To those to Dream and DO:
I was asked by a fellow DWIF Julia Dameron (known as Jules to those close to her) to compose an interesting article that some DWIF's would find fun to read. In all of our busy lives, I know the rush and fast-paced information processing is valuable. Therefore, I decided to do a list of Do’s and Don’t's in my little Lexi world of auditions and acting. These are just some of the basic few-- I do wonder if I had the chance to put down all of the things that float through my head during my audition process, my acting methods, how long of a novel would it be? I have had experience in the Casting Department the past several years and grew up acting. I have always wanted to conduct an audition class but I felt until I reach my goal in acting, I have no say in telling another artist how to audition. These are just little tips I have learned along my way. While I was writing my list, I noticed my Don’ts became very heavy, negative and I realized that I must make a change. In the entertainment business, the word “No”, “Don’t” or rejection is common. Any ray of light is magnified; a callback, a compliment from a casting director, booking a role. Let’s focus on the “DO’s” in life, For the Don't's limit our actions and the DO’s inspire.
I was having a deep discussion with a loved one the other day about pride. In this business, our pride can be a delicate one. We agreed that it came down to faith. Faith in ourselves, faith in our work and most of all faith in the future. To see things via long term instead of focusing at the moment. To know that cleaning toilets or serving food is not for forever, but they are valuable tools to help you get to that future that you want. To help your dreams come true by supporting you, financially.
Show business is a business. You have to learn how to be the best salesmen and the product is you. Whether you are a film director, who is selling the idea of your next film for a producer, or an actor selling your skill and craft to a casting director to put you to work. Set up your lemonade stand and learn how to market and sell “you” as a product. I would watch you and buy your lemonade! Believe in yourself and believe that your lemonade is the best lemonade you’ve ever tasted! But, humbly know that there is always room for improvement. For when we stop growing, we stop learning, and we stop being. Each experience adds to the resume of your life, and boy, there are some amazing resumes out there! =)
I, myself, am learning each day in this business. I am not a novice nor I am expert. I simply love seeing others succeed in achieving their goals and pushing themselves to become better artists every way possible. Here are a few “DO’s” that I have come to learn along my journey to building my lemonade stand!
DO get involved in anyway that you can! Support fellow artists (DWIF’s) and their projects! When it’s your time to stand in the spotlight-- wouldn’t you like their support too?
DO learn how not to be shy when it comes to promoting yourself. Tell others of your projects, spread the word! Show Business is a business and you are your best PR guy! Put him to work! It’s not bragging-- it’s sharing. Besides, don’t you want them to try your lemonade? Sometimes, I make friends with people and I am unaware until much later of their talent and skills! Life is short ~ toot your horn! Nicely. ;)
DO get good headshots that you like! If you are an actor, they are your calling card! For internet submissions - use close up ones of the face because the picture boxes are so small. Would a professional pianist pick an “this will do” piano for his grand master performance? No! So invest in those headshots! Have a friend take pictures of you the day before so you feel comfortable in front of a camera and posing before the big day.
DO network! Learn how to network and how to use it! Nothing makes me feel better than seeing two people I introduced produce a beautiful piece of art or collaborate in a wonderful project. It makes me feel good that I was a part of it and helped make it happen! People love feeling good. Make people feel good and network!
DO send thank you cards! Remember those people who helped you network? Send them a card! Take them out to star bucks! Let them know you appreciate their effort and believe me - they will want to do more! A thank you card goes a long way. My dad still has thank you cards from people who sent them to him over 20 years ago. Email thank you cards do not count. It’s easier for them to say: "Aww..." Agent: “Look at what (so and so) sent me!” Other Agent: “Aw, how nice! She seems really nice and fun to work with.” Agent: “She is great! Very talented.” Other Agent “You know what? I just got off the phone with a casting director about a client of mine, they were looking for some actors with Ryan Gosling in his next film. Let me call them back and send her in for a read!” The end. See how it can work?! People remember thank you cards. Buy a stack at Target and make sure they’re not too girly (in case you have to send them to a man) and invest in a roll of stamps. Snail mail is not extinct... yet.
