How to Nail your Monologue!

In order to nail your monologue at an audition, you must go beyond simple memorization. By asking yourself the questions below, you can bring your monologue to life and prove you deserve to get the job!
1. What's the Relationship? Every monologue has an actor talking to someone. (Whether it is the audience, him/herself, a husband, a friend, a rival, etc.) Knowing your character's relationship with whomever you are addressing in a monologue is the first step to being able to express your feelings and emotions truthfully. Do you love him/her? Hate her? Mixed feelings? Delve into to these questions and get answers. Reading the script will help you do so.
2. What Conflict exists/What are you Fighting for? Every character has some sort of motivation for standing there ground and not fleeing the scene. Your job is to find out what is keeping your character there having this monologue. It is not truthful to solely trust the characters' words, but you must dig deeper to find the underlying themes. It is your job to have your character make the strongest choices for what he or she is fighting for.
3. What Happened the Moment Before? The beginning of a monologue is as important as the ending. You do not want to just finish strong, you want to start strong, and the way to do this is to know what happened the moment before the scene, and react/carry the emotions with the energy it requires. It is not enough to just "know" what happened right before, but you have to become completely overwhelmed by it so it rings truthful.
4. Where is the Humor? Contrary to popular belief, humor does not only exist in comedies. It is found in dramas too! People use humor on their best days and worst days, just to get them through. Humor is applicable in every scene, especially if you want it to have life, diversity, and more then a "one-feel" type of emotion. Proof of humor existing in acting comes from proof of humor existing in real life!
5. How can you Play Opposites? Opposites are used to open actors up to the possibilities of their monologue and characters' feeling. How many times did you have the worst day of your life and a friend asked you, "How are you," and you replied, "I'm great! You?" You said the right words, but on the inside you felt the exact opposite. People are so conditioned to solve problems that as actors, they are not bringing the conflict to the stage...they are just trying to solve it, before it can be fully exposed.
6. What can you Discover in your Monologue? People make discoveries every day; they learn new things about people, life, etc. The more you discover onstage, the more interesting a show will be, and the less you will cling to cliches.
7. How can you Best Communicate? Communicating is not just telling someone something with tremendous amount of feeling. In order to communicate, the way real people communicate, you must make sure you're getting your message across, and that the person to whom you are speaking to is receiving it. Acting is reacting, not just making your point clear. We must also receive the feelings given back to us from our partner. In order to communicate efficiently, you cannot simply shut out the other person. In real life, people may act like they don't care what others say, but they always want to secretly know how they are going to respond!
8. How are you Competing? Whether people admit it, or not, every one is competitive for something. (Whether its relationships, love, power, favor, etc.) Try to discover in your monologue, how you are trying to get what you want, and how you are competing for it.
9. What is Important to You? Every moment contains something of importance to a person. For example, what happens when you order a meal and get the wrong order? Getting the correct order was important to you, was it not? It may be underlined, but something is important for your character at every moment. Go on detective, start looking!
10. What Events are you Creating? Every scene must escalate and lead to a different event. It is the actors' responsibility to continue these events by finding the reasoning for why his or her character is going along with everything he/she does, ultimately escalating to the next, and the next event.
11. Where are you? Knowing where the scene is taking place can set the mood and effect the way you respond. If you are speaking in a library, your voice may be lowered, and you may not want to make much noise. If you are speaking at a party, with overwhelming music, you should not be whispering, but instead, struggling to be heard or hear.
12. How are you playing the Game/Role? Just as in real life, we know the role to play in each game. For example, when we are visiting a persons' home for the first time, we are naturally playing the role of a "guest." There are certain rules instinctively known to abide by in that game/circumstance. Meaning you wouldn't exactly walk right up to their fridge and start munching. How are you playing the role/game in your monologue?
13. What is Mysterious or Secretive of your Character? Once you successfully apply the above questions to your monologue, it is time to get creative and add the things you don't know. Are there mystery or secrets in the scene? Nobody knows the secrets of every individual which makes getting to know and watch them so intriguing! We don't marry our spouses, if actors ever marry, because we know everything about them...that would be boring! We marry them because we want to continue to learn for the rest of our lives. There are so many unanswered things that the playwright didn't write about the character! That is your job as an actor, and an entrusted job at that!
If acting was simply about taking cues and reading off a page, anyone could do it, but it's not. Acting is about delving into the character so deep, that what appears obvious at first, erupts into suddenly exposing a new hidden truth that engages the audience throughout the performance.
Don't settle for a cliche monologue. Put in the time, and reap the much deserved results!-Actors Nook Team

Tips for Acting in Commercials

Commercials are an excellent entry way into the world of acting and new faces are always welcomed! In order to master this field, it is important to remember the main purpose: sell the product! Not everyone that gets into commercials gets famous, but it gets you more on your resume, great experience behind the camera, and your face in front of the whole world, especially if you become a spokesperson. (For example, think of the Allstate or Progressive spokesperson.) They come out with new commercials very often, selling their product. Now that’s getting your face out there!

