Acting

Acting

Whether you’re an actor, voice actor, casting director or anyone else related to the profession of acting, this is the place to discuss, share content and offer advice and tips on technique, audition strategies, headshots and all other topics related to the sweet science of acting

Before you submit your resume and headshot, read the breakdown thoroughly. Make sure you are the perfect fit. Most breakdowns will clearly describe the type of person they are looking for as well as the filming dates. Make sure you fit that description and that you are available for those shoot date...

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Unless stated otherwise, address the subject line with the name of the character or position you are applying for, along with your name (i.e. Submission for the role of Andrew by John Doe).

When the casting call includes a contact name, make sure you address that person in your email and use the right gender and correct spelling.

In the body of the email, state the role(s) you are applying for and give a brief description of why you consider yourself the perfect fit for that role or what makes you eager to join that production. Include any details requested in the breakdown like your weight, height, and size of your shirt, pants, and/or shoes, and where you are based.

Make sure you include an eye-grabbing digital headshot which should be 500kb or less and your resume in PDF. The files should simply be your name (john_doe.jpg, john_doe.pdf). You can also provide a link to additional photos, your website, and two to three links of clips of your work.

Keep your email simple. At the end of the email add a short and polite note indicating the materials you are submitting.

Use a professional email address. While this may sound silly many forget this simple rule. Imagine receiving an email from I_am_the_actor_for_you@gmail.com instead of john_doe@gmail.com

When signing off, use your full name. It is best if you create an email signature which links to your website and has your contact details.

#actor #script #audition #casting

Keeping a small portion of your closet devoted to clothes for auditioning that are kept clean and pressed can save time and panic later.

Here are just a few to consider:

- Basic Commercial:

Before getting into character types, it’s important to have a few basics.

For commercial auditions, this will typi...

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Keeping a small portion of your closet devoted to clothes for auditioning that are kept clean and pressed can save time and panic later.

Here are just a few to consider:

- Basic Commercial:

Before getting into character types, it’s important to have a few basics.

For commercial auditions, this will typically be something in a solid color, and on the more cheerful side.

Think of the “family friendly” version of you.

- Basic Theatrical:

Same idea as commercial, but a more serious look.

This might mean darker or more muted colors, possibly longer sleeves, something that makes you feel grounded.

- Mom/Dad:

Having a parental look will go a long way for commercial auditions and day players.

A solid cardigan or polo shirt you can throw on to look approachable and relatable can easily suggest the role. Maybe have a pair of glasses handy. You want a slightly more conservative look for this one.

- Flirty/Seductive:

If it’s in your wheelhouse, having a flirty ingenue or vampy look might be something to consider. It’s a fine line to walk, as you still want to look professional. Hair and makeup can also go a long way here.

- Dystopian/Gritty:

Get yourself that grungy gray tank top or noticeably worn tee. Having an appropriately lived-in looking jacket (army green, brown, or other darker earth tones) might also be a good idea.

- Professional White Collar, putting together a look with a blazer or suit with a tie can suggest a lawyer, CEO, detective, accountant or any type of white-collar professional.

- Professional Blue Collar, on the other side of the spectrum, a nice denim shirt that you can roll up the sleeves can easily transform you into a farmer, hometown clerk, etc.

- Scrubs, bring on the medical dramas! If you don’t have actual scrubs (though they can often be found in uniform stores) a solid color v-neck shirt can suggest a nurse or technician. A lab coat might be good to have on hand if you can find one.

#actor #audition #selftape #wardrobe

Suzanne Bronson

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1 person likes this
- Florin Şumălan
10 months ago

What an interesting podcast.

Niki H

Thanks for sharing this Florin Şumălan . I think Paul Schneider is a fantastic actor; I look forward to listening!

Maurice Vaughan

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1 person likes this
- Terrence Sellers
11 months ago

Congratulations on the job, Terrence Sellers! I've done jobs like that for screenwriting ("the pay wasn't anything impressive, but it was nice to get some more acting work for my resume"). Plus, it's...

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- Terrence Sellers
- Maurice Vaughan
10 months ago

It's always nice to have different sources of income.

Fran Harris

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- Maurice Vaughan
11 months ago

I remember an audition I had NOT as an actor but as a contestant on the very first season of Hell’s Kitchen. I stormed thru the auditions even though I was NOT a chef!

11 months ago

That's impressive, Fran Harris! Congratulations! Is the audition process for an unscripted show different than a scripted show audition?

