Tell Us, Actors: How Did You Join SAG-AFTRA?

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Photo Source: FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP/Getty Images

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!

How you joined SAG-AFTRA: 
“I want to hear about the different ways people joined the union/became SAG-E.  

“I know the three main ways to join (Taft-Hartley, being a member of a sister union for one year under principle contract, three SAG background vouchers). But I’d love to hear more stories about how people joined/how long it took them to join!

“Is it also possible to audition for co-star/guest star TV roles without being in the union? Or, is it pointless for my agent to submit me for those projects?” —TiffanyAzucar

Favorite pre-audition song? 
I’ve recently been REALLY into playlists before an audition to amp me up. My current favorite is the Black Keys (specifically their 2010 album). What songs do you guys like to use to help focus or center you before an audition?” —ActorMama

College gap year? 
“Hello! Has anybody taken a gap year between high school and college to pursue acting full-time? If so, I would love to hear about your experience and if you believe that it helped you at all, and if so, how? Thank you!” —actinginfo

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