Nancy Bishop Casting

I'M MOVING MY BLOG TO MY WEBSITE

2010-10-26T08:11:00.000-07:00

My brilliant tech advisor, Michal Pavlik, moved my blog directly to my website. Now doesn't that make sense? From now on, please see: http://www.nancybishopcasting.com/blog/
for my blog.

Currently casting Czech and Slovakian Actresses.

MICROSOFT COMMERCIAL, OPEN CASTING CALL

2010-10-14T02:03:00.000-07:00

CASTING ANNOUNCEMENT

MICROSOFT COMMERCIAL

Shoots in Prague: 24-28 Oct, 2010

Roles:

CLAUDE: Can be any nationality. Comic. Lead Role. 20s or 30s. He is very awkward, and always says or does the wrong thing. He desperately wants to be liked, but people avoid him. Need accomplished, funny actor who is physically and comically talented.

DANA. American. Mid 30s, mid- higher lever Executive. Smart, capable, not afraid to speak her mind.

ROB. American. Mid 30s. He works for Dana. Smart, nice, helpful, honest normal guy.

LIZA. American. Early 20s, study-abroad college student. Pretty, sweet, warm. Not modelly

MOM+ DAN. American. Liza’s parents. 50s. Normal wholesome Americans. Conservative types

ANNA. American. Early mid 20s. Cool and funny. Good looking and funny. Mary-Lynne Rajskub type.

DAVE. American. Her friend and also early 20s. Good looking, stylish, social, likeable.

THIEF. Any nationality. Steals laptop computer. Must have driver’s license and be able to ride Vespa.

*Fee Structure:

CLAUDE, 18,000kc/day + 120,000kc buyout

DANA, ROB, LIZE, MOM, DANA, ANNA: 18,000kc/day + 40,000kc buyout

DAVE, THIEF: 6,000kc/day + 20,000kc

*PLEASE NOTE ALL FEES INCLUDE AGENCY FEE!!!

Casting Info:

Where: Prague Film School Annex Building

Pstrossova 15, Prague 1, 4^th floor

Near Narodni Divaldo tram stop or Narodni Trida Metro

Time: 10– 18:00

Date: Monday, 18 Oct

For info please call Misa Formanova: 723 704 659

Callbacks will be: Tuesday, 19 Oct.
To answer the below question: Yes, non-Americans can come if they can do the American accent.

SELF CASTING HINTS for SPARTACUS

2010-10-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

Since I'm asking actors to self tape for SPARTACUS, I'll re-post an article that I wrote about this recently in the Actor's Voice: http://more.showfax.com/plus/pov/2010/08/

Also here is an excerpt from my book, Secrets from the Casting Couch.
SELF CASTING DOS and DONTs

SHOOTING:

DO	DON’T
Start with a wide shot that shows your entire body, both profiles, and then zoom in for the introduction. Introduce yourself breifly, saying your name, height and agent.	Announce your age
Keep your shots simple. Face camera and expose at least three quarters of your face most of the time.	Get fancy with editing or shooting.
Have your scene partner read off screen and close to the camera lens	Focus the camera on any actor other than yourself. Unless you want to audition your scene partner as well, the camera should always be on you
Use a simple background	Shoot on a location, use elaborate sets, costumes and props
Sit close to the mic, or get a professional seperate mic	Stand far from the mic, so that your scene partner is louder on the tape then you are
Practise with several takes, but just choose two,	Send in many takes
Choose a variety of takes so that the director can see your range	Send in takes that are exactly the same (there is no point in seeing it twice unless we get more information)
Send in one medium shot (from the waste up) and one close up (just face)	Show a lot of blank wall space over the head of the actor
Upload your file onto a site like yousendit.com, or savefiles.com or send it via Vimeo or You Tube link

CASTING STARRING ROLE IN SPARTACUS

2010-10-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

SPARTACUS BREAKDOWN

Project: Spartacus, Episodic TV Series

Network: Starz, US

Producer: Chloe Smith

Casting Director: Nancy Bishop, Europe

Start Date: January, 2011

Location: New Zealand

Casting for Lead Title Role: Spartacus

Age Range: 25- 38

Physical Type: Muscular, athletic, leader of men, smart, intense, passionate.

Spartacus is a hero with a deep inner intensity. He is a champion gladiator. The actor for this role should have experience with stage combat and be comfortable with showing his body, (there is backside but not frontside nudity). He needs to speak fluent English, preferably with a British accent. The actor must be willing to re-locate to New Zealand for part of the year and sign a three year overall option.

SPARTACUS BLOOD AND SAND is a very popular action/drama series in the US. It dramatizes the lives of gladiators in ancient Rome. The second season continues as Spartacus and his men plot to seek revenge against Rome.

For more information about the role and the series, please see:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8kJ3KlPKjE&feature=related

http://www.starz.com/originals/spartacus

Please send photo and CV to

Casting@nancybishopcasting.com

Please put ‘SPARTACUS’ in the subject heading

AUDITIONS FOR PRAGUE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

2010-10-02T01:25:00.000-07:00

Prague Shakespeare Festival 2011 Season Artistic Company Auditions

WHERE: Prague Film School, Pstrossova 19, P1
WHEN:Sunday October 10th 2010 (Attic Studio in main building) from 13:00 - 16:30 +
Monday October 11th 2010at the (Acting classroom in annex building) from 17:00 - 20:00
PRODUCTIONS: As You Like It and King Lear
PRODUCTION DATES: April 14 - May 1, 2011 in Houston, TX USA and May 11 - 29, 2011 in the Czech Republic.
(Czech actors will be travelled to Texas for rehearsals starting 7 March)
FOR INFORMATION: contact Artistic Director Guy Roberts,
guy@pragueshakespeare.cz

All actors should bring a photo and resume and present one memorized
Shakespeare monologue, performed in English, not exceeding 2 minutes. Actors
should be prepared to stay immediately following their audition in the event
they are called back for Rehearsals for the production will begin March 7,
2011 in Houston, TX. This project is an international collaboration between
the Prague Shakespeare Festival, located in Prague, Czech Republic and the
Classical Theatre Company, located in Houston, TX.

Callback sides from As You Like It and King Lear will be provided for all
actors who are called back. All auditions will be videotaped. Actors who
have previously worked with PSF or Guy Roberts and who are interested in
casting opportunities may contact Guy Roberts directly, bypassing the
general audition and schedule a callback. All others must come to the
general audition and then be invited to callbacks.

All artists selected for participation in the production will be paid
minimum of 4.000cz per week for a total of ten weeks of work (40.000cz).
Individual artists may be offered higher weekly salary commiserate with
experience and scope of work performed. All housing and transportation
expenses to Houston, TX will be paid for by the producers.

All actors will be seen on a first-come, first-serve basis. Designers and
Stage Managers may also come to the open call to submit resumes and
portfolios. Designers and Stage Managers must submit a portfolio and/or
resume that can be taken to Houston for consideration by the producers.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Prague Shakespeare Festival presents professional theatre productions,
workshops, classes, lectures and other theatrical events, of the highest
quality, conducted primarily in English by a multinational ensemble of
professional theatre artists, with an emphasis on the plays of William
Shakespeare, bringing to the Czech Republic, European and World audiences
performances that are fresh, bold, imaginative, thought-provoking, and
eminently accessible, connecting the truths of the past with the challenges
and possibilities of today.

VISION STATEMENT

Presenting high-caliber, classic yet cutting-edge English-language
performances of Shakespeare's timeless, cross-culturally relevant work by a
dedicated ensemble of multinational theatre artists is the core of our
artistic mission. The Prague Shakespeare Festival is dedicated to presenting
to the Czech, European and World community a vibrant professional
Shakespeare theatre, essential in shaping Prague's global culturally dynamic
landscape.

SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH AT DRAMA BOOKSTORE IN NYC

2010-09-28T06:04:00.000-07:00

Please come to a special Casting Symposium in NYC and buy a copy of Secrets from the Casting Couch on Sept 30th:
http://dramabookshop.blogspot.com/2010/09/thurs-sept-30-430-pm-free-casting.html

Boy Actors needed

2010-09-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for 8 yr old boy actors for feature film shooting in Prague in oct. BOYS MUST LIVE IN PRAGUE. Please send photos to casting@nancybishopcasting.com no later than 16 Sept, 2010.

FINAL AUDITION BLOOPER WITH CHIP PERSONS- the accent problem

2010-08-31T11:16:00.000-07:00

Another bad casting. What's wrong with the picture?

THE DIALECT PROBLEM. I see a lot of resumes with several accents listed. I'm always suspicious of actors who have mastered so many dialects (although of course, some have.) The point is, only list the accents that are native to you or that you really have learned, under the direction of a coach. Accents are specific. When you come to the audition, you'll be expected to know the specified accent on that day.

AUDITION BLOOPER #5, CONFUSION ABOUT THE WHOLE PROCESS

2010-08-30T06:59:00.000-07:00

MORE IN THE SERIES OF INTENTIONALLY BAD AUDITIONS

This type of thing happens with novice actors, new to the process, but even experienced actors need to think about orienting themselves in the audition process before entering the room. No one will do it for you. Figure out where you'll place the other characters you're talking to and place them near the lens of the camera so you have a good eye line. There will most definitely be a reader there (either the casting director herself or an assistant.) Some actors prefer to look at the reader, but it's not necessary as long as you have a good eye line near the lens.

AUDITION BLOOPER #4, Chip Persons messes up again.

2010-08-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

More from the deliberately bad audition series. Taking direction from the director or casting director is one of the most important parts of casting. We are sometimes testing to see if you can take direction, and if the director can work with you. Actors often prepare themselves so much that they go on auto-pilot, unable to let performance breath and grow. Also in this audition... you might be surprised how much he is arguing with the direction. Yes, this sometimes happens. It's good to come in with your own ideas but they must be a) consistent with the intent of the script and b) abiding my the director's vision.

BLOOPER Audition #3

2010-08-28T08:30:00.000-07:00

This is not a blooper. Here Chip is making a correction from his last audition, watch:

Now, while the character of Janis (played by me) is speaking, he is not only listening, but reacting. He has a dynamic inner monologue that changes. He'll get plenty of screen time now because we can see his thoughts evolving. The camera likes this.

AUDITION BLOOPER #2

2010-08-26T14:25:00.001-07:00

HERE IS ANOTHER FROM THE SERIES OF INTENTIONALLY BAD AUDITIONS, with Chip Persons

In this clip, Chip is making a classic mistake. He's not listening. He becomes very animated on his own lines, but a zombie while I'm reading. In fact instead of listening and reacting, he is reading his scene partner's lines. Listening is very important in acting, especially on-screen acting when the camera is often on the listener. Don't throw these moments away. If you're good at listening and reacting, you'll get more screen time. Casting directors are looking for this in the audition process.

Audition Bloopers with Chip Persons

2010-08-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

In my classes, I show examples of good auditions so that actors can learn from them. But actors often ask to see BAD auditions t too. I figured that it was in pretty slimy taste (not to mention a breach of trust with actors) to show examples of poor performances. A few months ago, I asked actors to deliberately do some bad auditions for me to post for learning purposes, but actors were shy to come forward... probably because they didn't want anyone to mistake their deliberately bad auditions for unintentionally bad auditions. Anyway, with the help of actor and friend, Chip Persons, I made a series of audition blooper clips. We worked on a scene from Universal Pictures' Wanted. So for the next 6 blogs I'm going to bring you a blooper. He is blooper #1.

In this clip, Chip is site reading the text which is fine since the script had just been handed to him. What's irritating though is that he's reading the stage directions out loud. I have seen this quite a lot. Don't worry about the stage directions. Read them to yourself and you can indicate them in your acting if they're not too complicated (ie slam your fist down if you're meant to be punching) but you don't need to read them. We already know the stage directions.

