The ongoing writer's strike and upcoming SAG negotiations (sidenote: while SAG has sent out to its membership for a strike authorization vote, NEGOTIATIONS with AMPTP are what begin June 7, not a strike) have highlighted a number of issues that actors, writers, and other creatives need to be concerned with. One issue grabbing headlines is AI, or artificial intelligence. As it currently sits in development, AI is impressive but very early stage, and likely will be an excellent tool. The issue is the corporate push to develop AI in areas where we need (or frankly want) human creativity to be in charge, i.e. writing and acting. Actors, in particular, at every level need to educate themselves both on what AI can do (enabling convincing deep fakes) and how AI is put into contracts. SAG will have standard contracts, but it should still be read carefully. If you sign a contract signing over your rights to your likeness, you likely will receive only a one-time buyout (if the likeness term is in perpetuity) and then you've essentially taken yourself out of the market for that studio or company. If that contract happens to be with a studio like Disney or Paramount? That's a massive market gone. These are my quick thoughts. I have a lot more, but just wanted to add my voice to the chorus calling out for the concerns of the deployment of AI in the creative sphere. We enjoy watching people live the stories we see on TV and streaming, or developing the stories behind the scenes. Let's keep these areas human. AI will have a place in the future. But its place is in service to what we need, not to replace us.
5 Powerful Ways Actors Can Create a Reel Even With No Experience https://youtu.be/nrHoHT-3f8c a powerful acting demo reel can be hard. Especially, if you don’t have the needed materials to create one. And, it is essential that all actors know exactly how long the reel needs to be and what/shouldn’t be in the reel. Watch the video and learn 5 powerful ways you can create a great reel. If you have created a reel or have some suggestions for other members here, please leave a comment.Hope you get a chance to watch me get saved by Tom Hanks in his new feature (running on Netflix) A Man Called Otto.
Hey performers, be sure to check out today's blog about how yoga and movement can really help your acting career. There are a lot of great tips and insights. If you have any thoughts or questions, drop them in the comments section of the blog so that the author, Sara, can get back to you.https://www.stage32.com/blog/5-ways-yoga-and-movement-helps-my-acting-career-3372
Why only two percent of actors make it while the other ninety eight percent struggle?
This is your main asset as an actor and you want to make sure it's showcasing your acting skills in the best possible light. Points to consider:Does this reel highlight your acting at its best? Could you record or edit any footage to strengthen it? Does this still look like you? (are you using old/out-of-date footage?)Does this reel consist of work you are passionate about? (Think of your branding and what you are putting out for consideration.)Length. Is my reel too long and not keeping the viewer engaged?Are you using footage just because you think you have to? (you paid for a reel you spent lots of money on, or a scene from drama school.) Is the production value letting you down? It may appear as though you are an amateur.Just be sure your reel is the very best it can be.#demoreel #actor
As creatives, sometimes people don't respond to our art/work/performance the way we expect them to. If you've dealt with that, check out today's blog by Mihaela Ivan Holtz.www.stage32.com/blog/how-to-have-a-healthy-relationship-with-criticism-of-your-artwork-3370
Looking for Talent Management for myself. Really need recommendations. I have a ton of talent and need someone to help manage it LOL. I need to game plan. I need someone to help me narrow down and zero in on my focus. I am an actress, screenwriter, and filmmaker. I have done everything from hair, makeup, art department, Assistant Director, and PA behind the scenes. I really just want to focus on acting and writing. The genre I enjoy the most is the Action Rom-Com type. I am serious about this being more than just a hobby and want to gain more traction. Looking forward to your recommendations.
Everybody, it's Introduce Yourself Weekend for May! Go say hi to all the new members or those members that are ready to stop lurking. Reintroduce yourself, expand your network. Can't wait to hear about the new connections.
