Extras work can offer many interesting opportunities to the incurably stage-struck, and even the chance to advance your career prospects in television or film.
Remember first and foremost that you are engaged as an extra and that means being part of a credible backdrop to the main events in any (usually public) scene. Whatever training or experience you have as a performer you need to unlearn, so that your involvement in a scene doesn’t ‘pull focus’. You have to be as natural as possible: the way people are in a public situation, minding their own business, and not wanting to be noticed.
It is important that you respect the leading actors off-camera as much as you do on set. There is no harm in chatting to them, but don’t be pushy, or ask for their autograph. Principals and extras are often kept apart, for example at mealtimes, and you should respect this.
It is important to adhere to instructions, and to cooperate as much as you can. Always turn up to a day’s shoot a little early, and make a point of keeping out of people’s way. Time-wasting is expensive, and you will not be asked back if you become known as unreliable in any way.
Here at Audition Now, we send you details of extras work direct to your mobile phone, keeping you up to date with all the latest opportunities for you to advance your career in the television and film business.
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