreography and Blocking in Performance" course offered by the New International Performing Arts Institute (NIPAI) is a specialized program designed to equip directors and choreographers with essential skills and tools for creating compelling mise-en-scene, blocking, composition, and movement direction in their productions. This 3-month, fully online course is targeted towards professional growth in the field of performance-making, focusing on choreography, composition, and blocking as key components.Key aspects of the course include: - Core Topics: The curriculum covers a range of topics essential for performance creation, such as Blocking and Mise-en-Scene, Tempo and Rhythm, Montage, Movement for Actors, Acting for Dancers, Improvisation and Spontaneity, and Composition. - Professional Approach: The course emphasizes a professional approach to performance-making, providing directors and performers with up-to-date knowledge and first-hand experience. It's designed to facilitate learning through practice, ensuring an individual approach and focusing on practical learning. - Who Can Benefit: This course is ideal for directors, dancers, choreographers, physical theatre actors, contemporary circus and musical theatre performers, and performance artists. It's also suitable for practitioners from related fields seeking a deeper understanding of movement in contemporary performance. - Certification: Upon successful completion, students are awarded a certificate of completion, which can be a valuable addition to their professional portfolio or resume. - Application and Study: The program offers flexible timing and is conducted in English. It employs a mix of self-study, virtual classroom, and text-based learning methods. Students receive weekly assignments and tasks for self-study to gradually develop their understanding of the topics and the ability to apply knowledge to their projects. - Eligibility: The course is open to international students and professionals with varying levels of experience. The main requirement is a commitment to developing skills in theatre directing and choreography. In summary, the "Choreography and Blocking in Performance" course by NIPAI is a comprehensive program aimed at enhancing the skills of professionals in the performing arts, particularly those involved in directing and choreography. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical assignments, making it a hands-on learning experience for participants from diverse backgrounds in the performing arts. More: https://www.nipai.org/choreography-and-blocking-course 

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