Since products exist today for audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and looks, there is a great need for diversity in commercials to reach all consumers. Actors must know what typecast they are so they can better portray themselves in both their headshots and appearance on the day of audition! Check out the Actors Nook article for more on Typecasts! http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Typecast

Taking an acting class or workshop for commercial acting would be extremely beneficial to any aspiring actor. Remember, you want to be prepared and keep your options open to all acting opportunities. These classes will normally focus purely on how to audition for commercials, and how to act in them as well. The skills learned in these classes may be the difference between getting the role and not, so consider taking them. Some skills you may learn include, how to hold the product, (not covering the label), how to play to the camera, how to smile, etc. Going to these workshops will also help lessen your nerves which, normally, would conflict with your chances! For more on auditioning, check out the Actors Nook article. http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Auditioning

Another option to prepare you before auditioning for a commercial is by simply watching TV commercials. By doing so, you will be able to see the kind of requirements it takes to be in a commercial and which ones may suit you. Be sure to watch for specific roles, what type of people are cast, and then determine the category you best fit in so you will know how to represent yourself. Many actors wish to play every role, but if you do not look like a "mom," or are not yet old enough, you should not be auditioning for one! When studying  commercials, also look at how the actors carry themselves, stand, walk, talk, etc.  Commercials often play stereotypes of characters, which is a good thing to keep in mind. 

Getting opportunities for commercial auditions can be a lot easier with a commercial agent. They can help you decide where you best fit, and how you should advertise yourself.  You can find a commercial agent by getting references from networking actors or a list of agency offices from SAG/AFTRA. The Ross Reports may also include some information on commercial agents. For more information on finding agent, read our Actors Nook article. http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Agents 

Focus on building your commercial look and  on your acting to get you one step closer to your dream.  Get that commercial head shot (with a bubbly smile and showing teeth,) resume, and get to that audition!! Read the Actors Nook article on Headshots for specifics on commercial headshots! http://actorsnook.blogspot.com/search/label/Headshots Audition, Audition, AUDITION!!!–Actors Nook Team

Tips for Acting in TV & Film

Film and Television are demanding and unpredictable aspects of show business, where the "Nobody's" of today can become the "Stars" of tomorrow as fast as the "Somebody's" of today can become the "Unemployed" of tomorrow. In order to get the job, and keep it, you must be able to:

1. Play to the Camera-Unlike stage actors, Film/TV actors cannot experience the audience's reaction based on their performance until the film is released at a much later date. Instead, they will have to solely rely on their fellow actors and the camera while projecting their true emotions. For example, if a film actor is required to confess his love to his lover, while directing his lines into the camera, he must "see" his lover, and not a reflective camera lens staring back! It is important to be conscious of your surroundings and where the camera is at all times.  Be sure to know where people and things of importance are around you, so you do not block anyone! Once you know what the camera needs to capture, then you can act accordingly for that moment. The camera relies on your body language, facial expressions, movements, etc. to portray every necessary emotion and highlight every action. 
2. Act with Consistency on every Take-In film, you perform scenes over and over until the camera gets every necessary angle and the director has you make every desirable re-attempt. Therefore, a film actor must be able to perform repetitive takes without lacking energy, emotion, or his character's objective. Do not take offense at the number of times you will have to repeat filming scenes. Continuity is vital, which means your movements and appearance must be identical on every take. Stay on your toes and perform to your highest level, every time! 
3. Act with Scenes out of Order- Shooting scenes out of order is common and a challenge for the actor, to say the least. A film actor must be able to successfully act in scenes which are out of order or the movie will not flow correctly. An actor's first day of work may consist of shooting the final scene of a film, and if not performed truthfully, he can destroy the character and the story. A good tip for the actor is to list the kind of emotions each scene will require so he may reflect on it before filming scenes out of order. 
4. Hit your Mark-Blocking is the choreography and movement given to actors who are performing on set. It is crucial for actors to "hit their mark" while acting in front of the camera, or issues may occur, such as poor lighting on an individual or body parts cut out of the screen, etc. Some actors make their marks visible by putting a mark of chalk on the floor so you can find your spot, counting how many steps to your place, or looking for your mark during your acting. These are the many challenges an actor faces behind the camera. 
5. Know the different Types of Shots-  A long shot is when the camera focuses on an actor from a distance to the point where he or she is barely recognizable. With this technique, the audience can better determine the setting, time, or place. A medium shot is when the camera focuses on the actor's entire body in the midst of a setting. A close-up focuses on a specific part of the actor, whether it is a body part, or a possession. A two shot focuses on two actors in a scene accomplishing a task, such as eating together at a diner.  Understanding the different types of camera directions will help you perform with confidence, knowing which important parts to be conscious of during filming. 
6. Master the Close-up- The Close-up may be intimidating, but it is necessary for a main film or TV actor to succeed. Ultimately, the actor must be comfortable acting out intense emotions, often by himself in front of a camera. This can be your best or worst moment. However, in the end, remember criticism is a part of the gig! An excellent way to practice the close-up is to tape yourself and another actor performing a specific scene that requires a strong emotional response from you. Then, tape it again with the camera solely focused on you and look for the difference in your performance. Close-ups are not always comfortable, but if you can become comfortable and get past them, imagine what you can accomplish!
7. Act on a Set-A set can be extremely hectic and far from realistic when there is a film crew and others hustling, bustling, and making noise right before you hear, "Action!" The set is not guaranteed to be any more real then is required for the camera. Your job is to make the set look believable by believing in everything it is supposed to be. 

