Fall is here and a ton of productions are staffing up to shoot for the holiday season. Curious about some of those castings? Here are the casting calls that are hot on our radar from the Casting Depot feed:
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/advice+articles/feed3.png" align="center" width="1200" height="300"/>

<h3 class="text-center">⛄️ Holiday Home Decorators </h3>
 
Are you a holiday home decorator? Do you always have the most pumpkins during halloween or the make the most beautiful Easter dining table? This major production company wants you.

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/holidaydecorators). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

<h3 class="text-center">✨ Makeup Artists & Models</h3>
 
This indie production company is now casting makeup artists & face models to compete in a series of challenges for a grand prize. Want a chance to win some cash?

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/bbmakeupwars) 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
<h3 class="text-center">🏘 HGTV - Inherited Properties</h3>

Have you (or a client or friend) of yours inherited some sort of property over the past 20 years? If so - HGTV wants you for a new series!

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/inheritedproperties). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

<h3 class="text-center">🧼 Homes That Need Deep-Cleaning</h3>

Do you know someone special who would benefit from a fresh, clean start? Do you have an amazing family member, friend, or neighbor who works all the time, leaving their space a total disaster? A brand new series wants to help!

Apply [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/p/clean). 

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

 
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
Ready to stay up to date with awesome casting calls and learn more about the industry you love? Be sure to [create an account](https://www.castingdepot.com/signup) with Casting Depot today!

Fall of 2022

Having a great monologue is essential for anyone looking to become a professional actor. Most actors have their "go-to" monologues that not only show off their skills but are versatile for a variety of settings.

A lot rides on having the "perfect" monologue. No pressure! So - how do you pick the right monologue? While there's not one right answer, there are many great options for choosing the perfect monologue... but today we’ll be focusing on what *isn’t* perfect. 

Here are a couple monologues elements to consider *staying away from*.
<ul class="indent-list">
	<li>
**1. The “I Remember When” Story**
A monologue centered around a real life story about your life isn’t dynamic enough. It’s not about sharing a story about a time you did something or how something made you feel. Casting Directors are looking for how you can turn a small piece of life into a much brighter moment. 
		
Two important elements that you should have in a monologue is both connection and conflict, which is something usually lacking from “I remember when” stories. Don’t tell us the story of a really bad date you went on, act out the date instead. 

**2. Trying To Be Something You’re Not**
If you are a 21 year-old college student, your go-to monologue shouldn't showcase you the role of a 50 year old retired firefighter. *Makes sense, right?* Even if you’re trying to showcase a range, it’s better to stick to something familiar that can be done well rather than something that hasn't been perfected. 

Focus on showcasing your strongest persona and what you do best. Finding your own persona may be hard but be honest with yourself about which personas you can play best. 

**3. A Novel **
It’s a monologue, not a novel. Every great monologue should follow an arc, but this doesn’t mean it should take 15 minutes to recite. The longer the monologue, the less likely your audience is to listen.

Shorter monologues that are well done is more memorable than a mediocre one that lasts 3 minutes. It’s not about doing as much as you can with your time but doing the best you can do with the time you have. 
		
</ul>

So - there you have it! Visit our blog for more monologue advice and examples. It'll help navigate your journey to finding the best lines for your auditions.

Monologues to Avoid as an Actor

Lauren Peacock is a producer, humorist and the best-selling author of [“Female. Likes Cheese. Comes with Dog.: Stories About Divorce, Dating, and Saying “I Do.”](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084NT7BRH/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0) Lauren has always gravitated towards storytelling. After receiving a BA in communications from Florida’s Flagler College, her theater background led her straight to the entertainment industry, where she’s worked extensively for the past decade with clients like Under Armour, US Polo Association, the NFL, Lindsey Vonn, Wiz Khalifa and more. She has produced award-winning features such as “Lady-Like,” “Joshua Tree”and the creative buzz-worthy TV series “Atlanta’s a Drag.”

Lauren has worked from script to screen on countless projects and has seen multiple films accepted into prime festivals, including the Seattle International Film Festival, Sundance and Cannes. She’s been featured on NBC, FOX, ABC, Yahoo!, Woman’s Day, Bustle, HelloGiggles, Best Life Online and the Palm Beach Post. She is also the creator of [The Divorce Case](https://thedivorcecase.com/) subscription box and currently working on her second book.
 
