Commercial Audition Tips

As a casting director for the past 39 years as well as having been an actor and singer prior to that, I understand the multifaceted considerations during the audition process from all angles. The commercial audition process is a unique and exciting opportunity for actors. These are my tips to all actors specific to commercial auditions:

1) Take a commercial acting class. Auditioning for a commercial is very different than any other type of audition. There is a science to a 15-, 30- or 60-second spot. It is a highly focused and purposeful choreography. Video interviews are distinct and you must understand the technique.

2) Get one 8x10 commercial headshot taken. Keep it real-looking, not highly touched up, glamorous or dramatic. It is most important that your headshot look exactly like you. If you are marketing yourself in multiple categories, eventually you can have additional headshots done accordingly.

3) Create a professional resume. Refer to industry resume templates and be sure to list your commercial training. All casting directors want to see that you are taking your craft seriously and studying regularly.

4) Get a list of commercial agents in Nevada from the Nevada Film Office or from Samuel French Book Shops or Breakdown Services and earn representation. 

5) Showcase your talents when the opportunity becomes available. Training will put you in the position of satisfying the old adage “Be prepared.”

6) Further enhance your acting chops by taking a comedy improvisation class. Improv is the backbone of all commercial acting.

Most importantly, casting directors and talent agents need and want you to do a great job. We are there to support and champion you. We are the first step in the process of getting the job. Ultimately, it is up to you as the actor to know and continue learning your craft in order to earn the job.

This item originally appeared in the Nevada Local newsletter.