You already know Backstage is the go-to for any and all information pertaining to your craft. But now, you have the chance to get in on the action with the Backstage Community Forum. Here, you can engage with others in your industry, as well as teachers, experts, and, yep, even agents and casting directors. Below are some of this week’s most interesting new topics; drop a reply or post a new thread. Either way, fire up that keyboard and get involved right here!
Just joined Backstage—need some help!
“I just joined and I’m getting discouraged because I’m not ‘techy’ so I’m not sure how to edit and film reels. I’m just sorta clueless at this point. Any advice would be so greatly appreciated!” —TiffanyLee_13
Help finding representation?
“OK, so I’ve been looking for representation for the past five years but I can’t manage to get attention from an agent to sign me. I have a lot of acting experience in short and student films, and a supporting role in a network television episode, but I still can’t manage to get a manager or agent. Help, what should I do? Are agencies looking or are there any open calls for agencies? I’ve been emailing but not getting any responses. Has anyone else gone through this?” —dancer12
Demo reel during the pandemic?
“Hello, I am trying to re-start my acting career. I’ve done some classes on auditioning and acting in front of the camera, but I haven’t been able to get an audition. It seems that many auditions require a demo reel, and I do not have one. I have some acting experience from college, but that was theater and it was about five years ago.
“At the moment, with the pandemic still ongoing, I am finding it hard to connect with actor friends or get a part in a student film to start putting my reel together. Is it acceptable to film your own amateur ‘reel’ with a family member as a reader or just monologues? I have been thinking that if I can’t do something with people at this time, I should record myself acting so anyone that sees it at least gets a feel for what I look/sound like.
“Also, does anyone have any tricks or tips to zero in on your type? I can’t seem to put my finger on mine, and I would like to style my headshot towards some of my typecasts.
“Thanks, Nacho” —Nacho61
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