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| |  | Hi Guys
Well we have had a busy week here, answering all the emails generated by our newsletter last week. For the new readers, it was along the lines of "desperation" in actors and how when you are desperate, you make classic mistakes, and are open to being ripped off, and doing embarrassing things that harm your career.
When I share this frustration with you, it is not because I am the expert actor, it is because I too was once in that place, those of you who know my story, know I got ripped off by dodgy agents that got shown on A Current Affair. I was so desperate I would have done anything!.
And for actors, that is a bad place to be in.
However, many of us have started from that place and your acting career only turns around when you start getting the right info.
What frustrates me is that we have all the info at Quiet On Set, to help you make the right choices, to help you get active, build your cv, do the right training etc.
It is all there, it is cheap.......and still, actors just want to get famous and get rich. They underestimate how hard the business is and how hard you have to work.
One of the steps as an actor and as a human being is to recognise how you are percieved by others and to recognise what your product presents to the world. The PRODUCT being yourself. Now I know, that as an actor, you SHOULD be able to play a range of characters, but....there are physical limitations.
EG: If the audition is for a role that requires an African-American, I will definately not apply.
If a role requires a 12yr old male, I will not apply ( Don't laugh!) , if the casting notice is for an Italian woman, I will not apply.
(Yes, there are blond Italian women but in the world of casting, the physicality given is specific. When you think Italian looking, you are meant to think dark hair and eyes).
TVC's are worse for type casting on look as there is only 30-45 seconds to create the scene and get the message across to the audience about the product. If they are looking for a drug dealer, I would not fit the brief, if they are looking for a gangster, rule me out, likewise a snowboarder.
However, yes, I can definately do; teacher, mum, shopper, real estate agent, business woman, sporty mum. Interestingly, I don't pass as the 1920's look, way too tall and beachy. I also don't do nasty too well, as I am just too nice and I have a softness in my eyes that always gives me away.
So, guys, you have to recognise what product you are/have/are selling to the casting director/producer, and then keep focused on that.
Some actors are chameleons, think Kate Blanchett, Toni Collette, Tom Hanks but some are not and are very much typecast for the same type of role - successfully - Owen Wilson, Meg Ryan, George Clooney, Patrick Dempsey. Do we believe George Clooney or Brad Pitt playing the nerd or the loser- I don't think so. Do they do savvy hero - absolutely.
So thanks to all those who wrote in with a giggle, all remembering a time when we can from that place.
For those who are new to the industry I would highly recommend you grab a copy of one of our CHEAP info packs/e-zines. They are available in the online bookstore.
Definately the first place to start getting the right info and learning how the industry works.
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The casting board is full again, remember to E-Pitch properly and have fun at those auditions.
Cheers
Lee Donehue
READER FEEDBACK
Hi Lee
I loved your last email. You put such a smile on my face. I have been working with an agent as her assistant for sometime now and I am always amazed at the audacity of some "actors". Some people think that simply
wanting it will make it happen.
I have so often heard the "only put me up for lead roles and Hollywood movies"....and the actor has no training or experience! What are they thinking!!!! Would someone give an untried untrained person the job of a CEO
in a big company with no training and no experience!! I think not.
Guys, get off your butts and feel the pain of working hard for the dream....and it is hard work!! You are up against degreed ctors....and the casting agents can pick the eye teeth out of the talent presented to them....and turn up on TIME!!!!!
Also, be aware of your type. If an audition for Hi 5 comes up ...and you are almost 40.....you are not a match!!!!! Even if you think you are perfect and can do it better than all those teeny boppers!
Now that I've vented......on a more pleasant note.....
Alex (he is almost 16 now!!!) has been working hard at this for 9 years and is now starting to reap the rewards. He has applied for his USA 01 VISA....which should hopefully be through in the next 6 weeks. He used all the money he has saved over the years acting to pay for it. He told me he doesn't want a car or anything else in life....he just wants to act. So, following his dream, we are cashing in our savings and taking him to LA for a month. His new LA agent has been wonderful and very roactive.........we fly out on the 22/1.....so keep your fingers crossed for him.
