Taking Set Direction in Portland
Before heading to your audition in Portland, ensure you understand the set direction and any instructions from the casting director or manager. This will help you feel more confident, as will know exactly where to stand when you arrive. On set, you will usually find an 'x' marked on the floor - this is known as the 'mark' in the industry, and it's where you should stand for on-camera auditions. Having that sense of familiarity and understanding of what's expected of you will help you present yourself best and make a great impression on the casting director or manager.
Understanding the mark is the first step in any Portland audition. Once you arrive at the mark, introduce yourself with confidence and clarity. Be sure to include your name, age, character, and agency. Keep your introduction concise but show some charisma for a lasting impression. The casting director will likely ask for your SLATE first.
Start your audition in Portland with a warm, personable introduction. For example, try saying something like, "Good morning, I'm Josh. I'm 18 years old, and this morning I'll be performing an excerpt from Shakespeare's play Hamlet - I'm playing the part of Hamlet." Make brief eye contact during your introduction, but when you move onto the script or cold reading, focus your gaze somewhere above the casting director's or auditors' heads. Constant eye contact can be a bit unnerving. Give your introduction the attention it deserves, as it's your first impression to the casting director, and a flat one won't spark their interest.
When working on a set in Portland, it is essential to recognize that everyone is responsible for their tasks and not to interfere with the director's work or other departments. This mutual respect allows the director to focus on their creative work, setting a positive tone for the set as a whole. Consider working with acting mentors to improve your on-set etiquette and professionalism.
Adhering to the regulations on set is a must. All crew members must accept any directives the director makes, even if it is difficult to comprehend in the moment. However, these declarations are always made with expertise and sound judgment. If people were to challenge every order, there would be no advancement in production.
It's essential to respect the equipment of other departments on set. This equipment is not common property and is managed by the respective departments. Therefore, it's important not to move or use equipment from other departments without permission. Additionally, remember that some of this equipment can be expensive and fragile, thus requiring extra care when handled.
Before using or touching any equipment in the Portland area, it is important to ask for permission first. This ensures that the department approves the move and respects the equipment. However, it is also essential to be willing to help when needed and not be afraid to offer assistance with equipment. As a reminder, always ask for approval before using or touching any foreign equipment.