GLOBAL CASTING AND THE INTERNET

2010-08-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

For those of you who couldn't attend the SAG Foundation Panel Discussion:
GLOBAL CASTING AND THE INTERNET.
Please see this link for a video of the event. I hope it's helpful to those actors who may feel intimidated to put themselves on tape for projects. We have examples of taped auditions here:

http://www.sagfoundation.org/videogallery/liferaft

SELF TAPING FOR FILM AUDITIONS

2010-08-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Please see my ACTORS VOICE POV ARTICLE about SELF TAPING FOR AUDITIONS

LOS ANGELES EVENTS

2010-07-25T02:05:00.000-07:00

I'll be in L.A. 2-8 August to launch SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH. Please join me for one of the following events:

4 Aug, Wed. 6-8pm *CASTING SYMPOSIUM WITH BREAKDOWN SERVICES

7 Aug, Sat, 11- 1:00PM, COLD READING SEMINAR AT SAG FOUNDATION

7 Aug, Sat, 4-6:00PM, **GLOBAL CASTING AND THE INTERNET PANEL WITH THE SNIPER:RELOADED PRODUCTION TEAM AT SAG FOUNDATION

*What: A free casting symposium, sponsored by Breakdown Services, designed to help actors prepare for the upcoming audition season and the launch of Nancy Bishop’s new book, Secrets from the Casting Couch. Casting is now happening fast, online and productions are conducting international searches with the Internet casting systems, giving actors new and unique opportunities. Seven leading casting professionals will explore the changing nature of casting in the Internet age and advise actors on how to gain an edge in the market. There will be a one hour panel followed by a Q+A session.

When: Wednesday, August 4^th, 2010

6:00 – 8:00pm PDT

Refreshments and book signing reception to follow symposium

Where: Showbiz Café

500 S. Sepulveda

Ground Floor

Los Angeles, CA 90049

Booking information: to reserve contact Jenna Albrecht, jennaa@breakdownservices.com

Who: Nancy Bishop, International Casting Director headquartered in Europe (“Prince Caspian,” “The Illusionist,” author of Secrets from the Casting Couch)

Bonnie Gillespie (moderator), Casting Director and Author of Self-Management for Actors

Meg Liberman, Executive Casting Director, CBS/Paramount Gary Marsh (sponsor), owner, Breakdown Services
Rick Pagano, Casting Director (“24,” “X-Men”)
Paul Weber, Casting Director (“Stargate” series)
Gary Marsh: Head of Breakdown Services

**GLOBAL CASTING, AND THE INTERNET

JOIN THE SNIPER RELOADED PRODUCTION TEAM FOR A PANEL DISCUSSION ABOUT CASTING AT SAG FOUNDATION

WHAT: CASTING PANEL DISCUSSION

WHEN: 7 August, Sat.

TIME: 4-6:00pm

WHERE: SAG Foundation

5757 Wilshire Blvd. - Mezzanine Level

Los Angeles, CA 90036

To Book: Contact Rochelle Rose: RRose@sag.org

The production team for the latest film in the Sniper series discusses the immediacy of internet casting and how it impacts working actors.

Casting is happening quickly, globally and online. *Sniper: Reloaded demonstrates a trend of how many productions are now casting. As a South African/German international co-production subsequently acquired by SPE, both American and European actors were pre-selected, interviewed and then hired entirely based on their readings posted online. Actors sent Breakdown Services links to their auditions and the director, Claudio Faeh, conducted his final interviews on Skype.

In this climate, actors must develop not only their acting skills, but also their technological know-how to be ready to book a job.

Casting Panel:

Nancy Bishop, CSA Casting Director, and author of Secrets from the Casting Couch

Claudio Faeh: Producer and Director of 'Sniper Reloaded'

Gary Marsh: Head of Breakdown Services

Derek Power, Executive Producer of 'Sniper Reloaded'

Partner in Kahn Power Pictures/The Derek Power Company

RUSSIAN SPEAKING ACTORS FOR LARGE SCALE STUIO PRODUCTION SHOOTING IN PRAGUE IN OCTOBER

2010-07-21T14:16:00.000-07:00

I am seeking Russian speaking actors, who also speak English, for a large scale feature film shooting in Prague in October.
Types:
Secrets Service Agents
Prison Guards
Prisoners
Businessman

Please send photo, resume and video clip to: casting@nancybishopcasting.com

Turkish Production looking for Slavic Actress

2010-07-15T05:42:00.000-07:00

Turkish Casting Director, Sinem Sengulen, is looking for cast.(www.rendaguner.com). ACTRESS: between 17 – 22 years for leading role for a new TV. series.
Production company: Tim’s Production, (www.tims.tv).
Synopsis: “hurrem sultan” who has a big place in turkish history. Hurrem is a girl taken from her parents from Russia to become a slave, then given as a present to a Sultan, lived in harem and then become the most powerful women at the palace.

The actress must be beautiful, innocent looking and also feminine but most important she must be a very good actress andshe doesn’t have to know turkish (will take her language courses. )The shootings will be in İstanbul. And will start in a month

Please contact: sinem@rendaguner.com

PRAGUE FILM MAKER CASTING INDEPENDENT FILM

2010-07-15T05:26:00.001-07:00

Isaac Hurtado is looking for two actors for main roles.

Old lady: 60 to 75 years old. Medium complexion.

Young kid: 6-7 years old. Medium complexion.

Film will be shot in Czech, but actors must be able to communicate in English with director

Both actors should be skilled enough to perform emotional arcs

in their characters fluctuating from different anemic states.

Shooting:

Independent short film to approach film festivals.

4 days shooting out of Prague.

Transport, Accommodation + meals, granted.

Paying: Open to Negotiate.

Some references for Isaac'swork: http://vimeo.com/isaacth

Interested please contact: Isaacth@filmstudies.cz

California Gov passes laws to protect Actors from Shady Workshop Organizers

2010-07-10T01:54:00.000-07:00

MYTHS AND RUMORS ABOUT THE NEW CSA GUIDELINES FOR CASTING DIRECTORS TEACHING WORKSHOPS

Recently, while in New England, I sat down with Bradley Van Dussen from New England Actor, and he asked me if I heard that casting directors aren’t allowed to teach workshops anymore. I realized that there must be a lot of rumors flying around about this, which I shall attempt to debunk.

Firstly, I’ll say that I am a member of the Casting Society of America (CSA) and have no problem with adhering to the guidelines and shall continue to teach my master classes.

The main areas of concern in the new CSA guidelines are as follows:

“WORKSHOPS SHOULD BE CONDUCTED FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IT IS PERMISSABLE FOR CASTING DIRECTORS / CASTING ASSOCIATES TO RECEIVE A STIPEND FOR TEACHING SUCH WORKSHOPS IF THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES ARE ADHERED TO”

I have always tried to make this clear in my classes in the first place. I’ve noticed the occasional mumbling over the internet. Occasionally someone will anonymously write to me and suggest that this is a conflict of interest to both teach and cast. Or they will accuse me of favoritism towards people who have taken my classes. These guidelines will protect me from these accusations and make it clear to the actors who don’t come to my classes that they will not be discriminated against either.

“The Casting Director/Casting Associate (and Casting Assistant) (CD/CA) may not use workshops for the purpose of auditions, "pre-reads" or suggestions of future employment.”

In other words… the concern here is that actors should not be paying for job interviews. And the money paid for the workshops should not be perceived or interpreted as a bribe.

I personally am very happy that this clause is included. I remember one time, an actor who had taken my workshop, very rudely confronted me at a later date, demanding to know why I hadn’t called him in for any castings after he had taken my class, as if I owed him that.

Do I remember the actors from my workshops? Yes, I never forget a face. Have I cast people from my workshops? Yes… if a role comes along that is right for them, then yes I have called workshop actors in and they have on occasion booked the role. (Karim Rohoma, for example comes to mind, on a recent Fox pilot called Masterworks. He heard about the casting when I announced it on Facebook.)

But the purpose of the classes is NOT to audition actors or find actors for a specific project. The purpose of the workshop is to share useful information and above all to educate. A possible role in the future is a fringe benefit for the actor and the CD, but should not be an expectation.

“The CD/CA may not retain a student/actor’s headshot, résumé, business card, reel, DVD, other electronic media, other promotional material, or any links thereto.”

OK so here’s the real kicker. I know this clause is upsetting a lot of actors. You’re thinking, So what is the ***king point of meeting a casting director if you can’t give her your material? Well actually in the case of my workshops, I already have a rule that I don’t accept headshots etc because I’m usually traveling when I give class, and I don’t have the room in my suitcase for thirty show reels or whatever. So I’ve made that my policy anyway.

However, in my case, I have a website that is public domain. Anyone and their mother can submit material to me at any time. Many of us CDs don’t like to collect paper copies anyway because we have a problem with storage space.

What this means in that you can meet the CD in the workshop, learn from her whatever is valuable then WAIT until a time when she is casting a project with a role for you THEN submit your headshot to her at the RIGHT time. I emphasize these words because it is a point that I’m making over and over again in my classes. Agents are talent oriented and casting directors are project oriented. We’re interested in specific actors at specific times. We don’t generally collect random resumes anyway. It’s understandable that an actor would want to shove one in our hand… actors are always looking for work. But that is my advice for the best way to use a CD workshop. Make the connection, learn and then keep an eye on what she’s doing. That means reading Backstage (US) or The Stage, (UK) keeping an eye on IMDB Pro, and in the case of my work, it’s easy (I keep a blog!)

Furthermore, the workshops organizers are required to take out a $50,000 bond with the state of California to confirm their legitimacy against fraud. This obviously does not apply to workshops taught outside of the state, but if you are in CA, you can check this out to make sure they're legit.

This is a short article, but if you want a long and thorough explanation of the history of why this legislation came to pass, please see Bonnie Gillespie’s excellent analysis in the Actors Voice: http://more.showfax.com/columns/avoice/archives/2010_05.html

In short the new law is designed to protect children and actors who are being ripped off by shady workshop organizers who are exploiting actors with false promises. It’s certainly correct and fair that actors should not be paying to audition, which is what was in some cases happening.

ACTORS CREATING THEIR OWN WORK: WEB SERIES

2010-07-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has taken a class with me or read Secrets from the Casting Couch, knows that I'm really big on actors creating their own work. The entertainment world is going more and more in the direction of webs eries. My attendance at a panel discussion yesterday at the Karlovy Vary Film Fest, called Interfacing with Hollywood, confirmed it once again. Leading Hollywood professionals are looking for content from small time actors and producers who are clever enough to develop ideas and produce them in web series.

Here are a few of my favorite ones. Please let me know which web series you recommend as well.

VERY MARY KATE:
http://vimeo.com/11139998
This actress is hilarious and is smart enough to keep her spots really short.

http://www.thedayplayer.com/
Helenna Santos is a PR machine, and has a wonderful sense of self mockery

Also her husband: Barry Levy has created the fun Ex Convicts Guide
http://www.helennasantos.com/The_Ex-Convicts_Guide/home.html

Lastly, Bonnie Gillespie turned me on to:
Etta Devine's hysterical Mary Olsen, the Girl's Night Out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bxot1Ng6YCo

VOICE OVER NEEDED IN PRAGUE

2010-06-25T12:14:00.000-07:00

Veronika Lencova is looking for a female (age 60+ sounding) British voice for voice over in commercial in Prague. Please contact her directly : veronika.lencova@mac.com

TAX INCENTIVES FINALLY PASSED

2010-06-21T04:21:00.001-07:00

Productions should come back to Prague soon.

http://www.filmneweurope.com/news/czech/eu-passes-czech-film-tax-incentives

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, "THE CASTING PROCESS"

2010-06-16T11:45:00.000-07:00

Please join us in Edinburgh for "the Casting Process"

Casting the right actor is one of the most important aspects of filmmkaing; being cast is the most important things in an actor's career. Actors and directors-- Join a panel of casters to discuss the casting process. Question and Answer Session and networking session at Cargo to follow.

