Working Behind the Scenes Could Get You Right Out Front
Thinking a bit outside of the box will help you get your foot in the door. What does this mean, exactly? It means possessing the ability to think unconventionally when it comes to securing a spot in the spotlight. Sure, you can audition, go to open calls, shoot out your headshot or letters of interest. But, you should explore other, less obvious avenues as well.
One way to get started, which many actors don’t consider, is applying for a job as a casting intern. Landing an internship is a great way to get to know the industry inside and out, build your contact base both internally and on the ground, and ultimately, get yourself noticed. Casting directors are always uber-busy and often look for assistance in bringing in new talent and booking roles, and you may even get your own name in front of your casting director/supervisor as a possible talent to book. This connection is priceless.
Getting yourself on the front lines of a complex process will gear you up for better understanding how roles get booked. You’ll see just how much goes hard work and effort into choosing just the right talent for every spot. And, you’ll learn what is acceptable and what is not in applying and auditioning for gigs. You’ll see a ton of good and not-so-good self-taped submissions and get to know what the talent did right and wrong. This will help you to perfect your own marketing materials. And, you’ll also be able to hear comments from decision-makers so you can tailor your approach to what they look for.
There’s no doubt about it – behind the scenes is the best place to be. The best part? You’ll probably get to work on some super cool projects! And, you might get to meet a few big names along the way. How cool would it be to be able to say you helped cast a huge hit?
Of course, just as any other way into the industry, you’ll have to expect to put in the hours and to be flexible schedule-wise. You may not make very much as an intern, if anything at all, so you’ll have to chalk it up as an awesome hands-on experience that perhaps allowed you to get a few credits under your belt. Best case scenario, your casting internship jumpstarts a long and prosperous acting career, and that’s certainly time well-spent!