DO keep a journal of inspirational quotes that inspire you and reread them before an audition. When I conduct casting sessions, I like to post quotes around the waiting room and on the door to create a positive environment. I want my actor to walk into the door feeling great and to knock my socks off! Give me your best performance! Whether if it’s jamming to music in front of the mirror, going for a walk or rereading your favorite acting, artistic quotes-- choose something that adds that little bounce to your step when you walk into that room.
DO know how to get “Sides” online and become familiar with Actors Access, L.A. Casting, etc. There are so many resources out there available. Use it! Check out a Samuel French Bookstore if there is one nearby you! Great amazing books from make-up to film directing and breakdowns for whatever current agencies are looking for.
DO show up a little early at auditions and EXPECT to wait. Casting sessions usually run a little behind. I love it when they do! Take advantage of the situation. Absorb the energy of the room around you and shift into the mode of reception so you can prepare yourself when you walk into the room.
DO try to refrain from a full out conversation with friends you spot in the waiting room. I am guilty of this one! Brace your instinct of wanting to run over with you friend in the room and tell her about the most amazing dress you saw at Forever 21. This is YOUR moment. Your time. Full out conversations is distracting to other actors in the room, the casting director and lastly it’s distracting to YOU and to your character.
DO be careful about making love to your script in the audition. Becoming completely enamored in your script to the point where the Casting Director can’t see your beautiful eyes-- is a tragedy! Why deny them that?! Your reader is your reactor. Not your script. Some of the best acting I’ve seen has been done in the moments in between the dialogue.
DO be prepared for the person you read with in the audition to convey no emotion. If you feel you are reading to a brick wall, you may find that a brick wall at least will give you some kind of a response. Sometimes before I go to an audition, I have a friend read the lines with me show NO emotion. I feel better prepared.
DO know how to slate and take your mark. If you don’t, it’s easy! To slate to the camera means to stand there, look cute and say your first and last name. Sometimes they will want you to say your agency’s name. Most of the time they don’t. Everything is electronic these days so they already have your info! To take your mark means to stand on the X spot on the floor, they have already determined a good spot for the camera. There you go. Now you know how to slate and take your mark. I just saved you from spending $100 on a workshop.
DO hold back those tempting, dying questions we all want to ask to the Casting Directors when we are done. “So…. What happens now?” “Did you like me? Did you really like me?” “How do I know if I got the part?” “What is your text number so we can keep in touch and be great pals and you can cast me in the next big blockbuster movie? I’ll be your best friend.” Do have fun and show your personality. You are a STAR. Let them chase you and if they want you, they will find you. It is desirable to look like you know what you are doing. So act like it! When you are done, say thank you for your time, et cetera and then get out of there. The more you linger, the more desperate you look and there is no putrid scent stronger than desperation. Nothing makes you less desirable when you come across as a desperate actor.
DO try not to appear nervous. Your cat can know you are nervous. The guy back in the parking lot can know that you puked your guts out before the audition, but try, try, try to hide your nerves! A nervous actor makes me nervous. I am less likely to trust the actor to take on the role and not make me look bad for casting them! Casting Directors go out on a limb when they choose who they like to the Directors and Producers. Their reputation is at stake so it’s a lot easier for them to pick someone who looks like they will impress, rather than puke in front of everyone in the room.
DO get to know the “other people” in the room! That includes the interpreter that might be in the room, the assistants, the office receptionists, the crazy lady in the bathroom. You never know. Two stories-- one time, a Casting Director introduced herself as the Assistant. I was so glad I was nice to both people in the room and treated them with the same kindness and respect. I found out later that the Assistant was really the Casting Director. She wanted to see how we really were outside of the room. Second story - At a very big audition that I booked, there was a nice lady who was auditioning with us. She asked all of us questions. Some found her annoying, but I enjoyed someone to talk to a bit since the audition took all day. Later on, we all found out that the lady had worked for the production studio! She was there as an “observer” wanting to see what we were all like behind the scenes. Needless to say, I booked the role. Maybe it was because I shared my sandwich with her? But nonetheless, there is a saying, “always be nice to the Custodian” and it is so true! People love to talk about people. They can influence or sabatoge your chances.