In order to practice for Film or TV, record yourself acting with another actor, or by yourself, get comfortable in front of the camera and with closeups! If you can learn to have confidence in yourself,  your craft, and master the above skills, you can own your auditions, the set, and the camera! Imagine the feeling you will get from acting with confidence and performing to your highest ability! -Actors Nook Team

What Casting Directors Want

Many actors misinterpret casting directors as the “bad guys,” since they didn’t cast them in their last six auditions. In reality, casting directors are rooting for aspiring actors more then they know! In fact, during an audition, the casting director is hoping the next person in the door is the one for the part. They just have the unfortunate job of lessening the load of unqualified actors. If an actors’ acting ability or physical body is not right for the part, that is out of their control. However, what every actor can choose to be is the type of person a casting director wants.

1.      Give the best performance you can give the first time. 

Being prepared for your audition says a lot about your work ethic and who you are as a person. No second chances! Forgetting lines is not a very promising intro. Prepare in advance, commit to the part, and deliver.

2.      Show you are easy to work with, starting with your audition.

Create a nice flow and positive atmosphere. Give short and sweet introductions, while leaving a lasting impression so you do not suck up their time.

3.      Be professional and respectful.

It’s not time to be best friends; it’s time to work! Stay focused, polite and follow directions.

4.      Take direction.

 Do exactly as you are told, nothing more, nothing less.

5.      Have the perfect balance of energy and calmness.

Don’t be so off the wall that you turn off the casting director due to lack of control or overstepping boundaries.

6.      Be personable and self-confident, not cocky.

Don’t be afraid to smile. Relax, believe and show them you deserve to be there!

7.     Acknowledge and treat everyone in the room with equal respect.

The Casting director is not the only one of importance.  They will be many other equally important faces you don’t know. Greet and farewell everyone with excellent warm eye contact.

8.      Be yourself.

Don’t put on a show or say what you think they want to hear. What they want is someone real. Stay relevant and don’t overdo it. Leave them wanting more of your performance and personality!

9.      Don’t apologize for or defend a performance or answer you gave.

Be proud of what you believe and state it in the most respectful, meek way. Do not try so hard to be accepted or to please them. No one likes a desperate actor.

10.  Be comfortable in who you are and do not try to be anybody else. Anybody else already exists. There will never be another you.

Casting Directors don’t want:

1.     An unprepared actor

2.     A desperate actor

3.     A rude actor

4.     A negative actor

5.     A hostile actor

You can do it! -Actors Nook Team

The Callback

It is every aspiring actor’s dream to get the callback. If it were up to them, they wouldn’t even have to audition to get the part! However, for that to be realistic, they would need to already be famous. The callback is the next step towards the casting process and a great sign that the casting directors like what they see! Before your head gets big, remember you are not the only one. When called back for an audition, you are still up against contenders and are not yet guaranteed the part. Yet, you still deserve and should feel a sense of accomplishment! Staying humble in every callback, with just the right amount of confidence, makes you likeable and powerful all at the same time. That kind of attitude also opens doors for growth, while showing off what you already know. In a callback you are going up against fewer and tougher competition for the particular role so remember these tips!

