I received a phone call last week.
“Hey! How are you? Are you available to work on [insert name of major network TV show here]?”, the voice inquired.
My heart leapt. ”Yes”, I responded happily. ”I can be available!”
“Oh, that’s great. We’ll need to you do stand-in and it’s perfect because you look just like her. We’re only waiting on her height.”
“Oh…alright”, I answered as normally as possible, my heart sinking. I knew exactly what was going on.
“We’ll call you later with the details.” Click.
Flashback to the previous week…
I’m nervous. I’ve slept as much as possible. I’m memorized, have an outfit packed neatly in an unassuming bag, a headshot in hand and I’m prepared to ride a bus. I’m on my way to audition for a guest-star role on [insert name of major network TV show here]. My mental checklist has been reviewed to the point of tatters and I’m certain I’ve got everything I need.
Once in the audition room, … Read more »
I’ve recently been employed as a stand-in on the set of a new ABC drama, Body of Proof. If one is offered the opportunity of stand-in work, I highly recommend accepting it. True, on-camera time is not a benefit, but there are so many other rewards that come as a result.
Working as part of “team 2″ enables one to have a wonderfully in-depth on-set experience, learning the various rhythms that make filming so exciting and preparing one for the day that principal work is on schedule. Unlike film sets, television sets are fast-paced, allowing for approximately one episode a week to be declared “in the can.” A constant and keen listening ear is key, not only to be aware of those necessary times to be quiet, but to learn the standard calls and anticipate those moments when stand-ins will be needed. Stand-in work also enables one to get to know the working styles of the crew and the director. … Read more »
Last evening an actress and friend of mine told me she worked on one of my favorite TV shows–a show for which I’ve been campaigning for an audition for years, literally. I couldn’t believe it! Friday Night Lights, a show that films in and around Austin, TX, was in the Boston area filming all day Saturday! My friend said she and some other actors were on set, discussing the fact I would be disappointed to know I wasn’t working with them. But she also pointed out that I didn’t seem to fit the demographics the casting director was tasked to fill: college freshmen (an age bracket for which I can no longer pass, really) and university professors (I would look a bit under-age to most as a faculty member, don’t you think?). Didn’t they need college seniors or grad students or an administrator or something? … Read more »
Last night at 9 PM, a casting associate called me to do more stand-in work for Bunker Hill. I was so irked! I have an appointment and a rehearsal today that in no way could be moved at 9 PM last night. So, I had to turn down the work. The associate did apologize for calling so late and indicated that the call should have been made five or six hours before. However, that did nothing insofar has helping me move my previous engagements.
Next time, O Casting Associate, please call me sooner. I do so want to help you out by standing in.
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