HELEN RAW of Raw Talent Productions will moderate.
BILL PETRIE, of The BWH Agency in London
AMY HUBBARD, CSA Casting Director, London (the Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings)
DES HAMILTON, Casting Director, Scotland (Bronson, This is England)
NANCY BISHOP, CSA Casting Director (Prince Caspian, Wanted), Author of Secrets from the Casting Couch.

Where: Cineworld
When:19 June, Saturday
Time: 15:30 - 17:00
Cost: 6.50/5.50
to reserve: http://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/whats-on/2010/the-casting-process-a-panel-discussion

HINTS FOR COMMERCIAL AUDITIONS

2010-06-14T04:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a little piece I contributed to about COMMERCIAL AUDITION HINTS in The Stage

Full text is below. You can also tune into John Bryne's site for more tips: www.showbusiness-success.com

Does anyone else have any success stories about how they booked a commercial job? Please write in to me here or at Facebook.

Commercial Castings

When auditioning for a commercial most of the same rules apply as a for film or TV casting.

1) Make specific choices, and make sure you answer the “W” questions. These are the basic Stanislavski acting questions and yes, they apply to commercials.

Who am I?

Where am I?

Who am I talking to?

What do I want?

Know the answer to these questions so that you’re not acting in a vacuum.

The main difference between a commercial and film casting is that the ultimate goal in a film is to keep the audience watching, while in a commercial it is to sell a product.

2.) Therefore, know the product that you’re selling, and the specific ad campaign. For example: Product: Federal Express. Slogan: “It’s not just a package. It’s your business.” You may not be able to do a lot of preparation in advance, but at the very least know this before you walk in the door, or ask your agent to find out.

3) Know your type. A lot of casting, regardless of genre, is about archetypes. In commercials, this is even more so the case. When you market yourself for a commercial, make sure you have identified the type that you can play well. I once ran into an actor friend of mine on the street, and he was dressed untypically in a bowtie, an argyle sweater, and a bookish pair of spectacles. When I asked him about his kit, he sheepishly answered that it was his “commercials costume”. Even though it’s not who he is in life, he and his agent know that those are the roles that he plays convincingly. So he markets himself that way and dresses the part. You may even have a separate headshot for commercials only. Commercial headshots tend to show a toothy smile; that’s what sells the conflakes.

4.) Lastly, Be open to play. Improvisation is a useful skill in commercial auditions. Commercial directors are less likely to be married to a script. It’s not Shakespeare afterall. When you walk into a commercial casting, there will be scores people in the room, balancing laptops and a cups of Starbucks. You won’t even know who the heck they are, but some will be copywriters, some from the ad agency, others from the product etc. They’ll be constantly revising the script and ideas for selling the product so the director may ask you to just take an idea and run with it. Don’t be afraid to go really far, and most of all have fun!

VOICE OVER ACTORS NEEDED IN PRAGUE

2010-06-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

Michaela Flenerova is looking for voice over actors in Prague who are native speakers of French, Russian and Spanish. Contact her at: +420 775386078 or misaflener@volny.cz. http://www.zastoupenihercu.cz

BLOOD, LOVE AND RHETORIC AUDITIONS

2010-06-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

Blood, Love & Rhetoric are having their 2010/11 season casting at Divadlo Inspirace, 12pm-5pm, on Saturday 12th June. Please bring a 2 minute monologue and we will give you a piece to improvise at the theatre. Contact info@bloodloverhetoric.com for more info.
B,L&R has a full season coming up with 6 major shows planned for 2010/11 kicking off with a large scale production of Othello in the Autumn.
www.bloodloverhetoric.com

TRAILER FOR THE PRAGUE FILM SCHOOL ACTING PROGRAM

2010-05-17T23:46:00.001-07:00

CLICK HERE FOR PRAGUE ACTING FOR FILM PROGRAM

Prague FILM SCHOOL ACTING PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT

2010-05-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

PFS SCHOLARSHIP AVAILABLE FOR THE FILM ACTING PROGRAM.

PFS offers a scholarship of 1500 EUR for qualified and talented students of acting. Applied to the one year program only. To apply, applicants must complete the normal admissions procedure, plus an obligatory audition.

Audition requirements:

One monologue, comic or dramatic, 1-2 minutes in length. Material can be from theatre or film scripts.

Options for audition.

1. By appointment. Applicants can audition in person with the head of the film department. Contact: nancy.bishop@filmstudies.cz

2. By video link. Applicants can tape their audition and send it as a link to nancy.bishop@filmstudeis.cz

nancy.bishop@filmstudeis.cz

APPLICATIONS DUE 31 MAY, 2010 for September, 2010 semester

LOCAL FILM SHOOTING IN PRAGUE

2010-05-07T00:26:00.000-07:00

Peter Smith is shooting a comedy pilot this summer based around the tourist industry in Prague. He needs actors for the main parts:

Male, native English speaker (ideally British), 45+

Female, native English speaker, 32-38 y.o.

Female, 22-28 y.o.

There are also supplementary roles - receptionist, coach driver, barman, retired couple and elderly, ailing male. Anyone interested please get in touch.

I also require a cameraman and a sound guy for the project. We envisage an abrasive, shaky cam, documentary style.

The script is ready to go and I am looking to wrap the shoot in 2-3 days.

Anyone interested in this project, please don't hesitate to call Peter directly on 731729646 or email: peter.smith@tiscali.cz.

Acting Shakespeare Master Class in Prague

2010-05-03T01:51:00.000-07:00

Acting Shakespeare Master Class
www.pragueshakespeare.cz

Acting Shakespeare Master Class
led by Sidney Berger
Artistic Director Houston Shakespeare Festival
May 17-19, 2010 (3 sessions)
17:00-19:00 (5:00pm-7:00pm)
Old Burgrave's Residence, Vysehrad
Prague, Czech Republic

The Prague Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce that we will be
hosting a unique Acting Shakespeare Master Class featuring Sidney Berger,
Artistic Director of the Houston Shakespeare Festival, and one of the
world's foremost experts on Shakespearean Verse May 17-19, 2010 in Prague,
Czech Republic. Space for this exclusive Master Class will be limited to 30
participants and a select number of observers. This is a wonderful
opportunity to learn from one of the most respected Shakespearean Theatre
experts in the world.

SIDNEY BERGER is celebrating his thirty-seventh year as founder and
producing director of the Houston Shakespeare Festival. He is also currently
the John and Rebecca Moores Professor of Theatre; the former Director of the
University of Houston School of Theatre; and co-founder and producer of the
Children's Theatre Festival, UH's professional summer children's theatre. He
has directed many productions for the Houston Shakespeare Festival, and over
sixty at UH. As Associate Artist at the Alley Theatre he directed FRANKIE
AND JOHNNY IN THE CLAIR DE LUNE, T BONE N WEASEL, and ALL IN THE TIMING.
Other professional directing credits include A DELICATE BALANCE, BETRAYAL,
SIGHT UNSEEN and THE SUBSTANCE OF FIRE at Stages Repertory Theatre, where he
also served as Artistic Director. He also directed Albee's ALL OVER, with
Mr. Albee consulting. As well, he has directed JACQUES BREL for the QCC
Equity Theatre in New York, GREASE and MY FAIR LADY (with Noel Harrison and
Clive Revill) for Theatre Under The Stars and the film HOUSTON PROUD
narrated by Ben Vereen. In 1990 he co-founded and was elected President of
the Shakespeare Theatre Association of America, uniting all major
professional Shakespeare producers in North America. Dr. Berger also serves
on the board of governors for the International Shakespeare Globe Centre
project in London.

Cost:
Participants (limit of 30 total) - 1,500kč
Observer (limited seating) - 900kč for all days, 500kč for one day

To Apply and Request an Application form, email Guy Roberts:
guy@pragueshakespeare.cz

For interviews with Sidney Berger and more information contact:
Guy Roberts
Artistic Director
Prague Shakespeare Festival
guy@pragueshakespeare.cz

Come see me hit the boards as LADY CAPULET

2010-04-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

ROMEO AND JULIET May 25, 26 & 27 @ 19:00

Open-Air Theatre, Vysehrad - Prague

Prague Shakespeare Festival, Prague's only professional English-language classical theatre company, is pleased to announce the limited engagement of a new production of William Shakespeare's ROMEO AND JULIET by PSF Artistic Director Guy Roberts at the Open-Air Theater in Vysehrad May 25-27, 2010 at 19:00.

One of the most beloved plays of all time, Shakespeare's masterpiece Romeo & Juliet is the premiere PSF summer production on the outdoor, open-air stage at Vysehrad, signaling a new annual tradition of "Shakespeare at the other castle" in Prague.

Roberts states, "Romeo and Juliet is clearly the greatest love story of all time. The question to me seems to be how to retain the beauty and romance associated with our expectations of the play, while still making the language and story accessible to a modern audience? We don't want to feel as if we are watching a piece of museum-theatre. By securing Romeo and Juliet in the past we are also distancing ourselves from the action of the play and allowing ourselves the freedom not to be transfigured by it. I think it is impossible to do a "period play." Plays can only occur in today's imagination - and that is where our play takes place. Shakespeare's Verona is not unlike our Prague today. It is a world that bridges the ancient and the modern-a world that is refreshingly relevant. At the center of the entire play is love - the kind of life-changing, soul-transforming love that we all dream of but perhaps never believe we will really find."

Fueled by the intense passions and moving poetry that the world has cherished for years, the play is presented in English under the direction of PSF Artistic Director Guy Roberts (who also appears as Mercutio) with a multi-cultural international company of artists: the titles roles will be performed by Lenka Novakova and Kendrick Ong. Returning to the stage, Emmy-nominated Casting Director Nancy Bishop (former Artistic Director of Black Box, Prague's original English language theatre) is joined by Prague favorites Laura Baranik, Brian Caspe (Artistic Director Prague Playhouse), David Fisher (Artistic Director, Bear Educational Theatre), Vanessa Gendron (co-Artistic Director, Miloco), Curt Matthew, John Poston and Jeff Smith (co-Artistic Director, Miloco)among others. From the United States, Steve Zinkgraf co-stars as Lord Capulet. The production features costume designs by Tatiana Evonuk, scenic design by Ivana Nikolic and an original score by Ed Kliman. Amy Huck is the production stage manager and movement coach. Sidney Berger, Artistic Director of the Houston Shakespeare Festival, is the verse coach and Anezka Novak is the voice coach.

PRAGUE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

in association with

PZ Adventures, Mermaid Theatre Company, Classical Theatre Company (USA)

Prague Playhouse, Bear Educational Theatre & Miloco (Czech Republic)

presents

THE WORLD PREMIERE of a new production of

ROMEO AND JULIET

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

ADAPTED & DIRECTED BY GUY ROBERTS

DATES:

May 25, 26 & 27

CURTAIN TIME:

19:00

LOCATION:

Open-Air Theatre, Vysehrad

TICKETS:

200kc General Admission,

150kc Student/Senior

RESERVATIONS:

pokladna@praha-vysehrad.cz

222.513.842 phone

ABOUT THE PRAGUE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

The Prague Shakespeare Festival presents an annual celebration of professional theatre productions, workshops, classes, lectures and other theatrical events, of the highest quality, conducted primarily in English by a multinational ensemble of professional theatre artists, with an emphasis on the plays of William Shakespeare, bringing to the Czech Republic, European and World audiences classical performances that are fresh, bold, imaginative, thought-provoking, and eminently accessible, connecting the truths of the past with the challenges and possibilities of today.