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Aaron Marcus

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4 people like this
11 months ago

Hey Pat, there is no category for 1 word auditions. Sometimes we receive sides that only have one or two words. it is interesting to figure out how to read the word. Many choices. Thanks for your comment.

Pat Savage

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- Richard "RB" Botto
- Maurice Vaughan
11 months ago

Aaron Marcus Yes it is interesting trying to figure out how to read the word! Learn something everyday here on Stage32!

Even after nearly 40 years as a full-time actor, like you, I am always looking to learn something new everyday.

Richard "RB" Botto

This is fascinating, Aaron Marcus. And you're right, you learn something new everyday.

Richard, what a pleasure to have you respond here. Thank you so much for having created such an amazing place for all types of artists to get together and share information and help each other.

I would...

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- Suzanne Bronson
- Maurice Vaughan
11 months ago

That is a great point. I wish most actors were in that situation. Being too busy to take on other film projects. Sounds like you made a wise decision for yourself. Thank you so much for sharing.

You're welcome, Aaron Marcus.

Very true Maurice. I decided a few years ago that I would not take a job just because I need money. My mental health is so much more important than a toxic work environment. I believe the Divine always has my back and will honor that.

Wonderful point Suzanne. And, we don't want to be a part of something that we are offended by or don't want to associate with. It is so important that we listen to ourselves to make good business and mental health decisions.

Thank you so much for sharing.

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- Suzanne Bronson
11 months ago

You're right, Suzanne Bronson. Mental health is so much more important than a toxic work environment. I've taken those kinds of jobs, and they stressed me out. They weren't worth it....

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- Suzanne Bronson
- Tammy Hunt
11 months ago

Excellent casting call/audition tips, Tammy Hunt!

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2 people like this
- Tammy Hunt
- Maurice Vaughan
11 months ago

Thank you for the tips Tammy Hunt I didn't know that a note in email is a thing. I will definitely start doing that.

Ashley Renee Smith

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3 people like this
11 months ago

Thank you for bringing up the importance of file names, Tammy Hunt! I can't tell you how many times I had to stop what I was doing and rename client's photo or video file names before attaching or sub...

Great advice, Tammy Hunt! What about accessories?

Sam Sokolow

Excellent advice. I am married to an actor and she has a whole section devoted to audition outfits and it really helps her prepare efficiently. Brilliant as always, Tammy Hunt!...

Tammy Hunt

Maurice Vaughan accessories aren’t really needed.

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2 people like this
- Tammy Hunt
- Suzanne Bronson
11 months ago

Ok, thanks, Tammy Hunt.

Thanks once more for the sage advice Tammy. I would also point out same applies if you're working as a movie extra. You need to furnish your own wardrobe. And NU needs to provide three options.

Incredible share, Amanda Toney! One of the hosts talks about actors using emotion memory during performances, and Howard Fine says actors need to "take off" those things after performances. Howard say...

Thank you for this great share Amanda Toney Yes, actors need to make sure they leave "their work" at work.

Michael David

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2 people like this
- Maurice Vaughan
- Sam Sokolow
1 year ago

I always wondered whether you were related to Alec!! Wow what great genes!

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2 people like this
- Maurice Vaughan
- Michael David
1 year ago

Thanks, Michael David - all credit to our mom and dad :)

Brentavian L. Smith

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2 people like this
- Sam Sokolow
- Maurice Vaughan
11 months ago

I Love The Toy Story Franchise And Disney !!!

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- Pat Savage
- Maurice Vaughan
11 months ago

I know they happen in Canada as well. But, this is one category that I think the U.S. wins in. I really love Canada. Last Fall, my family hiked and spent time in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI. We really have enjoyed both coasts. Thanks for sharing.

Stephen Folker

No different than the modeling agencies preying on hopefuls at hotels to be in a Disney movie.

Hi Stephen, those who promise "you can be a star," is really horrible.

Thank you for sharing this Aaron Marcus

You are very welcome Pat. Hope you have never experienced this type of thing.

John January Noble

12 months ago

Nick Phillips Excelente ator! Talvez ele possa dar uma olhada no STAGE32 e ver se um roteirista pode presenteá-lo com um lindo roteiro épico. Para que ele possa voltar ao trabalho com um sorriso no ro...

Why not?

Perhaps the right role or project would entice him back eventually. We've seen that with others who retired like Anthony Hopkins and Cameron Diaz. I'll hold out hope that he's not completely out of th...

Nick Phillips

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- Marsy Robinson
11 months ago

i see what you did there Marsy Robinson!

Loren E Chadima

I wish he would too. i bet the right project will pull him back.

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