Does anybody know of a trustworthy place where I can find out about OPEN auditions for movies or television?

Question

I want to be an actress, but since I'm pretty much a "young adult", I don't really want to drop everything and move to Hollywood w/ only my dreams. I want to find an agent, but I have absolutely no experience and am afraid no one will take me in. I don't even know where to begin! Help...

Oh I live near Los Angeles.

Answer 1

You want to be in movies and television, but you are not an actor yet. Producers and directors in the industry are looking for actors.

So first, get some training, join the drama club at school, take some acting classes.

Then, work in local theater.

Once you are an actor, you will know how to go about getting an agent, and won't need to post a question to total strangers.

Be VERY wary of auditions posted on craigslist that welcome folks with no experience. At best, it will be a crummy, unprofessional project that will teach you nothing, and that will never be distributed or seen by anybody.

And the worst case scenario is that it is a trap for the unsuspecting.

Answer 2

Depends on where you live. Nowcasting.com is legit and so is actor's access but they really only work if you are in NY, LA or florida. It is rare for a major tv show or film to have open auditions (except for extras).

I would suggest taking a basic acting class where you live and then trying out for community theater (or high school or college theater depending on how old you are.) If a university near you has a film program, find out about auditions for student films.

Once you've got some experience, look for an agent in the nearest major city. Go to www.sag.org and see if there are any SAG franchised agents in that city. You don't have to be a SAG member to be represented by one and they are most likely to be legit (and established.) Agents understand that young people may not have an extensive resume. They want to see that you are serious (taking classes and performing locally) and professional (polite, prepared, on time etc.) Do not pay anything to an agent upfront!! A legitimate agent will take 15% ( if you are non-union) of any jobs you book. (10% if you are union. )

You WILL need to invest in a good 8X10 color headshot (taken by a photographer who specializes in headshots.) Your agent will know who is good in their city and can recommend some to you.

Make up a basic resume with vital stats, acting and other performing experience (like music, dance, or speech class.) Also include a "special skills" section indicating any hobbies or interests (sports, foreign language, computer skills, painting, juggling, crocheting, certified in CPR, anything!) You never know what might throw a part your way!

The best advice I can give you is don't be afraid of embarrasing yourself- actors have to be immune to it (that, and rejection :) Don't be afraid to try and don't be afraid to fail. Choose how you want to play a character and fully go for it- don't hold back! I've found this attitude works well in life too, not just in an audition! Good luck and have fun!! It is a wonderful career!

Answer 3

May sound crazy but craiglist always open audition calls and things like that that are posted. I'm more into the theatre/stage side of things but I would highly recommend taking acting classes and that sort of thing. The teachers there usually have connections or have a better means of directing you to someone or somewhere based on your own personal ability. Besides the extra teaching and practice is always good especially if you want to make it in hollywood. Even some of the greatest actors and actresses still take acting classes. Don't spend your whole life thinking about that though. Enjoy being young and if you were meant to be famous than it will happen.

Answer 4

You didn't say in which USA city you live so you can get comments and/or answers.