Resources
Script & Set Study
Please select your age range
4 – 8 Year Olds
Recommended For Working Actor Students
Resources to continue learning for young Script & Set JR actors and their parents.
Check out these general resources, then scroll down to find more recommendations broken down by monthly topics
Parenting in the Spotlight: How to raise a child star without screwing them up
By Denise Simon
When your child wants to become an actor, you may be thrilled and a little scared. The entertainment industry can be confusing and overwhelming. How do you know when to hire an agent and a manager or what kind of clothing should be worn to auditions? What about taxes, school, and helping your child cope with rejection? What’s the best way to ensure that your child actor has a successful experience and doesn’t end up in the tabloids? Denise Simon has spent 30 years as an Acting Coach, Personal Talent Manager, and Director, specializing in child actors. She’s worked with some of the best and brightest young actors in television, film, commercials and on Broadway. In this book, Simon shares not only the practical how-to information all parents need but more than 75 valuable life lessons that acting will give your child.
The Hollywood Parents Guide: Your Roadmap to Pursuing Your Child’s Dream
By Bonnie J Wallace
Written by the mother of Disney star, Dove Cameron. Accurate, experience-tested information on every step needed to give your child the best possible opportunity to make it in Hollywood. Inspiration. Resources to help you on your own journey, and even help you decide if this dream is right for you and your family to pursue at all.
By Diana Ivelis Cherubin Wolfe
Do you have a talented child that everyone says is made for television but you’ve hit a brick wall in helping them break into show business? Well this book will outline everything you need to know and do to successfully navigate the Entertainment Industry. No matter where you live, there are steps you can take to get your child’s professional acting career started today!
By Harriet Greenspan
Top Hollywood Casting Director Harriet Greenspan helps demystify the casting process for young actors and their parents, guiding them on their journey to book roles in television, movies and theater. Harriet Greenspan casts projects for all the major cable youth networks including Nickelodeon, The Disney Channel, The Hub and The Cartoon Networks.
Audrey Helps Actors is exactly what it sounds like! Every episode Audrey invites someone from the business to chat about everything from advice for auditions and getting a new agent, to the nitty gritty of exploring different markets and information about how you can better use your union.
Dana Bowling a Casting Director, Audition Coach, Career Consultant and Mom dedicated to helping young actors and their parents find their way through this confusing yet exciting business! Join her as she speaks with all kinds of people who have gone through this journey just like you, as well as other experts in this small world of “Hollywood”
Great information geared towards the family of young actors
HMB is a blog directed to parents of professional and aspiring young actors. The blog offers guides to aid parents in their children’s career as well as casting call notices
Practical tips and education for parents of young film actors
For parents who want to raise a child actor in a happy, successful, and balanced manner
Hosted by the mom of Disney star, Dove Cameron, Bonnie J Wallace walks parents through her journey of successfully taking a child actor from Hometown to Hollywood (Both a blog AND a podcast!)
Twitter:
- Tammy Smith Casting- Tammy Smith casts background roles for huge films that shoot in the Atlanta area like “Black Panther,” “Sully,” and “Jumanji.” Plus, she lets actors know of any last-minute need for background actors in the Atlanta area
- Central Casting–The official account of Central Casting, the leading background casting company in the United States. Est. in Hollywood in 1925.
- Arvold– offices in North Carolina and Atlanta, arvold. has helped cast huge projects in the southeastern United States like “House of Cards,” “Loving,” and “Lincoln.”
- Chase Paris
Instagram:
- Beyond Acting
- Rhavynn
- **Actor Minute Mondays by Rhavynn Drummer
- The Casting Directors Cut
- Atlanta Actors Collective
Facebook:
Tik Tok
Class Resources
Ready to dive deeper into your TAS curriculum? These supplemental resources are intended to give you a deeper understanding and more well rounded view of your TAS education. While these are not meant to replace your TAS classes, they are provided to enhance what you are learning in class.
**All resources are from 3rd party sources which are clearly listed. Any questions about the material can be directed to your TAS acting coach. TAS does not endorse the people or products in the articles, and suggest that students use discretion in their studies.
