One of the most exciting times of the year for actors is pilot season. If you’re new to the industry, you’re probably wondering what the heck I’m talking about. Let me explain.
A lot goes into launching a new network series. So much so, that many series actually never make it to the primetime lineup. A pilot episode is an episode of a new series that’s taped so that networks can submit it to advertisers, test audiences and the media to begin gauging responses and building a buzz.
Pilot season refers to the time of year that networks begin casting for pilot episodes. While pilot season generally begins in January, some shows can begin casting even earlier. Casting for pilots is a huge deal for actors for several reasons. First, dozens of pilots are shot each season, so there are lots of opportunities to get in front of top casting agents and producers. Secondly, if you’ve ever dreamed of landing a job on a major television network series, pilot season is by far your best shot. And third, if you book a show that doesn’t get “picked up” (selected to air during the upcoming season), simply booking the pilot is a major career accomplishment! When you tape a pilot, casting directors and producers will often remember you when other opportunities arise, which often means a really great shot at other major roles in the future.
In 1999, Busy Phillips (White Chicks) booked a pilot entitled, Saving Graces. Although the pilot was never aired, she got a lot of great exposure and later went on to book a number of really great roles on various television series like Malcolm in the Middle, Dawson’s Creek, How I Met Your Mother as well as several roles in major motion pictures. Sure it was a bummer when Saving Graces didn’t make the fall lineup, but despite that one little bump in the road, Busy went on to become a popular, working actress.
Pilot season could be a great opportunity for you to get your foot in the door so make sure you’re ready! As casting directors gear up for this busy time of the year, be very vigilant about checking updated casting notices and audition information on our website. You never know, I might be watching you on a major network series next fall! Good luck!
Check back tomorrow, I’ll be talking about the reality of show business.
Showing posts with label actors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label actors. Show all posts
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
CHOOSING AN AGENT: What’s the difference between a theatrical and a commercial agent?
Choosing an agent is a lot like choosing a hairstylist. Some stylists are really great at creative haircuts, while others might specialize in coloring - and some are great at both. As the client, you can decide to have more than one stylist, or pick one that can do it all.
It’s the same with choosing an agent. Did you know that many actors may have more than one agent? While some agencies are full service companies, representing a number of talents, many specialize in just one or a couple things.
The most common agents are theatrical and commercial. Theatrical agents specialize in booking their clients work on movies and television shows. Commercial agents specialize in booking their clients for commercials. If you research agents in your area, you will probably also find agents that specialize in voice-over, print, and dance.
When trying to find an agent it’s very important that you 1) determine your strengths as a performer and 2) know what the agents you’re submitting to specialize in. For example, if you’ve been told that you’d be really great in commercials, then you’ll want to invest your energy in finding a really great commercial agent.
Many aspiring actors mass mail their headshots and cover letters thinking that they’ll increase their chances of getting an agent if they send their packages to as many agents as possible. While that can be effective, it’s also very important that you make sure that the agents you’re submitting to can represent your strengths.
There are hundreds of agents in the Talent Resources section of our website. If you’re not sure what an agency specializes in you can look the up via the web or call their office and make an inquiry.
And don’t forget, if you’re looking for a referral, be sure post a message on our bulletin board. Another member may be able to offer direction when it comes to working with specific agencies.
If you’ve heard people talk about “pilot season” but you’re not really sure what the buzz is about, don’t miss tomorrows blog.
It’s the same with choosing an agent. Did you know that many actors may have more than one agent? While some agencies are full service companies, representing a number of talents, many specialize in just one or a couple things.
The most common agents are theatrical and commercial. Theatrical agents specialize in booking their clients work on movies and television shows. Commercial agents specialize in booking their clients for commercials. If you research agents in your area, you will probably also find agents that specialize in voice-over, print, and dance.
When trying to find an agent it’s very important that you 1) determine your strengths as a performer and 2) know what the agents you’re submitting to specialize in. For example, if you’ve been told that you’d be really great in commercials, then you’ll want to invest your energy in finding a really great commercial agent.
Many aspiring actors mass mail their headshots and cover letters thinking that they’ll increase their chances of getting an agent if they send their packages to as many agents as possible. While that can be effective, it’s also very important that you make sure that the agents you’re submitting to can represent your strengths.
There are hundreds of agents in the Talent Resources section of our website. If you’re not sure what an agency specializes in you can look the up via the web or call their office and make an inquiry.
And don’t forget, if you’re looking for a referral, be sure post a message on our bulletin board. Another member may be able to offer direction when it comes to working with specific agencies.
If you’ve heard people talk about “pilot season” but you’re not really sure what the buzz is about, don’t miss tomorrows blog.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
ARE YOU A TRIPLE THREAT?
We’re gearing up for The Best Talent Awards which will take place this November in Los Angeles. We had so many talented participants last year and over 40% of them were hired for work! While I was blown away by how many really great actors, dancers, singers and models there were – I was really impressed to see how many people were multi-talented and had mastered more than one craft.
In the entertainment industry, a “triple threat” refers to someone who can act, dance and sing well. Take the cast of High School Musical for example. It’s a high energy production with an incredibly talented cast, many of whom had to act, dance and sing to land their roles.
