Despite the fact that the Covid epidemic has altered practically every aspect of our lives, it has raised demand for home entertainment. The show must go on, as they say, and with the rise of binge TV and on-demand movie viewing, the show has required an increasing amount of skill.
However, auditioning is no longer the same as it once was. Casting agents are turning to internet sites to get the performers they require because to social separation, crowd regulations, and mask policies. So, how should performers adjust to this new style of acting?
Create the Scene
We’ve grown accustomed to the monotony of online chats and Zoom meetings that it’s easy to lose sight of what’s going on around us while we speak. However, online auditions should take place in an environment that helps you to shine rather than one that detracts from your performance.
- Set yourself against a blank wall or drape a piece of cloth behind you to create a neutral backdrop (be sure there are no wrinkles). To draw attention to yourself, use blues or grays.
- Close yourself off in a room to reduce sound distraction. Make sure friends, relatives, and children know to keep quiet. Put your pets in a different room or, better yet, ask someone to keep an eye on them while you audition.
- Make sure you have good lighting, such as natural light or a circle lamp. Avoid using overhead lights that generate harsh shadows and don’t set your camera with a window behind you.
Prepare yourself For an Audition in Los Angeles
Knowing your lines is essential, but if you need to do a cold read, actress Winnie Yeung advises, “Put your lines in a Word document or.pdf or Notes on Mac and shrink it a little bit, and you’re going to put that just underneath the webcam.” When you talk, read it immediately below the webcam so that your eye is near the camera.” You should also consider:
- To overcome any technical concerns, restart your computer well ahead of time.
- Pre-test your camera and sound settings.
- Dress neatly and appropriately.
- Makeup and hair should be done.
- Warm up for a few minutes and then do some focus exercises for the last 10-15 minutes before going live.
Make the Most of Your Virtual Environment
First and foremost, keep in mind that you’re always on, and part of your evaluation will be based on how easy you are to deal with. Even when you’re not performing your piece, maintain proper posture, eye contact, and active attention. The new method of auditioning has its own set of benefits.
Your house can add to the atmosphere. “A student did the song ‘Worst Pies in London’ from Sweeney Todd,” says Boston Conservatory Dean of Theater Scott Edmiston, “and she could actually be in a kitchen cooking in a way that gave that song a whole different kind of dimension that was really entertaining.” Don’t be hesitant to use your living room to emphasize the role you’re playing.
While online platforms may limit the amount of space you have available, they allow you to learn about the intricacies of a role. Keep in mind that you’ll be acting in close-up on camera. Use your razor-sharp focus to delve through the words. Contact us for more information.