DO be aware of your space and sense of being while waiting in the crowded room to audition. Feel free to step out in the hallway or etc.. just let the assistants know! I had a huge audition for a major role and I felt very cramped in the waiting room. I let them know that I was stepping outside and made friends with this beautiful oak tree. It was rejuvenating and I was able to focus for the audition.
DO always have quarters in your car! Most of the auditions I’ve gone to, I’ve had to park on the street! Everyone who lives in Los Angeles knows how happy the parking cops are in giving out tickets. Read all the signs before you park and make sure you have some change for the meters! You’ll look like a pro with change in your hand feeding those hungry meters.
DO dress to suggest your character. It always helps to have a little “spice” to your wardrobe of the flavor of the role you are playing. Be careful in going overboard. You want them to pay attention to you, not your wardrobe. For an example, when I audition for an older role, I tend to fix my hair differently rather than if I was going in for a younger role. I even pay attention to my shoes because different types of shoes influence my mood. If I want to feel like a Las Vegas Go-Go dancer and I wear tennis shoes? That would be an interesting challenge.
DO mark up your script if you can! Little side notes, highlights etc. Whenever I was casting and an actor came in with a marked up script, it excited me! I felt eager to see their performance and it showed me that they did their homework! Show me what you’ve got!
DO play to the camera and your reader. Feel free to ask the camera person what your frame is so you know how broad you should sign if you are using sign language. Plus it will give them a little perk from standing there all day and no one asking them any questions. Go on, light their fire. You know you want to.
DO take a friend out for coffee or lunch and have them watch your signing if you plan on using sign language without giving them the script. If they don’t understand it, then we won’t understand it.
DO know the difference between a good signer and a good actor. Sometimes they can be easily confused with one another.
DO seek out in having an acting coach to read with before big auditions, if you feel it's necessary. I’ve harassed my acting coaches before my big auditions and have almost always had callbacks when I’ve used them. I can definitely feel a difference at auditions! Plus it sounds nice to say at parties to impress your friends about why you can’t have another margarita. “I have to get up early to meet my Acting Coach”. It makes you feel like a professional actor. Say it out loud. See? Enough said.
DO be aware that the Casting Director may not want to shake your hand. Let them make the first move. Shaking hands with over 50 people a day would definitely scare the heebee geebees out of a OCD germaphobic. Some of them may be Casting Directors. ;)
DO know the importance of playing. Play, Play, Play! Get a group of friends together that you can trust, feel safe with and won’t judge each other on their acting skills because it’s all play! Have an acting night. Host an improv night! Acting is muscle. Engage in it as much as you can. Some professional ice skaters practice over 5 hours a day on the ice. Why should acting be any different than a sport? Practice and play!!
DO become familiar with some improv games. I have seen a lot used at auditions and they are always a fun thing to start in the kitchen at a party. People will think you are the coolest thing ever since sliced bread.
DO be a likeable person. People want to work with people that they like! I won’t cast an actor if they are demanding or difficult, no matter how good they are.
DO share news with other DWIF members! We are all in this journey together! Our goal is our dream and we are all on the path to pursuing it! If you are not able to get the role or the job, wouldn’t you rather see your friend get it than someone you don’t know? It only helps you too in the long run, especially if they remember how you helped give them the lead and they ask you to tag along to cast parties! I’ve been invited to after parties because of my friends in the cast and have had great networking experiences there!
DO let people know that you are auditioning! It’s good to tell the world that you are actively going for your dream. However, do try to refrain from telling them specifics. The reason for that is the odds are already against you in getting the role with all those actors out there. Why add more to the negativity with telling the 10 people you told about your audition to play the lead romance role for Brad Pitt. “Hey!! Did you get the part?” “No.. I didn’t get it…” “I remember you had that huge audition last week! Did you get a callback?” “Nope.” “I saw on Facebook you were auditioning for a role with Brad Pitt! Did you get it?” (sobs)… Get the point? Why constantly state over and over to the universe that you didn’t get the role? Of course you can tell your closest family members and friends but let them know that just having the chance to audition for something major like that is a reason to celebrate in itself. =)
DO be aware of your scene partner’s nonverbal words. Non-verbal dialogue is louder than the spoken words. Some of the best acting I’ve seen has come from listening and reacting.
