television series

No Bunk Here

It’s true. I spent all day on set with Donnie Wahlberg yesterday. No, really! Perhaps you saw the article in today’s Boston Globe? I got to learn about shucking oysters from Anton Christen, oyster bar specialist, at ye olde Union Oyster House and everything! While I wasn’t doing exactly what I would like (i.e., acting in front of the camera), I was in front of the camera as a stand-in for Maria Thayer in the TNT television pilot Bunker Hill.

Working as a stand-in is an interesting position to be in. Clearly the director and crew know the names of the stand-ins because we all walk around with large pieces of tape stuck to our chests that list our names and the names of the characters we’re representing.

Yet we’re almost always referred to as “second team”. Or, in first AD speak: “SECOND TEAM!”

There is an unwritten but standing … Read more »

Doin’ it in the car

My friend Sarah says, “I always have my best audition in the car on the way back.” And she’s right. This morning, I had my best audition in the car on my way back from auditioning for a role in a major TV series. I got to the audition locale early. I primped in the car, hoped the outfit I had selected could be readily modified as needed, and went in and patiently read a copy of SOCO Magazine that was lying about until the CD was ready for me. There was no copy to be had in advance, as it was only a few lines. So, I was provided a summary of the scene before going into the room and I had a chance to skim that page from the script. I was offered two takes and I was asked to slate my height, which is unusual. On the way back, all of these brilliant ideas popped into my … Read more »

Guessing Game

Earlier this week I was invited to audition for a role in a major television series. When I spoke with one of the casting assistants, it was mentioned that–at some point–lines would be provided in advance. Well, 24 hours later I hadn’t received anything, yet, so I sent a polite email message. No response, but I wasn’t surprised. They’re busy–I know that. So, I waited a few more hours and made a phone call just to make sure I wasn’t missing anything important. I was told the “lines haven’t been released, yet.” Okay. Fine. Perhaps they’re trying to give all auditionees the same amount of prep time. Well, I’ve since received a message telling me there “are only a few lines”–and those lines weren’t included in the message. So, I know nothing. Nothing about the role, the character, the lines, the scene. Nothing. So, I’ll have to make my best educated guess. Oh. Can it be called “educated”? Perhaps just my best guess.

Ups and Downs

Just one day after my bad day, I received an uplifting phone call, booking me for an industrial video. I was so happy! Unfortunately, it did not come as a result of any of the three auditions I had that down day. (Congrats, Margot!) Rather, the gig is a result of a previous gig where the client really liked me. It’s nice to know my reputation is a good one.

Now, just this afternoon, I received an email inviting me to audition for a role on a major television series. Yes, it’s great news and an amazing opportunity, but I don’t think I’ll get to take advantage of it–the auditions are scheduled for a time when I’m unalterably occupied.

I’m feeling conflicted: grateful for the booked gig but irked that I can’t make every audition I’d like.

No Bunk Here

Doin’ it in the car

Guessing Game

Ups and Downs

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