AN ACTOR'S WARDROBE - by John Essay

I recommend that actors have a separate wardrobe for auditioning.  You may think that this is a waste of money but I assure you it will save you money in the long run and will eliminate the stress that comes with “Oh my,  what am I to wear?” or “Darn, I wore that shirt to the bar last night and now it’s dirty.”  Because we know you were probably out last night - LOL.

If you have a separate wardrobe for acting, both your acting and civilian clothes will last longer and slow down the fabrics’ wear and tear. In addition, deciding what to wear for an audition is easier because you have already set aside your acting wardrobe and thus you have already made the choice what to wear when you designated the items for “acting” only.  For on-camera auditions, there are some colors and patterns that look better on camera then they do in real life. The opposite is also true, some colors and patterns look great in real life and awful on camera. This is important for you to find out which is which. That’s where taking an on camera class will not only help you with on camera technique but it will also give you the opportunity to see what clothes look best on you on camera. This goes for hair styles, makeup and facial hair too.

What should be in your acting wardrobe? Knowing your “type” is essential.

MEN:

·         Suit/Tie – if your “type” is white collar, this is important for roles like Lawyers,   CEOs, Banker, Wall Street types. This is a piece of your wardrobe that could cross over into your personal wardrobe since they tend to be expensive and you may not get a lot of use out of it.

·         Sports Jacket and dress pants – for a less upscale look.

·         Polo shirt and khakis – great for commercials and covers a large range of “types” including Dad, Weekender, Some blue collar jobs, etc.

·         Jeans and shorts – Covers many many roles. Make sure jeans are clean with no holes. Wear shorts only when it is appropriate.

·         Several sport/dress and T-shirts. You can mix/match for all the above looks.

·         A pair of non-glare glasses are a great addition.

·         Tennis shoes and dress shoes.

WOMEN

·         Sun or summer dress – casual and not too sexy.

·         Sexy dress – if this fits your type.

·         Business suit w/pants and/or skirt – great for Lawyer, CEO, power broker. A few blouses that you can change out or just wear with skirt or pants without jacket.

·         Long skirt – for period pieces.

·         Sweater set – you know the one that the shirt matches the open sweater – great for mom types.

·         Jeans, khakis with appropriate tops. Good for woman on the go, moms, working ladies.

·         Glasses are a great addition.

Here’s a link to What toWear….Dressing the Part. 

Preparing for a Great Audition - by John Essay

Auditioning is unavoidable for all actors. Some are great at it, others are mystified, and others are just plain awful at it. Here are some helpful tools and insight so that you can have a great audition.

I recommend that you create an “Audition Diary,” listing as much information as is available, such as:

• The time, date and place of your audition. 
• The show you are auditioning for. 
• The role you are auditioning for. 
• What you prepared. 
• Who was present at the audition. 
• Who are the creatives: producers, director, etc. 
• What you wore. 
• What headshot you used.
• Notes on how you felt the audition went.

Saving this info in a searchable format will be most helpful. Eventually you will be meeting some of the same casting directors and creatives, and if you save this information in a searchable format then it will be much easier to see when you last met these people and for what.

Do research before each audition. Who is the director? Maybe you saw some of their work. Maybe you've met the casting director—when, where and for what reason? What else do they cast? You should be aware of the producer, and the playwright or screenwriter of the project. The more you know the better. Look at the internet: IMDb has a wealth of information on actors, directors, casting directors, and movies; the IBDB has Broadway information for actors, directors, stage managers, casting directors, etc.; the Lortel Archives have Off-Broadway Play information; Doollee has playwright information. Make sure to write important information down in your audition diary.

Now prepare for the audition. 

Generally when auditioning, you want to do your third audition first. We all know that if we could audition three times in a row, the third audition would be the best. You need to find a way to achieve that third audition the first time you do it. Rehearse your material with two different character choices. Choose the best one to use at the audition while keeping the other in your back pocket. If doing a monologue, it should be memorized and you should not be holding the text. If doing a scene, practice using your sides, turning pages quietly (important if you are going to be on tape), and making sure you don’t cover your face. When possible, perform your monologue or scene in front of a friend or coach before you enter the audition room; it is always good to try your material out in front of a live person to simulate an audition setting. Hiring a private coach is worth the extra bucks for those big auditions that might move your career forward. A coach may offer some insight or confirmation to your piece. Make sure to write down any notes for your audition in your audition diary. Remember most everyone auditioning for your role will most likely be a good actor with a good audition, so you need to be exceptional – cream rises to the top and that is what we are looking for. Make bold concrete choices.

