Not All Auditions Are Performed Equally

When the average person thinks of an acting audition, they picture someone walking out on stage or going into a room to read lines for a group of casting executives. These examples are still sometimes true but they are not always the case these days. There are many times actors audition for parts and are not in the same room with the casting director. Here are some examples of how auditions are currently conducted in Hollywood:

In-Person - The traditional way to audition and one of the methods most preferred by actors. Being in the room with the casting director not only gives actors an audience during the audition, it also allows for instant feedback. The casting director can ask for a different read of the script. He or she might even give the actor a different scene or part to read for on the spot. While it can be a nerve-wracking experience for the person auditioning, the fact that the casting person is there in person allows for an immediate connection to be made in the room.

Eco-Cast - This form of auditioning is provided by a company called Breakdown Services and they provide casting services to the entertainment industry. The service allows casting directors to send audition invites to actors, or their representatives, to record an audition. Once the auditions are recorded, they are sent to the casting office through the designated Eco-Cast account. This method allows a larger number of actors to audition since they don't have to be in the same city as the casting director. It does take away the intimate aspect of the casting process since the audition is simply recorded to be viewed at a later date.

iPhone - While this method is like an Eco-Cast since the actor is recording the audition for the casting director, there are a few ways that it differs as well. When an audition is recorded for submission, an actor normally tries to go into a studio with professional cameras and a generic background so there won't be anything distracting from the performance, Filming on an iPhone gives a greater sense of urgency as well as more of an intimate and "in the moment" feel. Plus, it allows actors to show off their creativity by choosing the manner in which it is filmed as well as any effects or tricks they want to add to make the audition stand out beyond their performance.

No matter which audition method is used by an actor, the end goal is to land the role and be part of the production. Zach has an audition to record on an iPhone this week and he is already thinking of ways to use the phone to his advantage during the recording process. With all of the audition methods available these days, can virtual reality auditions be far behind?

Besides his audition this week, this actor is preparing material for the Burbank Comedy Festival.