I mentioned last week that there was going to be a casting call for the Ang Lee film Taking Woodstock in Upstate New York. I hear so many of our readers talking about casting calls or asking for casting call information that I wanted to know what it was like for myself so I packed up the Jeep, got out my best “hippiesque” outfit and checked it out!
Before going I noticed that no one tells you what to do, wear, or even what a casting call is like. I scoured the internet trying to figure out what protocol was and couldn’t find much information. So I compiled some “dos” and “don’ts” based on my limited casting call experience. I know a lot of you have spent many long days as extras so if you have any other tips, leave a comment!
Do dress the part. I was just about the only person there who didn’t reek of poutoulli.
Do bring a headshot. Most people only had a 4×6 picture of themselves, I would recommend a professional headshot if you could get one. I am sure it would stand out. Also be sure to check the casting company’s website as some have an application that needs to be filled out and brought along as well.
Do tell them about any acting experience you have. Even if it is only playing the part of a tree in your junior high play, let them know, it might make a difference.
Don’t prepare a soliloquy. The casting call I went to was more like a “speed” interview than an audition. They asked questions about what I did, what my experience was, why I was there and what my availability was during the filming dates. So be prepared to sell yourself rather than show off your acting skills.
Ultimately the casting director has a certain look they want and you either fit it or you don’t. For this casting call they were looking for the stereotypical hippie as exemplified on the application on which they asked questions like “Will you grow out your body hair”, “Will you be seen on film nude” or “Will you go without a bra?” I checked “no” to all of these questions which I am sure diminishes my chances for a role as a hippie. On the other hand there were a few people in line ahead of me who had the look down, they actually appeared to have the whole lifestyle down, and I am sure they are in! So don’t feel bad if you don’t called back, you may just not fit what they are looking for and may have better luck the next time.
