When you meet casting director George Pierre, you meet a very humble man eager to talk about his love of actors, the art of acting, and his dedication to excellence. Quick to credit his beginnings to producers Diann Ashford and Angie Bones and his internship at Rainforest Films, Pierre has made it his mission since the inception of Pierre Casting in 2007 to be a helpful participant to those following their dreams.
“I like seeing actors who are hungry, who are working for it,” says Pierre when asked what captures his attention in an audition. “Just know I’m rooting for you. I want you to do good, to book that job.... I love actors who won’t give up, [who are] going to keep coming back until they land that role.”
Here are three pieces of advice that will keep you in front of Pierre in that audition room.
Take Acting Classes
“A-list actors have coaches for a reason,” Pierre points out. “Never feel you’re too big to have someone teach you something that can be beneficial to you. It’s a process. We all have to keep learning.” He continues, “In class you’ll learn how to take direction. That’s important. I love seeing the actor who, when given direction, just takes it and runs with it or adds their own flair to it. That’s the breath of fresh air I’m looking for.”
Stay Relevant
For Pierre, staying relevant means sharing your work while continuing to hone your craft. “Invite me to your play or showcase,” he advises. “That’s where I get to see you working; that’s where you’re showing me how you can be that next breath of fresh air, as I like to call it. I love to find new faces and seeing you work keeps you fresh in my mind so when that project comes along, I’ll call you in.
“Drop me an email or send a postcard—just keep yourself visible to me. It makes a difference.... And audition well! The more I see you auditioning well, the more I’m going to remember you.”
Audition Live
Finally, in the era of self-taped auditions, meeting a CD in person is becoming more and more important. “If you can’t make it live to every audition, at least try for every other one,” recommends Pierre. “You have to have that experience; you need to be in that atmosphere and you need to know what’s expected of you. You’re missing out if you don’t. It’s unrealistic to not do it.
“Learn your role,” he adds. “I try to get my sides out in a timely fashion so you have time to prepare—you should take the initiative and study. You have to know your role and be prepared to take direction. No matter how good your first take is, you’re going to get direction. We want to see what range you have. And regardless of how many auditions you have that day, the one you’re in the room for is the most important. No excuses.”
Pierre will be the guest for an upcoming workshop at Get Scene Studios on April 30. For more information, visit their website.