One of the busiest times of year for actors is
"pilot season," and it'sbeginning right now.
A "pilot" is a test run of a television series. Every
year, from late January to mid-April, about 120 sample episodes
for new television shows are made - both dramas and sitcoms.
While only 5% are "green-lighted" and made into full
series, these 120 productions provide a huge opportunity for
actors who want to work in television. That's why thousands
of actors pour into LA in January, February, and March.
Most hiring for pilots takes place in Los Angeles, but there
are some agents in New York, Chicago, Vancouver, and elsewhere
who send actors for certain auditions (very rare) or cast for
locally produced pilots. However, if you want the best chance
of landing a role in a pilot (and hopefully in the full series
if it's produced), LA is the place to be.
But even if you don't go to LA this year, it might make sense
to send a headshot to LA casting directors now -that way, you
can follow up when you do get to town, or - if you're very lucky
- you might get a call requesting an interview / audition. You
can get in touch with these agents
with labels such as these:
http://www.actortips.com/products/pilot_season_kit.htm
But how do you know if you should try out for pilot season,
and if you do, how can you increase your chances of getting
work?
First, you must realize that most producers are looking for
recognized names, because these actors come with their own fan
base. However, there is always a need for new talent, and pilot
season is your best bet for getting work on television.
Also, you should know that succeeding during pilot season is
very difficult if you don't eventually relocate to Los Angeles.
Many casting directors speak of a several year commitment to
the city as a minimum. So if you have that kind of dedication,
then you might want to consider trying out for pilot season.
Once you arrive (or before you make the move), you'll want to
send out your headshot to casting directors and agents (if you
don't already have one) in Los Angeles. Theater and independent
film experience is important, but they will be particularly
interested in whether you've done any work in television.
The trick is to be persistent, professional, and polished. Persistence
means sending your headshot and show cards to agents every six
weeks and following up after auditions with thank you letters.
Your professionalism will shine through if you prepare your
audition properly. I suggest a rigorous brush up before every
audition, like listening to Linda Zerne's remarkable Audition
CD, which will remind you of what to do and what NOT to do at
a television audition.
Finally, your skills as an actor must be polished. Hopefully,
you've gotten some great training and experience, and you're
constantly reading books on the business and craft of acting;
watching theater, film and television critically; and taking
classes. You'll need all of these things to make it, but if
you do, the rewards are great.
If you want to learn more, I've put together a list of products
that will help you in your quest to land a role on television
during pilot season.
Click here to see them:
http://www.actortips.com/products/pilot_season_kit.htm
Here are some specifics recommendations:
LA casting directors and agents labels - These are the people
who get actors in television pilots, so you need to send them
your headshot and follow-up mailings.
The Audition Coach CD - created by the renown casting director
Linda Zerne, this is the perfect way to prepare for any audition.
Professional headshot windows for actors - These will help you
stand out from the thousands of other headshots that are submitted
to these offices every month.
And if you order now and use coupon code AT4, you'll get an
additional 10% off any purchase you make at our store (up to
$100 back). But hurry, this coupon will expire in 24 hours.
Click here now to start your pilot season adventure:
http://www.actortips.com/products/pilot_season_kit.htm
I wish you the best of luck in your acting career.
Chad
Gracia
President, ActorTips |
