Strategies for Finding Auditions as an Actor Without an Agent

As an independent actor seeking auditions, finding opportunities beyond traditional avenues can be a challenge. This article explores effective strategies for discovering auditions, focusing on methods that do not involve using agents, backstages, cold applying on social media, or paid subscription-based online casting lists.

Understanding the Market

While services like those in New York City, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Atlanta may sell you their lists of auditions, many producers prefer to hire union talent. This is because nonunion actors can only work within a certain timeframe and may be subject to fines from organizations like SAG if employed when 95% of union members are unemployed. Once you sign with a union, you cannot take nonunion work, or you may face fines and suspension.

Utilizing Voice Acting Opportunities

For voice actors, there are several effective ways to find auditions directly. Platforms like Production Hub and Mandy provide listings for companies that hire voice actors. Networking on LinkedIn can connect you with potential clients, and a professional approach, including a demo and a simple website, can increase your chances of landing roles.

Direct Marketing Yourself

Direct marketing is crucial for independent actors. Before you begin cold calling or emailing potential clients, ensure you are fully prepared. This means:

Cleaning up your skills and delivery to a professional level Hiring a coach or mentor to assist with your practice Creating a professional demo reel Setting up a website to house your demo and contact information

Companies that hire voice actors want to see immediate value. If they like your voice, they will want to hire you with a job completed as quickly as possible. Practice and preparation are key to success.

Increasing Your Visibility

To increase your chances of landing auditions, consider pursuing a larger workload. If you have the capacity, aim to contact 100 companies per week or even per day. Here are some steps to follow:

Create a spreadsheet and make your own tracking sheet to keep organized and measure progress. Follow up with companies showing interest at least once per month. Analyze your results to identify your conversion rate and adjust your approach accordingly. Knowing your conversion rate allows you to determine the number of contacts needed to meet your financial goals.

This method may sound like sales, but it is a necessary component of successful independent acting.

Small Budget Films and Casting Calls

For aspiring actors, there are opportunities in mid-sized and low-budget films that do not require agency representation. These films often post casting calls on websites and distribute their ads through assistant directors and local artist communities. If you are genuinely interested, you can find these opportunities by:

Following industry news and updates Socializing within local artist forums and networks Directly contacting production assistants and producers

By actively seeking out these hidden gems, independent actors can increase their visibility and grow their careers.

Conclusion

While traditional networking through agents and paid casting platforms remains the norm for many actors, independent actors have a variety of strategies to find auditions. By leveraging direct marketing, improving your skills, and being persistent, you can open up a world of opportunities in the entertainment industry.