Acting

Congratulations on the audition and nailing it, Terrence Sellers!!!

I've heard of actors doing that. Reading other actors' parts. I think it's so that actor can get a better understanding of the script. And like you said, "I wish I had of taken the time to learn the lines of all the characters, because they ended up asking me to read for another character in the scene without any notice."

That’s great! The first ever feature I booked I read for a small role and then they had me read the for the lead and I ended up booking it! A total cold read as well.

It goes to show how having such an open mindset can help, and you clearly impressed them enough that they wanted to see more of you.

Congrats and keep us updated if you hear anything else!

Thanks for the thoughtful post, Nick. Salient concepts that we all must consider.

So important, thanks for the insight Nick!

Great advice and insight, Nick Williams. We (writers, actors, directors, crew, etc.) need to fight for restrictions now, or AI could get out of hand. BTW, I saw an AI-written scene and footage of AI-generated actors, and they look horrible. The AI-written scene was so wooden and awkward, and the AI-generated actors looked so fake/lifeless.

Yep, the time is now to be dealing with this. AI should be a tool alone, not the sole proprietor of the work, and that means setting firm boundaries now!

You're welcome, Fran Harris.

Fran Harris, if you have any thoughts or questions for the author, Mihaela, or if you just want to leave them some love, be sure to comment on the blog post itself! It really is such a great read!

Love it :)

Thanks, Maurice. This is always something artists and creators have to manage. I once had a mentor tell me that when people throw popcorn at the screen it means they are watching. For some reason that's always made me feel better.

You're welcome, Sam Sokolow. "I once had a mentor tell me that when people throw popcorn at the screen it means they are watching." That's a great point. They could just turn off the TV or leave the theater, but they stay and watch. That must mean they like something about the show or movie.

His early films are remarkable and groundbreaking. His Hollywood films bring such energy to the genres he attacked. Talent, humor and as good an on-camera fighter as there has ever been IMO. Enjoy!

Hey, Pacencia Bulawan. I think my favorite Jackie Chan movies are "Rumble in the Bronx," "The Foreigner," "Rush Hour," "Mr. Nice Guy," and "Police Story 1-2."

Hi Jennifer Brewer, The best way to find reps and network here on Stage 32, is just to put yourself out there by posting, commenting, and connecting with people from all over the world. The most effective networking comes from building genuine relationships over time. A great way to start is by spending regular time here in the Acting Lounge joining discussions with other performers, posing questions that you may have, providing advice or insights, and sharing news/announcements that interest you. Over time, that will help you stand out to the reps and execs that also spend time here on Stage 32.

Hi Jennifer! I second everything Ashley said above! Finding a community and getting to know those around you within that community is a sure fire way to make a step towards representation. Referrals from friends and industry piers is the best way to get your foot in the door, so keep meeting people here in Stage32 and eventually those doors will start to open.

Also while you're at it, do plenty of research into the market that you're in. Draw up a list of managers that you think you'd make a good match with and then see if there's any common denominators there. Alongside your online community, keep attending those in-person events to meet the right folks. Acting classes, film-festivals etc.

Best of luck!

Thank you both for your advice it is much appreciated. I love that this community encourages each other. I am going to keep moving with this. Thank you again so much. I hope to work with you both.

Sounds like you should also consider producing a short Jennifer Brewer -- this puts your many, many gifts on display (writing, acting, producing, hair). This also gives you something to show beyond an acting reel. Post the reel in S32 and ask for feedback. That exposure will likely lead to introductions.

Hi Jennifer - here's a link to a Stage 32 2-part class on the subject that I recommend. Spencer reps actors and has a lot to offer on this. Check it out: https://www.stage32.com/classes/Actors-Your-Step-By-Step-Guide-to-Gettin...

I agree David Foy Bauer

Sam Sokolow Viola Davis even confirmed that TWO percent of actors make it.

Same reason why not every business is successful. Some people don't put enough time and energy in. And, some are not cut out to do it, skill wise, and so forth. What do you see yourself doing in five years Josiah?