Here is a cover letter example for actors to send to a prospective agent:Hello, [name of agent],I’m [your name], and I’m writing to seek representation in [TV/film/commercial work/etc.]. I have been working in the business for [X amount of time], and [write something about yourself that’s not obvious from your résumé or reel]. I’m [describe your type], and I was referred by [name of your reference; it’s helpful if you were referred, and for some agencies, it’s required]. I’ve recently been working on [name a recent project or professional experience], and I think your agency would be a good fit for me because [research the agency to find a reason].I am currently appearing in [X show] on [X date]. If you can attend, I would love to get tickets for you. Also, I’m on [X series] currently airing on [X network]. If you would like to schedule an interview, I can be reached at [phone number, email, and website (website should include headshots, all links to your social media, news, IMDb, Actors Access, etc)]. I look forward to connecting soon. Below please find a link to my résumé and a link to my acting reel.Sincerely, [Your name]-- Links--#actor #agent #representation
Today's Stage 32 blog written by Film Director Alan Powell, is all about establishing boundaries between a performer and the character they're playing. He gives a lot of great insight and tips to help elevate your performance while protecting your mental health. Be sure to check it out and if you have any questions for Alan, leave them in the comments on the blog post!https://www.stage32.com/blog/drawing-the-boundaries-between-actor-character-3365
Hey LA Performers! Don't miss out on this month's Stage 32 In-Person Meetup in LA, this upcoming Thursday evening. It's a great opportunity to connect with one another, network with new contacts, and catch up with old friends. You can RSVP on the meetup page- https://www.stage32.com/meetups/1903/Los-Angeles-Stage-32-In-Person-Meet-up
I really want to get back into acting, but I used to act as a kid and in my college days, having been in school and church plays, but gave up acting due to my love for writing (my first love), due to family members making a mockery of me doing acting and insecurities. My question is how can I get back into acting, enjoy it and prove everyone wrong.
Many years ago, I used to repeat my lines over and over and over again right before shooting a film and TV scene. I learned that this technique did not work well for me. Watch the video: https://youtu.be/RKAhs2nmHb4and learn the 2 techniques I use that keeps me calm, focused and ready.If you use any special techniques that helps you prepare before shooting, please share it with others in the comment section.
I was an actor during my college days, but stopped. I still love acting and I wonder, what makes you guys keep going? Plus, what projects are you guys working on?
What’s one advice would have for someone who has a fear of auditions?
My name is Josiah and I’m a screenwriter. I want to say that I love actors and respect every actor there is. I want to meet new people and learn from them so much. So tell me your story. What made you want to be an actor? What projects are you currently working on?
I’ve a particular actress in mind for a role in my would-be TV series. I’m wondering if a cold call to her agent is a good or bad thing. She hasn’t been working in recent years, but I’m unsure if that means she’s on a hiatus or if she just hasn’t taken any parts because she simply hadn’t felt compelled. Would I be better off with a query letter? For now all I want to know is if she is still considering projects or not. TIA for any advice.
1: Jack Nicholson2: Al Pacino3: Marlon Brando4: Robert De Niro5: Daniel Day-Lewis6: Anthony Hopkins7: Heath Ledger8: Kevin Spacey9: Tom Hanks10: Matthew McConaugheyThis is my top 10 list, even though we have admirable actors in the history of world cinema such as Denzel Washington, Javier Bardem, Samuel Jackson, Joaquin Phoenix, Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Brad Pitt and...
Especially, for last minute home auditions, actors can get absolutely desperate for a reader for home auditions. Watch the video and learn 4 amazing tips to get a great reader.https://youtu.be/YgGhnHz9owI
Hello everyone,I am Edward and I'm based just outside London in the UK. I'm an actor and writer with a ton of corporate experience and business management in my background. I generally play “the sly and witty gent with a concealed agenda” and I am currently seeking representation for my acting.Since I don't (yet) act regularly I am considering joining a group to challenge me and also network with other creatives in the industry. Aside from Stage32, does anybody have any suggestions for UK-based organisations that would be great to be part of?Have a great week!
Hello everyone my name is Harley smith and I live in Arizona and I just wanted to say Hi!! I’m very excited to be on this perform and be with you all!
"When we connect to people with our emotions we generally want two things: To be understood and/or to have the other person feel the same way that we feel. In order to have these things happen, first we must deeply feel the emotion and second, the emotion needs to be expressed in a strong and compelling way.This is exactly what has to happen in an audition. You need to walk into the room with a feeling of joy for being there and excitement that you get to share your work and yourself. If this is what is naturally being expressed, that is what the people in the room will connect to and they’ll have an immediate, positive response to you. This works both ways, as I’m sure you know. If you don’t feel connected to the material and don’t feel confident that your audition will be a strong and interesting representation of what you have to offer the role, you’ll connect with doubt and anxiety. When it’s time to work, and this goes for taped auditions as well, you need to reach out to the people watching and connect to them with the honestly felt emotions you’ve brought to the piece, expressed with power and heart. "Expressed" is a keyword here. Remember, film and TV auditioning and acting is not so much about creating something outside of you as it is about expressing what is already inside you. The people in the room want pure emotion, honestly expressed and in a taped audition the camera demands no less. Any showing, selling, or creating outside of the self puts a wall of effort in front of you and makes it impossible for you to make the true connections that make the auditioners feel what you want them to feel. But when your connection is eye to eye, face to face, and emotion to emotion, they know they’ve met the actor who can make the audience take notice and really feel. To connect through the eyes, body energy, facial expressions, and emotions is to so thoroughly wrap yourself around a role that you cannot be separated from it."- Craig Wallace is the creator and award-winning teacher of the Wallace Audition Technique#actor #expression #technique #emotion #audition
Hello again everyone! As my character demo reels get better, I would like to inquire on where yiu all post demo reels for voice over acting? Also, where are the hest places to do auditions, get auditions, see auditions, etc.? I appreciate any feedback!
