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!
Optimism for summer—albeit virtual—auditions!
“As the light at the end of the tunnel seems to be slowly starting to twinkle, many theaters are cautiously moving ahead with reopening plans for seasons starting as early as spring 2021—and then positively moving into summer and fall.
“Unfortunately, there are still many obstacles and questions about auditioning, especially for summer theater jobs. Understandably, a majority of theaters are loyally retaining their contracted (albeit cancelled) company members from the 2020 season, even if the season show line-up has changed. Many are attending Unified Auditions (also virtually) to both keep spirits alive and their name in the ring, but unfortunately for actors seeking work, theatres are primarily looking for back-up options for the aforementioned actors.
“I believe it is best at this point to connect with companies directly via email or other contacts. It seems that given the crazy year everyone has had, casting and artistic directors are being generous with information, and hope to be transparent and helpful as everyone navigates through the next tricky period of the pandemic. How has everyone’s experience been so far this spring? Let’s join together in making a helpful list in this conversation of summer theaters accepting submissions and scheduling auditions!” —amtheatrical
What’s the typical timeframe after an agent submission?
“I got my first agent one month before the pandemic hit, so we never hit the ground running. Mostly silence over this long, long, sad year. Recently, I got my first audition request from my agent. Yay! An AA Eco-Cast self-tape for a network episodic, a one-scene co-star. I haven’t heard back and I’m wondering: For actors who are being submitted by their agent and self-taping, what’s typical communication after the initial submission?
- Do you hear back at all if not cast?
- Only hear back if pinned? (Do you hear back if pinned?)
- What’s the typical timeframe after the submission deadline for hearing back (if you do)? That day? Two days? A week?
“FYI, the submission deadline was Friday for an episode scheduled to shoot two–three weeks later. I’m sure it’s different for every agency, but I’d love to hear others’ experiences.” —IAmAnActor
How do I find the right agent to represent me? Best sources?
“I’d rather ask on here than Google. What is the best way to go about finding the (right) agent to represent me? Looking for speaking gigs.” —YousyA
Get live details from people at real auditions and callbacks on Audition Update!