 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/laurenpeacock.png" align="right" width="400" height="80"/>
Tell us about your casting credits. What projects have you worked on?
 
I’ve been in the industry for the last 10 years as a Producer, Line Producer and Production Manager. I’ve produced commercials for Under Armour with Lindsey Vonn, feature films like “Lady-Like” on Netflix, worked with Wiz Khalifa on his music video “Rolling Papers 2” and also produced international ads for Jins Eyewear. I’m extremely grateful that I’ve continued to be able to work throughout the years for some amazing clients.
 
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool?
 
I’m producing a Netflix docuseries at the moment, as well as producing a feature film about two intellectually challenged adults who fall in love in a small town in Texas and bond over their love of horses. After a year of uncertainty with COVID, I’m really excited to be back on set soon and see where these projects take me. 
 
 

What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 
“Your Honor” was probably my favorite show that finished in February. Nothing else has really grasped my attention yet, but I am looking forward to a lot this year like “Bel Air,” “Dexter” and “The Underground Railroad.”
 
 
This or that 👉 Netflix or Disney+?
 
Netflix. My dark humor probably isn’t suited for the kiddies. 
 
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 
When you think you’ve done everything you can, do more. You have way more fight in you than you realize. You truly have to believe in the mantra of “The greater the risk, the greater the reward.” If you don’t, then this business is not for you.

What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 
Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. Focus on what you are doing because that’s the only path that matters. 
 
 
Where can we find you online?
[www.thelaurenpeacock.com ](https://www.thelaurenpeacock.com )

Producer Lauren Peacock Shares Her Advice and Insider Tips for Success

Andy Juett is a casting director and actor from Washington, D.C. Recently the Executive Producer of Super Troopers 2, he's produced for major networks like Amazon, TruTV, and more. He's also been featured in dozens of commercials and even the Pepsi Super Bowl Halftime Show. Cool, right? Andy sat down with us to give us insider tips into the world of casting:
 
 
Tell us about your casting credits. What projects have you worked on?
 
Casting, to me, is almost the most important part of producing anything on film that involves telling a story. I have cast everything from TV series, to pilots, to commercials. The key is to put the right people in the right seats on the bus.
 
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool?
 
My big current project is a TV pilot called OFFLINE where I cast Michael Madsen (Reservoir Dogs, Hateful Eight), Jay Chandrasekhar, Paul Soter, and Erik Stolhanske (3 of the 5 Super Troopers/Broken Lizard comedy troupe) and French actor Mathilde Ollivier (Overlord, Boss Level.) OFFLINE is a dark sci-fi comedy adventure that has each of the big names in the correct character slots, but it also is rounded it with great Denver, CO talent that we booked in a few roles near where the pilot was shot.
 
 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/Andyjuett.png" align="right" width="400" height="80"/>

What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 
It’s still early in 2021, so the jury’s still out there, but great shows that were also well cast this past year are comedies like Dave on FX/Hulu, Ted Lasso on Apple+
and mindbenders like Devs on FX/Hulu.
 
 
This or that 👉 Netflix or Disney+?
 
Netflix has more of a breadth of what I’m interested in, but Disney+ did deliver hard with The Mandalorian, Wandavision and the Ewok movies are even coming on soon!
 
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 
1. Try to do a lot of things. If you’re afraid of multi-tasking or learning disciplines you might not otherwise gravitate towards in entertainment and production, it’s going to be a tough road for you. Always understand that all parts of the production are important and if you understand what makes each discipline important, you’ll be able to operate from a much more effective spot when casting and producing

2. Have empathy. If you’re casting something and you think someone “looks” the part, you’re doing a very broad stroke that isn’t getting in to the nitty gritty of what that actor is capable of. If you have the means, figure out what makes actors tick (their training, do they do comedy, do they perform dance, do they have something about their upbringing that changes their qualification level etc.) If you can think about what an actor is capable of in a role by putting yourself in their shoes, your productions will be more successful.

3. More than any other genre, comedy is about casting. Think about how much less funny The Hangover would be without the exact actors in those roles at that exact moment in time. If you’ve got a good script, hire the RIGHT comedic talents and let them loose. They’re dying to give you gold. Let them.

4. You don’t need to know how to do everything, but you should build your rolodex of people who are better than you that do.