For interviews & more information about PSF and ROMEO AND JULIET contact

Guy Roberts

Artistic Director

Prague Shakespeare Festival

guy@pragueshakespeare.cz

ACTORS AND PLASTIC SURGERY

2010-04-26T16:30:00.000-07:00

I was so glad to see this article in the New York Times. I've been advising actors for years not to get plastic surgery. But at the same time I know that there is so much pressure in this world to look young and perfect. I'd love to know what actors think about this? http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/25/fashion/25natural.html

CASTING WORKSHOP AT THE EAST END FESTIVAL

2010-04-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

CASTING WORKSHOP - THE CASTING SCENE AND CASTING DIRECTOR ANNA KENNEDY - EAST END FILM FESTIVAL AT 4 - 5.30 PM, FRIDAY 30^TH APRIL Filmmakers’ Centre, The Cole, 16 Hanbury Street, London E1 6QR

Join producer Grant Keir (Faction North), Virginia Heath (Director, Casting Scene, online casting resource) and Anna Kennedy (Casting Director whose credits include MUM AND DAD, PIMP, WHEN BORIS MET DAVE) for practical advice about core casting skills for actors, directors and producers, plus debate between the innovators (online) and traditional methods.

PRAGUE FILM SCHOOL ACTING PROGRAM

2010-04-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

Study film acting in Prague. We have one of the only acting programs that concentrates exclusively on film and TV acting. Click here to see the Prague Film School Trailer.

We are currently accepting applications for study in the 2010-11 year. Click here for details about the program. Or write to: filmschool@rexpats.com

PRAGUE SHAKESPEARE POSITIONS NOTICE

2010-04-09T08:53:00.000-07:00

ROMEO AND JULIET PRODUCTION STAFF & CREW POSITIONS AVAILABLE

The Prague Shakespeare Festival, Guy Roberts Artistic Director, will be producing in English, William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet May 25-27, 2010 @ 19:00 at the Open-Air Theater in Vyšehrad. Rehearsals begin April 28, 2010.

PSF is currently seeking individuals interested in working on the production in the following capacities:

STAGE MANAGEMENT

Production Stage Manager – 4000cz total stipend

*Assistant Stage Manager* – 1000cz total stipend

*Assistant Director* – volunteer position – no stipend

DESIGNERS, PRODUCTION STAFF & TECHNICIANS

Light Designer & Light Board Operator – 3000cz total stipend

Sound Designer & Sound Board Operator – 3000cz total stipend

*Prop Designer & Prop Master* – 2000cz total stipend

*Hair & Make-Up Designer* – 1000cz total stipend

*NOTE*: These positions may be filled by actor, stage manager and/or other member of the R&J company

If you are interested in any of the above positions, please email Guy Roberts - guy@pragueshakespeare.cz or simply respond to this email!

If you are a new talent/resource to PSF, please send your resume and/or a brief background about your experience, skills & interest in English Language Theatre in Prague and Shakespeare in your job inquiry email.

Thanks so much – I look forward to working with you!

Guy Roberts

Artistic Director

Prague Shakespeare Festival

885/3 Janackovo Nabrezi

Prague 5, 150 00

Czech Republic

+420 603 968 536

guy@pragueshakespeare.com

www.pragueshakespeare.com

www.guyroberts.com

SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH IN NEW ENGLAND

2010-04-06T14:04:00.000-07:00

Secrets from the Casting Couch is now available on Amazon in the US.

I'll be lecturing about casting and film acting atBoston University on 20 April, 12:30 -2:00

and at the University of New Hampshire on 23 April, 3.30 - 5:00.

BAD AUDITION, part 1

2010-03-25T13:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks Terri Freedman for her - so bad it's good- BAD AUDITION VIDEO.

Thanks Terri, for demonstrating one of the no-no's at a casting; she makes excuses in advance for her upcoming bad audition. She uses the excuse that casters hate most of all. "I just got the sides." Well if you just got them, then so did everyone else probably. Deal with it.

When she introduces herself, I kind of like her saying that she'll be the best one. It's cute, and I'll remember her.

Even if you just got the sides, please take a breath, and use your sight reading strategies. Put your thumb on the page, read the line, then give it to the reader with your eyes. She's got her eyes (her best tool as a screen actor) buried in the script.

The biggest mistake after that is making the caster start again. Please wait until we say cut. This audition will never be seen by the director- if not for any other reason, it will be a pain to edit.

Thanks so much Terri for showing us how NOT to audition. You'll see from her IMDB site that she's done plenty of good auditions: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1667405/

Call for Actor Submissions on Fun Educational Video for Actors

2010-03-13T02:51:00.000-08:00

AUDTION BLOOPER PROJECT

In my master classes I often show actors examples of successful auditions. We examine what worked-- what got them the role. Sometimes someone will say, “but I want to see the ones who didn’t get cast.” I can’t show the unsuccessful auditions of course because it would be quite disrespectful to the actors who attend my casting sessions. No one would ever trust me again!

So I’ve decided to start a project called “Audition Bloopers” and I’d like to invite actors to voluntarily audition badly so that I can share the “how not to audition” videos to my classes. The results will be shared on my blog, and a collection will be made for educational purposes for my classes.

So I invite you, to find an audition piece, and send in your deliberately bad audition. It would be followed by a corrected “good” audition.

The following is a list of casting mistakes that I’d like to cover; so it would be great if actors could choose to make these mistakes

THE POOR INTRODUCTION PROBLEM

Actors sometimes trip up in this section of the interview. They’re asked to introduce themselves, or the director simply says, “tell me something about you.” Here is a top ten of what NOT to do:

- undersell yourself (“I haven’t had any good or interesting roles before”)

- mention your day job (“I’d love a break from my office work.”)

- tell us you’re not very interesting (“I just stayed in and did housework all week-end”)

- tell us you haven’t worked in a long time

- act unfriendly and hostile about having to introduce yourself

- mention that you didn’t get along well with the director on the last project you worked on

- act like a piece of cardboard with no personality

- ramble on for too long

- repeat several times how nervous you are

- make a million excuses for why your audition will be bad

THE EYE LINE PROBLEM

Not knowing where to look. Mistakes include:

- looking at camera

- looking down too much into the script

- not focusing, and therefore looking everywhere

- looking at the Casting Director at the end of shot as if to ask, “Was that OK?”

THE AUTO-PILOT PROBLEM

Actors often have difficulty listening to directions and following them. The director or casiting director gives very specific notes for adjustment, but the actor ends up doing the scene over and over again the same way each time, thus not demonstrating that they can work with a director.

THE OVER-ACTING PROBLEM

I find that over-acting occurs when actors judge a character. For example, they will come in thinking, ‘this guy is a bastard.’ Then instead of playing a living, breathing character with an objective, they end up playing adjectives that cause them to over-act. They end up with a clichéd, mustache-twirling performance, instead of an honest one.

THE OVER-EMOTING PROBLEM

Actors sometimes think that their job at a casting is to prove that they can act. They thus end up throwing themselves on the floor in tantrums, instead of concentrating on an honest performance.

THE DEADFACE PROBLEM

This is the opposite problem and it often occurs with theatre actors who are afraid to overact in front of camera. Instead they do nothing, taking no risks, and their performance is flat and boring.

THE WONKY ACCENT PROBLEM

Usually accents need to be learned under instruction. Make sure you have your accent checked out by a professional or native speaker, before you come to the audition.

THE DISAGREEMENT WITH THE DIRECTOR PROBLEM

I’ve seen actors loose the job because they thought they should sell their own ideas about the role, rather than following the director’s lead.

THE ODD CHOICES THAT DON’T FIT WITH THE SCRIPT PROBLEM

Interesting choices are great, but they need to correspond somehow with the writer’s intentions. If you come in with the random idea that the character should wear roller skates and carry a cabbage, it won’t fly.

THE LISTENING PROBLEM

Not only is it important to listen to directions, but it’s important to listen and respond in the moment to the reading scene partner. There are actors who display great animation while reciting their own lines, but turn into zombies reading the script, during the scene partners’ lines.

THE READ STAGE DIRECTIONS ALOUD PROBLEM

The stage directions are for reading silently. We’ve read them; you don’t have to read them to us. Your lines are the indented ones. If it says you’re on a horse, you don’t have to simulate this. We know it already.

THE CONFUSION OVER THE WHOLE PROCESS PROBLEM

When I say the lines, that means I’m reading the other character.

THE NO PREPRATION PROBLEM

It is clear sometimes that the actor has made no effort at all to prepare and they are flying by the seats of their pants. If you’re given the script to read, by all means read it. Read the scene and figure out the “W” questions (Who am I?, Where am I?, Who am I talking about?, What do I want?”)

THE BADLY DRESSED FOR AUDITION PROBLEM

Bad dress choices:

- wearing stripes

- wearing loud colors

- wearing t-shirt with writing on them

- wearing white (it reflects the light)

- trying too hard with a costume

- over-sexing yourself (unless the role calls for it)

- wearing baggy clothes that don’t show your figure

THE MAKE US EDIT YOUR AUDITION PROBLEM

Part of what we are testing is your ability to concentrate and stay in character. Please don’t make us go back and start over again every time you flub up a line.

THE I KNOW I KNOW THE LINES (BUT REALLY DON’T) PROBLEM

There is nothing less interesting than watching an actor trying to remember lines.

The audition is not simply a memory test. I always tell actors to learn the lines as well as possible, but to hold the script in their hands. I’d rather have you peek, and remind us that it’s a reading, rather than a final performance.

THE OBSEQUEOUS, KISS UP TO THE DIRECTOR PROBLEM. Don’t lick the director’s shoes. If you want the job too badly, it reads. It’s OK to express enthusiasm, but not desperation.

Technical specifications: I’m looking for video clips that are 30 seconds to about one minute long. If you’d like, you can send two-- the one that is deliberately bad, and then the improved one, when you correct the mistake. Please send them via yousendit or a similar file share program that I can download to application@nancybishopcasting.com. Choose any audition material you like. I will not share all of them; but the ones that I feel best demonstrate the points.

Thanks a lot for your help. I’m hoping the project will be fun.

Nancy

NYU presents Kafka's THE TRIAL

2010-03-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

WHAT: adaptation of Franz Kafka’s The Trial

WHO: NYU students from New York campus

WHEN: Tuesday, March 16th – 21:30pm

Wednesday, March 17th – 16:30pm

(running time is aprox. 70 minutes)

WHERE: Theatre Na zábradlí (Havel’s former theater)

Anenské náměstí 5

115 33 Praha 1

COST: 120 Kc for general public

Asian Actress wanted.

2010-03-11T08:33:00.000-08:00

FROM HELEN RAW AT RAW TALENT PRODUCTIONS:

"A producer friend of mine is looking for a fresh faced Asian actress! Theyare currently casting in NYC and are struggling so will consider UK actress if the suggestions are good. Please send me your spotlight links and showreels links with contact info if you meet is description below. Please forward this to anyone you feel might fit the description. Please note there hasn't been a break down notifying casting in the UK yet, it was just afriend of a friend asking as they knew that I ran The Actors' Society andhad access to fresh talent! Description: Beautiful, strong actress able to show versatility withconfidence. Ethnicity:AsianAge: 18-30Nationality: British Based Preferred (but if outstanding, will consider anyregion as long as their English is PERFECT) Please email me: on gracemeka@yahoo.co.uk with your ideas "

FILM ACTING AND AUDITION TECHNIQUE MASTER CLASS IN PRAGUE

2010-03-09T06:52:00.000-08:00

PLEASE JOIN ME IN MY HOME CITY FOR FILM ACTING AND AUDITION TECHNIQUE CLASSES ON 27 + 28 MARCH. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS.

SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH IN THE US

2010-03-06T03:54:00.000-08:00

SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH will be released in the US on 1 April. But you can order it now on Amazon.
http://www.acblack.com/Books/Details.aspx?isbn=9781408113271

SNIPER RELOADED CAST ANNOUNCEMENT

2010-02-23T05:13:00.001-08:00

Thanks to all of those who took the time and effort to audition. We saw some excellent actors. Here is the cast announcement.

Brandon Beckett: CHAD COLLINS

Richard Miller: BILLY ZANE

Ellen Abramowitz: ANNABEL WRIGHT

Hans Jaeger: RICHARD SAMMEL

SOLOMON KANE IS OUT IN THE UK

2010-02-20T13:05:00.001-08:00

Thankfully we can finally see our hard work on Solomon Kane on screen in the UK. And a great review from Time Out.

AUDITIONS FOR PRAGUE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

2010-02-19T03:34:00.001-08:00

The Prague Shakespeare Festival, Guy Roberts Artistic Director, will be holding open call auditions for its 2010 Artistic Company, Wednesday February 24^th 2010 at the Prague Film School Studio from 6pm – 10pm.

All actors should bring a photo and resume and present one memorized Shakespeare monologue not exceeding 2 minutes. Actors should be prepared to stay immediately following in the case they are called back for PSF’s production of Romeo and Juliet playing May 25-27, 2010 at the Open-Air Theater in Vyšehrad. Sides from Romeo and Juliet will be provided for all actors who are called back.

Actors who have previously worked with PSF or Guy Roberts and who are interested in casting opportunities may contact Guy Roberts directly, bypassing the general audition and schedule a callback. All others must come to the general audition and then be invited to callbacks.

PSF is currently casting for the following projects:

ROMEO AND JULIET (All roles available)

Performances: Tuesday May 25 @ 19:00, Wednesday May 26 @ 19:00, Thursday May 27 @ 19:00

Rehearsals: Beginning March 2010

Venue: Open-Air Theater, Vyšehrad, Prague

All principal actors will be paid a 3000cz stipend. All other actors & artists will be paid a 1500cz stipend

All actors will be seen on a first-come, first-serve basis. Directors, Designers and Stage Managers may also come to the open call to submit resumes and portfolios.

All actors, directors, designers and stage managers who work with PSF are members of the PSF seasonal artistic company. The seasonal artistic company, under the guidance of the Artistic Director, work constantly together to explore a cohesive classical style. The Festival provides an ensemble atmosphere for extended theatrical exploration wherein company members work as a group to develop skills and to perfect their craft through the continuity of several productions and ongoing training workshops. The quality of commitment demanded of the company members fosters a cohesiveness and intensity of approach to the Festival's classical repertoire. In addition to performing, training and educational activities all company members work behind-the-scenes and assist in the day-to-day administration of PSF.

Guy Roberts

Artistic Director

Prague Shakespeare Festival

885/3 Janackovo Nabrezi

Prague 5, 150 00

Czech Republic

+420 603 968 536

guy@pragueshakespeare.com

www.pragueshakespeare.com

www.guyroberts.com

INTERVIEW WITH NANCY BISHOP

2010-02-08T04:24:00.000-08:00

http://www.expats.cz/prague/article/interviews/nancy-bishop/

ACTORS PUTTING THEMSELVES ON TAPE FOR AUDITIONS

2010-01-27T04:20:00.000-08:00

I once heard Hillary Swank say in an interview: "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity."

So you have to be ready when the opportunity comes along. I am currently doing a casting for SNIPER RELOADED, for which all casting is happening online and actors have been asked to put themselves on tape.

There is a whole chapter about this in my book, Secrets from the Casting Couch.

But here are some guidelines. Please click here for HINTS ON SELF AUDITIONS

New Feature Film: SNIPER RELOADED.

2010-01-25T03:18:00.000-08:00

Production Type: Feature Film

Production Company: Film Afrika Twelve – Reloaded (Pty) Ltd.

Producer: David Wicht, Claudio Faeh

Director: Claudio Faeh

Casting Director: Nancy Bishop, Europe + US

Christa Schamberger, Johannesburg,

Shooting Period and Dates: March 1- April 3, 2010

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Language: English

Deadline for proposing actors via e-Talenta: : 2010-02-05

"SNIPER: RELOADED" is the fourth installment of the ‘Sniper’ franchise.

US Marine Sergeant BRANDON BECKETT (mid 20’s), son of legendary Marine sniper Thomas Beckett (portrayed by Tom Berenger in Sniper 1-3), is stationed in Zimbala, Africa, on a peace keeping mission working closely with the UN. German UN base commander, HANS JAEGAR (50) sends Brandon and his squad into the neighboring war ravaged Democratic Republic of the Congo to extricate the last remaining plantation owner, Belgian JEAN VAN BRUNT (55). On the mission, however, Brandon and his squad are met with fierce enemy fire from a hostile SNIPER, who manages to kill all of them except Brandon and Van Brunt’s daughter KELLI (14). A wounded Brandon and Kelli together make their way back to the UN base with the help of local big game hunter, former mercenary and friend of VAN BRUNT's--MARTIN CHANDLER (50s).

While recovering back at the base, the wounded Brandon gets a surprise visit from an old friend of his father, RICHARD MILLER (50), whom he hasn’t seen or heard from since he was 12 years old. MILLER wants to get him back home and out of trouble. But Brandon doesn’t want any help. He wants to find the assailant, swears to take revenge against those who set him up.

Base Commander JAEGAR isn’t interested in tracking down the enemy sniper. Instead, he issues orders to pull all travel permits into the DRC, preparing to retreat from the area. Even attractive British Intelligence Officer ELLEN ABRAMOWITZ (late 20’s) can’t offer any help. Brandon decides he must find out on his own. Seeing his determination, MILLER teaches Brandon some sniping tricks before the young sergeant secretly leaves the base. Together with CHANDLER, the hunter whose help he seeks, BECKETT makes his way deep into rebel territory. But just when they seem to be making some head way, they’re met with a big surprise…

BREAKDOWN

ELLEN ABRAMOWITZ

late 20’s, British/European, Lieutenant, U.N. Military Intelligence officer, grew up in an Army family, she's beauty and brains combined, a woman with class. Working on the U.N. base in Zimbala, Africa, she helps Brandon Beckett (the lead) in his task of tracking down a hostile sniper in the war ravaged Democratic Republic of the Congo. During their joint effort, Ellen and Brandon become romantically involved. Ellen eventually even sets foot into the DRC stepping onto the battlefield herself…

HANS JAEGER

50, German, Colonel, U.N. base commander, cruelly handsome, and morally corrupt. The commander of the U.N. base in Zimbala, Africa, HANS JAEGAR has come under considerable pressure when dealing with local armies and splinter rebel groups in the neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo. But Jaegar also faces a challenge of his own: having been involved in illegal arms deals with the rebels he is now trying to get rid of any tracks that might lead back to him...

KELLI VAN BRUNDT

14, Belgian, cute, spunky, unafraid. When her father, plantation owner and arms dealer Jean Van Brunt, gets killed in a sniper ambush, his courageous daughter KELLI VAN BRUNT survives, and gets picked up by US Marine Brandon Beckett. Together, Brandon and Kelli make their way towards safety across the border and back to the U.N. base. Trekking through war ridden Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kelli betrays information about her father to Brandon – information that ultimately helps Brandon track down the hostile sniper.

BRANDON BECKETT (lead, name preferred)

mid 20’s, US Marine Sergeant, strong and confident, plays the son of previous SNIPER lead, Tom Berenger, star of the three previous episodes. Independent, renegade soldier.

Prague Playhouse Auditions

2010-01-25T01:01:00.000-08:00

Auditions for the 4th annual Expats.cz and Prague.tv Playwriting Contest and we want YOU to come and audition!

The auditions will be at DeMille's Restaurant (downstairs) on Sunday, January 31 and Monday, February 1 from 18:00-21:00. Please email info@playwritingcontest.cz to schedule an audition. Prepare a short monologue and be prepared to read from a text.

Rehearsals will be in February and the beginning of March. The performances take place the last 2 weeks in March (4 performances).

We are looking for the following roles:

HOSTAGE SITUATION

by Cohen Ambrose

directed by Nick Perry

TOMMY: 40s, blunt, tired

TIMMY: 20s, strong, naïve

COP: 50s, experienced, ironic

THE GREAT INDOORS

by Josh Kaston

directed by Julek Neumann

ASH 30s, English, fidgety

LUCIE 20s Czech, pregnant enough to notice.

MRS. OLSEN 60s, American, light footed for her age.

SKEETS 40s, American, over-the-top redneck.

PLAYBACK

by Mark Yates

directed by Jonathan Solari

Honza (Jan) Oberfalzer, a middle-aged producer at Czech TV.

Pepa (Josef) Olejnik, middle-aged businessman.

Jana Olejnik, Pepa's college-aged daughter; speaks Czech with an American accent.

Berlin Documentary needs English actors

2010-01-24T11:31:00.000-08:00

We are looking for an English female native speaker, age between 25 and 45, based in Berlin, for a documentary on a social health project in North-East India. With our film we are supporting this project, therefore we can offer only low budget payment. Two days of recording in Berlin at beginning of March 2010 is planned. If you want to know about the project, here is the website: www.johar.de. For further information please contact info@dokukoop.de,

Sigrun Schnarrenberger

Regie, Kamera, Schnitt

Pappelallee 13

10437 Berlin

+49 (0) 30 - 88 76 14 76

+49 (0)176 - 64 28 99 73

Icelandic director in Prague seeks actors

2010-01-24T10:02:00.000-08:00

Gunnar Tryggvason, an Icelandic director living in Prague, is doing a short film and needs an english speaking elderly couple to act (60 to 70 years old)...

Please write to gunnartryggvason@gmail.com

Short Film to be shot in Prague this summer needs teen actors

2010-01-21T10:16:00.000-08:00

Nick Perry is prepping for a new edgy film, featuring actor/models age 16-20. Male and Female

See this "vibe" footage that Nick edited for casting. He wants these types:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRYk2-lf9fA

Please submit photos and CV.s to casting@nancybishopcasting.com

SHORT FILM SHOOTING IN PRAGUE needs actors

2010-01-21T01:32:00.000-08:00

" Short Film-maker from India, looking for young actors (male/female)

to be part of short film in Prague from Jan - Feb. Shooting will be

done mostly on weekends.

A look at my earlier short films :

1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1XkUrv42tw

2. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7027019333931315863#

3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBzq6pOOL5M

The actors get a chance to have a nice experience of getting handson

experience of short film-making.

Interested people can mail at maximasatya@gmail.com or call at 722669210.

Facebook profile : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBzq6pOOL5M

Orkut profile : http://www.orkut.com/Main#Profile?uid=7181789455043640524&rl=t

Please note new earlier times for Marketing Seminar and Book Launch in Berlin

2010-01-12T13:37:00.000-08:00

MARKETING FOR THE INTERNATIONAL MARKET: FOLLOWED BY BOOK LAUNCH. In this seminar, taught by Nancy and guest speakers casting directors Emma Style from UK and Lana Veenker from US, actors will learn how to present themselves for international work, highlighting how to crack into the US and UK markets. Marketing skills covered will include how to create an effective, eye-catching C.V, chose a key photo, and create a show reel and website. Nancy will outline some basic facts about the O1 Visa, for US work; Emma and Lana will discuss the specific demands of the UK and US markets. All participants will receive a free copy of “Secrets from the Casting Couch.”

Please join us afterwards for book signing.