The day of your audition, do some vocal warm-ups before you arrive. It is important that your voice is strong and clear. This is especially important if you are just recovering from a cold or the flu. You don’t want any surprises when you begin your audition.

Always arrive a few minutes early for an audition. As you sit in the waiting room for your name to be called, it may be helpful to carry an index card with some key phrases to remind you of your preparation and to keep you focused, i.e. “Stay focused,” “Keep energy up,” “Do my third audition first,” “Make a strong beginning,” “No one is better than me” – write whatever sayings that inspire you to do your best. Take another look at your notes in your audition diary and get ready for when your name is called, then it’s your time to make that preparation pay off!

Stay tuned for my next article, which will explore what happens during and after the audition!

**************************************************************************

See what other Experts are saying! Backstage Experts

Don't Compare Yourself to Other Actors - by Robert Curtiss

Actors can be supportive and encourage each other in this business, but actors can also feel competitive with each other. Some actors will get breaks that you did not, and others may become quite successful while you are still slogging away in a restaurant job or just trying to make ends meet while taking classes. These situations may feel bittersweet. You may want to feel happy for them, but you may also feel envious and frustrated that you have not been as fortunate. Try to resist the urge to compare yourself to them, and instead be happy for their success, as you would want others to be happy for you if you were in their place. The fact is that only one person gets cast in a role. So make peace with that fact and continue honing your craft. Hopefully sooner than later you will be cast.

Although it can be hard not to compare yourself to others, remember that comparing yourself to someone else is an inaccurate measuring stick, and it can erode your self-esteem and send you into depression. When you compare yourself to others—whether in regards to a relationship, a career, or other achievement—you are only comparing yourself to your perception of others. Everyone has different life circumstances and different paths. You are on your own unique journey, and it may take longer or go in a different direction. However, it will never be the same as anyone else's, and it has just as many opportunities and possibilities.

It is understandable to feel envious of others’ successes, but remember that envy is usually just a good indicator of your own insecurities. When you can figure out why you are feeling insecure, you can start to overcome it. A good psychotherapist can come in handy for these situations, and help you focus instead on your own strengths.

When you find yourself comparing yourself to others, stop for a minute and ask yourself: What am I grateful for in my life? What relationships have I made that are important to me? What accomplishments have I made in my life? What have I done recently that I am proud of? In what ways have I grown and improved? What steps am I taking to keep growing?

After all, these are the things that really matter.

*************************************************************

Read what other Experts are saying! Backstage Experts

4 Steps to Taking Criticism as an Actor - by John Essay

As a manager, I advise clients on career choices, groom them for the industry with guidance on new headshots, resumes, classes, and type choices. I also make professional introductions, and personally advise them on every step of their business, which includes some aspects of life coaching. 

Presumably, actors know this—and want this—when they are seeking a personal manager, or other forms of representation. Yet some actors come into my office thinking I am going to be amazed at how talented, professional, and on top of things they are, and they seem to think I will simply agree to represent them with no advice to offer. When they hear my suggestions, they look stunned and uncomfortable. I can't tell you how many times I have met with an actor for the first time—for our "interview"—and started to tell them something they didn't want to hear—that I was unable to represent them, or that they needed to get new pictures—and watched them "tune out." I can watch it happen before my eyes. Their eyes glaze over. They nod like they are listening, but I can tell they just want to get out of my office as soon as they can.

I wonder how well these actors take direction on stage or on screen. I wonder what is going to happen if we decide to work together and we encounter a crisis. How can I help someone who can't listen to my advice, or accept anything they feel is critical of them?

A happy life and a fulfilling career require personal growth, and understanding criticism is essential to personal growth. Criticism is everywhere so try to use it to your advantage.

Here are some simple steps to constructively deal with criticism: Hear it, evaluate it, learn from it, and take action.

1. Hear the criticism. Just listen. Resist the urge to justify, excuse, or defend yourself. If you're not ready to analyze the critique, analyze it later.

2. Evaluate the criticism. Does this criticism apply to you? Is the critic speaking truth or are they off the mark? If you are unsure if the critique is true, ask someone close to you that you trust.

