If you get work as an extra in a film or a TV series, you need to get used to the conventional working practice.
First of all, don’t be surprised by the anti-social hours. Often you can be given a call-time of 7am or 8am, and you may find that you are wanted beyond the standard 9-hour call (in which case, you should make sure that you receive your entitlement to overtime pay). You may also find yourself having to get to some out-of-town locations for many extras roles, so be prepared to do your homework on transport services. Whatever happens, make a point of getting to the location at least fifteen minutes before your call-time; lateness creates delay, and delay means extra expense and inconvenience for the production company – as well as a fast-earned poor reputation on your part.
Another anti-social aspect is the notice, as you will often not hear about extras work opportunities till the afternoon of the day before you are needed. You must be ready for this; if you make a habit of turning down work because of too short notice, you may not be offered work again.
Extras work is popular, particularly amongst people who lack formal drama training. It’s a unique kind of involvement in a film or TV project, and the pay can be good.
At Audition Now we search out numerous projects involving extras work, and text you with all the latest information on available work opportunities. If you have the time and interest, you could make quite a career for yourself as a ‘background artiste’.
Tags: extras, extras auditions, extras casting calls, Extras Work