Like many actors I try to keep up with whats happening in the acting world as best I can, I came across an article that was talking about casting workshops in LA. The article paints a fairly unpleasant picture, from my own experience in the UK casting workshops are still viewed with a certain amount of skepticism. I'll link the article but it would be good to hear what experiences other may have had in this area. http://www.dailyactor.com/acting-advice-columns/stop-casting-director-wo...
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Big controversy out here, Tony. Valid arguments on both sides. I've posted a number of articles on this on the Weekend Blog over the last few weeks.
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I could certainly see their purpose, if properly done. There's been discussions in the UK about the actual purpose of the workshops. Usually when there advertised there's this great sales pitch about having the opportunity to get in-front of the right people. Indeed it all sounds very appealing, but often the reality is far different.
I'm against CD workshops for one simple reason: paying to audition is against the law. Just like one would not pay for a job interview. And I think it's despicable of any casting directors who put one on. Actors have enough expenses. They word it differently so as not to say you are paying to audition, I.e. an opportunity to showcase your work. If I know someone who was snookered I tell them you better be blowing up that CD's phone and making sure they bring you in for everything you are right for. The other problem with workshops (and I use that term loosely) is CDs don't have the final say in casting, so IMO it's shady and they're taking advantage of people and should be kicked out of the CSA. The LA District Attorney cracked down on background casting agencies for charging a registration fee as it violated the pay to work law and now he is investigating "workshops"