In the world of entertainment, commercial acting jobs are highly coveted. These jobs not only pay well but also provide actors with exposure and recognition. However, standing out and being authentic in the fiercely competitive industry is key to landing these coveted roles. This article will discuss authenticity in commercial auditions and how it can make or break an actor’s chances of getting hired.
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What is authenticity in commercial acting?
Firstly, it’s essential to understand what authenticity means in the context of commercial acting — being authentic means being true to oneself and bringing one’s unique qualities and personality to the role. It’s about being comfortable in one’s skin and not pretending to be someone else.
In commercial auditions, actors are often required to play a particular character that the casting director has in mind. While staying true to the character’s personality traits is crucial, it’s equally important to bring one’s personality and quirks to the role. This not only makes the performance authentic but also makes the actor stand out from the crowd.
For example, if a commercial audition requires an actor to play a quirky and energetic character, they should bring their own interpretation of the character to the role. They should not be afraid to add their own flair and bring their unique personality to the performance. This not only showcases their acting skills but also makes the performance memorable.
Practicing Presence
Another essential aspect of authenticity in commercial auditions is being present at the moment. Many actors tend to overthink their performance, which can lead to a robotic and rehearsed performance. Being present now means being fully immersed in the character and the scene. It’s about reacting to the other actors and the environment around them.
To achieve this, actors should take the time to prepare for the audition thoroughly. This means doing research on the brand or product they are auditioning for and understanding the character’s backstory and motivations. They should also rehearse the lines and practice different ways of delivering them.
However, when it comes to the actual audition, actors should let go of all their preparation and be present in the moment. They should react to the other actors and the environment around them and be open to improvisation. This not only makes the performance authentic but also shows the casting director that the actor is versatile and can handle unexpected situations.
Being honest while acting
It’s also crucial for actors to be honest in their performance. This means not trying to impress the casting director by playing a role that is not true to their personality. For example, if an actor is naturally introverted and shy, they should not try to play an outgoing and extroverted character. This not only makes the performance inauthentic but also makes it harder for the actor to connect with the character and the scene.
Instead, actors should be honest about their strengths and weaknesses and play roles that align with their personalities. This makes the performance authentic and helps the actor connect with the character and deliver a compelling performance.
Commercial Actors Should Be Confidence
In addition, it’s important for actors to be confident in their abilities. Confidence is key in commercial auditions as it shows the casting director that the actor believes in their abilities and is comfortable in their skin. This not only makes the performance authentic but also makes the actor stand out from the crowd.
To build confidence, actors should take the time to prepare for the audition thoroughly. They should also practice their lines in front of a mirror or with a friend and get feedback on their performance. This not only helps them to identify areas that need improvement but also boosts their confidence.
Finally, authenticity in commercial auditions is not just about the performance but also about the actor’s overall demeanor. This includes their body language, tone of voice, and how they interact with others on set. It’s essential for actors to be respectful, professional, and friendly, as this creates a positive impression on the casting director and other crew members.
Where to find commercial Casting calls?
There are several resources where actors can find commercial casting calls. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Casting websites – There are several online casting websites that specialize in posting casting calls for actors. These include websites such as Backstage or Allcasting. These websites often require a subscription fee, but they can provide actors with access to a large number of commercial casting calls.
- Social media – Many casting directors and production companies now use social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to post casting calls for commercial projects. Actors can follow casting directors and production companies on social media to stay updated on the latest casting calls.
It’s important to note that while finding commercial casting calls is essential, it’s equally important to research the casting director and production company before submitting an audition. This can help actors tailor their auditions to the project and increase their chances of landing the role. Additionally, actors should always follow the submission guidelines provided by the casting director and ensure that their audition materials are of high quality.
