Casting calls are open-ended auditions that can involve acting or singing for television, stage, commercials or film. One of the cornerstones of performing arts the casting call is your chance to show directors, agents and talent scouts your skills in the hopes of landing a role. While casting calls can vary depending on the production there are a few guidelines to be followed to ensure your casting call goes smooth and gives you the best chance to be remembered.

First off come prepared. Whether you have an agent that booked your casting call or if you are showing up in what’s known as a cattle call or open casting call, make sure you have your resume and headshot. Without these documents you can forget any chance a director will remember you come casting time. Some people have it in their minds that their performance will blow everyone away and they will be hired on the spot. Well, it doesn’t work like that because thousands of other candidates have the same idea… and they remembered their resume and head shot. Directors sit through a ton of performances and to think your skit will stop everyone in their tracks is just not realistic.

Next remember a little humility can go a long way. As everyone knows there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance and toeing it can be the difference in getting a call back or being blacklisted. You never know who can help you in show business so as a golden rule treat everyone with respect and leave your ego at the door. Word travels fast in show business and if you are the loud type who has an opinion about everything and thinks he knows it all your career is likely to be short. Mickey Rourke once got so fed up with the Hollywood scene he went on a verbal rampage insulting just about everyone he could. It was a good 15 years before Mr. Rourke got a reprieve and started to work again. And that’s an actor with experience. Don’t ruin your career before it starts.

Another important tip is to show up on time. Sure it sounds simple enough but actors often work several side jobs to make ends meet so be prepared to have someone cover a shift if need be so you can make your appointment. With all the people vying for the role you can’t afford to miss your chance. Rarely will directors or casting agents have sympathy and give you a pass.

Lastly be flexible. You may have a particular role in mind that you think you are reading for only to be given a different script to read from. Do not complain or ask if a mistake has been made. Read what you’re given and do it to the best of your ability. Directors sometimes like to shake things up just to see how you’ll react, so stay calm and collected and let them know you can’t be rattled easily. This will show confidence and a strong character which is essential for making it in the entertainment world.

Back to Main