I have too many auditions – said no actor ever! The lack of auditions is probably the single biggest complaint made by actors. Yet I routinely see the same actors turn down legitimate reads. Is it self sabotage? Insecurity? Or arrogance?
If you are not a household name, you need to take every audition offered. Because, lets face it, you need the practice. We all do. An audition is a chance to practice your craft – and you love acting, don’t you?
It’s not about getting the job, or how much it pays… it’s about becoming the best actor you can be, and making the connections that will help you succeed. When the major studios offer you millions for a franchise sequel, then it’s about the money. Until then, it’s about getting yourself in a position to be able to “open” a franchise.
If this is just a hobby for you, get out of the business… there are too many dedicated actors that need a real shot.
I was recently coaching an acting student about booking the room, not necessarily the job. Say you get called in for a read… and you don’t book it – well, if you came in and made interesting choices, and gave off a positive, professional attitude – chances are the casting director, or director, will keep you in mind for future projects. You never know when that “nobody,” will become a “somebody,” bankrolled by a studio.
I’ve cast several actors for projects other than what they auditioned for. There are so many factors that go into casting that have nothing to do with you or your talent. How do you match up with the appearance of the other actors? Will audiences confuse your look with that of another characters? Are you a local hire? The list goes on.
If you’ve auditioned for me and not gotten a part, don’t be offended. It doesn’t mean I didn’t love your work.
The point is… Never, ever, ever, ever turn down an audition. Besides the practice, it’s an opportunity to make a connection. If booked, the project will likely expand your fan base and generate exposure. Most of the great actors toiled in low or no paying productions for years building their skill, connections, and fan base.
As a director, I look at auditions as a pre-rehearsal – it lets me see what someone is going to bring to the role, and how they will matchup with the rest of the cast. I ask even well established actors to read so we have a frame of reference when we get to set.
When you become an “offer only” actor, you can turn down auditions… but lets get one thing straight – a few local short films, or a one liner on a tv show, don’t make you “offer only.” So, to reach that status, you need to be a team player and do everything possible to get your work out there.
Here’s a few tips:
– When asked to submit self taped auditions (more on that later) – get them in as soon as possible. The more you wait, the more chance someone else will come in and steal the role.
– If you say you are going to turn in an audition… you better turn one in. Part of a directors job is to assemble a talented, reliable cast. Not holding to your word is a red flag for reliability.
As a director, I have the mantra that I must cast the best actor for the role, despite my preconceived notions. Casting comes down to these important details… Is this person a team player? Will they help promote the film? Can they take direction? If I put them in a scene with another talented actor, will they take it to the next level? Are they the best choice?
In this business, work begets work… don’t despise small beginnings. Hope this helps, and I’ll see you in pictures!