What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 
Make your own stuff until people hire you to make their stuff. Sharpen the saw by doing. Don’t wait. Just do it and one thing leads to another. No “things” lead to nothing. Do something and learn.

Casting Director Andy Juett Gives Insider Tips

An actor from Montclair, New Jersey, Anna Gustavsen is currently studying performing arts and filmmaking at Savannah College of Art and Design. Anna started acting at age fifteen after convincing her parents to let her create a Backstage profile, and she’s spent the last three years soaking up experience on film sets. Anna’s love for acting was born while watching Carrie Fisher's performance in Star Wars: A New Hope for the first time, and she still listens to Princess Leia's theme whenever she is preparing for a role. 

 
Tell us about your casting credits. What projects have you worked on?
 
The first film I worked on was a student film called Brownie Points, directed by Adrienne Civetti. I was fifteen and it was the first project I had ever auditioned for, so the whole process of driving to and from Baltimore with my amazingly supportive parents for production was really exciting for me. Seeing everything that goes into making a film for the first time definitely solidified the idea that I wanted to work in the entertainment industry. After that I did Eunbi Kwak’s A Day in the Coffee Shop, and I took a few background roles here and there just for the purpose of being on a set. You always meet interesting people that way, which is one of the things I love the most about acting. In 2019, Adrienne Civetti reached out to me again about coming back to Baltimore for her senior thesis film, Subject 17, with co-director and writer Brooks Gray. I immediately said yes– I love working with them, the environment they create on set is always so fun and supportive. Subject 17 ended up going to South Texas Underground Film Festival in early 2020, which was very cool and affirming.
 
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool?
 
I wrapped a short horror film a little over a month ago called The Judas-Abel Medical Center, directed by Jo-el Gordon. I had never worked in that genre before and I had such a great time. I play the role of Kira, who I was super intrigued by, because her circumstances have rendered her physically voiceless. So, for the whole film I’m emoting entirely through facial expression and movement, which was definitely made easier by the physicality of some scenes between me and my talented scene partners. The hardest parts were not being able to scream and getting through the one day we didn’t have coffee on set. It’s in post right now, and I’m excited to see where it goes. Other than that, I’m currently packing to move on-campus at SCAD, where I have plans to write and direct a short film. I’m excited to get behind the camera and collaborate with other people again.
 
 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/annagustavsen.png" align="right" width="400" height="80"/>

What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 
I really loved Wandavision. The direction Marvel is taking their content in is so new and interesting, and it was fun to share that viewing experience with people all over the world who were tuning in every week. I’ve also been watching a ton of Criminal Minds, which has definitely gotten me through the past year at home. I actually got to chat briefly with Matthew Gray Gubler a few weeks ago, who plays Spencer on the show. The episodes he’s directed are so terrifyingly creepy, I’d love to work with him one day.
 
 
If you could work/be on any show, what show would that be?
 
I mentioned Wandavision, but it would be mind-blowing to work on literally any Marvel project. I think every actor shares that goal– if not Marvel, entering into any franchise that universally loved would be such a magical experience. Another show like that for me would be Doctor Who. I haven’t kept up with the later seasons as much, but David Tennant shaped my childhood. Realistically, my dream show to work on would be any show I’m lucky enough to get cast in. The shooting schedules for those kinds of projects seem insane but I would be so thrilled to do anything of that scale.
 
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 
Have fun with it! If there’s any time to not take yourself too seriously, it’s when you first start. There’s a certain beauty about being able to take roles in little projects that very few people will see. This is your time to fall in love with what you do and make art without the threat of a bad review hanging over your head. It’s inevitable that we’ll all look back at the early phases of our careers and cringe, but everything I’m doing right now will always hold a special place in my heart.
 
 
What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 
I think making the mental distinction between goals you can achieve on your own and goals you can’t is a really healthy thing to do for yourself as an actor. It’s helped me figure out what my personal relationship with success is, because that definition is so different for everybody. For example, deciding you’re going to submit yourself for a certain number of roles by the end of the week is a goal you have total control over, as opposed to saying you want to get nominated for an Oscar by the time you’re thirty. Those goals are fun to set for yourself too, but it’s easy to get discouraged when you aren’t frequently checking things off your list. Making that distinction helps me feel more in control of my traction, especially in an industry like this one. I’m only eighteen, so I’m just taking it day by day. 
 
 
Where can we find you on social?
 