Unit One: Audition Prep/Interview
*Month One
9 Extraordinary Benefits of Being a Child Performer
An article by Kids Casting Academy
This Is What It Takes To Be A Successful Child Actor
An article by Child Actor 101
An article by Backstage.com (2024)
On Set Advice for Parents of Young Actors
An article by Hometown to Hollywood
Acting Tools:
- Emotion and Expression in Acting for Children (The Playground)
- 7 Ways that Your Face Expresses Emotion (Backstage.com)
Audition Resources:
- The Key to Bringing the Right Mindset Into the Audition Room
- Self-Taped Monologues – Using Downtime To Get More Screentime! (NY Castings)
- How to Self-Tape Your Child’s Acting Audition (Kids Casting Academy)
- How Can You Find Auditions Without an Agent? (Hometown to Hollywood)
Interview Resources:
- So Your Child Has an Interview With a Talent Rep? How To Prepare (Backstage.com)
- 5 Ways to Prepare Your Child for an Agent Meeting (Backstage.com)
Confidence Resources:
- The Bubblegum Casting Guide to Building Self Confidence (Bubblegum Casting)
- 8 Ways to Prep Kids for On-Camera Auditions According to an Acting Coach (Backstage.com)
SMART Goals:
- SMART Goals for Actors (Larissa Thomson)
- 5 Ways To Support Your Young Actor According to the Mom of a Disney Star (Backstage.com)
Memorization Tips:
- 6 Simple Tips for Memorizing Lines (New York Film Academy)
- How to Memorize Lines (Daily Actor)
- 5 Tips for Memorizing a Monologue (Backstage.com)
- How to Memorize Lines Fast (Backstage.com)
- Breaking Down a Script Sheet from class
How to ‘Up’ Your Acting Game- Acting Tips for Kids
(Video: Youtube) AhHa Broadway
Side Profile Example for Slate
(Video: Youtube) The Actor’s Scene
KidsCasting.com: How to Prepare For Your Kid’s First Audition
(Youtube) Kids Casting Network
How to Help Young Children Audition Well (commercial acting video lesson
(Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studios
Why Is Developing a ‘Story’ So Important For Actors To Do?”
(Youtube) Backstage
Build Film Analysis Skills
Watch a scene from a random movie with your child. Ask:
- Who is speaking?
- Who do you think they are talking to?
- Where are they?
- Why are they saying what those specific words?
Asking these questions (especially in a scene they’ve never seen before) helps young actors excel at Script Analysis.
Practice Agent Interview:
Create your own practice agent meeting! Whether through Zoom or in-person, organize a mock meeting for your young actor to practice running through what an agent meeting may be like. Ask a friend or family member to attend as the potential agent in the scenario, who will ask your young actor questions that an agent may ask. As suggested in the Backstage.com articles in this unit, help your young actor prepare interview questions. You may also help your young actor prepare a sample acting scene or monologue!
Audition Routine:
Plan out a routine for when your young actor may have in-person or virtual auditions to attend! For example, determine which room you will set up your device to tune into the virtual audition. Perhaps you can test out different rooms to see which provides the best set-up for tuning into a virtual audition. What other steps would you like to consider preparing in advance?
Unit One: Audition Prep/Interview
9 Extraordinary Benefits of Being a Child Performer
An article by Kids Casting Academy
Script Analysis:
- Mastering the Art of Script Analysis: Tips for Performers (Theatre Haus)
- Why Script Analysis Is So Important (and How To Do It Right)(Backstage.com)
- Script Analysis- Actors! You Really Should Know What You’re Talking About (Casting Frontier)
Moment Before:
- Preparing a Scene Part 1 (Master Talent Teachers)
- Creating a Powerful Moment Before (Teen Actor Lab)
Scene Objectives/Goals
- What is an Objective? (Stagemilk)
- Objectives and SuperObjectives (Actor Hub)
Moment After:
- The Moment Before and After (Marci Liroff)
- Don’t End Your Audition on the Last Word (Backstage.com)
Subtext:
- What Is Subtext in Acting? (Bubblegum Casting)
- The Importance of Subtext for Actors (New York Film Academy)
- Subtext in Acting (Vada Studios)
- Why Subtext is Important + How to Find It (Backstage.com)
SMART Goals:
- SMART Goals for Actors (Larissa Thomson)
- 5 Ways To Support Your Young Actor According to the Mom of a Disney Star (Backstage.com)
Memorization Tips:
- 6 Simple Tips for Memorizing Lines (New York Film Academy)
- How to Memorize Lines (Daily Actor)
- 5 Tips for Memorizing a Monologue (Backstage.com)
- How to Memorize Lines Fast (Backstage.com)
- Breaking Down a Script Sheet from class
How to ‘Up’ Your Acting Game- Acting Tips for Kids
(Video: Youtube) AhHa Broadway
The Most Important Acting Moment- The Moment Before Action!
