TonyWDA wrote:Thanks.
But I wasn't asking for contact info, I was wondering if the directors cover travel expenses if they REALLY consider an actor.
But thanks for the info.
I appreciate it.
In that case, I can answer that question. It's rare that a director of a TV series would ever cover an expense to fly in an actor for an audition/callback unless said director REALLY wanted that actor for the part. But I've only heard of that happening with "A-List" actors, or with indie directors who "wined and dined" big name talent to get them to sign on to their project.
It would be of greater benefit to you to actually live in the L.A. area (or wherever the show's being filmed) and have agency representation. There are actors who commute, or live seasonally in L.A. but like the old adage goes, it pays to be where the work is.
Incidentally, I saw your location on your myspace page. That's actually a decent area to be in for acting gigs because there's a lot of TV/film production there. Trying to get cast on specific shows on a specific network may be setting yourself up for disappointment.
I'm 36 and was a performer/entertainer for 10 years before I finally got an agent. And it's only been in the last 6 months that my acting career seems like it's finally going somewhere.
There are steps you need to take to work up to that level, and if you haven't prepared yourself properly, you will end up getting frustrated and disappointed when things don't work out. I've barely booked 1% of the auditions I've submitted in the last few years, so believe me I know where you're coming from.
Some things I would recommend before even submitting a video audition at your level of experience:
- get professional headshots made
- get as much training as you can: take acting classes and workshops relating to TV and film on-camera acting, auditioning, monologues, and improv. Never stop learning.
- get involved in your school's theater dept
- get a resume. And trust me, you won't have one until you've taken acting classes and have a few acting credits--even if it's high school theater, that's still something. Volunteering is also great for young people. There's reading for the blind and dyslexic, volunteer reading at libraries, community theater, and etc.
- once you've got headshots and a resume, get yourself an agent. Some agencies have regular open calls; others allow email and/or regular mail submissions of headshots and resumes.
If you have any further questions about acting, I'll be happy to help however I can.
