Open castings calls are auditions (usually for a movie or television show) open to any aspiring actors/actresses without an agent (although actors with agents are free to audition too). They are free (but auditions are limited by time) and probably the best way to launch an acting career.
Open casting calls is usually held if there’s a big Box Office movie going under production or television shows being considered. Sometimes, casting calls are held just for agents to get new clients; that doesn’t mean a role of some sort, just an agent to get started – the bright side about agents/clients castings is the fact that the agents are most likely to be well known or professional that will get hold of tons of audition for you.
Preparations
Open casting calls could be a rare opportunity depending on where you live. Some cities could be the home of casting calls, and some city might not even experience it.
Do some research on any local casting calls. Research on what the casting directors are looking for – a girl? A male? Someone that could swim, or do an Italian accent? Lacking some of the crucial skills needed won’t guarantee an amazing audition. Hair colors normally don’t matter but take in warning that you might be considered to dye your blonde hair to brown. Acting skills aren’t required but if you got any, you will be put into a better advantage.
Also, keep in mind what the casting directors warn on the ad. If they’re looking for someone 15+, please meet the age requirement. They are strict on these so even if you are 14, they will say no. Also, if you’re from Canada, England, or USA, watch for any warnings on provinces/states/country. Some directors don’t allow citizens from other part of your country/state to audition due to law conflicts or travelling conflicts (eg. If you’re from Montreal, Canada going to Toronto for an audition, you might not be allowed to audition because 1) you have a Quebec accent or 2) travelling from city to city [despite the couple of hours of difference] isn’t acceptable).
Open casting calls don’t require headshots unless asked for. If you are unsure, it’s always a safe idea to bring in your headshot just in case. In open calls, professionalism doesn’t matter for your photos. All they need is a clear view of your head and body.
All I’m saying is meet their criteria to assure an audition when you get there. Make-up usually isn’t allow, especially heavy make-up. Keep it clean and simple. Also, be sure to get your passport updated for ID and travelling purposes.
When the auditions are getting closer, sleep early and eat healthy. Even if there’s a slim chance of getting hired, a healthy look could result in being an Extra or even auditioning for a different role. Bring a pen to fill out their paper works and a couple of stuff to keep you entertained – the lines will be long.
Open Casting Calls
The thing about these auditions is that they get publicity – obviously. Thousands of people will show up, take for example, the Luna Lovegood audition for the Harry Potter movie series had about 15,000 girls showing up and only one (Evanna Lynch) got the role. That being said, it’s an obvious idea to go there early. I don’t mean 3:00AM early – I mean, probably tenting in the line! No, I’m not exaggerating. Open casting calls have time limits. Say, if the auditions started at 8:00AM and ended at 5:00PM, the doors are closed. No matter how much you beg, the doors will not be opened... even if you were literally right beside the doors. These are how auditions go – they work on tight schedules.
You will not meet any famous actors there. For the obvious reasons, professional and famous actors get private auditions, and they absolutely got no time to run the same lines for hours.
When you get inside the building, keep your head high for the directors. From what I heard, you line up and say your name out loud. From that point on, they will choose any potential candidates to continue on and the rest will be forced to leave. If you do manage to continue through, chances are it’s just like the first day of school – tell them about yourself.
This part if crucial. It shows your personality without a script. You got to talk boldly and confidently. Don’t make yourself boring, and absolutely don’t reply with, “Nothing much,” when they ask you how you’re doing. Smile a lot and just make a good impression. Try not to be nervous and try to capture the directors’ eyes a lot. In most cases, some of the potential actors will be given the actual script.
Open Casting Auditions… for Agents
This is much different from auditioning for a role. In these auditions, the same things apply, but instead of a movie role, you get an agent and an agency representing you. Sometimes you will be getting the role anyways!
These things are for aspiring actors/actresses looking to hit Hollywood. Agents and agencies are required to get all the biggest and newest roles for upcoming movies and televisions. If you don’t have an agent, you’re going to have a hard time getting to Hollywood.
These things are usually held by big television broadcasters especially Disney Channel. They love looking for young, new, and talented teens – take for example, Selena Gomez.
The End
Keep in mind:
• You will be competing against thousands of other talented people.
• When the door closes, they stay close. Go early!
• Health and sleep are vital before the auditions so get some good sleep the night before and eat healthy.
• Prepare for the worse – some casting directors will tell you the truth about your talents and looks. Don’t take it to heart.