DO try to stand up before you go into the room for your audition. That way you have time to readjust yourself and allow yourself to be open to any kind of action/reaction you may experience. Soak in all the energy around you and your environment because you will need it in the audition! Focusing on the energy around me allows me to stay in the moment and breathe.
DO turn off your cell! Even if it’s on vibrate - it is still loud if it hits up against the keys in your purse.
DO try to limit to what you take into the actual audition room. Four shopping bags, a purse, your laptop, your briefcase - makes you look clumsy. Plus, it doesn’t help you have a fast get away when you are done. You are BUSY! You have places to go, people to see, other auditions to go to. People are fighting to have you be a part of their project ;) you have no time to waste.
DO invest in a nice portfolio folder. Even if you only have you headshot put in it, it will keep it from bending and clean. You will look hot holding a spiffy portfolio.
DO invest in a stapler to leave in you car. Some casting calls/auditions do not provide staplers for you to staple your resume with your headshot. My car has been my huge safe haven for auditions. Staplers, blinders, headshots, resumes etc. You never know who you are going to run into at 2:00 am at Ralphs getting cough medicine.
DO be careful with bling-bling on your hands. Bracelets click together when you sign and make sure your fingernails are clean! It’s amazing how we subconsciously look at a person’s fingernails when we are watching them sign.
DO find a place that speaks to you and reminds you that all of your hard work will pay off. A place where your heart tells you that you are on the right path and everything that you are doing, will be worth it. I sometimes sneak off to the beach at night or have a picnic underneath the Hollywood Sign. I leave feeling refreshed and calm.
DO understand that you are not competing against each other, you are competing with who the Director has in mind. There are many factors that go into deciding who will get the role and sometimes it’s not always talent.
DO do something as a reward to yourself after an audition. You deserve it! Not everyone can expose themselves and perform for strangers in front of a camera in a room you’ve never been to.
DO respect your body. Your body is a tool. It’s your temple. Do stay hydrated before your audition and work out, exercise at any chance you get. It adds confidence in your walk. Vegan, vegetarian, meatian, pizzarian, whatever you choose, just take care of yourself and love yourself. You gotta make sure your lemonade stand will be stable enough to stand.
DO be prepared for some people to be jealous or some people to not understand this insane routine us actors go through called auditions. It’s okay. We all have different passions and professions. That’s what makes us cool. Besides, who doesn’t want to be famous?! ;) Learn how to support people even if you don’t see or understand their dream.
DO understand that your job is not to BOOK the role. That’s the casting directors job. Your job is to portray the character as best as you can in your own interpretation. The minute you are done with your audition. Your job is done-- after writing thank you cards of course.
DO remind yourself that it is not that important to have everything memorized in an audition. Some of the best actors I have seen were on book and I didn’t even notice because they were so good! They performed without making it sound like they were reading from the script, which they were! Just try to have the first couple of lines and the last couple of lines down if you can. That’s where you can make your lasting impression!
DO be aware of your perfume at auditions! A lot of people I've met in the industry have been allergic. Save the smell for your hot date later on that evening.
DO look at the Casting Director when speaking or signing, even if the interpreter is there. Eye contact creates a connection. You are not auditioning for the interpreter to cast you.
DO challenge yourself! Many of us stay where we feel most comfortable. Push yourself. Try. Decide to take on a character role that you normally wouldn’t do and explore it in a safe place i.e. acting class or that cool acting party you are going to host next week because I gave you that wonderful idea earlier.
DO realize that you will never stop learning in acting. You will never stop learning at auditions and you will never stop learning with each performance. It’s a gift to grow and to shape.
I’ve been very blessed to have met and worked with amazing mentors and teachers so far in my career. Surround yourself with people who are motivated, positive, supportive, self-starters, and who encourage and love you. It’s very contagious.
And it can only rub off on you! Keep believing in yourselves and MAKE IT HAPPEN. Dare to dream… and DO your dream.
I dare you. =)
-Written by Guest Blogger, LEXI MARMAN
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