(Video: Youtube) Isabel Lehoux
ALWAYS Create a Strong ‘Moment Before’
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
(Video: Youtube)
A clip from the movie, Ever After. Notice all of the expressions on the Baroness’s face before she says her first line.
Acting Tip for Character Development: Finding Objectives and Obstacles!
(Video: Youtube) Acting is My Life
A breakdown of scene objectives, based on the film, “The Greatest Showman”
Scoring Your Script: Finding Your Super-Objective!
(Video: Youtube) The Inspired Actor
How NOT to End Your Audition Scene
(Video: Youtube) Hollywood Pro Acting Tips
Scene Study with Ellen Marano: Subtext
(Video: Youtube) Scenebot
Audition Tip: Staying In Character, How to Act Between The Lines
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studio
Acting Techniques – How to be “on your objective” in a scene
(Youtube) Jane Moffatt
An article by BYU.
Laid out like a syllabus, but very easy to do these exercises at home. Will help children to build Moment Before Skills
You Can’t Take Me!
(A game to build Objective Skills)
- Give child a room of the house. Have them decide to be an appliance in the room. Pretend to be the owner of the house wanting to clean out that room and get rid of the object. Student should shout “You can’t take me!” To which the owner, replies “Why not?”. Student must then build a defense for their need to stay, and the owner must argue why their points are invalid. For example, if the child is a stove:
Owner: What a mess this room is! I need to get rid of some things. Starting with this (indicating child).
Child: No! You can’t take me.
Owner: Why not?
Child: Because if I’m gone how will you cook your food?
Owner: How much do I really cook now?
Child: You do sometimes! And what about the holidays? How will you cook for your family?
Owner: I could just order out.
Child: But what about those special meals you want to brag that you make yourself?
Owner: I could just use the microwave..
And so on. This builds their ability to define an objective (to stay), to fight for it, and communicate efficiently to their partner.
What Happens After:
Locate a script for your student to work on. Let them read it and get a good idea of what’s going on. Allow them to work through the script and at the end let the scene keep going. How do they feel and what do they think their character would say after the scene is over . Allow this to go on for another 30 seconds to a minute. This will help your student have an idea as to what their character feels like at the end of their scene and realize that the end is not really the end
Setting Analysis
Select a script to practice with, and analyze your character’s setting! Are you in a familiar or new location? What does your environment look like, feel like, or sound like? What else can you learn about your setting? Can you compare it to anywhere you have been before?
Subtext List
Practice with subtext by selecting a scene to analyze, and studying your script to identify as much subtext as possible. What information can you learn about your character or even the other characters in the scene? How does this information help you decide how you want to bring your character to life?
Scene Relationships
Select a script to study and practice identifying the relationships in the scene. You could highlight or underline each new character’s name that is introduced or referenced in the script, whether or not the character appears in the particular scene itself. Who are all of the characters you identified? How does your character know each of the characters? What impact might each of these relationships have on the scene and on your character?
Unit Two: Scene Elements/ Improv
*Months Two and Three
Everything Parents Need to Know to Support Their Child’s Acting Ambitions
An article by Casting Frontier
Character:
- The Art of Script and Character Research(NY Casting)
- How to Make Effective Acting Choices for a Good Performance(Vada Studios)
- How to Analyze a Script for Actors: Unleashing Your Creative Potential (David Genik)
Acting Between the Lines:
- Acting Between the Lines (Orange Kids)
- Audition Tips for Staying In Character (Top Hollywood Acting Coach)
Monologue:
- Make Your Child’s Monologue Stand Out(Melodrama Acting School)
- 5 Tips for Preparing a Monologue With Confidence (TheatreFolk)
- How Should Kid Actors Select a Monologue? (Kids Casting)
- 10 Monologue Choices for Kids (The Diamond Academy of Performing Arts)
“Yes, And”: Miss Cynthia’s Guide to Improv for You and Your Little Ones
An article by Bubbles Academy
101 Ways Improvisation Helps Children Learn
An article by Creativity Portal
Speaking Off the Cuff: 10 Tips to Help Your Child Improv Like a Pro
An article by Singapore Motherhood
Exploring Different Genres of Drama for Kids
An article by Theatrica
*Written for theatre actors, but breaks down list of acting genres that apply to film actors, too.
