One of the biggest advantages an actor can have in Los Angeles is the ability to be efficient. L.A. is a massive playground filled with beaches and beautiful people. If you’re a newbie, you’ll come to find that auditions can take up most of your day. It’s not exactly the audition itself, but the duration of getting there. If you’re one of the many actors who balances a job (or two), arriving to your audition may be the bulk of your trouble. Parking zones, traffic, and unforeseen circumstances all contribute to a late or even missed audition. I’ve listed some tips below to increase efficiency while traversing L.A.’s convoluted transportation options.
1. Be realistic. You’re confirmed for an audition, so the first thing is that you need to do is spend at least a few minutes getting as much information as possible about the production you will be auditioning for. Your agent may have some information, too. If it’s on Craigslist, make sure there is a valid address and avoid residential buildings. If it is a paid role, inquire about the method of payment and wage. Your time is just as valuable as the time of the person you are auditioning for, and depending on the ultimate outcome—What is the absolute best outcome and what is the absolute worst?—your time may be better spent elsewhere.
2. You’re going for it! Where is it? Actual distance will not wholly dictate time of arrival; a mere two-mile stop may turn into a 45-minute trek, depending of the time of day. Google Maps is the best app, in my opinion, since you can input the address and method of travel, which takes us to my next point.
3. Don’t be fooled by current gas prices. It all adds up! For instance, driving from Studio City to Downtown L.A., according to FuelEconomy, will cost about $1.39. The Metro Red Line (L.A.’s subway system, who knew?) costs about $1.50, one-way from the same direction. The duration of travel depends on the time of day, ranging from 17 minutes to more than an hour. Cost and duration of travel, plus your own time means the total cost can really add up. That’s money taken from a new set of headshots or groceries at Whole Foods.
4. Get a lift. As stated before, your mode of transport is not only dictated by cost but convenience. If parking is known to be cumbersome, have a friend drop you off or taking an Uber or Lyft will be much more efficient.
5. Know the current traffic conditions. SigAlert and Google Maps offer excellent traffic condition reports, plus, Google Maps allows you to map out your trip with a wide array of added variables, such as days (weekday/weekend), time, method of transport, and alternate routes. Both applications allow you to avoid major accidents and have the ability to receive real-time notifications.
6. Make it a trip. Scope points of interests: Could you grab a coffee while you wait for the audition or is there a way for you to complete a few errands? For instance, if your audition is in Santa Monica and you’re heading toward Hollywood, aim to be there before the morning and early evening rush hour, your time will be spent in traffic. This is the perfect excuse to grab a quick bite or a drink with that friend you’ve made and cancelled lunch with on multiple occasions and just so happens to live in the area.