It is my understanding the writers want access to the streaming services analytics, but the streaming services say that is proprietary information. This particular fight is likely causing the AMPTP to withdraw from negotiations. Analogy, it is like a U.S. President refusing to reveal her/his tax returns. Analytics tells us about viewer habits and streaming service profitability; thus how profits, or residuals, should be disbursed. I'm guessing SAG-AFTRA and the DGA will also want unfettered access to the analytics.
My name is Cleopatra and I am an actor and special effects makeup artist. I hope to use this site as a means to build connections, secure roles, collaborate on projects and be inspired by you all. I look forward to meeting you face to face hopefully in the not-too-distant future!Here is to new friendships and collaborations! Cheers!
ACTORS: VIRTUAL TABLE READ. I'm a produced screenwriter and I'm casting for actors and an audience for a full virtual table read of my latest feature script, "The Good Americans." The goal is to get feedback for a rewrite and possibly putting it up as a stage play. Once we have a full list we'll schedule the read. No pay, but hopefully it'll be fun and valuable as a networking opportunity. For more info, please contact me at:scripts90@gmail.comFeel free to repost or forward to those who may be interested. Thank you.
Do You Know What 5 Items Actors Absolutely Need to Bring When Doing Extra Work On a Film or TV Project? And, what it’s really like doing extra work? Here’s the link to find out. https://youtu.be/LfXsd3yR3sc
Hello Stage 32'ers!Here's my latest blog; 'how to prepare for a role in indie film'. In April, I released my 21st indie feature since 2010, 'The Chant Of July'. As ever, it's all from my direct experience and observation of making indie films. Any questions? Please don't hesitate to ask me!keep filming, Al Carrettahttps://www.stage32.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-role-in-an-indie-film-3350
"Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another, and feeling with the heart of another." ~ Alfred AdlerEmpathy is one of the most valuable traits that an actor can have in order to effectively step into the life of a character.Empathy is the breath of every role.#actor #empathy #life
A great video with Toni Collette talking about her past projects and sharing insights. I've always been a huge Toni fan and find her so captivating to watch. What's your favorite Toni Collette performance and why?My favorite performance of hers is probably in United States of Tara, her 3- season dramedy on Starz. It's mind-blowing to watch her seamlessly transition between wildly different characters in a split second using small physical choices. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYkNVTNZ8qc
Hey there, been a lurker for a bit but this is my first time posting and I was wondering rates for a specific project I'm working on. So I'm making a comic, but I was thinking of advertising my comic by making short animatics (later on once the comic picks up more, animation shorts) I would like to hire 2 voice actors, (one male and one female) but I don't know what decent rates might be. Do most voice actors charge per hour or per line? Is it also unreasonable to have one VA play multiple parts? I don't want to insult anyone, and I would also like to keep the same people (eventually hiring more) every time I make an animation. And is there anything I need to keep in mind when looking for VAs?
Thought this was fun! Remember Edward Furlong? https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/amp/who_are_the_25_greatest_acting_one_hit_wonders/s1__30196427
I am about to see actors missing out on bookings for a terrible reason... They do not have their Sizecards filled out on Casting Networks. If you are an actor, please check yours and make sure it is up to date. I know Casting Networks is not used as much as Actors Access, but if you have an account, update it! AND, did you know that if you have an agent they can create a CN account for you for free? You don't even need a personal profile if you have an agent! :)
The usual advice is to got for shorts and student films so you can build a reel. But the truth is most of the good projects will ask for an actor's reel to for them to be considered, even for student films. So you might be scraping the bottom of the barrel for projects that might take over 6 months to give you subpar quality footage or that might never give you footage at all. You already invested in your headshots, invest in your reel too. How to get a good reel edit: What I mean by "invest" is pay money to shoot a good reel with any sort of reel services. Make sure to pick one that isn't overpriced. Average is usually around $500-$700 per scene. And the smaller companies usually do better work than the bigger ones. This wont fool casting directors into thinking you've booked, but you'll have high quality footage of your acting which will put you in a much better position than if you only had your headshots.
