Casting Calls & Auditions: Going for An Open Call

People often dream of an opportunity to attend the casting call that changes their life. They envision showing up, broadcasting their best attributes and getting recognized by that influential someone who just so happens to be at the audition.

Sometimes, it actually unfolds this way. More often than not perhaps, you’ll show up and be one talent among fifty or even a hundred.

That being said, we've listed a few essential elements to consider before attending an audition. Make a note of them and get squared away to reach your dreams with style and class.

Have you thoroughly understood the requirements of the role or opening? If a particular background is specified, do you have the requested background and can you demonstrate it convincingly? If not, you’ll have a hard time convincing the casting professionals that you can do what they need. When casting calls specify requirements, it’s usually because it's required for the performance.

Have you planned and prepared for the audition? First, create a checklist from the casting details. Then double-check the address and make sure you have allowed enough time to arrive at the location. Make sure you have résumés and photos for the auditions which request them. Ensure that you have rehearsed any sides (if provided). Research the production when possible so you can have an understanding of the elements involved. Make sure your clothing is clean and appropriate.  Don’t leave all of this for the day of the audition. You’ll wish you had given yourself more time to prepare.

Have you thoroughly considered your look for the casting? If the audition requires any sort of martial arts movement or fighting, they will normally ask you to demonstrate a few of your skills.  Don’t dress like you are going to the gym. Do dress so that you can move well if you need to. Remember, casting professionals take in the entire picture. They will expect to see what you can do, but they will also be looking at all of you when you do it. Play up your best features but don’t overdo it.

Since there will be other people auditioning for the same roles, preparation goes a long way and gives a better chance of being at ease when you arrive. You need to have your materials handy and you need be on time.  Now, you can focus on showing who you are:

Show enthusiasm. You should want to be there. Appear nonchalant and you just might get overlooked.

Speak clearly and concisely. If the casting professionals ask your martial arts background, don’t rattle on. Tell the essentials so they can understand how long you’ve trained and get an idea of the arts you have studied. If they want more details, they will certainly ask you.

Give relatable information. If you don’t have much acting background, tell of any acting classes or any small productions you may have performed in. If they ask about posing for the camera and you don’t have much experience, reveal any related experience and indicate that you take direction well. In other words, show them that you can perform the task.

Do what you do best. When it’s your time to shine, it’s the sole moment where you can make a lasting impression or a forgettable one. Listen to what they request and perform accordingly. Appear friendly and focused. Do your best but don’t go overboard. If you practice spar with someone for the role, purposely injuring your opponent is a very bad idea. It won’t make you look good and it won’t be appreciated.

Fight slowly or at a moderate speed. Let them see what you can do. If they want to see it faster, they will ask for it.

Finally, it is most important to keep a professional attitude for the entire audition. Whether or not you get the part, you never know what doors may have been opened (or closed). Auditioning well is a skill and like any job interview it requires preparation, confidence and the right qualifications  If you make the effort, who knows what can come about from it.