3. Learn from it. If the criticism is justified, you have been made aware of something you need to adjust, change, or do. Accept this knowledge.

4. Take action. Once you have figured out what action you should take, do it. This is a typical time for procrastination, but I urge you to make the changes instead.

This process of handling with criticism will be a tremendous advantage to you as an actor. I wish you much success!
***********************************************************
Read what other Experts are saying! Backstage Experts

How to Use Your Acting Skills On and Off Stage - by Robert Curtiss

Many years ago, a restaurant where I worked as a waiter hired a consultant to help train the wait staff in “upselling” techniques—that is, the ability to get people to buy more things—in order to increase revenues for the restaurant, and as a result, increase the tips earned by the staff.

I was really impressed by this consultant, Bob Brown. He had been a waiter himself and had learned through his own trial and error—as well as guidance from mentors along the way—how to increase his income and do it in a way that was not pushy or fake. I learned how my acting skills could be put to work to make money both on and off stage.

I recently had the pleasure of watching Bob in action as he conducted a day-long seminar, and I was struck at how universal his message is and I wanted to pass some of this message on to you.

Bob Brown uses an acronym to describe what he calls “star qualities” in successful people, and these qualities I find particularly suited for actors.

The acronym is KEEPER. Here is what it stands for:

1. Knowledge. We all continue to gather knowledge throughout our lives. Make sure you acquire the knowledge you need to accomplish a desired task or goal—whether that is in show business or your support job.

2. Enthusiasm. It is vital! Why do anything half-heartedly? Others pick up on your enthusiasm, and it gets them excited about what you are doing.

3. Empathy. Be aware of others, and try to understand where they are coming from. A little human kindness goes a long way. This will help you in all areas of your life, and you can tailor your approach to how your "audience" might be feeling.

4. Presentation. How do you present yourself? Ask yourself, “Would I buy from me? Would I cast me?” How neat and clean is your "uniform" or "costume"? How loudly and clearly do you speak? Always take care to present yourself as you want to be seen and heard. First impressions—and especially repeated impressions—can be lasting impressions!

5. Execution. How do you put your knowledge and skills into action? How are your technical skills? This is where rehearsal comes in—and I mean more than just your acting scenes. The more you practice how you speak, sell, greet people, interview, etc., the more you will feel prepared and relaxed, and the more your skills become ingrained into your natural behavior.

6. Reading Cues. We all communicate loudly even when we don't speak a word. Become a master at observing body language and behavioral cues. In his book "Emotional Intelligence," Bob Brown says that there are more than 20,000 gestures in our body language vocabulary. Watch and learn them. This skill is vital in everyday life, but it will also help you in the art of acting, where listening and observing are essential.

***********************************************************

See what other EXPERTS are saying! Backstage Experts

3 Strategies for Staying Punctual and Professional - by Robert Curtiss

We live in a world where schedules conflict, where some auditions and appointments are tightly scheduled back to back, and though you may have plenty of time in your own schedule, the people who you are meeting, interviewing, or auditioning for may have little wiggle room to fit you in. Occasional lateness is undesirable but understandable—we all have been late some time in our lives, perhaps because of some last-minute snafu or bad traffic—and it is usually easily forgiven and forgotten by all involved. Chronic lateness, however, undermines your professionalism.

Here are a few strategies for being on time:

1. Leave 30 minutes early for every appointment, or add 15–30 minutes to your expected travel time. This means that if you ordinarily would leave home 15 minutes before your appointment, leave 30–45 minutes early. This will most likely get you there early; you can use the time to prepare yourself. If you run into delays on your route, hopefully the extra travel time will be sufficient to keep you on time.

2. Organize your life so you are not scrambling for misplaced items moments before leaving for the day. Keep a datebook calendar handy, and write down your daily schedule (of course, you have to actually look at it for this to be useful). There are smartphone apps for this.

3. It may be helpful to have an “audition survival bag” that you keep packed and ready to go. This could be a knapsack, purse, or briefcase. Here is a list of suggested items to keep in your bag: headshots and résumés, business cards, sheet music, a MetroCard, paper and a pen, makeup, a hairbrush, bottled water, breath mints, and an energy bar, and hide $10 or $20 inside just in case. This way you only have to remember your keys, cell phone, audition material, and any other audition/business needs, grab your audition bag, and out the door you go.