hello, a few months ago, I auditioned for a short film and didn’t get the role. the film is now in a more public form of pre production on social media, and because I’m nosy/curious I checked out the cast. as it turns out, the actor cast in the role I auditioned for has worked with the lead actor/writer in at least two other productions. I guess I felt a little flicker of annoyance, because why open casting to outsiders if you’re going to cast someone you already know. I’m also now wondering how much knowing/being known by production affects a casting decision. this is a small local film scene, mostly unpaid or low budget work. not trying to be too salty, but I feel a little discouraged because I’m waiting on reel footage and don’t have these connections (yet, I guess). I know casting a film is a series of complicated decisions that I’m not privy to, and all I can do is make my audition + materials my best. I guess my question is, how clique-y does local film tend to be? am I kinda screwed until (if) I’m in?
Hey! So when I signed with my agency they said I wouldn’t have to pay for AA Anymore, I added them as representation but I’m still being charged. Should I contact AA or just cancel my pro subscription since I don’t self submit anymore? Thanks!
Recently the idea of doing character acting has sounded appealing because the roles are very "out of the box" and character actors usually book more work because they don't play leads but what kind of roles do they play? Some character actors that I know of, I've looked at their IMDbs and they still have like credits where they were in over half of the episodes. Basically when they play smaller roles how small is it, because a lot of the roles they book seem like very heavily recurring roles to me. To me, if I can be a series lead or something one day I of course wouldn't say no, but I'm mostly interested in booking heavily recurring roles and guest stars. Should I go for it? Here are some character actors. As you can see, they all have credits where they are in a bunch/all of the episodes. \*Note\* I got these actors off of character actor lists from IMDb. [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0555500/](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0555500/) [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0641354/?ref\_=nmls\_hd](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0641354/?ref_=nmls_hd) [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0048414/?ref\_=nmls\_hd](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0048414/?ref_=nmls_hd) [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0662504/?ref\_=nmls\_hd](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0662504/?ref_=nmls_hd) [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0011038/?ref\_=nmls\_hd](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0011038/?ref_=nmls_hd) You get the gist of it
Is a course like On the Mic for audiobook narration worth it (as one example)? Has anyone in this community taken it? (See [Part-Time Online Voice-over Courses - On The Mic Training](https://onthemictraining.com/online-courses/region-VA/cat-18-narration-and-audiobooks/) ) (I'm based in Toronto where the school is). It can't change your voice, make you into an actor (I'm not interested in becoming one), or guarantee you a contract. So I'm curious what value a course would have? Is it mainly valuable for practice rather than having to book studio time if you don't have a proper set up at home? There seems to be plenty of cheaper online options (eg. [13 Best Voice Over Training & Voice Acting Online Courses (2023) (myelearningworld.com)](https://myelearningworld.com/best-voice-over-training-courses/) ). But if such a class is indeed worth it, I assume it would be more better to take before producing a demo (or maybe you could produce a demo as part of the class?) ?
I've been seeing a lot about Hollywood and all the shady parties and how actors had to sell their souls to get where they are today. As someone whose dream is to be an actor, that scares me. I don't want to ever go that route. Do you really have to attend those shady parties and sell your soul/potentially do some weird sexual favors for the producer? I've been hearing a lot about how your favorite actors probably had to do that type of stuff, and it scares me so much. ​ Just want to know how true that stuff is
So I’m currently towards the end of 1st year of a well regarded meisner studio in nyc. I’ve enjoyed it a lot, but also decided earlier this year to audition for some BFA programs for fun and to see how I did. I got into some good ones, but DePaul ended up giving me full tuition. I’m a few years out of highschool, and am very low income and dont come from money. I currently work while studying in order to pay for school and rent. I’m having a hard time deciding what to do. Is depaul still a good program? How is the training and the actors who come out of it? Bc idk if it makes sense to leave my current school, as I really like it. I’ll also be a couple years older than most the kids in my class. And I’m quite worried maybe I won’t like their approach. I’ve tried different classes and meisner has been the only one that I really liked and understood. But on the other hand, full tuition is a big deal (at least to me) and it be nice to have a degree. So I wanted to see if anyone on here had some advice.