About Nancy: Emmy-award nominated, American Casting Director, Nancy Bishop, has cast over sixty American and British films, from her base in Prague. She has cast for major feature films including Roman Polanski’s Oliver Twist, Hellboy, Bourne Identity, and the recently released Wanted and Prince Caspian. She has been teaching casting workshops throughout Europe, the UK, and the US, and the head of the Acting for Film Department at the Prague Film. She is a member of The Casting Society of America, and the International Network of Casting Directors.

About Emma: Emma Style has been casting since 1984. Her work includes film, television and theatre, past work includes Tea with Mussolini, Emmy Award winning Prime Suspect V and multi BAFTA award winning Our Friends in the North. More recently Emma has been casting The Take, Hogfather and The Colour of Magic. This year her work to be shown includes Going Postal for SKY, Exam, a low budget feature film and she is currently casting The Silence, a four part BBC One Drama.

About Lana: Lana Veenker began her career in London and, launched what is now one of the most successful location casting companies in the US. She has found her calling in helping actors who live outside Hollywood break into the business. Her numerous projects include casting on Extraordinary Measures, starring Harrison Ford; Twilight; The Road starring Viggo Mortensen; and 15 episodes of TNT's Leverage. She is a member of the Casting Society of America and the International Network of Casting Directors.

AUDITION TECHNIQUE CLASS:

Time: 10:00AM – 14:00PM

Date: Sunday, 14 February 2010.

Place: English Theatre Berlin, Fidicinstrasse 40, 10965 Berlin.

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING SEMINAR

Time: 15:00PM – 17:00PM

Date: Sunday, 14 February 2010.

Place: English Theatre Berlin, Fidicinstrasse 40, 10965 Berlin.

SUSAN BATSON VS. DAVID MAMET

2009-12-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

I assigned my class at the Prague Film School to read Susan Batson's Truth and David Mamet's True and False. These are both great books, by the way, and all actors should read them. As you may know, Susan Batson is the acting coach for the likes of Nicole Kidman, and Juliette Binoche, and David Mamet is the award-winning writer and director.

It was a fun juxtoposition because they are so different in their point of view about acting, and actor training. One of my students, Ben Palacios, has given me permission to post his imaginary debate between the two of them here:

TRUTH, by Susan Batson

TRUE AND FALSE, by David Mamet

I can imagine a discourse between Batson and Mamet, which goes something like this…

Mamet:

You’re a fraud. Life in the studio is not acting. All you do is take up the energy and time of a privileged class of people who’d like to call themselves “actors”.

Batson:

I see you have trouble trusting people, David. Why is your Public Persona so abrasive and untrusting? This suggests to me that your Need is to be cared for.

Mamet:

No. My need (with a lowercase ‘n’) is for actors to stop trying to learn their craft from so-called teachers like you – and your cultish nonsense, and learn it where they should: in the arena.

Batson:

I give actors the tools to foster their acting through a belief system. I think we’ll both agree that playing at a feeling or sensation won’t reach an audience. You have to believe it. That’s where I come in. In your play, Oleanna, did Carol not truly believe that John had sexually assaulted her?

Mamet:

Carol and John do not exist; they are mere words on a page. I hate it when people ask me stuff about my plays as if they actually happened and I was the only witness. All right, let’s get this straight: belief only induces self-deception. You’re training people to deceive themselves, when they should just accept the circumstances of their situation as an actor on stage. That takes real courage. As I said: You’re a fraud.

Batson:

But I taught Nicole Kidman, who’s a great actress.

Mamet:

She was a very good actress before she met you. She is one now in spite of you. That – I’m impressed by. And Great Actors or Actresses only exist to fulfil the cultural need for one. And honestly… she’s not that great.

Batson:

All right Bucko, what do you give actors? A lack of preparedness? …at least I give them something to believe in.

Mamet:

Again with the belief! That ‘lack of preparedness’ is how we spend our lives. That’s the real Truth – with a capital ‘T’. That’s what’s interesting to watch.

Batson:

I disagree.

Mamet:

I knew you would.

Batson:

Fine. Goodbye… Come on, Nicole.

ACTORS; YOU CAN DO THIS TOO

2009-12-11T03:07:00.000-08:00

Here's a teenage kid who made an at home TV series with his siblings, and now it's being made into a studio feature film: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/08/movies/08fred.html

New Review of Secrets from the Casting Couch

2009-12-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

Thanks, Guy Roberts!

http://prague.tv/articles/cinema/secrets-casting

MASTER CLASS IN HOLLYWOOD, Sponsored by iWa

2009-11-27T02:24:00.000-08:00

M A K I N G T H E M O V E T O H O L L Y W O O D

Master Class in Hollywood

Monday March 1 – Saturday March 6, 2010 (off 4th)

iWa and the Beverly Hills Playhouse, one of the oldest and most respected acting school in Los Angeles have the pleasure of introducing for the first time an extraordinary and unique 5 day Master Class in Hollywood.

With Globalization and the Internet, borders have almost disappeared and more and more Actors/Directors today desire and dream about an International Career. However questions arise. How do you make a move to Los Angeles? Do you have the talent? Do you have the networking? Do you know the business?

The Master Class in Hollywood will answer all of your questions regarding your talent and the business of Hollywood. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand and push personal boundaries and maximize opportunities to achieve success in Hollywood. YOU will have the opportunity to work and meet with top entertainment professionals, teachers and honourers from the industry who will teach, coach, listen and advise you about your talent and the business of Hollywood

Actors will train at the renowned Beverly Hills Playhouse. Founded by renowned director and teacher Milton Katselas, the Beverly Hills Playhouse has for over thirty years offered ongoing intensive scene-study classes for both the professional actor and those who are looking to develop themselves into professional actors. This approach has helped lead a generation of actors to success on stage, in cinema and on television - actors including George Clooney, Michelle Pfeiffer, Alec Baldwin, Jenna Elfman, Jim Carrey, Doris Roberts, Patrick Swayze, Anne Archer to name just a few.

The Master Class will consist of:

Scene Study Acting Classes, Dance and Voice Classes, Audition and Cold Reading Techniques. In addition to the classes, their will be Lectures and Workshops with highly respected professionals on International Law, Proper Headshots, Life Coach Support, etc.

Participants will also attend a Theatrical Performance and visit the working set of “Desperate Housewives” at the Universal Studios.

It will be an intense and rewarding experience that will change your destiny. J o i n u s !

For more information and registration:

Contact: Sophie Papadopoulos at sophie@iwanet.biz (o) 211-1061234, (m) 6945971127 and/or to send CV for personal interview.

Schedule & Cost: www.iwanet.biz under Current Events. (TBA)

Preparation: There is no preparation required for the Master Class.

Participation: Class is open to Actors, Directors, Producers and Teachers who are in Acting Schools or/and just finished and are working professionals. Auditors are also allowed by special request.

Price also includes all materials, tickets and events that are directly linked with the workshop.

*Price Does NOT include: airline, hotel or meals.

www.bhplayhouse.com www.iwanet.biz

THEATRE AUDITIONS IN PRAGUE

2009-11-26T09:58:00.001-08:00

Blood, Love & Rhetoric Productions will be auditioning for their Russian Night -3 Chekhov short comedies (Swan Song, The Dangers of Smoking Tobacco and an original translation of The Proposal), accompanied by Mongol Dancing and free vodka – this Tuesday, from 1700-2000, at the Prague Film School, Pstrossova 15.

The show will be directed by Jim High and produced by BL&R (who brought you Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead) and will run over mid-Feb and again over mid-March for a total of at least 6 performances.

We are currently looking for one female for our updated version of The Proposal, set in 1990's Moscow, in the office of a wealthy nouveau riche 'business' man:
Natalya Stepanonva, the daughter and secretary, 18 - late 20's. An alternatively charmingly sweet and savagely fiery 'princess'.

Please contact Jim at
j.high@bloodloverhetoric.com or on 728206951 to schedule an audition and for a copy of the audition text.

"WANTED" - Alternate beginning

2009-11-10T20:11:00.000-08:00

Here is the scene that I worked so hard to cast but never made it to the screen. Starring, Jan Triska, Mirek Simunek, and Tomas Hanak.

http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=675160562&share_id=172682921889&comments=1#s172682921889

PRAGUE PLAYHOUSE AUDITION

2009-11-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

Prague Playhouse will be having auditions for True West, the dark comedy by Sam Sheppard, this coming Tuesday, November 10th, from 6-9pm at the Prague Film School, Pstrossova 15, Prague 1 (kind of across the street from the Globe Bookstore). We are asking for a 2 minute monologue for the audition.

The show will start rehearsals now and be performed at the end of January. Jeff Beck will direct the show. Actors will be paid 300 Kc per performance. We are planning 6-10 performances.

We are looking for the following roles (ages are approximate):

Austin - late twenties/early thirties - screenwriter

Lee - His older brother - late thirties/early forties

Saul Kimmer - Hollywood producer

Mom - mother of the boys.

Please write to brian@pragueplayhouse.com to schedule an audition.

WOMEN IN FILM AND TV EVENT

2009-11-04T11:28:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the pros who helped me out at the CASTING COUCH Panel Discussion last month in London. Pictured here are: Pippa Cross (Producer), Sharman McDonald (Writer), Aisling Walsh (Director), Me, Ros Hubbard (CD) and Natalie Haynes (Journalist and Comedian.)

I hope to post the transcript from the event soon, where we discussed the lack of female roles in TV and Film (According to the Equity survey, there are two male roles for every female role.)

WFTV working with Skillset recently did a survey which was announced at the London Film Festival. The survey was of what successful women in film had in common. The items are:

1. STRONG FEMALES INFLUENCES IN THEIR LIVES

2. EARLY CREATIVE LEANING

3. PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: a passion for the chosen occupation, effective management of rejection,

4. ROLE MODELS AND MENTORS. Significant role models of women working in the field.

5. INDUSTRY EDUCATION AND TRAINING. Key to success is to seek out every possible training opportunity.

6. INDUSTRY CULTURE AND ATTITUDES. Older participants reported overt sexism in the industry, but not the younger ones.

7. NETWORKING

8 SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT; many participants grew up in predominantly female families or received single sex education.

CSA GUIDELINES FOR CASTING DIRECTORS TEACHING WORKSHOPS

2009-10-31T04:56:00.000-07:00

At various times it has been brought up by various anonymous writers on my blog, that there may be some dodgy ethics involved with a casting director teaching workshops. The suspicion seems to be that actors might be paying to get cast. I have always assured actors that I am wearing a slightly different hat while teaching and that the workshops are purely educational.

Since there are many casting directors who teach workshops, CSA (Casting Society of America) of which I am a member, has an official policy for casting workshops. Please click here.

So from now on I will ask all participants of my classes to read and agree to these guidelines before taking my classes so that everything is %100 clear.

-NB

THEATRE AUDITIONS IN PRAGUE

2009-10-29T01:45:00.000-07:00

Audition Notice for Professional Production: Na Zabradli

Auditions: Black Snow Theater Company

For their adaptation of A Couple of Poor Polish-Speaking Romanians by Dorota Maslowska

Auditions: Sunday November 15th : 11 am – 5 pm.

Callbacks: Sunday November 22nd.

Rehearsals begin March 15, 2010

The show will run in rep on Divaldo NaZabradli's mainstage in english with czech subtitles.

Premiere: May 15th, 2010

This is a paid production commissioned by Divadlo NaZabradli.

Contact Nicole at blacksnow.elt@gmail.com to schedule a time.

Venue for Auditions: Divadlo Na Zabradli,

Looking for all ages, male and female.