[Website](https://annagustavsen.wixsite.com/annagustavsen)
 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/ajgus/?hl=en)

Anna Gustavsen on Being A Student Filmmaker & Actress

Glorianne "Glo" Cody is a Brooklyn based Voice Actor and Owner/Executive Producer of Robo-c Raptor, a full-service production company. Glo has voiced and produced commercial content for some of the world’s largest brands. She is a member of SAG-AFTRA and represented by Atlas Talent Agency and Benz Talent. She is one of six members of an all-female indie improv group called HEMLOCK, and performs stand up comedy in a non-pandemic world.

 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/glocody.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>

Tell us about your credits. What have you worked on?
 
I’ve worked on mostly commercial & branded content, as both a producer and voice actor. Between TV commercials, social media ads, photoshoots and the occasional music video, I’ve worked with some of the worlds largest brands, including Motorola, Lenovo, CVS, Chapstick, IBM, Comcast, Culturelle, LG Mobile, Ford, and Morgan Stanley, to name a few.

Once upon a time, I was an intern and PA at the Jerry Springer Show.
 
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool?
 
I’m producing a “Masterclass” like series for a major ﬁnancial brand. In my other job, I’m submitting lots of really fun auditions. I just upgraded my home studio booth and I’m really excited about it!
 
 
What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 
WandaVision! And I don’t even care about the Marvel Universe!
 
 
If you could work/be on any show, what show would that be?
 
As a producer, I’d love to produce a beautiful piece like the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
As a voice actor I would LOVE to work on the animated series Archer. That would be a dream gig!
 
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 
As a producer, networking is absolutely key. Connect with people online and ask them to share their stories. Take on an entry level (PA) or intern position at a production company, agency, or TV show and learn what different types of produc-on roles are out there. There’s so much to learn, but you can only take one bite at a time.

As a voice actor, educate yourself on the type of work that’s out there and where you might fit in. Be aware of the costs and expectation of a voice actor, and should you decide to enter into the field be patient, keep at it, and never stop taking classes. Get lots of coaching in the area you want to work in before you ever cut a demo or start auditioning for work.
 
 
What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 
Be patient with yourself. No one knows where the industry (or the world) is headed, but it’s definitely changing. That’s not a bad thing! Be flexible enough to roll with the punches and keep in touch with the latest trends and technologies. The world will keep on turning and you need to be ready when it does.

Also, always have a production or voiceover reel handy to share with a potential client. Keep it updated, you never know when people are looking at it. If you don’t have one, make sure you keep a copy of everything you’ve worked on so you can make one.
 
 
How can we find you?
 
www.gloriannecody.com

Glo Cody on Producing & Acting - How To Do Both

Clarice Quinn Taylor has been a social media influencer for over 10 years. They spend their time to learn more about social media marketing strategies. In their free time, they enjoy spending time with their friends and family, going to the beach and enjoying the freedom they have been granted by building up a successful business that allows them to travel and work from home. 

 

<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/Q%26A+Series/claricetaylor.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>

Tell us about your company. What projects have you worked on?
 
Culture Slate is a new entertainment media start-up that myself, and the CEO Chris Seekell created out of our living room and to date we have gotten more than 4 million views on our articles on our website and over 100k followers on facebook. We’ve also created various podcasts and series on our YouTube channel, Culture Slate. 
 
 
What are you working on right now? Anything cool?
 
We just launched our first major podcast ‘Star Wars Culture’ a weekly live podcast where we discuss interesting topics and interview authors, celebrities, and other podcasters about everything and anything Star Wars. The focus of Star Wars Culture is to bring together as many diverse voices into one place to discuss the thing that bonds us all together. Star Wars. 
 
 
What’s your favorite TV show of 2021?
 
Wandavision, but Star Wars The Bad Batch premiers May 4th so it is about to be overshadowed.
 
 
What’s one thing you do often that inspires you to continue to create?
 
Inspiration comes to me in many different ways. I consumer other creatives’ work on a daily basis whether that’d be music videos, visualizers, recaps, movies and etc. which often links me to tie their visual components to an artist’s demo. More often than not, I plug my headphones in, go for a walk and let my mind run free with imagination. This could result in a simple idea for a shot or a complex storyline music video. Sometimes inspiration just hits you out of nowhere. But those two really help me get the creative juices flowing. 
 
 
This or that - Netflix or Disney+?
 
Disney+ for sure.
 
