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!
Question about self-tapes:
“So, I’ve watched a lot of videos about self-tape auditions and after every one I’m left with the same question: Should you hold your script in your hand, or no? Some people do, others don’t. What do you all do? I would love to know. If you hold your script in hand, have you been cast in any jobs from that audition? If so what? Have you gotten any notes from casting directors on what you should do? Do you think holding your script in hand, or lack thereof, has prevented you from booking the role? I plan on filming my first self-tape soon so I need some tips. Again, would love some feedback, thanks in advance! :)” —lightscameraaction
New screenwriter, need get my work seen by an agent…
“Question: I recently completed a screenplay. I am looking to get a meeting with a ‘big six’ agent to discuss my work and see if he or she would be willing to represent me moving forward. I got an email response back from a gatekeeper at one of the agencies stating that my unsolicited work will not be reviewed by anyone there unless it is presented by an ‘established entertainment representative.’ What does ‘established entertainment representative’ mean? Isn’t that an agent?
“Seems like a catch 22: Can’t get an agent to meet with me unless my work is presented by an ‘established entertainment representative.’ How can I get my work seen by an ‘established entertainment representative’ if one is unwilling or unable to even meet with me due to company policy. Advice? Thanks!” —JLScreenwriter
Strange audition story—or completely normal?!
“Hi! I recently attended my first in-person audition for a film role. After performing my lines, I was immediately asked to attend a second audition, which would take place in either five or seven days, depending on the availability of certain production members. They kept me on for another 20 minutes, just chatting about my background, and gave me the impression they were very interested. I left on a high and awaited their email informing me of the finalized date on which to attend.
“Fast forward a few days, and having not heard anything, I sent them an email asking whether I should still keep the upcoming audition days free. Immediately after sending, I looked up the production on imdb, and saw that they had cast another lady in the role. (And they never did reply to my email, leaving me with radio silence.)
“It would be one thing to not hear back after an audition, but in this instance they specifically asked me to keep two days free on the premise that they definitely wanted me to attend this second audition, so a reply or update would have been nice. On the other hand, maybe this is completely par for the course in this industry? If so, I’ll just have to drop my newbie expectations to the appropriate level and soldier on :)
Are there any seasoned auditioners out there who can weigh in on how common this experience is? Cheers!” —Vivian
Get live details from people at real auditions and callbacks on Audition Update!