While it’s great to be a really good actor or a really great singer, you never know when the role of a lifetime will call for you to have more than one skill. It’s important when you’re preparing for a career in the entertainment industry that you are versatile and well-rounded. Learning to do several things rather than mastering just one skill can greatly increase your chances of booking really great roles.
Many actors have a “Special Skills” category on their resume. While singing and dancing can be listed here, you can also include languages, dialects, sports, instruments, stunts or any other special skills you may have that make you unique. Having lots of talents can be really helpful when you’re going after a role.
Often people are tempted to fudge this section of the resume, but this is a big DON’T. Instead, take advantage of classes or training in your area to pick up additional skills that will make you more marketable.
We have lots of classes listed on the Star Search Casting website that you can check out. I think you’ll find that classes can be lots of fun and a great way to meet and network with others in the industry.
Be sure to check in tomorrow to learn more about how to look the part when you go on an audition!
In the entertainment industry, a “triple threat” refers to someone who can act, dance and sing well. Take the cast of High School Musical for example. It’s a high energy production with an incredibly talented cast, many of whom had to act, dance and sing to land their roles.
While it’s great to be a really good actor or a really great singer, you never know when the role of a lifetime will call for you to have more than one skill. It’s important when you’re preparing for a career in the entertainment industry that you are versatile and well-rounded. Learning to do several things rather than mastering just one skill can greatly increase your chances of booking really great roles.
Many actors have a “Special Skills” category on their resume. While singing and dancing can be listed here, you can also include languages, dialects, sports, instruments, stunts or any other special skills you may have that make you unique. Having lots of talents can be really helpful when you’re going after a role.
Often people are tempted to fudge this section of the resume, but this is a big DON’T. Instead, take advantage of classes or training in your area to pick up additional skills that will make you more marketable.
We have lots of classes listed on the Star Search Casting website that you can check out. I think you’ll find that classes can be lots of fun and a great way to meet and network with others in the industry.
Be sure to check in tomorrow to learn more about how to look the part when you go on an audition!
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
HOW TO LAND A JOB IN HOLLYWOOD WITHOUT AN AGENT (PT 1)
Thousands of members on our site have booked exciting jobs in Hollywood without an agent. Often aspiring actors, models, singers and dancers think they don’t have a shot at making their dreams come true because they don’t have an agent. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. There are tons of opportunities available to you, even if you don’t have representation. Don’t let lack of an agent or manager stand in your way.
Melina Rochelle, a singer and actress living in Los Angeles, knows all about the challenges of looking for work without an agent. “I was worried that because I didn’t have an agent, I wouldn’t be able to audition for roles that I really wanted. Initially I was discouraged but I didn’t let it stop me.” Instead, she began doing her own research and was able to find lots of opportunities. And in no time she was landing great jobs.
This fall she will appear in the musical City Kid at the Hudson Theatre in Los Angeles in the role of Niki. “I’m so excited! It’s a great role and I get to showcase my singing and my acting in a really great show.” When asked how she’s managed to get such great opportunities without an agent or manager, Melina Rochelle offered this advice:
- “Just because you don’t have an agent doesn’t mean you can’t submit yourself. Do your research. There are lots of resources that list opportunities that you can submit yourself for without the assistance of representation.”
- “Make and keep in touch with contacts in the business. It’s a lot about who you know. There are lots of ways to meet people, for example taking classes to meet other actors, singers, dancers or models.”
Follow these tips from Melina Rochelle to help you get your career off the ground today! Need information on auditions, acting classes or other opportunities? Check out our site to access valuable resources you’ll need to help get your career off the ground.
And don’t forget to check out my blog tomorrow for more tips from Melina Rochelle on how to land a job in Hollywood without an agent!
Melina Rochelle, a singer and actress living in Los Angeles, knows all about the challenges of looking for work without an agent. “I was worried that because I didn’t have an agent, I wouldn’t be able to audition for roles that I really wanted. Initially I was discouraged but I didn’t let it stop me.” Instead, she began doing her own research and was able to find lots of opportunities. And in no time she was landing great jobs.
This fall she will appear in the musical City Kid at the Hudson Theatre in Los Angeles in the role of Niki. “I’m so excited! It’s a great role and I get to showcase my singing and my acting in a really great show.” When asked how she’s managed to get such great opportunities without an agent or manager, Melina Rochelle offered this advice:
- “Just because you don’t have an agent doesn’t mean you can’t submit yourself. Do your research. There are lots of resources that list opportunities that you can submit yourself for without the assistance of representation.”
- “Make and keep in touch with contacts in the business. It’s a lot about who you know. There are lots of ways to meet people, for example taking classes to meet other actors, singers, dancers or models.”
Follow these tips from Melina Rochelle to help you get your career off the ground today! Need information on auditions, acting classes or other opportunities? Check out our site to access valuable resources you’ll need to help get your career off the ground.
And don’t forget to check out my blog tomorrow for more tips from Melina Rochelle on how to land a job in Hollywood without an agent!
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