Nicole Grisco and David Peimer

Artistic Directors

More press on Secrets from the Casting Couch

2009-10-23T06:07:00.001-07:00

New article about SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH in the Prague Monitor (click here)

22 Oct, Casting Symposium

2009-10-15T04:28:00.000-07:00

There are still tickets left to see:

CASTING FEMALE ROLES; ACTRESSES AND THE CASTING COUCH

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION

LONDON CASTING SYMPOSIUM; BRITISH ACTORS AND THE AMERICAN MARKET

2009-10-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

Contrary to my recent announcement, we will NOT be providing a transcript of the London Casting Symposium. Not all of the panelists wish to be taped. Sorry.

O1 VISAS-- possible problems and CSA response

2009-10-08T13:05:00.000-07:00

On Wed, 14 October, I am organizing a casting symposium on the subject of:

BRITISH ACTORS AND THE AMERICAN MARKET

sponsored by Spotlight and The London Film Festival

Catherine Shoard from the Guardian is moderating, and the panelists are:

Duane Clarke, Jeremy Conway, Priscilla John, Pippa Harrison and Jeremy Zimerman.

The event is sold out and already people have been writing in to ask if there will be a transcript available. The answer is YES, there will eventually. I also want to post some information about O1 Visas in advance.

The O1 Visa is what European actors need as a first step to working as an artist in the USA. There is information on it in my book, Secrets from the Casting Couch, or you an consult:

http://www.usimmigrationsupport.org/visa_o1.html Please note that this website is not a government organization; they are private. I have not researched them, so I can't recommend them, but I will look into some recommendations. If anyone recommends a particular company, please let me know.

It has, however recently been called to my attention that there are limitations involved with the O1. Amy Mathieson, a British actor, who is now living and working in LA, wrote me this letter (click here). In this letter she starts by telling some horror stories about British actors who were actually cast, but then not allowed to work on their Visas. She then proceeds with some more positive news on the same subject and makes suggestions to other British actors.

I consulted C.S.A. (Casting Society of America) members to find out what their take on it was

Dear Casting Directors,

I will sit on a panel in London soon that will discuss the issue of British actors wanting to work in the US. I understand from some British actors that the O1 Visa is no longer accepted as a work permit by the big studios and networks in the US, and that the Green Card is required. Is this truly the case? Are O1 visas being turned down? Please if you have a moment, share your comments on this.

- Nancy Bishop

and here is the response:

Most Studios still do in my experience however NBC/Universal will not accept 01 Visa's that have not been specifically applied for by the studio. 99.9 percent of the time this is not the case. I was recently unable to hire an actor on "Law & Order: SVU" who was a series regular on "24" and "Califorication" for this very reason.

-Jonathan Strauss

Yes, unfortunately it is true. Sony will no longer allow us to hire actors with O1 Visas - they must have a Green Card.

- Camille St. Cry

I imagine every studio has a different view on this. We do mostly television and hire foreign actors all the time. At CBS-Paramount, they have to approve an O1 Visa, by reviewing all the paperwork that was submitted along with the application. We've had very few problems, usually fixable by resubmitting the paperwork with broader language.

So long as the manager-sponsored O1 Visa isn't project specific and allows the artist to work on a broad range of projects, it's usually fine.

Since it may take a couple days to get approval, we've actually gotten to the point where we will preemptively have the studio review the paperwork as we're setting up someone for producers.

Feel free to email or call with any questions. Hope this helps.

Best,

Jason Kennedy

I also spoke with MEG LIBERMAN (who works for CBS) on the phone and she gave a more complicated response:

Basically if an actor is hired by one production company to work on a particular production, that Visa might not extend to another production company. The best thing to do is get a "Blanket O1" that is not specific to any one project. The language on the underlying paperwork has to be as broad as possible.

In some cases Meg has had trouble hiring foreign actors on episodic work. Pilots can be easier since they have 21 days to petition for a visa. NBC does not accept the O1 because it's owned by General Electric.

Meg hired one actor on "Medium" for NBC (but production company was CBS studios) then hired the same actor on "Las Vegas" which used a different production company, which didn't accept the Visa. So after shooting a few scenes realized that she had to fire him and it cost the production $250,000 to re-shoot.

Ultimately the Green Card is the best thing to get.

---

I want to emphasize that I am no expert on these matters and that a a good immigration lawyer is required for anyone seeking to work in the US.

-NB

PRAGUE FILM SCHOOL AUDITIONS

2009-10-05T11:25:00.000-07:00

ACTORS WHO WANT MATERIAL FOR SHOW REELS OR MORE PRACTICE IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA...

AUDITIONS FOR PRAGUE FILM SCHOL

Sunday, October 11, 12:00 - 15:30, Kino Evald, Narodni 60 (right by Tesco)
The school will be holding a casting session inviting actors from the school and community- PLEASE COME, and bring a headshot. Audition material will be provided. For more information, please write to helena.novakova@filmstudies.cz

www.praguefilmschool.eu

auditions at ACTOR EXPO tomorrow

2009-10-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

MESSAGE FROM REMI AT THE ACTOR EXPO:

"This weekend at the ActorExpo tradeshow 3^rd October, Goldsmiths, London, for the very first time – we are holding open auditions - for Pantomime this season coming.

This is a real opportunity for up and coming actors to get paid work, but they must attend the tradeshow to get the opportunity to audition.

Auditions will be taking place between 10pm-12pm in the Goldsmiths Theatre.

All the actors would need to do is come prepared with:

-1 minute Monologue (short acting piece)

-1 minute Song

It’s FREE to come and audition.
To register and read the roles available please click here: http://auditions.actorexpo.rd-r.com/

For more information about the trade show please visit the website: www.actorexpo.co.uk."

3 UPCOMING ACTOR EVENTS IN LONDON

2009-09-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

ACTOR EXPO,

Trade fair for actors

3 October, 11am-6pm

I'll be doing a free seminar at 12-1pm

called "Secrets from the Casting Couch."

I'll also pop by at the Methuen Drama stand at 2pm for a book signing.

Click here to see the Prague FIlm School in Action

CASTING SYMPOSIUM; BRITISH ACTORS AND THE AMERICAN MARKET (Click here for info)

at the LONDON FILM FESTIVAL, sponsored by SPOTLIGHT

Panel discussion, followed by Q+A

Moderator: Catherine Shoard. Editor Guardian.co.uk/film

Panelists:

Nancy Bishop, CSA, Casting Director (US/Prague) and author of Secrets from the Casting Couch

Duane Clark, (US) Director, Duane Clark, (US) Director, (CSI, CSI:Miami, CSI:NY, Cape Wrath, Medium)

Jeremy Conway, (UK) Agent and founder of Conway, Van Gelder, Grant

Pippa Harrison (UK) Spotlight, Head of Client Relations

Priscilla John (UK), Casting Director, (Mamma Mia, Pirates of the Caribbean)

Jeremy Zimmerman (UK) Casting Director. (Hellboy, The Scorpian King.)

Symposium Details

Where: ICA, The Mall, London SW1Y 5AH, London

When: 14 October,

Wed, Time: 2-4pm

Tickets: £11.50 call to book: 020 7928 3232 at Festival Box Office from 26th September, Please book soon, seats are limited

CASTING SYMPOSIUM AND BOOK SIGNING FOR SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH (click here)

CASTING FEMALES ROLES: ACTRESSES AND THE CASTING COUCH (click here for info)

sponsored by Women in Film and TV (WFTV)

A recent WFTV survey revealed that there are two male roles for every female role in today's film and TV. Why is this and what can we do about it?

Please join our panel to discuss it:

Moderator: Natalie Haynes, Comedian and Journalist for The Times and the Woman’s Hour

Nancy Bishop, Casting Director, and author of Secrets from the Casting Couch

Pippa Cross, Producer (Vanity Fair)

Ros Hubbard, Casting Director (The Da Vinci Code) and Winner of WFTV award

Sharman MacDonald, Writer (The Edge of Love)

Aisling Walsh, Director (The Daisy Chain)

Followed by a book signing of Secrets from the Casting Couch

Where: ICA, The Mall, London SW1Y 5AH, London

When: 22 October,

Wed, Time: 7-9pm

Tickets: Free for WFTV members. £10, call to book: +44 (0)20 7287 1400 or email: administrator@wftv.org.uk

Drama Short Film Festival

2009-09-28T08:58:00.000-07:00

It was such a pleasure to serve on the Drama International Short Film Festival jury in Drama, Greece. I was treated very well and had a wonderful team to serve with on the jury. Here pictured (in a not very good iPhone photo) is me with VASSILIS MAZOMENOS (film director from Greece,) JACQUES MITCH (Film Director, France), GERALD WEBBER (Distributor, and curator, Austria) and MANUELA CERNAT, (Film Professor, and cultural ambassador Romania)

We selected Kavi for the Gran Prix Winner, directed by the young and promising Gregg Helvey of USC.

Second Prize went to A Long Way Home, by Anamaria Chioveanu of Romania. The performances by two girls lost in Bucherest were fantastic.

The Best South- Eastern European Award went to Lullaby, about sex traffic in Cyprus, directed by Yianna Americanou

The Special Award of the Ministry of Macedonia-Thrace went to a one shot film called I Hear Your Scream, by Pablo Lamar of Paraguay. He should also be commended for his direction of the ducks in his shot.

The EFA Award went to Dutch film, Goodnight, about a single father, by Rosier Valery.

Since we wanted to award a fun film, we also chose the offbeat Swedish comedy, Seeds of the Fall, by Patrik Eklund for an honorary mention.

There were lots of good animation films, and we chose Rojo Red, by Columbian director, Juan Manuel Betancourt.

The best acting mention went to Polish actor Radomir Respondek in Echo.

I also particularly like the animated film, The Sylphid by Danish Dorte Bengston. It was a mythic story about mother and daughter.

I also really like another mother/daughter film called Missing by Dutch director Jochem De Vries.

ACTOR EXPO, LONDON 3 OCTOBER, Saturday

2009-09-25T04:59:00.000-07:00

Please come to the Actor Expo, a trade fair for actors.

I'll be there to present the Acting For Film program at the Prague Film School, and I'll also be teaching a short seminar, and doing a book signing for Secrets from the Casting Couch.

Hope to see you there.

- NB

COMING UP ON 14 OCTOBER IN LONDON

2009-09-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

CASTING SYMPOSIUM:

BRITISH ACTORS AND THE AMERICAN MARKET

Sponsored by Spotlight,

and hosted by the London Film Festival

Join a panel of film professionals and casters for a discussion and question and answer session related to the topic of British actors working on American film and TV projects. Topics covered will include:

- British actors have huge success in America, evidenced by the many Brits working on American series, and winning Academy Awards. Why are British actors so successful on the other side of the pond?

- How British actors can break into the American market.

- Legal issues related to working in America.

- The difference between American and British training, acting styles and production practices.

Panel

Moderator: Catherine Shoard. Film critic for The Gaurdian.

Panelists:

Nancy Bishop, CSA, Casting Director (US/Prague) and author of Secrets from the Casting Couch

Duane Clark, (US) Director, (CSI, Crusoe)

Jeremy Conway, (UK) Agent and founder of Conway, Van Gelder, Grant

Priscilla John (UK), Casting Director, (Mamma Mia, Pirates of the Caribbean)

Pippa Harrison (UK) Spotlight, Head of Client Relations

Jeremy Zimmerman (UK) Casting Director. (Hellboy, The Scorpian King.)

Symposium Details

Where: ICA, The Mall, London SW1Y 5AH, London

When: 14 October,

Wed, Time: 2-4pm

Tickets: £11.50 call to reserve: 020 7928 3232 at Festival Box Office from 26th September, Please book soon, seats are limited

PRAGUE ACTORS PLEASE JOIN ME AT THE GLOBE on Thursday!

2009-09-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

I'm celebrating Secrets from the Casting Couch at the Globe bookstore. Please join me for book launch and sangria! To order Secrets from the Casting Couch, click here.

