Acting

Last month, I took the leap and committed to my acting career full-time. I quickly discovered that marketing yourself for day player roles is a different process compared to submitting for supporting or lead roles. In fact, day player casting is quite similar to extras casting when it comes to how actors present their headshots. After making a few subtle adjustments to my photos, I started receiving more CMail audition invitations.

One of the biggest challenges I’m currently navigating is self-taping auditions. It’s been tough. Instead of focusing solely on my performance, I often find myself distracted by technical concerns: Is the lighting good? Am I framed properly? And because I use a prerecorded audio track as my scene partner, I have to time my line delivery carefully. To make things even more complicated, I’m using an old cassette recorder as my reader.

That said, I’m starting to get the hang of it. I now begin every audition with a test shot to ensure the lighting is right, I’m fully in frame, and the audio playback is low enough that the tape hiss doesn’t detract from the performance.

Despite all the challenges, I’m happy. My career goals are realistic, and I’m beginning to build momentum.

Whether you’re heading into an audition, putting something on tape, or just keeping your skills sharp, having a solid monologue or scene in your arsenal is essential. So I’m curious, what are your go-to monologues or favorite scenes to pull from when you need something reliable?

One of my personal favorites is Almost, Maine by John Cariani. Back when I was in film school and had to direct actors for class assignments, I always found myself coming back to that play. It’s set in a fictional town in northern Maine called “Almost,” and the entire story unfolds over one magical night under the northern lights. Each vignette explores love: finding it, losing it, or getting a second chance: with a beautiful mix of heart and humor.

Because the play is made up of short scenes between two characters, it was a dream to direct, and a joy to watch performers explore. Some scenes are sweet and whimsical, others are gut-punch emotional, but they’re all so well written and give actors something to play with.

So now I want to hear from you:

What’s a monologue or scene you keep in your back pocket?

Do you have a piece that just fits you? One you always return to? Or maybe one you’ve recently discovered that you love?

Let’s build a little list in the comments: we might even inspire each other to try something new!

I’m not an actor—I'm an independent director/producer who regularly casts for projects.

Here are some tips I think can really help actors, whether you're new or experienced:

1. Use a current headshot.

Avoid sending photos from 10 years ago or ones that are overly retouched. We need to see what you actually look like—wrinkles, blemishes, and all. Authenticity matters.

2. Avoid generic cover letters.

It's obvious when you've copied and pasted a canned response. Take the time to personalize your submission—it shows you're genuinely interested in the role.

3. Read the casting call carefully.

If the listing says "must work as a local," don’t ask for travel or lodging. If it's a non-union project, don’t try to get it flipped to SAG. Just don’t apply if it doesn’t fit.

4. Don’t pass off the job to your manager or agent.

If you're not a name actor and the rate/location are clearly listed, there's nothing to negotiate. Third-party involvement just complicates things.

5. Be on time and bring a good attitude.

No drama. No ego. Be someone people want to work with again.

6. Don’t hound producers for demo clips.

Most films go through a festival run or seek distribution first. Instead, ask before booking when you might receive a clip—then wait patiently.

7. Show gratitude.

A simple thank you to those who gave you a shot goes a long way.

Hope this helps. I’d love to hear from actors—what draws you to a project, and what turns you off?

For decades, cinema has been portrayed as a world of dreams, fame, and artistic expression. But behind the cameras lies a much darker reality: the systematic abuse of power by producers, directors, and influential figures—especially toward young actors and actresses.

The combination of wealth, prestige, and control over budding careers creates a perfect environment for manipulation. Many young people, full of hope for a chance in the industry, have been emotionally, psychologically, and even sexually exploited by those who used their positions as shields of impunity.

The Harvey Weinstein case was only the tip of the iceberg. What’s truly alarming is how this behavior was—and in some cases still is—built into the system. The promise of fame or the fear of being blacklisted has kept many victims silent, while their abusers thrived.

When it comes to underage actors and actresses, the issue becomes even more serious. The industry has failed to protect them. Many started working without real support networks, exposed to environments where boundaries were blurred and consent was irrelevant.

The stories of figures like Corey Feldman and Jennette McCurdy reveal a repeated pattern: exploitation disguised as mentorship, complicit silences, and a machine willing to sacrifice the most vulnerable to preserve its image and profits.

Talking about this is not an attack on cinema, but a call for transformation. Art can no longer be used as an excuse for abuse. Visibility, accountability, and education within the industry are essential steps toward changing this culture.

Young talent deserves to grow in a safe, ethical, and human environment. We shouldn't wait for someone else to speak up before we take action.

What role has been your most challenging to take on? One that you thought you had in the bag, but really struggled to connect with? For me, Laura in THE GLASS MENAGARIE was more difficult than I thought. I had no trouble with the lines, but my acting teacher kept telling me I was missing the essence of Laura. It wasn't until I put on a dress that I was really able to capture her disability and fully understand the insensitivity of the people around her. What about you? Is there an AHA MOMENT connecting with a character you would like to share?

"Season 6 kicks off with DaJuan Johnson breaking down the current State of the Industry—what’s shifting, what’s working, and what actors need to know now."

https://thinkbiggerpodcast.libsyn.com/ep-601-state-of-the-industry

In this week’s Coffee & Content, we’re celebrating 20 years of Lucasfilm Animation and breaking down how you can position your project to stand out in today’s market. What’s your next “And What?” Read it here >> https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-and-content-from-the-clone-wars-to-your-script-the-force-of-preparation-4090

I was sifting through the breakdowns moments ago, and noticed casting is searching for Native American actors for principal roles in the "Little House on the Prairie" reboot shooting in Winnipeg. How exciting! That's what this world needs right now, wholesome, family entertainment. Kudos, CBS, Netflix.

Is there a book you have read or an podcast you listen to that has been game changer for you? Are there any tips or techniques you would like to share with us that has really helped you? For example, I listen to a podcast by a casting director who interviews other casting directors about their journey and their casting process. It's called THE EB CO: OFF BOOK It has been very insightful and helpful when going in to auditions. I also listen to THE TOWN which is all about the business of HOLLYWOOD. Are there any actors' podcasts you listen to? I really like INSIDE OF YOU WITH MICHEAL ROSENBAUM Having knowledge of other actors' experiences on set and some of their techniques, for me has been very beneficial.

Stage 32 is hosting a FREE educational webinar on Netflix’s smash hit ADOLESCENCE, and it’s packed with invaluable insight for filmmakers, cinematographers, producers, actors, ADs, production managers—anyone working on set or looking to level up their on-set knowledge.

Join First Assistant Director Sarah Lucas as she shares how the AD team pulled off the show’s signature one-shot episodes and managed hundreds of cast and crew across a massive, complex production.

Register for free now: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/filming-adolescence-how-the-a...