Sunday, January 23, 2011

a syllabus of acting audition scam avoidance tips

By Melvin Obrien


A screening interview and callback are two different things. The screening interview is a short meeting where the casting director tries to determine whether or not you will be accepted for the part. On the other hand, a callback is a longer interview where you are invited to the casting director's office for a more complete assessment of your skills. In both cases, the aspiring actor tries to help the director consider him or her for the part.

The only difference is that, in a callback interview, it is most likely that the director has already made the choice and the purpose for inviting you over is to finalize that decision. This process is what people sometimes refer to as "chemistry." A callback interview can have different durations. Some are measured in minutes, while others last a whole day. Your talent agency should be able to advise you on how to handle these meetings, so it's important to develop a relationship with an honest agency.

Once you get the call, try to find out as much as you can about the interview. Ask the coordinator the names of who will be interviewing you. With this information in mind, it will give you a head start as well as prepare you for the interview that will finally seal the deal. In connection with this, research more about the film, the production company, the script, the part you will play, the other actors and most especially the director.

In a call back, aspiring actors will not only meet the casting director but all other members of the production staff as well. Since most of them will be meeting you for the first time, expect that some questions will be repeated. Just be patient and answer them thoroughly. Do not get frustrated on having to repeat the same answers.

When being called back, arrive at the venue at least ten minutes before the scheduled time. This gives you enough chance to perhaps calm yourself down. Also, if you will be arriving before that, waiting too long can get really awkward. During this waiting period, try refining how you will try to project yourself. Review your thoughts, your approach to the project.

Once you are in the interview, be smart and engaging, enthusiastic but not overwhelming. Be conscious of your body movements. Make the conversation light and go straight to the point when answering questions. Do not cut the interviewer off when he has not yet finished his sentence and avoid using "um" and "uh" in filling up gaps in your sentences. Be cool.

Be conscious of your voice and body language but do not be obvious. Show just enough amount of enthusiasm but do not be overwhelming. Look for individual cues that will require you to expound on what you had just said.

Because the position requires acting skills, you might be required to read a script and act it out. In connection with this, it will be best if you bring a reference list or extra copies of your resume highlighting previous acting exposures, training, and experience. Before you leave, try to recall all the interviewer's names in order for you to send a thank you note later on. This practice is acceptable and it will leave a good impression.




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