Was working with a UK based CD recently in an admin role and she pointed out that if you just constantly post non-stop about acting, in particular especially with #actor you look desperate and green which puts her right off. Show more of you and being a real human from time to time. She did mention one Uk actor on Twitter by name too, who I’ve also seen constantly post shit like that to the point it’s over bearing. Just be aware that they are.
CASTING CALL: Saints Row (2022) Fan-Dub Project PLATFORM: YouTube ROLE: Myra Starr (Wife of Atticus Marshall) GENDER REPRESENTATION: Female PAY: 75 USD in full, however since this is a fan project done on free time for almost everyone, we pay in parts and what we work on at that time. Any payment will be given before any work is started! If you take this role starting payment will be 25 USD SUMMARY: Myra Starr, the Wife of Atticus Marshall. Not only an important member of the Marshall Defense Company, but in Atticus’s heart as well. However since the passing of their son, the two have drifted slowly but surely. Clearly though the love and affection Atticus still has for her, is dimly given back. Myra however has always had a mean streak, as someone you clearly don’t want to cross. Despite her elegant and southern hospitality, there’s a side to her that she clearly hides from the rest of the world and her own husband. If one thing is for sure, she’s the Wolf of Wall Street for the whole American Military complex… Ideally we’re looking for a mature sounding womanly southern voice, one with warmth but clear alternative motives behind it. If you’d like to see how the original voice actress portrayed the character, please feel free to YouTube any cutscenes with her character. We are not looking for an exact match at all, so please feel free to send any voice demo or request a script to read off for the audition if you feel like you are capable for the role! Feel free to contact me here on Reddit or my email larajonheart@gmail.com
CASTING CALL: Saints Row (2022) Fan-Dub Project PLATFORM: YouTube ROLE: Sergio (Panteros Gang Leader) GENDER REPRESENTATION: Male PAY: 100 USD in full, however since this is a fan project done on free time for almost everyone, we pay in parts and what we work on at that time. Any payment will be given before any work is started! If you take this role starting payment will be 25 USD SUMMARY: Sergio may be a big ass mother fucker, but damn he whips up a good “Sopa De Fideo”. The uncle to Neenah, he’d taken her under his wing after the unfortunate passing of his brother. Neenah being the lost and young teen she was, joined up with Sergio and his Los Panteros. In fact Sergio was just the role model she needed to get her act together. A hard working loyal man, who always put his family first. And after the former leader of the Los Panteros was murdered, Sergio stepped up. Soon the Los Panteros was his family, and with Neenah by his side they were destined to run the criminal world of Santo Ileso. However ever since Johnny and “The Saints” came into the picture, things haven’t been the same for old Sergio. And if there was one thing Sergio preached, it’s that you never turn your back on family, never. Ideally we’re looking for someone with a manly gruff Mexican flair or accent to their voice. If you’d like to see how the original voice actor portrayed the character, please feel free to YouTube any cutscenes with his character. We are not looking for an exact match at all, so please feel free to send any voice demo or request a script to read off for the audition if you feel like you are capable for the role! Feel free to contact me here on Reddit or my Email larajonheart@gmail.com
CASTING CALL: Saints Row (2022) Fan-Dub Project PLATFORM: YouTube ROLE: Gwen (Marshall Private Military Captain) GENDER REPRESENTATION: Female PAY: 200 USD in full, however since this is a fan project done on free time for almost everyone, we pay in parts and what we work on at that time. Any payment will be given before any work is started! If you take this role starting payment will be 60 USD SUMMARY: You either do as you're told, or you're no use to this Captain. Gwen being the former Sergeant that led the platoon Johnny was under while he worked for Marshall Defense Industries. Death is unacceptable to Gwen, no good men will fall under her watch. At least that’s her goal, but seemingly the unmeasurable task of making sure another’s child makes it back home safe weighs on Gwen’s conscience more than most in her field of work. She’s always carried a motherly demeanor with her, despite how tough the woman usually is. You gotta ask yourself why she’s so concerned with the lives of her soldiers in the first place, when most would see them as collateral… If you’d like to see how the original voice actress portrayed the character, please feel free to YouTube any cutscenes with her character. We are not looking for an exact match at all, so please feel free to send any voice demo or request a script to read off for the audition if you feel like you are capable for the role! Feel free to contact me here on Reddit or my Email larajonheart@gmail.com
Weeee, you found me!
I'm your buddy Bottie, I was hiding behind the scenes, but now that you've found me I'd be happy to tell you what I'm doing.
I just wrote a few fun facts about Web For Actors
Would you like to take a look?
Click here to check them out. I hope it will cause involuntary audible response.