I will keep you posted......nothing may happen.....but we will never know if we don't try!! In the meantime, he is off to Canberra next week to do an unpaid Short Film to keep his skills up.
Live the dream!
All the best...and thanks for your continued efforts.
Anne R
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Note from Lee:
Thanks Anne, and for our readers, Alex is a 16 yr old who has a cv that is PAGES long. He is a very hard working actor, that lives in Newcastle and he and his mum always came down to the QOS Actors Info days. At the last event, Alex got up and did a scene with All Saints Producer, Bill Hughes. An amazing young man who I hope will remember us when he is accepting an Oscar!
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Dear Lee,
Please remove the PAID WORK audition notice as we have had a great response.
Please convey my sincere thanks for the work you guys are doing especially for the smaller professional companies.
Peter
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Thanks heaps Lee. Wow I love your editorial on today's email! :)
KATE
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Hi there Lee, have been a loyal follower for two years and very much enjoyed your publication.
Albert
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Can I just say also how happy I am that I have joined QOS and that I have recommended it to many friends . I believe it to be the premium casting site and will definitely be renewing my membership!
Deborah
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Hi Lee,
I read your news letter and it was really helpful and inspiring. I had a think about things after reading your news letter and I have changed things in my life.
I have given myself more time to do what I love, which is acting. I am enrolled to do a 6 week audition technique course starting 4th nov, 08, and I am enrolled to do a musical theatre course next year. I am currently applying to audition for speaking roles in short films and theatre productions.
Your E-pitch tutorial was so helpful. I have already got an audition which is this friday for a short film. Thank you so much.
Natalie
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Hi Lee,
I just wanted to say thank you very much for the tickets to Bondi Dreaming. It was a fabulous show, one of the best I've seen for a long time.
Best regards,
Ali
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| | | |  Latest Quiet On Set News
| | | | TOP | | | How To Apply for an Audition - 30 October 2008
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All the contact details are in the members area. If you are not a member, you need to SUBSCRIBE. Just click on the SUBSCRIBE tab at the home page and follow the prompts as you scroll down. PAID WORK - VARIED ROLES - SYDNEY ACTORS ONLY - 30 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
LOOKING FOR: ** Anglo guys late teens to 25, to play out of control youths, need some edge about them, hard looks, they attack a Muslim family in a car, think Cronulla riots.
**BIKIES, big blokes with tatts etc, part of a bikie gang.
** ASIAN guys 20-40s, tough, edgy looks to play gangsters etc.
** MIDDLE EASTERN MEN - tough guys, louts, older to play possible Sheiks or religious leaders.
EURASIAN GIRL - 6-10 years, pretty. UNREPRESENTED ACTORS ONLY. Casting 6 Women 'Bombshells' - Theatre - 28 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
Women from a range of age groups are welcome to apply. We are casting :
4 x women with playing age 20-30,
1 with playing age 40-55,
1 with playing age 55-65. Auditions are being held for the 2009 Soft Edges production of 'Bombshells' by Joanna Murray-Smith, to be performed on and around International Women's Day in March. PAID WORK -Comedy Skit/Promo - 28 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
Looking for versatile male actor 20's -30's who is comfortable with improv and comedy. Bloody Beach - Graduate Short FIlm - 28 October 2008
Sydney and Kiama,NSW
Looking to cast the following roles: ** JOE- Age 21. Troubled character. Tough childhood. Not physically strong. ** JAKE- Age 23. Keen beach local. Surf life saver. Matured but still air of arrogance. Healthy, tanned, fit.
** CRAIGOS - Father, immigrant to Australia. European or middle eastern background. 35-45 years. ** YOUNG JOE- Age 13. Son of Craigos. Keen surfer, gets bullied, passive.
** YOUNG JAKE Age 15. Local bully, surfer, arrogant.
** PETE Age 15. Jakes friend, bully sidekick. Possibly indigenous background.
**FEATURED EXTRAS-
Younger couple- Enjoying day at beach, sun-baking.