I hope these strategies help keep you on time and prepared for your appointments. If you still end up being late, by all means, acknowledge it and apologize for keeping them waiting. Break a leg!

****************************************************

Check out what other Expertd are saying! Backstage Experts

11 Pieces of an Actor's Budget - by John Essay

Actors frequently ask me, “How much money does it take to be an actor?” The short answer is every actor’s expenses will be different. However, use the list below as a guideline. Although I have tailored the costs for those pursuing the business in New York City, the general outline is applicable wherever you may be based.

1. Living expenses. This category includes rent, utilities, cable, telephone, and food. These may seem obvious, but I begin with this list because you cannot really pursue the business of acting if you cannot afford these things. Count on rent to be around $1000/month and up, depending on the neighborhood, building amenities—such as a doorman, elevator, gym, etc.—and whether or not you have a roommate. (For Manhattan, $1000/month is actually really cheap, and if you find an apartment for this rate, it will most likely be in a less accessible neighborhood). Utilities (gas, electric) are usually not included in the rent. These can average around $100-$150/month. For telephone service, you can get away with only having a cellphone, and this averages around $75/month. Cable averages around $100/month without the premium channels. You may want to forgo cable if you have Internet access, as you can watch many TV shows via Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, etc. Your job as an actor is to know what is going on in the world and also what shows are on the various channels. As for food, don't be lazy and rely on the fast food that is cheap and easily available. Many New Yorkers eat out a lot, and this zaps your income very quickly. Be smart, and eat at home. It is cheaper and healthier. Count on groceries costing you an average of $15-$20/day.

For the following expenses, consider opening a savings account where you deposit $20 a week, more or less. A separate savings account means “out of sight, out of mind,” and that is a good thing.

2. Headshots, including hair and makeup. Having your headshot photos taken and reproduced is generally the biggest expense you will incur. Good photographers run between $600-$1000. There is also hair and makeup, which is a separate expense. Yes, men, you may need makeup too! The camera lights play nasty tricks with your face, and makeup can help offset these unsightly occurrences. Be prepared to spend between $100-$150 for hair and makeup. 

3. Headshot reproductions/retouching. When your pictures are finished and you have selected the ones you'd like to use, you may need to have them retouched. Perhaps there is a stray hair, a blemish, soft circles under eyes, etc. Generally, retouching will be approximately $25-$60 per photo. Reproducing your picture can cost almost a dollar a print. There are cheaper reproduction houses, but many use cheap paper that tends to lack the crispness that you get from good quality paper. And others may use a printing technique that makes them impossible to fax and/or scan. So be careful, and remember your picture may be in a pile with hundreds of others. You want yours to stand out, not fade away. If you start working with a representative, make sure you always have enough money to pay for more reproductions. There is no excuse for saying "I can't afford it" if a representative needs more photos of you, and you have no money to comply. 

4. Resumes. First of all, don’t print them on the back of your pictures. Why? Because when you book a job and want to update your resume, you'd have to throw away these expensive prints or hand-write a credit in, which can look sloppy. Also, make sure your resumes fit your 8x10 photo. Most sheets of paper are 8.5"x11" and will need to be cut to fit and then stapled to your headshot. Resumes are generally about 5 cents to 8 cents a copy, unless you print them at home where the cost is minimal. 

5. Classes. Prices for classes are hard to list here as there are too many and the price ranges are vast. Audit classes to get a feel for the instructor, what they are teaching, and see what the class is like. I tell people to look for a class you have to audition to get into. This generally weeds out the novice teacher or "experimenting" actor, and hopefully leaves you with a class that is full of working actors. 

6. Online resources. This will vary but there are a number of worthwhile services out there. Some offer audition opportunities, some are resource oriented, and of course you don't want to forget Backstage, and The Actor’s Guide to Everything! You can get a subscription to Backstage for as little as $12/month.

7. Makeup and grooming. Yes, we must budget this in. Men, a barber runs around $20, and if you add a shave (one of my personal splurges) it would double the price. If you color your hair, just buy the home treatment kits and master the technique. This will save you a lot of money. Women, cuts usually start at around $60 and increase rapidly. Save some bucks by shampooing your hair at home before your salon visit. Also you might want to try in-home coloring if that is your thing, instead of having it done at a salon.

