THE BEST VS THE BOOKED!

Casting directors come to auditions to decide who will book the role for that commercial, TV series, or feature film.  You probably think that they’re going to pick the person who had the best audition.  And this is true—but a lot more goes into an audition besides reading your lines.  Mercedes Rose, blogger for Backstage Unscripted provides perspective on other things the casting directors look for.

The "best" actor that auditions doesn't always get the role. We saw many talented comedians. A few that so totally nailed what the director was looking for. The couple that actually got cast were good but not the ones we initially thought were going to be cast. So much went into the casting decision that had NOTHING to do with the actual audition given in the room that day.

This is also a great reason to calm your fears about CDs having favorites.  Being more drawn to one person or another for outside reasons can help (or hurt) your chances of being seen, but doesn't mean that you will be granted a callback or book the job.  Play up the things you can control (being likeable, flexible, friendly, and fun to work with), but don't fret about the things you cannot control.  Next time you walk into the casting room, ask yourself if you are walking down Opportunity Lane or a dark alley.  (And then change direction if you chose the latter.)  What other things do you practice to maintain a healthy approach to your career?

Comments

[Barbara]

I exercise or do yoga before an audition.

[Mike Harris]

Excellent advice. Like most Talent, I fret over the "shoulda, coulda, woulda" when an audition didn't result in a solid booking. I have to remind myself that in reality I have no idea what a director is looking for or why, and if I came prepared to do the best I could, that's all I could do. Move on to the next casting!

[Melinda Eisnaugle]

Barbara -- any sort of exercise stimulates the mind and fills the body with energy . . . both of which are necessary for you to be your best in the casting room. And it must be working; because look what you are booking!

Mike -- Great mindset! Your mental attitude is a substantial part of your success. This is one piece of advice more talent should adopt as their daily casting mantra.

[Reggie Freeman]

Acknowledge God first, and He will direct thy paths. I agree, great advice.

[Kysasiovan]

Great advice....I do pray/meditate before an audition. I also go on with the mantra of "My name is Kysa Siovan. Welcome to my audition." I learned this from an online audition workshop and it helps to calm my nerves since I do have stagefright :)