Older couple- Also relaxing on sand, possibly playing board game, reading.
2 x children- Playing in the sand, having fun. PAID WORK - FEATURE FILM -ANIMAL KINGDOM - 27 October 2008
Melbourne,VIC
A feature film starring Guy Pearce, Ben Mendelsohn and Joel Edgerton, Animal Kingdom tells the story of 17 year old J, as he navigates his survival amongst an explosive criminal family and a detective who thinks he can save him. Open Casting Call in Melbourne 7th - 10th November for 17 - 20 year old Melbourne based actors (male and female). A BRAND NEW TV SHOW & WE NEED A HOST - 27 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
So you think you can host a TV show? We're looking for more than just a presenter, as this show is about engaging with people from all over Sydney and topics ranging from politics and philosophy to relationships and the risqué. We want a media savvy host who isn't afraid to ask the challenging questions, preferably someone with a journalism background. We're also on the look out for Roving Presenters who will engage with the public all over Sydney. 4 x Males aged 20-70 For playreading - 24 October 2008
Melbourne,VIC
Comedy/Surreal Drama set in the bush needs 4 Male Actors. "Electric Fence" is a new play by writer Samantha Hill that has received funding to be produced as a playreading in November. We require actors for the following roles: Jack, 20s
Richard, 20s/30s
Stephen, 40s/50s
Albert, 60s/70s. Independent feature film - 4 x Female Roles - 21 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
I am currently casting for an independent feature being shot around Easter next year and I am looking to fill a number of small female roles. Characters:
Alex, Dream Girl, Samantha and Woman in Flashback The movie is about 4 guys in their late 20's who decide to go up to the Gold Coast and crash schoolies week. The movie is in the same vein as the American Pie films, Road trip and Porky's. Full character details in members area. PAID WORK - Shakespeare By the Sea - 19 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
Auditions for 12 actors for 2009 season. Profit share company. Short and Sweet - Directors required - 19 October 2008
Newtown,NSW
Short and Sweet is currently looking for directors to direct ten minute plays. Experience not required. XIMOUS - Sex in the Stone Age - 18 October 2008
Melbourne,VIC
Csaw Production - For c31 air time. Now casting for Females and males - for Channel 31 TV viewing - every saturday night 10.30 pm. PAID WORK - 2009 Theatre Touring Season - 15 October 2008
Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney,0
Auditions for the largest touring theatre company in Australia. We have been established for 24 years and tour in schools Across Australia. We employ 20-30 actors, performing more than 2000 shows to over 400,000 students every year. We need responsible, energetic actors, minimum age of 19 years, male and female (with a playing range of 16 - 25 years). Auditioning in Brisb, Syd and Melb. Heir Raising Male & Female Roles - 9 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
Heir Raising is a new play from Sydney playwright Barry Lowe and will be the featured theatre piece at the 2009 gay Mardi Gras Festival. Heir Raising is a 4 hander (3 males 1 female) and will be directed by Elaine Hudson. Actor Required for the role of "Duane" a 20-25yo male. Actor will need to be gym fit, attractive and fully supportive of gay theatre. Ideally aActor will be featured on posters and in the mardi gras guide. ALSO - A 40+ female actress to play 4 supporting roles including "The Mother, The Head Mistress, The Marriage Celebrant & Bella the aging prostitute" Casting for dating show - 5 October 2008
Sydney,NSW
Neon Pictures in association with Champagne Media are looking for singles to star in a new reality dating game show. So if you're:
. Single
. Aged between 25 - 45
. Living in Sydney . and interested in winning some fabulous prizes, we want to hear from you. Send us an email detailing why you're single, include a photograph and your contact details and we'll be in touch very soon. Natural Redheads Required for Doco - 30 September 2008
Sydney,NSW
Shooting has begun on a no-budget documentary about redheads. A number of natural redheads are still needed to help bring this doco to life. Shooting takes place during the day in Sydney. Each redhead will be interviewed and featured prominently in this documentary about the history of redheads. Male and female redheads of all ages and walks of life are welcome to apply to be part of this project. The only criteria is that you must be a natural redhead who is still currently a redhead. MALE ACTOR/DANCER - Contemporary Theatre - 5 July 2008
sydney,NSW
Looking for a Male actor strong medium/solid build. height needed 5"8-5"10 For the role of Heathcliff. Rough Dark and brooding in good physical shape. Must have a strong dance ability contempory/ballet based prefered. Payment TBA/profit share | | TOP | | | Film Competitions MOVIE EXTRA TROPFEST 2009 OFFICIAL CALL FOR ENTRIES
Filmmakers will be rolling out their video cameras with the Movie Extra Tropfest 2009 official call for entries now open!