8. Clothing. It really is necessary to have your own business wardrobe for auditions. For several hundred dollars, you can achieve a lot of different looks that will help your auditions. You'll save money if you don't mix them with your personal clothes. They will stay fresher longer, and you'll have to launder them less frequently. 

9. Postage and supplies. You'll need to do follow-up mailings, and mailings to agents, managers, and casting directors. This will be a minimal expense, but a very important one. Count on around $20 per month. This will increase drastically if you are in a show or film or have something of significance to share with the above-mentioned agents, managers, and casting directors on your mailing list.

10. Transportation. You can't afford to take taxis everywhere (at least not yet), but you will probably use transportation every day. One round-trip per day on the subway or bus, at the standard $2.50 fare each way, adds up quickly. A monthly Metrocard costs $112, and a weekly Metrocard costs $30.

11. Entertainment. You will need to set some money aside to see theater and go to the movies. This will depend upon how much you can afford. Some theaters offer standing-room tickets for as little as $20. Other theaters offer $25 tickets to a certain number of people on any given day. Offering to usher is a way for many people of modest means to see a show. A movie ticket runs about $12, but if you don’t mind going in the morning, you can go to a show before noon for $6 at some theaters. Count on $50 to $100 per month to see theater and film.

I hope this basic expense outline is helpful for those starting out as an actor. Break a leg!

 ********************************************

Check out what other Experts are saying! Backstage Experts

Why You Need to Keep Growing as an Actor - by Robert Curtiss

“I'm too old to start now.” “It's too late for me.” “I'm too old to change.” How many times have you heard someone say these things? Have you ever said them yourself?

It’s sad how often we repeat these beliefs as if they are the unquestioned truth. The more we say something, the more we come to believe it is true. These beliefs limit us. When you say these things—when you really believe these things—it means you've stopped adapting to the world around you. It means you're stuck in the past and not adapting in the here-and-now. It is not a healthy mindset. I am often struck by how many people talk about dealing with their problems, yet they don't actually deal with them at all. They shun the idea of therapy by saying, “I can handle my own problems” or “I'm too old to change,” but they don't truly deal with their problems by talking about them. They don’t try to change their problematic behaviors and instead keep repeating the behaviors that cause the problems!

Older people also use the phrase “In my day” as a way to make the present inferior to the way “it used to be.” However, they use it as a way to excuse their non-participation in the present. Think about it—is today not your day?? Are you too old to learn something?? Of course not!

Sometimes we get complacent, and trying something different feels scary. However, remember that a flower in a small pot can only grow so far. An actor in Wichita, for example, who stays in Wichita, will only go as far as is possible in Wichita. That is fine for some people—being the big fish in the little pond can be satisfying. However, if you want to achieve greater things, you need to grow, to push your limits.

We all must keep growing until we die. It is the nature of all living things. It is never too late to start something that can enhance your life—be it piano lessons, or therapy, or quitting smoking.

***********************************

Check out what other EXPERTS are saying Backstage Experts

How to Know Which Showcases to Do as an Actor - by John Essay

I have been asked many times over the years what kinds of showcases actors should do. I have been to hundreds—if not thousands—of showcases in the nearly 30 years I have been a manager, and I can count on both hands those I actually enjoyed and benefited from. The rest were quickly forgotten—mainly because they were uninventive, un-stimulating, or downright BORING. If you are thinking of developing or participating in a showcase, make sure it is exciting, unique, and has a great selling point!

Showcases come in many "types"—scenes, monologues, one-acts—and "styles"—improve, acting, musical theatre—but the "type" or "style" is the least important thing to consider when thinking of developing or participating in a showcase. The most important element is the overall way the showcase is packaged, or the "wow factor."

Let me explain. You will draw more flies to the honey if your showcase has an interesting "gimmick." You could present your showcase in a fascinating venue—a park, an old gutted warehouse, an ice cream parlor, a bus, a train, even a theater—as long as the show is of interest. Try hiring a director of note to help add legitimacy and some industry “buzz” around your showcase. How about scenes interspersed with music from a well-known or up-and-coming composer? Or start a play contest by soliciting 10-minute plays from playwrights. Choose six of the best, cast them with great talent, and spread the word. People attending would not only benefit from seeing new talent but also the work of some new playwrights. You could even serve interesting snacks or beverages before or after the performance. How about a fondue party? Or frozen summer blender drinks? Be creative—the list of ideas is endless.

