EDITORIAL
Actors Have Far More Power Than They Think
See yourself as a brand, not just as an actor
(By AM Staff)
(Photo: Juan Mendez | Pexels)
One of the reasons actors become nervous in auditions is that they believe themselves to be powerless. It’s as if they see themselves as lowly subjects going before The Inquisition, facing harsh punishment if they are deemed unworthy by the noble casting director.
It’s a perfectly reasonable misconception to have. Actors are starved for opportunity and casting directors are the gatekeepers to opportunity. Within that dynamic, it’s only natural to fear the gatekeeper and think of yourself as powerless, auditioning in front of the all-powerful.
This type of thinking, though, is problematic in many ways. One key way it’s problematic is that it is an unnecessary abdication of power. Actors are unknowingly granting the decision-makers power while stripping themselves of power.
Ironically, power is what casting directors are seeking when they conduct an audition. They don’t want a weakened actor, groveling for a chance. They want a strong, confident, well-trained actor who can fill the room with the power of their presence.
One solution to this dilemma is to see yourself as a brand, not just as an actor. Think of yourself as a company with a terrific product to sell, not as an actor desperately seeking a job.
One solution to this dilemma is to see yourself as a brand, not just as an actor. Think of yourself as a company with a terrific product to sell, not as an actor desperately seeking a job.
That means developing a marketing strategy for yourself. That means building a social media fan base. That means creating your own content. That means building strategic partnerships within the industry.
It also means recognizing that casting directors are not the all-powerful, merciless Inquisition. In fact, much of their power comes from actors and the talent they possess.
Casting directors want you to succeed so they can succeed! They are your biggest cheerleaders. All you have to do is to give them something powerful to cheer for!
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