Where to Look for Casting Calls and Acting Work: Strategies for Aspiring Actors
Starting out as an actor can be a challenging but rewarding journey. Whether you live in Los Angeles or somewhere else, there are several key resources you can leverage to find casting calls and acting work.
Tapping into Local Resources in Major Hubs
For actors based in Los Angeles, a great starting point is Casting Networks (formerly LA Casting). This website is particularly useful as it aggregates a vast array of casting opportunities. In other major cities, similar resources may include local casting agencies and community colleges.
Getting Started on a Movie Set
If you're just starting out and want to experience the environment of a film set, consider signing up with Central Casting, Jeff Olan Casting, or other similar services for background work. Although this won't teach you how to act, you'll gain valuable insight into the industry and learn the basic etiquette and lingo of movie sets.
Participating in Classes and Amateur Productions
Taking acting classes is essential as they provide you with foundational skills and connections with industry professionals. Ask around in your classes to find out the best places to find auditions. For film roles, do extra work and talk to everyone on set to see if they're looking for actors.
Participating in student productions is another valuable experience. You can put these roles on your resume and build your experience. Community theater is a great way to gain more visibility, and you'll need to audition for such roles.
Ensure that you have well-prepared monologues ready for theater auditions. These can be key in showcasing your talent and making a lasting impression on casting directors.
Staying Informed About Industry Opportunities
Once you're working, maintaining awareness of industry opportunities is crucial. You can stay updated by reading trade papers like Variety, Show Business, Behind the Scenes, and others. Additionally, you can check your local film board to find out what productions are in the area.
Subscribing to services like FindFilmWork is also a useful option, although these services can be expensive. They offer thorough information on upcoming projects, including television series and feature films.
Exploring Student Films and Online Opportunities
Acting in student films is an often-overlooked but highly beneficial resource. Check out nearby colleges and university film programs to see if they're seeking actors. Many online platforms also list audition opportunities, though these can be paid services.
Popular websites for audition listings include Backstage, Actors Access, and NYCasting. Be prepared to pay for these services, but the benefits often outweigh the costs.
Final Thoughts
Successfully navigating the world of acting requires persistence, networking, and a bit of luck. By leveraging these resources and continually building your experience, you'll position yourself well for success in the competitive world of acting.