The 2009 Tropfest Signature Item (TSI) is Spring - apt as the festival, to be held on Sunday 22 February 2009, has been the spring board for launching many an aspiring Aussie filmmaker's career.
As 2009 promises to deliver an even bigger and better experience for filmmakers, Aussie 'Spielbergs' are being urged to get in quick and visit the new look Tropfest website
www.tropfest.com/au for entry details before the Thursday 8 January 2009 deadline.
Trop Jr 2008 - CALL FOR ENTRIES!
Entry to Trop Jr 2008 is officially open! Now in it's second year, and created by the folks who bring you Tropfest, TROP JR is a short filmmaking competition open to kids aged 15 years and younger. So if you are a budding young filmmaker - or just want to have some fun with your friends - grab a camera and start shooting your masterpiece!
There are only a few general rules:
Your film must be specifically made for Trop Jr 2009
Your film must include the 2009 Trop Jr Signature Item SQUEEZE
Trop Jr 2009 must be your film's first public screening
Your film must be 7 minutes or less (including titles and credits)
Your film must be suitable for children under 15
The Filmmaker, and each participant in a group entry other than the nominated parent or legal guardian must be 15 years or younger on Thursday 8 January 2009.
| | TOP | | State By State | | New South Wales | What's On? | | What's On INTRODUCING VENUE HIRE AT METRO SCREEN
Extra space for your festival
Cast and crew screening
Forum, seminar or talk
Test screening
Expand your next festival, provide alternate venues for your audience and take advantage of this convenient and welcoming venue.
High ceilinged, air conditioned room, seats 50 comfortably and comes complete with the use of 60 chairs, two trestle tables, 2m wall mounted screen, Benq Data Projector, [MP620C, 2000 Lumens, analogue and HDMI connectivity], Yamaha Stage Pass PA system.
Plus the use of our:
box office area
large reception/waiting space, ideal for catered functions
green room
kitchen facilities
and a technical assistant
$250 flat rate for up to 5 hrs between Monday and Saturday. Please call for Sunday rates.
Our central Sydney location in the Paddington Town Hall sits alongside the Chauvel Cinema and Radio 2RES. We are well serviced by public transport and close to restaurants, cinemas, cafes and galleries.
Metro Screen invites you to utilise our well fitted out, accommodating and reasonably priced space for the independent filmmaker, regular screening night or larger scale event.
Contact our facilities department on 02 9356 1818 or facilities@metroscreen.org.au
Katrina Beck | Marketing Manager | k.beck@metroscreen.org.au
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Phone: +61 2 9356 1818 Fax: +61 2 9361 5320
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POPCORN TAXI PRESENTS - TRAITOR
PLUS: Live audience Q&A with director Jeffrey Nachmanoff live from Los Angeles after staying up all night watching the US presidential election... an interesting and thought-provoking evening not to be missed!
"fascinating in its portrait of the inner politics and structure of the terrorist group, and comes uncomfortably close to reality..."
Roger Ebert
"A solid, intelligent international thriller showcasing the underrated Don Cheadle in an intriguing and morally ambiguous role."
New York Post
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Wednesday November 5, 7pm
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