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Acting Guide
The
first and most important thing I can suggest is to secure a talent
agent to help you along the way. But whether you have an agent or
not—this brief acting guide can provide some rules of thumb
for your auditions.
If you arrive about 15 minutes early you will have time to warm
up. This also comes in handy if there is any trouble getting to
the audition such as traffic, having to stop for gas, a late bus
etc.
Bring a book and a bottle of water. Remember, there may be waiting.
Just sitting around, maybe getting dry mouth, or getting nervous
waiting is not going to help you.
You might not realize whether the person you are speaking to while
waiting will be influential in the casting process. Be nice to everyone
you talk to.
Do not be intimidated by the other people there. No matter how
many there are, they are competing for the same job. Keep up your
confidence.
Wear comfortable clothes, you should look neat, but not too fancied
up. Make sure you can move around the room without being limited
by a coat and tie or fancy dress.
Do not wear a costume. Your outfit can suggest the character such
as a high-collar blouse for a period piece, but don't get all dressed
up.
Do not wear too much cologne or perfume.
Find background information on the company you are auditioning
for—be familiar with their work. This will help you find a
monologue to audition with.
Make sure your resume is firmly attached to your headshot. If possible,
photocopy or print your resume to the back of the headshot. One
page is plenty. Make sure that the headshot/resume you bring along
is no larger than 8 1/2" by 11". This will fit into a
folder.
Smile! If you are nervous, take a deep breath and try to relax.
Recognize that you are not going to get every job you audition for,
but can learn from every audition experience.
Never ask if you will get a callback. And if you do get called
back, wear the same outfit as during your audition. It will help
them remember you, and you will already know it is comfortable.
So remember these tips, relax, and go out there and get some work!
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