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!
Should I send a follow-up email to a casting director?
“So I auditioned for this show almost a month ago now. The role was unique and I fit the profile perfectly, so this was an audition that I was very much looking forward to. I got a response from the casting director thanking me for submitting and saying they will [get back in touch] if there is anything else needed. So far, I haven’t gotten any email after that.
“My question is: Does this mean that I have been cut? The show won’t start rehearsals until January next year but I don’t know if I should wait, forget about it, or send a follow-up email.
“I know it is a huge red flag to send emails to casting directors regarding the status of the audition but I don’t know. This is one audition where I can’t just let it slip away, you know?” —deenh7
Cruise ship contract lengths?
“Do you guys really finish out these whole contracts? For real? It feels like every contract is seven–10 months now. How are you doing these?
“I feel like the only auditions I’ve had in two years now are for cruise ships (and I love, love, love the audition process and performing itself), but I can’t imagine living on a boat for almost a year. I could take a brief hiatus from my life for a three–four-month contract, but I can’t fathom what the industry standard seems to be right now for the ships.
“My question: Do people ever start their contract and leave halfway through? Have you experienced replacements on your cruise contract? How did it go?
“I’m worried that if I accept one of these crazy contracts soon, I’ll get too depressed and lonely about halfway through and not be able to stay the whole length. What would happen? I already rejected one offer with a ‘conflict’ but with the lack of work on land, the ships are starting to look more enticing.” —themixingminx
NYC acting classes?
“Hi everyone, I returned to acting about three years ago and have been fortunate to be working. That being said, I’m definitely not booking enough and I want to take classes to improve. Can anyone refer me to an affordable, good acting class/coach in NYC? Either Zoom or in-person. Everyone I Google has bad reviews. Looking to focus on scene study/breaking down scenes for successful self-tapes/auditions. Thank you!” —Lauriemahoney95
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