It’s that time of year again, folks! We notice the slight change in light in our respective morning commute; it gets darker earlier; the leaves begin to change; and there’s a bit of a crispness to the air. Along with taking our sweaters out of winter storage, you know what that means: It’s time to make our lists. What lists, you ask? Our lists for what shows to put into the DVR queue. That’s right—it’s time for the new slate of fall TV shows.
I get so excited for this time of year, and I go through all of the TV grids to set up my DVR. As a casting director, producer, and acting coach, I need to see as many of the new shows as I can. I do this so that I can scout out new talent! I also need to know which actors are doing what shows so I don’t put them up for the projects that I’m already casting.
As actors, you need to watch at least one or two episodes of every new program so that when you’re called upon to audition for that show, you’ve seen it. When you walk into an audition, you need to know the world that the producer and show creator have conceived. Oftentimes, you’ll get the appointment the night before your audition. (That’s just the nature of the business.) And I’d much rather you spend that precious time learning your lines and delving into your character choices than watching an hour or two of the series on your couch.
READ: 6 Shows We’re Definitely Watching This Fall
You want to walk into that audition room with as much information as you possibly can. Watching the pilot is a given, but make sure you’ve viewed an additional one or two episodes after that. Remember: The pilot is just the starting point, and vast amounts of information have to be covered. The ensuing installments are when the nuances of that world—and each character in it—will be revealed.
Knowing the tone of the series is key for any actor auditioning for a role. Imagine if you came into an audition for “Mad Men” and didn’t fully understand not only the tone of the show, but the style of acting and the visual tone. An observant actor will come in looking like they belong in that world.
I usually go online to check out the new fall schedules, check off all the new shows, and add them to my DVR. Along with that, I make sure my queue is up to date to record the next season of the series I really like.
These days, there are so many streaming networks, and there is a vast amount of content. If you live outside of the Los Angeles area in a location where several television shows are filming, you need to know what is shooting in your area so that you can take advantage of those opportunities. Because of film incentives, lots of film and television projects shoot out of town. Check in with your agent to find out which shows shoot in your town and make sure their casting directors know you and can easily find you. If you are unrepresented, the film commission in each state will be able to inform you about productions in your city.
Ready to get to work? Check out Backstage’s Los Angeles audition listings!