 
What advice do you have for others looking to break into the industry?
 
My biggest tip? Don’t diversify too much. The biggest mistake I have seen in my over 10 years in this industry is stretching yourself out too much. You should think to yourself, what are the two or three social media platforms that you can maximize and focus all of your time on? ‘Would you like to be really good at a few things or sort of good at a lot of things,’ is what I ask myself
 
 
What’s one insider tip to success you’d give for others in 2021?
 
Everyone has a passion, and if you share that passion others will find you. Not everyone will make it big but you miss 100% of shots you don’t make.
 
 
How can we find you?
 
 
[Website](https://www.linktr.ee/CultureSlate )

Clarice Quinn Taylor Chats Culture Slate and Podcasting

Lacey here! My close friends know that I absolutely LOVE horror movies. I could probably have an incredibly in-depth conversation about my favorite ones, the best production houses that produce them, and the passion and art of telling a horror movie. I'm a horror movie buff... you get the point. 

Auditioning for a role in a horror movie can be incredibly tough. So - I wanted to put together a list of movies in which I felt the acting was above and beyond. Hopefully these movies will help you draw inspiration for your next big audition.

<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> The Blair Witch Project (Netflix) </center>
<iframe width="852" height="477" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a_Hw4bAUj8A" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> As Above So Below (Netflix) </center>
<iframe width="852" height="479" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fq358xHbzN4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> Sinister 2 (Hulu) </center>
<iframe width="852" height="479" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fChx_YZUAR0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> A Quiet Place (Amazon Prime) </center>
<iframe width="852" height="479" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WR7cc5t7tv8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center>Lights Out (Hulu) </center>
<iframe width="852" height="479" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6LiKKFZyhRU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> The Haunting in Connecticut (Netflix) </center>
<iframe width="705" height="529" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MRJA3lN0xCQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> The Devil Inside (HBO) </center>
<iframe width="852" height="479" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MVpcszlYT7s" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> Paranormal Activity (Amazon Prime) </center>
<iframe width="839" height="472" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zR2cc1BwdmI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
<center> The Babadook (Netflix) </center>
<iframe width="852" height="479" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k5WQZzDRVtw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
And there you have it! While there are tons of incredible horror movies out in the universe, these are just a handful of my favorites in which I felt the acting was spot on. I'd love to hear your thoughts! DM me on Casting Depot or Tweet us at @castingdepot 🔥

Acting in Horror Movies

“Why fit in when you were born to stand out” is a phrase we have all heard a million times. However, in the acting world, it’s an essential cliche to follow. Breaking into the acting industry is no easy feat. It’s a competitive industry that’s very subjective at times. So - what do you need to stand out from the thousands of other talented applicants? Listing special skills on your Casting Depot profile may be just the answer. 

Here are four commonly asked questions from our community, answered.
 
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
<ul class="indent-list">
Which skills should I include?
 The Casting Depot platform is the only platform for every type of on-camera talent. Are you an expert in a certain field? List your expertise. Are you a theater actor? List your musical talent, dance ability and accents. Are you a TV/film actor? Languages, accents and basic stage combat are all useful skills to list when applying to a gig. Think about what makes you unique and list as many skills as you can. It doesn’t hurt.

Are there any skills that should not be included?
 Some casting directors believe that your skills have the potential to show your personality. If these skills can be translated onto screen somehow, put them on your resume! These funky skills could include unicycle riding, being able to recite the alphabet backwards, or being the fastest person in the world to solve a rubik's cube. But don’t be ridiculous. Skills like reading, babysitting, or eating tacos waste valuable space on your profile. 
 
	 
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/advice+articles/specialskills.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>
Should I learn a new skill for a role?
 The answer is 'yes'! Learning new skills will not only help you land the role you want, but can also play an essential role in your overall career. If a character knows how to play the guitar, it helps if you know how to play as well. Learning skills also helps you steer your own career. For instance - if you want to be on Broadway, learn different types of dance. Acting is a craft that you can continuously improve on.

Can I lie about a skill, even if I’m currently learning it?
 Never lie about a skill you have. Be upfront and honest. If you are learning how to play the piano, you can say that you are learning. It’s very possible that a casting director will move you on to the next phase of casting because you have a certain attribute listed on your profile. It’d be incredibly awkward if you listed something that was dishonest - especially if you make it to the following interview stage in the casting process. Faking a skill not only wastes the casting director’s time, but also yours.
</li>
</ul>

Aspiring actors often wonder how they can stand out from the pack when applying for roles. Skills are what separate you from others. Listing thos skills on your Casting Depot profile may be just what you need to make you stand out from the crowd.