BOOK LAUNCH

“SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH”

Prague resident, Nancy Bishop, has written Secrets from the Casting Couch; On Camera Strategies for actors from a Casting Director. The book is illustrated by Prague resident, Bonnie Glover.

About the Launch:

Join us at the Globe Bookstore for a short panel discussion about casting and actors working in Prague. Author and casting director Nancy Bishop is joined by Czech actor, Pavel Kriz, who has worked on numerous international productions. Screen International journalist Theo Schwinke will moderate a discussion about casting, Prague actors and the Prague film scene. A book signing by the author and illustrator Bonnie Glover will follow.

Date: Thursday 17 Sept, 09

Time: 7:00pm Discussion, followed by book signing and wine reception

Where: The Globe Bookstore and Café, http://www.globebookstore.cz/

Pstrossova 6, Prague 1

About the book: Why is it that so many good actors don't perform well at castings? Secrets from the Casting Couch gives practical advice for actors, written from a casting director's point of view, teaching the craft of film casting in front of camera. It shows how actors can work with today's internet technologies to get cast and features advice and actual exercises that achieve results in the casting studio. The author has developed a successful approach through many years experience of working in the casting studio.

2009-09-09T19:33:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to be in the new office at the Prague Film School. Had a meeting with the teachers today and we're all excited to start the first Acting for Film Department that the school has had with fourteen students. My new address once again is:

Nancy Bishop

PFS

Pstrossova 19

1 Prague 11000

From now on electronic submissions only. I have no room for lots of bulky show reels.

Thanks

Czech Republic

BOOK LAUNCHES, SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH

2009-09-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

I hope Prague friends will join me at the next launch at the Globe Bookstore on Thursday, 17 Sept at 7pm.

Thanks very much to those who helped me in Stirling and London. We had a very nice turn out in both places. Thanks to Michael Basset (director of Solomon Kane) and Phil Matthews (Editor of Drama Student Magazine) and Michael John at the Actors Centre. Also thanks very much to Steve Dolman in Stirling at the Off the Page Book Festival and I'm sorry I called you Tom Dolman in my book.

NEW ADDRESS

2009-09-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

Starting tomorrow:

Nancy Bishop

PFS

Pstrossova 19

1 Prague 11000

Czech Republic

DIRECTORS AND CASTING DIRECTORS: HOW WE WORK TOGETHER

2009-09-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

There are still tickets left to this event at the Actor's Centre. Phil Matthews of The Drama Student Magazine moderates a discussion between director Michael Bassett and myself. We collaborated on the upcoming blockbuster Solomon Kane, starring James Purefoy and Max Von Sydow.

I know that actors are often curious about the process and how to make contact with directors and casting directors.

Join us afterwards for a wine reception and a book signing of Secrets from the Casting Couch.

For more details please click here.

Where: The Actors Centre, London, 1a Tower St,London, WC2H 9NP
www.actorscentre.co.uk
When: Monday, 7 September, 09
Time: 3pm- 5pm, followed by a wine reception.
Tickets: £12 bookclass@actorscentre.co.uk

Secrets in Stirling Scotland

2009-08-31T02:41:00.001-07:00

I'm looking forward to speaking about Secrets from the Casting Couch in beautiful Stirling, Scotland. Please join me if you're in the area. Thursday, 3 Sept at 7.30PM

Click here for details: "An Evening with Nancy Bishop"

A List Actors reveal Painful Audition moments

2009-08-26T04:25:00.000-07:00

In The Screening Room

Please join me in London for a seminar, and a glass of wine to celebrate Secrets from the Casting Couch.

2009-08-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

Secrets from the Casting Couch

Seminar: Directors and Casting Directors

In this seminar casting director and author Nancy Bishop shares information from her new book, Secrets from the Casting Couch. She is joined by Michael Bassett, director of the upcoming blockbuster Solomon Kane, (released in UK cinemas in Dec 09) starring James Purefoy, Max von Sydow and Pete Postlethwaite. Discussion will focus on how directors and casting directors work together to cast a project. Clips will be shown from Solomon Kane, on which Michael and Nancy collaborated. Topics covered will include, how actors can best forge a relationship with industry professionals, strategies for success at castings, and how casting decisions are made. The seminar will be followed by a question and answer session, book signing, and then please join us for a wine reception. Secrets from the Casting Couch will be available at a discounted price.

Michael J. Basset, is a writer and director, his former projects include Deathwatch (Jamie Bell, Kris Marshall, Andy Serkis) and Wilderness (Sean Pertwee).

Nancy Bishop (C.S.A.) is an Emmy nominated American Casting Director who has cast supporting talent in Europe for over 60 films, including the recently released G.I. Joe, and Prince Caspian. She is chair of the Prague Film School Acting Department. www.nancybishopcasting.com

Where: The Actors Centre, London, 1a Tower St,London, WC2H 9NP

When: Monday, 7 September, 09

Time: 3pm- 5pm, followed by a wine reception.

Tickets: £12 bookclass@actorscentre.co.uk

Edinburgh Symposium: From Fringe to Silver Screen

2009-08-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who attended the Casting Symposium at the Edinburgh Fringe sponsored by Spotlight. I think it was very interesting and informative. I had hoped to get a transcript up on line but unfortunately it's looking like the tapes may have been wiped when I went through security on the plane. I'm sending them back to Scotland to see if they'll play there...

-NB

Anila Gajevic and I in Sarajevo

2009-08-24T02:45:00.000-07:00

I also got to hang out with Anila, a talent agent who knows every actors in Bosnia, Serbia and Croatia.

Book Signings, Secrets from the Casting Couch

2009-08-23T14:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came to my book signing in Edinburgh. I have to say that I really have to work on my technique. I mean I look like I'm about to eat my potential readers in this photo... though my colleague Helen Raw is looking a bit friendlier but in a drugged out sort of way.

Please, readers, if you like the Secrets from the Casting Couch, write a review on Amazon. If you don't like it, please just keep quiet. And speaking of Amazon-- those scurvy swines-- they listed the wrong price for my book and the publisher is working on correcting it. But what it means for readers is that if you want to order it for super cheap you can order it now on Amazon before they put the price back up!

There is some kind of scam they have going there making it look like they have different vendors. They can somehow afford to sell it for cheaper than I can! Sorry for the loyal fans who came to my book signing and bought it for higher than the Amazon price... but at least you got free wine.

-NB

More notes on Sarajevo

2009-08-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

I'm back in Prague and now that I'm here I need to go to the circus since it's that time of year... but life is a circus for me right now.

Sarajevo was absolutely fascinating. A village like city, full of old Ottoman architecture, mosques, bullet holes, churches, bullet holes, creviced into the mountains where the 1984 Olympics played out. The people of Sarajevo are eager to be hosts and showcase their town and their culture, attracting visitors to the region in a positive way; to show case their culture and humanity.

I saw three films about the Yugo war. Storm; fantastic. A must see with Kerry Fox and Anna Maria Manica among other very talented cast members, about the war crimes trails in the Hague.

Back to back I saw films about the war; first from the Serbians: Ordinary People (no not the 1980 film with Tim Hutton). It's a brutal self indictment from the Serbs about their conduct in the war. How could an "ordinary person" stoop to killing children? the film asks. This film won all the awards and it's painful to watch with overly long shots.

Then I saw The Blacks by Croatians with an equally self scathing examination of war-time behavior. The Croats don't let themselves off easily either.

I also had the opportunity to work with a great group of actors from several Balkan countries for two days on the talent campus so many thanks to them.

Still tickets left for Edinburgh Casting Symposium

2009-08-13T05:29:00.000-07:00

CASTING SYMPOSIUM

FROM FRINGE TO THE SILVER SCREEN;

Superstars Jude Law, Gerard Butler, Hugh Grant, Ricky Gervais and Rachel Weisz all started their careers at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Spotlight, the UK’s leading casting service, sponsors this casting symposium; a panel of theatre and film professionals will discuss how actors can use the Fringe to launch a career.

Listen to leading casting directors, agents and promoters discuss the differences between casting in Film and Theatre, and how can actors branch out from theatre to screen work. This two-hour symposium will begin with a moderated discussion followed by a question and answer session from the audience.

Moderator: Pippa Harrison, Spotlight.

Panelists:

Nancy Bishop,C.S. A, Casting Director(US/Europe); credits include Prince Caspian, and author of “Secrets from the Casting Couch”

Sam Jones, Casting Director (UK); formerly Head of Casting at the RSC, recent TV credits include Occupation for BBC1 and Above Suspicion for ITV.

Tim Hawkins, Manager of Press Office, and formerly acting Chief Executive of the Fringe.

Kate Staddon,Talent Agent at the Curtis Brown Agency, London.

Lucinda Syson, Casting Director (UK). Credits include, Children of Men and Batman Begins.

Place: Festival Theatre, 13-29 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9FT.

Date: Wed, 19 August, 2009.

Time: 11AM- 1PM

Tickets: £10, Seats are limited. To order tickets ahead, http://www.edfringe.com/ticketing/detail.php?id=17029

Fraud on hotmail!

2009-08-11T01:34:00.000-07:00

Louise and I are canceling the castingworkshops@hotmail.com address. Someone has hijacked it so please ignore any emails you get from that address. The legitimate addresses from me end in nancybishopcasting.com, or if you're trying to book the London class: louisebolton@gmail.com

Nancy

UPCOMING EVENTS, LAUNCH OF SECRETS FROM THE CASTING COUCH

2009-07-30T11:59:00.000-07:00

Launching new book, “Secrets from the Casting Couch”

Sarejevo Film Festival, Talent Campus, 14-17 August. Casting Master Class

Edinburgh, CASTING SYMPOSIUM; FROM FRINGE TO THE SILVER SCREEN

19 August, Wed: Festival Theatre, 13-29 Nicholson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9FT.

Time: 11AM- 1PM

Tickets: £10, Seats are limited. To order tickets ahead, click here.

Edinburgh, 20 August: Book Signing and Party! Come for a glass of wine, say hi to Nancy and get a signed copy of Secrets from the Casting Couch for a discount.

Belushi's Bar. Time: 3-5pm.

9 -13 Market Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1DE

Sterling Scotland, 3 Sept. 7:00 PM, Tollbooth,

Off the Page Book Festival, “An evening with Nancy Bishop,” presenting Secrets from the Casting Couch.

London, England. Sunday, 5 Sept, Sat

Film Acting Master Class; Developing an Inner Monologue

Contact: application@nancybishopcasting.com, to apply

London, England. Monday, 7 Sept

The Actors Centre:

Secrets from the Casting Couch promotion seminars and signing.

2pm-3pm: Seminar: Strategies for online marketing: This one-hour seminar will focus on strategies for actors to promote themselves in an increasingly competitive market. Seminar is following by a book signing where you can purchase Secrets for a 20% discount.

Where: The Actors Centre.

Tickets: £10 bookclass@actorscentre.co.uk

Book sales: Buy Secrets from the Casting Couch for a 20% discount.

4pm-5pm: Seminar and Book Signing II

Subject: Directors and Casting Directors

Nancy is joined by American film and TV Director Duane Clark. Discussion will focus on how directors and casting directors work together to cast a project. Clips will be shown from the new American/British TV series The Philanthropist, starring James Purefoy, on which Duane and Nancy collaborated.

Time: 4pm- 5pm, followed by a wine and cheese reception.

Tickets: £10 bookclass@actorscentre.co.uk

5pm, Wine Reception. Yay!

Prague, Czech Republic. Thursday. 17 Sept, 5pm

Secrets from the Casting Couch, BOOK LAUNCH AND PARTY!

The Globe Bookstore, Pstrossova 6, Prague 1,