THE SECRET TO COMMERCIAL AUDITIONS

 

Nailing that commercial audition doesn't require any special powers.  Yes, some models or actors are more 'commercial' in their appeal, but that doesn't mean they are the only ones who can book a nice paying commercial gig! 

Commercial casting is like casting for a day player role in a television series.  You may have a few lines or it may be nonspeaking, but either way, you get paid to make them feel "real" or natural for the viewer.  In other words, the viewer needs to be convinced that you (as the actor/model) really are that person!  This is one reason that commercials are so natural for children.  Tap into your inner kid and find out how to be a natural in a commercial audition, too!

Put your focus on building a character that will come across as believable. That means you'll have to do as much homework ahead of time as you would for a television series or even a movie.  Here are some pointers on what to prepare from CD Terry Berland:

    #1. Who am I as the person in the scenario? To give your answer as much texture as you can, take it a step further. What     did this person do earlier in the day and what is this person going to do after we encounter him telling us whatever he     has to say?

    #2. Where am I? It’s not good enough to just make a statement as to where you are. You have to do lots of sensory work.     Identify things like what is the temperature, time of day, lighting, what does the furniture look like, floor, etc.

    #3. What and who are my relationships. The trick here is to look into the script and find relationships that are not so     obvious. Sensory work again.

    #4. Of course you have to choose an attitude. You have to know how to analyze the script to know what attitude works.     How is the ad agency selling? Notice I said how is “the ad agency” selling? I did not say how are “you” selling. Yes, the ad     agency has a salel, but they are just using you as a vehicle for their product sale. You need to use what they give you as a     vehicle to let out who you are and how you feel.

 

So what sets you apart in a commercial audition?  What might have been holding you back that you can try the next time you walk into the casting room?

Comments

[G'anne Harmon]

This is a terrific piece of advice, and a timely one. Thank you! So...auditioning for a non-speaking commercial takes as much practice (almost) as for a speaking scene. Thanks--I'm off to build character!