For Cailey Merulla, networking and research are part of the actor’s experience; the actual acting is just an added bonus.
Being a great actor goes beyond performing.
“I’m always looking for parts that will push me to gain more experience or motivate me to put in the extra time and research to make sure I really do a role justice. The acting in front of a camera is only half the job, and I like to find roles that will not only remind me of that, but encourage me to put in the other half.”
Never stop applying.
“Take any and every opportunity that comes your way, and really put in the work to book that part. You’ll be booking parts in no time.”
Long-lasting relationships are built through Backstage.
“The key to being successful in this industry is building relationships and gaining connections, and the Backstage community aids in that immensely. I have built so many relationships with others working in the industry through Backstage.” There was a period of time during my little career where I hadn’t gone on an actual audition for about a year, because I was getting cast in things through the connections I gained from other Backstage projects.
A reel for every occasion.
“Backstage makes it so easy to upload reels into my media locker, and I can just select which ones I want to submit for any casting call. Since I edit my own reels, I actually like to make multiple sizzle reels for everything I’ve been in, and if I feel like the work I’ve done in a previous project might help casting directors figure out if I’m right for a part in a similar project, I’ll send the sizzle reel in with my audition.”
Keep it concise, make it stand out.
“Your reel is a showcase of you and your talent, so you want to make sure you are putting the best of your best work in it. Casting directors see hundreds of reels in a day, so you also want to make sure yours stands out. Include your most favorite scene at the very beginning and keep it short, maximum three minutes. Edit out your co-stars if you have to to keep it concise and focused primarily on you. Casting directors don’t really need context to a scene or a synopsis of the project; they only want to see you and what you’re capable of.”
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This story originally appeared in the Oct. 8 issue of Backstage Magazine. Subscribe here.
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