It is more crucial on the day of the callback to show up earlier then call time and feel prepared with any additional sides they may hand you in relation to the role you may be auditioning for. If you were given the script in advance to your callback, make sure to read the entire script so that whichever character you read from, you have a clear understanding of their perspective in order to and able to deliver accurately. It is also a smart idea to go to the callback looking similar to when you auditioned. This doesn’t mean you have to wear the same exact unwashed clothes, but you may want to wear the same shirt in a different color and you’re your hair and makeup the same way. By looking similar to your first appearance, your chances of being remembered are much greater then your opponents. If you were called back to audition for a different role, you may want to dress more like the new character you are reading for. However, remember it is not necessary to dress like a police officer if you are auditioning for one, but instead wear a black tie or other article of clothing that may make you feel closely resembled to one. Not only should your acting skills be as close to possible perfection, but your appearance and overall attitude should as well. During the audition it is good to be well trained in improvisation since you never know what the casting director has in mind. You may be asked to sing, dance, and perform your monologues, songs or sides, or a cold reading with other actors that got callbacks. Usually the casting director will mix the future prospects around during the reading to see the type of chemistry that works best. Remember, you are not trying to outshine your partner, but work best with them. Once you have finished your callback, make sure to extend your gratitude to everyone involved and leave with a smile on your face. Now, you wait to hear back. A great idea in order to stay organized when auditioning and going to various callbacks is to log your auditions in order to keep track. This included recording the day, place, time of audition, who sent you, the names of the auditors, the sides that you were given at the audition, a description of what they said to you, any direction you were given, a detailed account of exactly what you wore to the audition and any material you performed e.g. monologue(s) or song(s). You never know how many callbacks you’ll be lucky enough to attend, so treat each as if they were your last! Stay organized, confident, persistent humble and GO GET YOUR CALLBACK!
-Actors Nook Team

Audition Time

Every working actor knows auditioning is a crucial part of life! Once you have an audition, it is time to prepare. Consider these helpful audition tips to have your best audition every time!

1. Find out the location of your audition in advance to give yourself enough time to arrive and avoid being late.
2. Remember to bring a couple copies of your head shot and resume.
3. If it is a casting audition and you are reading for a certain character from a play, TV or movie, get the sides in advance and make sure you are prepared. If it is an open casting call or theater audition, you may have 16 bars of a musical theater piece prepared and usually have two different monologues memorized and performance ready. Prepare in advance to avoid the simple mistakes of skipping, forgetting and dragging lines.
4. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing for the audition. It is always better to go the simpler, clean route, then distracting crazy patterns and colors! If you want to dress a certain part, choose to incorporate one piece of the costume that reflects the character.  If you will be dancing for part of your audition, bring comfortable dance wear and avoid immodest clothing. Remember when it comes to clothes, white will wash you out, black will overpower you and patterns and clunky jewelry will distract. If a bathing suit is required, go the modest route.
5.  Bring any freshening up products you may need: a hint of perfume, hairbrush, natural makeup, etc.
6.  Once you arrive, make sure to check in with whoever is in charge of the auditions, usually someone other than the casting director, in case there is a sign in sheet. It is said that your audition starts the moment you walk into the building, so make sure to always be on your best, most professional behavior.
7. Do not be intimidated by the other people performing. Be friendly, but don’t get distracted by your peers and forget this is a competition!
8.  Inside the audition room, you will be performing in front of the casting director and a bunch of other important people you won’t know. You must treat everyone as of equal importance and with respect. The best actor you can aim to be is someone easy to work with, easy to follow direction and having the necessary talent to get the job done. They also want someone who takes care of their physical appearance and is likeable.
9. When you enter the audition room, don’t make a long introduction. That is what your resume and head shot are for. Short and sweet will work in your favor! Emotionally prepare for your role while waiting for your audition.
10. You may be asked for your resume if you did not already hand it in. When you leave the audition, make it confident and polite, saying “thank you,” acknowledging everyone with your eyes and then quietly exit. 
11. After preparing and waiting hours for that moment, all that is left to do is commit to your performance. Remember, auditioning is a skill and not everyone will nail them right off! Hope for the best and look forward to the next!
12. After every audition, evaluate your acting, your performance and nerves. In this business, the audition is just a part of life. If you can become comfortable with the process, learn from your mistakes and deal with the most of the time rejections, and maintain persistence, your time will come soon enough! Embrace audition day and prepare ahead of time. Standing out in a crowd takes time

-Actors Nook Team