Ask an Insider

Learning from Other Actors?

What have you learned by looking at other actors' careers and what could other actors learn from your career?

Qualities for Casting Comedies

"I love when an actor focuses on the action and truth of the scene instead of trying to be funny." --Daniel Talbott, New York; founding artistic director, Rising Phoenix Rep

What's Needed for Success?

Actors almost always develop their acting technique while often neglecting their business technique: audition personality, updated résumé and pictures, post cards, and punctuality.

VIDEO: Casting Director Marci Liroff on Headshots

Back Stage's Jessica Gardner recently caught up with casting director Marci Liroff at the SAG Foundation, asked her what makes a great headshot. Her answers may surprise you.

Whom to Recommend Plastic Surgery For?

"I have no problem with plastic surgery—you can have remarkable results. But if you are under 24, turn the page. I think you are too young." -- Lynda Bensky

Actors Uploading Audition Videos to Websites?

What do you think of actors uploading their auditions to video websites and being submitted by their agents or managers?

Why Are Voiceover Classes Necessary?

"Many people who are actors ask me, "Why does an actor need to take voiceover classes to work in voiceover?" Acting skills certainly give a person an ability to deliver lines, so what's the difference?" - Dan Balestrero

Top Tips for Acing a Dance Sequence?

"One of the things all dancers should do is be prepared as to what it is they're auditioning for. For instance, if they're auditioning for "Guys and Dolls," they have to understand that this is a period piece." - Sergio Trujillo

How Do You Behave On a Project?

"I've been working since I was 4, and my mom always told me, "Listen to everybody and do what you're told and have a great personality. Don't just be one of those vegetables." -- Sarah Hyland

Prefer Actors Working Inside Out Or Outside In?

"Good work is good work, no matter how you get there. However, it's thrilling to witness character-building based on externals." -- Michele Mulroney & Kieran Mulroney