Industry Tips

About auditions and casting calls

Auditions are vital to obtaining an acting role or a modeling job. Just remember that it may take dozens--even hundreds--of auditions before you get your first callback. You will have to play the numbers game. The more times you audition, the better your odds of landing a role in a movie or commercial. You can never know which audition will bring you success; therefore, you must appear for every audition. Make sure you go to auditions suitable for your characteristics and talents. Always remain positive and take advantage of every opportunity. The key to your future is auditioning in front of major entertainment networks. The most difficult part is to acquire connections in the entertainment industry.

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Types of auditions

Auditions for actors, dancers, singers and other performers:
TV commercials | Feature Studio Films | Independent Films | DV Films | Student Films | Short Films

Television Shows | Reality Shows | Music Videos | Mini-Series
Films | Documentaries | Commercials | Corporate Videos | Broadway | Theater
Special Live Events | Extras | Background Actors

Modeling jobs:
Print Advertisements | Designer Showcase
Fashion Runway

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General rules to follow during auditions

Always know what you are auditioning for. Arrive thirty minutes
prior to the audition time; this will allow you to check in, warm up, and check out your competition. Bring at least two photos and resumes. Photos should reflect your current physical characteristics. Do not chew gum (all directors hate it). When attending callbacks, always wear the same attire worn at the original audition. Be confident, smile, and always have a positive attitude. Act excited about everything you are asked to do, and follow all instructions.



Actors/Improvisation:

  • Be prepared for improvisation.
  • Different voices and dialects are a plus.
  • Prepare a dramatic and comedic monologue no more than two minutes in length.
  • Please ask and note if the audition is going to provide sides.


Singers:

  • Bring two selections of sheet music in legible condition--one up-tempo and one ballad.
  • Be prepared to sing the best 16 bars.
  • Know your vocal range.
  • Sheet music should have full musical notation in the key in which you will perform.
  • If the audition requires movement, dress appropriately.

Dancers:

  • Wear appropriate dance attire.
  • Bring appropriate dance shoes.
  • If the audition requires singing, bring at least two selections of sheet music, one up-tempo and one ballad.

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How do I Start

As an Actor

  • Step 1 - Headshots

    Your first step is to obtain photos or headshots. In the entertainment business, appearance is practically everything. Lasting impressions come from that first glance. You must obtain the best headshot possible! Your headshot is your business card.

    Please remember that casting directors will only glance at your picture once, so you have only have one chance to capture their interest. Professional photos are expensive, but you will not get very far without them. You can spend between RM$50 to RM1000. Sometimes photographers are well-connected and may give you a great chance to find a local agent or manager.

  • Step 2 - Write a resume
    There are certain standards and guidelines for an actor's resume. Your resume must be well-written and professional. List all of your past and current training, experience, talents, skills, contacts, etc.

  • Step 3 - Search for auditions and casting calls
    Auditions are the most vital part in obtaining a role. To learn more about the audition process and how to obtain audition information. Search for auditions

    Your success as a performer in the entertainment industry relies on connections. We believe the best way to acquire connections is to audition in front of entertainment companies, casting directors, producers, magazines, corporations, talent agencies, advertising agencies.

    It is your responsibility as an actor or model to mail out your portfolios to agencies, casting directors, and production companies. This process can be quite costly and time-consuming. Most of the time, headshots will end up in a large file with thousands of other pictures, or simply will be trashed. If you are patient and consistent, you will receive a few auditions.



  • Step 4 - Search for agencies & talent managers
    You need to select an agent or manager--whichever is right for you. You can do so by simply sending out your picture and resume to all the agents/managers in your area. They will call you back if they are impressed with your picture and interested in representing you. Every major city has well-established talent agencies and management firms. Contact a few different agencies/managers and find out what they require. The key to success is retaining an agent/manager who is well-established and experienced! Ask for references and credentials before signing any contracts. We advise you to work under a non-exclusive 1-2 year contract in order to make certain your agent/manager performs professionally.


  • Step 5 - Search for schools & training workshops
    Acting may seem easy. But often, actors fail to get the part because they lack training and experience. There are many schools and classes that specialize in different entertainment fields such as commercial acting, improv, voice training, etc. Focus your training on what you are best suited for and most interested in. Professional training may cost a substantial amount of money; however, it will play an important part in your success. Be careful in your selections--there are many frauds.

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    As a Model
  • Step 1 - Start a modelling career

    Unlike acting, you do not have to memorize lines and
    speak in front of rolling cameras. You don't have to wait at auditions and perform in front of numerous people you do not know. However, you must have an organized portfolio that includes professional photos. Your photos must include several headshots and different poses in various fashions.
    A small runway show in your local mall may lead to an audition with a glamour magazine. The key is to always
    look your best. Remember, models come in a variety of shapes and sizes: tall models, short models, skinny and
    full size models, both young and mature models. There are over 200,000 successful models in the nation, and you deserve to be one of them!


  • Step 2 - Create a modelling portfolio
    All models must mail out a professional portfolio package (comp card, headshot) to casting directors and agencies. Models are required to go through various photo shoots
    and create a modelling portfolio. Putting together a portfolio
    is an absolute MUST for every aspiring model! The portfolio should include a number of photos and a resume. Comp Cards or ZED cards are popular types of modelling portfolios, and usually contain 4-7 body poses. Some established photographers have reliable connections, which could lead to a modelling job right away. Your resume must include your current contact information, your height, size, weight, measurements, previous training and recent work. Professionals hire based on your modelling exposure and experience. The key to your success is to select a well-established photographer who can capture your best features to help create a more exotic look.


  • Step 3 - Search for modelling auditions (go-sees)
    First, search for auditions in your area. If you live in a small town, your best opportunity is to audition in a nearby city. Casting agencies hold go-sees and open casting calls for models periodically. Every major city has casting agencies affiliated with the modelling industry.

    Your success as a performer in the entertainment industry relies on connections. We believe the best way to acquire connections is to audition in front of entertainment companies, casting directors, producers, magazines, corporations, talent agencies, advertising agencies.

    It is your responsibility as an actor or model to mail out your portfolios to agencies, casting directors, and production companies. This process can be quite costly and time-consuming. Most of the time, headshots will end up in a large file with thousands of other pictures, or simply will be trashed. If you are patient and consistent, you will receive a few auditions.

  • Step 4 - Search for modelling agencies & managers
    You need to select an agent or manager--whichever is right
    for you. You can do so by simply sending out your picture
    and resume to all the agents/managers in your area.
    They will call you back if they are impressed with your
    picture and interested in representing you. Every major city has well-established talent agencies and management firms. Contact a few different agencies/managers and find out what they require. The key to success is retaining an agent/manager who is well-established and experienced!
    Ask for references and credentials before signing any contracts. We advise you to work under a non-exclusive
    1-2 year contract in order to make certain your agent/manager performs professionally.

  • Step 5 - Search for modelling schools
    Modelling might seem easy. Although your physical appearance is the first characteristic casting agents
    consider models with training and experience are the
    most sought after. Taking modelling classes from a professional school will train you to improve your existing skills. It will also help you learn guidelines for your
    auditions. Having a professional portfolio and gaining
    some basic instructions is important if you are considering modelling as a full-time career.