I was shopping at the mall when I received an urgent casting call for an audition. The environment was far from ideal—noisy and bustling. I wasn’t mentally prepared to act, but I found a quiet corner with good natural light. I asked my sister to hold the camera and help with cues, promising her a meal later. We recorded, uploaded, and sent the audition. The take was okay, but I never heard back.
As a trained actress, I’ve heard stories of actors immersing themselves in roles for days before auditions. That’s not my reality. I often find myself in situations where I have to be ready at a moment’s notice. Auditions used to be in-person at studios, with a day or two to prepare. Now, with social distancing, auditions are virtual, and actors are expected to send self-tapes immediately. Preparation is crucial, but today’s reality often doesn’t allow for it. You might be on vacation or shopping, and suddenly you need to get into character and perform your best.
To handle these situations, I’ve developed some everyday practices. These tips are relevant not just for actors but for anyone who might need to deliver a high-stakes presentation at work.
First, say yes. Whether you’re at the beach or a wedding (unless it’s your own), try to accept the casting call. Saying yes makes you start thinking of ways to make it happen. Giving an audition after taking risks might be better than sending nothing. Similarly, at work, say yes to meetings, client interactions, and presentations. You’ll find a way to tackle it when you’re in the situation.
Second, trust your instinct. Believe that all your training and experience reside in your body. Sometimes you have to go with your first thoughts about what will work for your character. In a work situation, have confidence in your experience and build on it.
Third, experiment. Even if you haven’t had time to mark your script, you can still play around. Having fun while recording adds to your performance. For work, go prepared, but let yourself enjoy the process during the meeting.
Fourth, ask for feedback. This is common in in-person auditions, but it’s also useful for self-tapes. If you’re doing it, do it right. In business, ask colleagues how they thought the meeting went. You can learn from their perspective.
Lastly, take pride in the hustle. Adapt to every situation. There’s no glory in taking risks when you can ask for more time. Casting people might understand if you explain your situation. In any scenario, asking more questions can give you more time or information about the challenge.
Although making an audition in an odd place might make for a good story, it’s up to you to decide if you can do it then and there. If you can’t, don’t feel shame or guilt. It’s okay to push yourself but within reason. The most important thing is that the situation helps build your confidence.
Lights, camera, action! New York is famous for many things, including its vibrant film industry. Each year, numerous film projects take place in the Empire State, offering casting opportunities for aspiring actors. The Hudson Valley Film Commission recently announced two casting calls for upcoming projects. One is for local bands, and the other is for housing cast and crew.
If you’re in a band or know someone who is, movie makers are looking for a country band quartet available on May 16, 2024. The selected band won’t need to play but should set up as if they were. Interested bands can send a photo to Amy Hutchings at [email protected].
The second project is less of a casting call and more about housing. Producers need a place to house up to five individuals from May 25th to May 26th in the New Paltz, Rosendale, or Kingston, NY area. If you have a housing lead, contact Allegra at [email protected].
New York has been home to many celebrities and continues to be a hub for film projects. This is your chance to be involved in the movie-making business. Whether you’re an actor, musician, or homeowner, there are opportunities for you to participate.
For those looking to break into the industry, staying prepared is key. Always be ready to say yes, trust your instincts, experiment, ask for feedback, and take pride in the hustle. These practices will help you navigate the unpredictable world of casting calls and auditions.
Virtual auditions have become the new norm, allowing actors to audition for roles beyond their local area. To stand out, invest in good-quality equipment, pay attention to lighting and background, and practice performing for the camera. Subtlety is crucial; over-the-top expressions can seem exaggerated on screen. Share your self-tapes with trusted friends or mentors for constructive criticism.
Networking is also essential. Engage with local theater groups, attend film festivals, and participate in acting workshops. Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook have groups dedicated to acting auditions. Joining these groups can provide valuable information and connections.
In conclusion, New York offers a world of opportunities for aspiring actors. By staying prepared, saying yes to opportunities, and networking, you can navigate the casting landscape and find your next big role. Embrace the journey with an open heart and mind, ready to take on whatever challenges and triumphs lie ahead.
Source: Vrinda Malhotra, Hudson Valley Film Commission, Michael Flores