Sign into your Casting Depot profile [here](https://www.castingdepot.com) to get started.

Four Questions About Special Skills, Answered

Most people are aware that they'll need to prepare for an audition but are not really sure what this means. I've seen thousands of auditions, hosted hundreds of casting calls and have spoken to - who knows how many - on-camera talent from all walks of life. Here are a few mistakes I see happen often that are easily avoidable. 
 
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>

1.Know what you're auditioning for.
 I know this may sound a bit silly - but hear me out. You'd be suprised how often casting directors come across auditions in which the talent doesn't know what show they're auditioning for. This can be for a handful of reasons - such as talent getting auditions mixed up (because their audition calendar is full and unorganized) or they're simply not prepared. In sum, preparation is key to nailing your audition. How do you prepare? Here are some pointers:
<ul class="indent-list">1. Be on time.
 2. Practice your lines (if it's a scripted audition).
 3. Dress for the part.
 4. Research the production company and know what they generally cast for.
5. Remember to smile when your audition starts.
</ul>

2. Be descriptive with you responses.
 If you're auditioning for an unscripted show - such as a gameshow, talkshow or dating show - you'll be asked a ton of fun personality questions during your interview. The casting director will most likely ask you to answer all of your responses in complete sentences. For instance, if they ask you what your favorite color is, you should respond with "my favorite color is...". Because their voice will most likely be cut out of the interview, answering the question in full sentences will give the person who watches the video, context. 
<img src="https://castingdepot.imgix.net/blog/guides/fourmistakes3.png" align="left" width="400" height="80"/>
 
 
3. Be in a quiet space. 
 The talent that does video auditions in quiet spaces are unsung heros. This is your big interview, so treat it like one! Here are some tips:
<ul class="indent-list">1. Quiet spaces are not cars or communal offices. 
 2. Put your dogs in a separate room, and turn your phone on DNB.
 3. If you won't be in a quiet space during the time of your interview, ask the poster if you can reschedule. They'll appreciate that you were proactive!
</ul>
 
4. Look like your photos.
 On your Casting Depot profile, we make it easy to upload you media to your profile. Head to your Settings, and click Edit Profile. 

If you've had a recent hair change, added some cool tattoos or got lasik eye surgery, it's most likely time to update your profile photos. We recommend renewing your photos at least once a year. Need a photographer? Head to your groups and ask the Casting Depot community for a recommendation.
 
<img src="https://www.datocms-assets.com/23925/1605630461-divider.png" align="center"/>
 
You’ve finally gotten your perfect audition after what may feel like a long time coming. Your mom is proud, you’re excited, and you can’t wait to start dreaming of your future as a famous actor/actress. Let’s be honest - once you get in the door with those casting directors it’s all about what you can show them once they see you in person. So, use this article as a guide to help you to prepare and finally book that next gig. 

Ready to take the plunge? Sign up for Casting Depot [here](https://www.castingdepot.com/signup).

The 4 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Auditioning

Picking an audition song can be tough for anyone. However, songs for male teenagers with changing voices can be tougher. Here are some examples of great audition songs for teenage males, from 12-18 years old:

<ul class="indent-list">
	<li>

“Santa Fe” from Newsies (tenor) 
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QsfrVvDuoos" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“Proud of Your Boy” from Aladdin (tenor, baritone) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q_CKQq7Y1H8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“Be Prepared” from The Lion King (bass) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Cu5xp9TanEA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“Being a Geek” from 13 (tenor) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ftGymBwN7n0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“Waving Through a Window” from Dear Evan Hansen (tenor) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kfnMvo87fQU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“Those Magic Changes” from Grease (tenor) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MBVTOZeaLI0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“I Believe” from Book of Mormon (tenor) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e370GUVRlQo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“All Good Gifts” from Godspell (tenor) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nlagfh5eFP4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“I’ll Cover You (Reprise)” from Rent (bass, baritone) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZL0kfzf71BM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
		
“Sherry” from Jersey Boys (tenor) 
	<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Bo_NS5uaDfI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
	
	</li>
</ul>

Acting