Above all, do not participate in a showcase for the sole reason of getting casting directors and agents to come to advance your career. Of course, you will invite industry folk to come and see it, but it should not be the only reason to participate in it. Your main reasons to do a showcase should be that you like and admire the other people involved; you want to perform in something sooner rather than later; you like the concept; it promises to be a learning experience; and, most importantly, it should be fun!

Putting on a great showcase only takes a group of talented people working together. I hope this article empowers you to collaborate with others and produce your own compelling showcase.

***********************************

Check out what other EXPERTS are saying Backstage Experts

What Actors Can Learn From Door-to-Door Salesmen - by Robert Curtiss

One summer, during my college years, I was a door-to-door book salesman. I truly hated it — I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone! However, one thing has stuck in my mind from the days I spent in training for that job. Our trainer used to always say: “Every ‘no’ gets you closer to a ‘yes.’ ” The trainer acknowledged that we would have many doors slammed in our faces, and we would probably be intimidated, fearful, and discouraged. He said, though, that you could keep your spirits up and keep going if you just remembered the odds: Most people would not buy the product, but some would. That meant that you would mostly hear “no” and occasionally hear a “yes.” Every time someone said “no” you were to thank them, for they brought you one “no” closer to that “yes” you were definitely going to hear!

This is a great life lesson, for you as an actor and as a person for anything you set out to do in life. When you interview a representative, and they are not interested in working with you; when you keep auditioning and still do not get cast; when you invite industry people to your show and no one comes — these are all versions of hearing “no.” If you are persistent, if you keep at it, and if you make sure you are good at what you do, sooner or later you will get that “yes.” You will get the job, get that representative, etc. When you do something, don’t get discouraged each time you hit a roadblock, or hear someone say “no.” Keep at it, and all those no’s will lead you closer to getting a “yes”! 

***********************************

Check out what other EXPERTS are saying Backstage Experts

Does having an accent limit acting opportunities? by John Essay

As a rule, the more versatility an actor has can only provide him/her with more opportunities. A fruit vendor that only sells bananas would most likely increase his income if he sold other fruits as well. You certainly can get work with an accent, but it will limit the jobs you can get. There are only a few movie stars that have done quite well with an accent, such as Antonio Banderas, Penelope Cruz, Sofia Vergara, Holly Hunter, Charo. These actors started their careers off with their own accents.  For them, it wasn’t necessary to “lose” their accents because they quickly established their careers with their accents.  The odds are that most actors with accents won’t be as lucky as this group of stars, so it makes sense to “lose” your accents in the beginning of your career to afford you more opportunities. I’m not saying hide it forever; you can still continue to audition for parts that have your native accent. 

In general, it helps to be able to learn to speak without accents or regionalisms (such as a Southern, a Boston, New York or Midwest American regional accent). Anna Torv and John Noble, the two leading actors on the J.J. Abrams series "Fringe", are both from Australia, yet they speak with neutral American accents on the show.  Since they haven’t made a career out of using their native accent like the actors I mentioned above, it was important to them to speak without an accent to increase their job opportunities - and a good thing they did, or they wouldn’t have starred on this cult classic series.

For those of you who want to learn to speak without an accent, there are many Speech Coaches that specialize in this area.  There are also a number of online sites that can also help you learn to speak with any regionalisms.

If you have trouble learning other dialects, or if you are just passionate enough about your own heritage and do not wish to explore neutral accents, I say good for you, nothing wrong with that, and now you know the limitations you are faced with.  Just remember: if you choose to move forward with your accent, DICTION is the important thing to remember. If you have an accent, we MUST understand everything you say!  The Casting Director or Director will appreciate it, as well as the author whose words you are saying!

Remember, just because you have learned to speak without an accent doesn't mean you must live the rest of your life without it. Use it at home, use it with your friends, but leave it at home when auditioning for roles that don’t require one.

*************************************

Check out what other EXPERTS are saying! Backstage Experts

ARE YOU READY FOR REPRESENTATION? by John Essay

Many actors start looking for a representative as soon as they get to the city; they have been told (usually by people who are NOT in show business!) that they first need to get an agent or manager. These actors seem to think that once they get a representative, the hard part is over; now they think someone else is going to be responsible. Remember, an agent or manager gets only 10% to 15% commission for their work. That should mean that they do 10% to 15% of the work. Think about it. Who is supposed to do the other 85 - 90%?

