Ask an Insider

What Do You Wish You Had Known Before Moving to New York?

"As my grandmother used to say, 'The early bird gets the worm.' I never thought that would serve any purpose in my life, until I moved to New York."

VIDEO: Casting Director April Webster Talks "Star Trek"

Back Stage talks to casting director April Webster about the process of casting "Star Trek" and her tips for actors going into auditions.

Using Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube?

" We're entering a new era where everyone is using MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter, and it would be silly not to take advantage of that." -- Sean Marks, Barbara McNamara Casting

Multiple Teachers?

There are no shortcuts to great acting. Mediocre acting can be done by many, great acting by very few.

What Do You Listen for in an Audio Reel?

When we listen to a demo, we usually want to hear some degree of versatility spread among a range of characters, accents, and even languages spoken.

What Schools or Coaches Catch Your Attention?

We've had good experiences with people who have studied in Los Angeles with Kate McGregor-Stewart, as well as at the American Film Institute and at the University of Southern California.

How Do You Deal With a Diva?

"If someone's fame brings in an audience, I try to be very patient, knowing that he or she is not going to change for me." - Laura Caparrotti, New York

Seeking Audition Feedback?

"In my experience, CDs are more apt to give feedback if they had a strong feeling about the reading, good or bad. If I think the feedback will help the actor, I pass it along."

How Do You Respond to Reports That Your Client is Becoming Temperamental?

"Bluntly, if the client is working quite a bit and doing very well, then I would do everything in my utmost power to take care of the situation." - Sid Levin