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ASK A PRO

How do you cast atypical background actors?
August 05, 2008
You start putting the word out. You call people, or you go into the community and you find the part of the city that has that specific demographic.

If I need tears and they're not coming, what should I do?
July 28, 2008
There are many acting-teacher answers to this question, from technique-oriented solutions like sense memory and emotional recall, to nuts-and-bolts solutions like keeping your eyes open.

When Sex Interferes With Networking
July 22, 2008
All I want to do is act, and it seems difficult when an important person is asking me out.... I don't want to say no and break that bridge, but I don't want to mislead them.

What Are Common Mistakes in Improvisation?
July 15, 2008
It's always nice to make the audience laugh, but going for a selfish "wacka wacka" moment can ultimately tank whatever scene you might have built with your partner.

Ask a Director: How Do You Keep Your Cast Consistent?
July 10, 2008
Top directors give tips on how to keep your cast engaged for the long haul.

Ask an Agent: What's Been Your Best Moment on the Job?
July 01, 2008
Hear about fighting for a client, getting a newbie into sitcoms, and more as top agents share their most memorable moments.

Why Do Working Actors Need an Acting Teacher?
June 25, 2008
Utilizing a teacher will help keep you sharp, fresh, and "warmed-up" and allow you to continue to sharpen your skills as an actor.

Ask a CD: How Unethical is Lying on Your Résumé?
June 19, 2008
Top casting directors talk about what not to put on your résumé, and how dishonesty can come back to haunt you.

Ask An Acting Teacher: Are Great Actors Born or Made?
June 09, 2008
Some say great actors just are. Others say no; they work at it. Find out what top teachers think about natural talent.

Ask a Therapist: Letting Your Agent Go
June 02, 2008
Because it's so challenging for most actors to secure an agent in the first place, it's almost impossible for them to let go of one when it's necessary.

How Do You Work With Actors to Shape Characters?
May 19, 2008
One director rewrites characters based on actors' readings. Another focuses on performers' innate humanity. Find out how these and other industry experts shape roles.


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