Respectfully, I try to focus on what it is I'm supposed to be doing on any given day or what goals I should be trying to reach whether career or personal. The only focus we should have on others is helping or encouraging them when the opportunity presents itself.

You've "made it" when you're encouraging or lifting up someone else.

"Making it" is really defined on a personal level and by how fulfilled you are. While some people might want to be A-list, others find joy in doing regional theatre, while others just want to see themselves on screen for a moment, even as an extra. The same goes for any career, honestly. Avoid the "compare and despair" mentality and you will find your career much more fulfilling.

Worry less about what others will think and more about what you have to offer. Go for it! Life is too short to overthink everything. Best wishes to you!

You have to understand why you are wary of Auditions. In reality, Casting is simply looking for a match for their role. If you don't match it, or can't offer something within your performance that makes them question their original choice to look at you closer, then you will get turned down. This has nothing to do with you, it's simply their choice. Understand the role, learn the lines, work on a presentation that is different from others and still fit's the role's outlines. Once you do that be on time, willing to try something different and present what you do with confidence. Then forget it and move on to the next one. Each audition is a different performance, but you aren't being judged on it, nor should you expect a 'round of applause' for it.

Josiah Bhola Hillaire - it's human nature to be nervous to perform in front of someone, especially a crowd. Over time, those fears will subside. Don't let anyone get you down. Just go for it. And if you don't get a part, don't be afraid to ask what you could try differently next time.

Thank you so much

Great question. In my experience as a "performer" (TV, sports announcing, speaking/playing sports in front of thousands), it's not the AUDITION that frightens folks -- it's the fear of failure, "messing up" or humiliation for all to see. There's a great quote by Dr. Wayne Dyer that says, "we have to stop investing in the good opinion of others". Spot on. Once you divest in others' opinions, life changes. P.S. DIVESTING doesn't necessarily mean that you don't "care what others think" -- it often means that you've come to understand that what THEY think has its place -- but that that place isn't going to determine how YOU feel about you or your performance.

Reels are your most powerful marketing tool, so many ways to create a great one!

I agree. Especially in today's world. Since we are not regularly going into an agents office, being able to supply a reel is so important. But, it can be so difficult for those just getting started. That is why I created the video.

Hope the actress signs onto your series, Kenneth Daniels!

Hi Kenneth - I recommend this Stage 32 class that starts this Monday on how to best cast your project. The instructor, Liz Lewis, is an award-winning casting director and is going to teach the step-by-step process of casting including how best to reach out to reps to be taken seriously all through how to close your actor deals. Here's a link so you can see how Liz designed her class: https://www.stage32.com/classes/Stage-32-4-Part-Class-How-To-Cast-Actors...

Solid advice from Ashley and Sam. There are so many ways to package a film, and having a name attached is a great way to start.

Agents receive 'cold calls' every day. They love them.

Thanks to those who commented. My email inquiry, which was made possible by my conversation with the agent’s assistant, who was cordial during our brief conversation, was met with a concise response: without a payment offer the agent won’t share the project with the actress. I guess this is just how things are done?

Oh, Steve James, you might find it of interest that were you closer to my neck of the woods, I would’ve absolutely asked you to audition for the character who plays opposite this particular actress. You’ve got the perfect look, and I’m sure you could pull off the requisite Boston accent. Well, I would’ve thought about it anyway, but maybe not, considering that you don’t seem too keen on what I’m putting out there. But under different circumstances, definitely.

These are great questions for actors to ask! Thank you so much for sharing. Plus, submissions that don't have a demo reel on many casting sites go to the bottom of the pile. Alongside headshots, a reel is definitely an actor's most important tool.

For actors starting out, I would recommend using what material you have to start off with, and then slowly upgrading! Don't be afraid if it isn't perfect.

If you're lacking material, take on those student films. Once you book your first professional gig, wheedle out your lower quality pieces and before you know it you'll have a reel you're proud of.

Great advice, Tammy Hunt and David Foy Bauer!

Thanks for sharing, Tammy!

So very true! Thank you Tammy!

This is essential for life so must be essential for acting. Thanks, Ashley!

Love this so much! Thank you Ashley!