Misconceptions of Movement, Dang It! There’s a misconception about on-camera acting out there in the universe that I think needs to be dispelled. There’s this general feeling/idea/thought that you have to stay frozen and barely move, and talk really, really quietly. Actors want so badly to come off as real and authentic, that I’m finding that some actors get locked into an unmovable position once they hit their mark and…
Why Voice Over Work?
WHY VOICEOVER WORK? There are more reasons than you think! Written by Jeff Lupetin Author of Ultimate Voiceover Why voiceover work? People come to the voiceover business for a few common reasons. One: They want to make more money. Two: Someone told them they have a great voice. Three: They want to do cartoon voices Four: They want to do audiobooks. The good news is having a voice over career…
First Time Being On Set? Here are 6 Simple Rules to Follow
You got the part and it’s your first time cast in a television show! You’ve worked hard and you’re excited about this first day. But you’ve never been on set before and you aren’t sure what to expect. Here are a few guidelines to get you through that first experience. 1. Don’t be late. There’s nothing that sets a bad precedent more than holding up production because you didn’t arrive…
7 Tips For General Auditions
1. The first question to ask yourself is, “Should I go to this audition?” “LORT general auditions are for the entire season including undisclosed workshops/readings, so its worth going even if you don’t see an appropriate role. If it is an EPA for a specific show and there isn’t an appropriate role, don’t attend the audition.” ~Adam Belcoure, Casting Director-Goodman Theatre If it’s a general theatre audition, especially at a…
BUILDING AN ACTING REEL THAT WORKS, PT. 2
by Chris Agos All actors need reels. The question is how to build an acting reel that works. In Part 1, we talked about the reasons for having an acting reel (showreel), covered the hierarchy of reel footage sources, and highlighted the importance of building an actor’s credibility through a reel. By the way, notice I’m not calling them “actor demos” or “demo reels”. Demos are for voice over. Anyway….
Building An Acting Reel That Works, PT. 1
by Chris Agos If you’re an actor and you don’t have an acting reel showcasing your work, you’re doing it VERY wrong. I don’t care how much or little experience you have if you’re pursuing an acting career, a reel (or showreel for non-US readers) can be the first step in getting work you’ll be able to book again and again. Why? The number one question casting directors have about actors…
From Understudy to Wonderstudy: 5 Tips to Succeed
by Mandy Walsh Being an understudy is a crazy ride, but I think it’s important for every actor to do it at least once during their career. Being an understudy is a unique opportunity to learn about your own personal process since so much of the work must be done on your own. Plus you have the different perspective of creating a performance from the outside in. You get the…
An Actor’s Tattoos? What’s the deal?
Check out ASC’s 2023 Online Acting and Voice Over Classes! If you have visible tattoos and you book a commercial or TV show, know that an actor’s tattoos will either need to be covered OR you must provide a release from your tattoo artist(s) before you can appear on camera. Even if the images on your body have not been copyrighted by the artist, production companies and their clients are…
11 Books All Actors Should Read
As actors, our training is never “done”. Like any other skill, acting takes a lot of training, practice and a serious dedication to continue honing your craft. Whether it’s working on a project, taking classes with ASC or doing research, we should always stay on the path of learning. We at ASC suggest picking up a good book on the subject and learning something new. Here are our suggestions for…
Commercial Land: Honoring The Product
For the past five years, I have been fortunate enough to work steadily as a commercial director. I have worked with all manner of clients from fortune 500 companies to small start-ups. It’s as challenging as it is fun. Now when I’m able to teach an on-camera class with acting students, I like to draw a comparison between life here on Earth and this place I have come to know…