Karen Crumley's Lounge Discussions

Karen it might be due to your location. If not many productions are going on, there won't be as many opportunities for background work. I'm not sure what sites you're on, but in LA I know central casting is good. Might want to look them up? As far as your look- I would stay true to yourself. You'll definitely be exactly what a project is looking for at some point!

Any agency in LA EXCEPT Central Casting. they are not good. They treat you like crap and barely work you. Most everyone in Hollywood hates them and refuses to use them. I recommend Sande Alessi, and Jeff Olan as the two best background agencies in LA. there about 30.

Since you are in Texas, it will be hard to be an extra in LA. (Unless you are moving there.) If you are close enough to a big city, that you can travel to on short notice, you may want to consider getting an agent there. (Dallas, Austin, San Ant, or Houston) Your little town of 1800 people probably won't have many opportunities for extras. Also instead of listing your actual age, you could just have an age range: 48-60. That way, you can dress younger if needed for a younger role, or fix your hair appropriate for the age you might be auditioning for. Most agents will use a range, instead of actual age anyway. But when submitting yourself, use the range. I hope that can help you. :-)

You need a management or any services that acts on your behalf and submits for you, like the management office across the street from central casting. the problem isn't your head shots, location, or whatever. the problem is THEY DON'T KNOW YOU. which means they don't know if your RELIABLE, SHOW UP LATE, etc. so get a

Thank you, Alle! That was really great advice. I will do that.

Ken Dohse you nailed it!! Everything is happening in Atlanta! Atlanta is where the features are. Hollywood birth the sitcoms. Producers and execs are more open and less fame driven. Actors are booking everything from commercials to working side by side with legends in the industry. If you're looking to expand as an actor, writer, etc. Atlanta, GA is the best move. I spent some time there doing research to complete a data analysis for film production. Not saying it's "easier", but the creative vibe and outlook it much different!

Hi Dan- Yes, I agree, getting extra actor work is extremely brutal. I tried for extra actor work in Pittsburgh, PA and I was surprised by all the talent there. It's important to let them know what talents you have, important skills you have, can you relate to having that extra role with your skills and jobs you do? Participate in movie groups, get involved in your local area. You've got to hustle and keep knocking and get involved in something and keep working your way up. Good Luck- Ed Skirtich

There's ALWAYS work in LA! If you are at the beginning of your career, I recommend looking for roles in the student short films. Chapman does some great work and I loved working with the AFI students when I started out. I've been loving the podcast, Audrey Helps Actors if you need help focusing on finding work. Keep at it! And Break a Leg!

Yes .True. Work slow for the past few months. Don t get frustrated. It will take few years to be success what we want in US. Until that time we have to struggle. Don t give up. I was well established in my country . But in LA, everyday life is challenge. I am also waiting for a right time to make my second feature. Looking for producers. For survival, central , LA casting etc etc.. ! Cheers

lacasting.com is predominantly used for extra work. Just keep applying...

Hi, Jessica. Welcome to Stage 32!

For you must preservere to the ened

Sounds like you have some cool things going on, very nice. Congrats on that.

Thanks,for adding me Jessica. Wish you prosperity in your endeavors. Peace

You sound fairly accomplished. Congratulations! I would love to parlay my amateur community acting into something more. Certainly getting equity status would help but I'm not geographically situated to capitalize on the kinds of productions that will earn me credit toward that. Someone with some knowledge told me to get an agent. Is that important? Are there legitimate website agencies? How do I go that route and know that I'm getting what I pay for? What should I expect? "So much time, so little to do." Sorry, I couldn't resist a favorite movie quote of mine. I do quirky well. Thanks for any suggestions you can offer.