Casting

Accents at Auditions: Use 'Em or Lose 'Em?

A reader inquired: "Paul, how important is it to use an accent at auditions?" In several audition scenarios I can foresee the utilization or avoidance of an accent.

Being Real

All casting directors talk about the importance of a headshot looking like the actor, but this is essential for actors interested in appearing in independent films.

Is 'Beautiful' the New 'Ugly'?

The headshot is the passport into the casting director's office. It has to say something about who the actor is. A pretty headshot does not always serve the actor in terms of getting an audition.

Selling Excitement

Los Angeles–based casting director Deborah Aquila has a special connection with actors: She studied acting at NYU and the Stella Adler in New York.

Doing It Your Way

Jason La Padura made his Broadway debut as an actor in William Inge's "Summer Brave" before turning his talents to roles behind the scenes, including stage manager, production manager, and assistant to the director.

Spreading Their Wings

"We’ve got great memories for talent. One or the other of us will remember someone that we’ve seen two years ago that came in to audition."

Head Case: Actors Acting Against Their Best Interests

To borrow and mangle-by-paraphrase Arthur Miller: Their craniums are living thoughts of quiet desperation with destructive speculations ricocheting off one another.

The Cardinal Sin of Auditioning

Never, repeat, never, ever do you as an actor, a professional, go to an audition knowing that you will not accept an offer should you be so lucky as to receive one.

Be My Host

Though some actors may have reservations about hosting, because they think they won't be taken seriously, those ideas are changing throughout the industry, and the notion of selling out doesn't exist anymore.

Scout's Honor

"Be prepared. You've heard it a million times, but it still slays me that actors think it's okay to walk in unprepared."