You should never pursue representation until you are confident that you are able to compete in the major areas of the industry: Film, TV and Theater.  If you are too green, casting directors may remember, and your representative will have a hard time getting a second chance for you to be seen.  When represented, you should always be at the top of your game.   You must be a great auditioner: you must be able to make the best of the short window of opportunity that you have in an audition. This means you must be exceptional, because good enough just doesn’t cut it, and it won’t get you the job over the other actors who are also good enough. You must be able to give your third audition first, meaning you must make strong choices and fully execute them, yet be able to take direction if it is given and fully commit yourself to that direction (instead of only doing what you had prepared).

The more you bring to the table, the more you will help your representative do his job. Have you had adequate on-camera training? Do you know the subtle differences between a TV audition and a film audition? Are you continuing to build your craft every day? Do you know what's going on in the industry, i.e. what plays you are right for, who are the casting directors for various projects, etc.? Do you have any contacts and connections that your representative should be aware of?

You have to be knowledgeable and able to do what is expected of you. Be skilled at your craft. Be open to advice and counsel (remember, they are the ones with the expertise!). Be prepared to go to auditions and know how to get there. Have the money for your basic business expenditures; there is nothing more frustrating than an actor who doesn't have the basic money to accomplish the basic needs. It does not cost a lot of money to set up your acting business. You need money for pictures; printing resumes; postage and envelopes for mailings; classes; basic wardrobe; transportation; grooming and research (theater, movies and publications). If you are not able to pay for these minimal expenses, then it doesn't really matter how talented you are; you most likely are not ready for representation.

Remember that finding a representative doesn’t necessarily mean that you have found the “right” representative for you. When you do find representation, I hope that you and your representative have an amicable relationship that is mutually beneficial.  I wish you good luck on your journey!
*********
Check out what other Experts are saying! Backstage Experts

WHEN AM I TOO SICK TO AUDITION? by John Essay

If you are too sick to audition, don't go! Even if it is with the casting director you have been trying to meet for years, don’t go – it is so not worth it. The fact of the matter is, if your illness will affect your audition in ANY way, don't go. An audition that was less than your best is never excusable because you were sick; it is simply an audition at which you were less than your best. SINGERS, this is particularly addressed to you! Being sick means you have far less control over your voice. And, trust me, casting directors are already sensitive to getting sick themselves because they see hundreds of actors for any given project. The last thing they need is your runny nose, your cough or a voice that doesn't sound remotely like your own healthy voice.

I had a client who auditioned for a Broadway comic musical with a severe cold; she just had to go.  She was lucky and was called back - OR WAS SHE? When she returned for her callback, she was healthy and sounded nothing like she did before. It was her sick audition voice they fell in love with, but now she couldn't replicate it. Needless to say she didn't get the job.   I hope that none of you ever have to ask yourselves “Am I too sick to go to the audition”?  Forever health to all of you.

**********************************

Check out what other Experts are saying! http://www.backstage.com/categories/backstage-experts/

Trends in the Business

Trends in the business

Show business has trends, just like in the fashion business: certain types of action movies may be popular (THE AVENGERS, THOR, SPIDER-MAN, etc.), or there might be a surge of tv or film projects featuring young singers & dancers (GLEE, SMASH, etc.). This means that certain types of actors will be cast more than others during these trends. It is important to spot these trends in the business.  Is there a particular ethnic group that is "hot" right now?  Perhaps women with curly hair are in now.  There was a time when men with five o'clock shadows were everywhere. 
Trends are important to recognize -- perhaps your "trend" is hot, or you might be able to adjust your image to fit a trend.  One time I remember one of my clients who used to do well commercially had stopped getting callbacks.  I thought this was so odd, since she had previously been so "popular".  I watched TV for several days in a row and concentrated on those commercials that my client had auditioned for --  I noticed that the women who landed the roles all had curly hair.  Aha! I had spotted a new trend.  I discussed this with my client, and she stopped straightening her hair; she soon began to get callbacks again.  Now I know this might sound rather simple, but sometimes it is simple -- so simple that we fail to see what is there right in front of our eyes!.  The whole point is to always be aware of the currect trends, and to see how you might fit into them.  Sometimes it works! If your type is not "in" right now, keep looking for the trends - they are always changing, and a trend for your type may not be far behind!