Audition Tip: Staying In Character, How to Act Between The Lines
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studio
(Video: Youtube) Katy Schutte
(Video: Youtube) BuzandAnne
Creating A Detailed Character | Acting Tips
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
How To Bring More Life In To Your Scene | Immediate External Circumstances
(Youtube) Acting With Keira
Henry Thomas’s Audition for ET
(Video:Youtube) Universal Pics Sweden
Henry Thomas’s audition for ET. It’s a short reaction but we can see him continue to hold his emotion and thoughts even though the scene is over. The reaction happens at the time stamp 3:00
(Video: Youtube)
Cedryc Bourgeois
In this scene with Kevin, he is getting ready for his day. The reaction to the burning sensation is a good example to the continuation of acting even if there are no more lines being said.
Shake it Up – Cece & Flynn “Brother and Sister” Scene
(Video: Youtube) Zsolty Diz
Notice the way the brother and sister relationship changes in the scene. How do the expressions change and become more authentic?
(Video: Youtube) Acting4Kids
A basic acting lesson about scene analysis and character development broken down by kids
(Video: Youtube) Wes Taylor
An example of Subtext
Why Is Developing a “Story” So Important For Actors To Do?
(Video: Youtube) Backstage.com
Actors Insight : How to Listen
(Video: Youtube) Don Swaby
Monologue for 4 year olds. Cuteness overload
(Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studios
CMTC 2019 – Child 4-11 Self-Tape Competition Winner
(Video: Youtube) Canadian Model & Talent Convention
**Pay attention to the young actress’s eye expressions!
Choose One Minute Monologues for Kids ~ Video Acting Lesson
(Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studios
Stranger Things Kids Audition Tapes
(Video: Youtube) Millie Bobby Brown Central
Acting With Your Eyes – Tips and Techniques for Using Your Eyes
(Video: Youtube) Augmented Actor
Acting Tip for Character Development: Finding Objectives and Obstacles!
(Video: Youtube) Acting is My Life
A breakdown of scene objectives, based on the film, “The Greatest Showman”
Great Audition Monologue for Kids to perform
(Youtube) Sasha Mandler
Acting Tip for Character Development: Finding Objectives and Obstacles!
(Video: Youtube) Acting is My Life
A breakdown of scene objectives, based on the film, “The Greatest Showman”
5 Helpful Home Activities for Child Actor (LINK)
*Article by Backstage.com
3 Drama Exercises to Help Kids Act Out Big Emotions
An article by Free Spirit Publishing
10 Improv Games to Develop Courage, Compassion, and Creativity
An article by Anima Blog
**Meant for small groups, but easy to play at home with family members.
Practice Monologue
Research monologues that your young actor may like, or write your own! Select and practice reading a short monologue script with your young actor. Discuss who the character is in the monologue and what the setting is. You can also film a practice self-tape of the monologue!
Setting of the Story
When watching a favorite movie or TV show, discuss the setting of the story with your young actor. Where is the story located, or where does the specific TV episode take place? How would the story change for the characters if the setting changed?
Building Relationships
Start a relationship journal. Have your child focus on one relationship at a time. Ask: Who is it? How close am I to this person? How do I generally feel about them? How long have I known them? What do I generally expect from this person? Do this with a variety of relationships: Parents, siblings, established friends, new friends, teachers, neighbors, coaches, etc, etc. Give child a simple line like, “I need your help” and ask your child to say it like they are saying it to one of the people on their list. Ask how the details of their relationship impact the way they say their line. Try this with different people, and see how the line changes depending on who they are talking to.
Repeated Lines:
Choose one phrase, such as “Nice to meet you” or “I’m Okay”. Take turns saying in different ways. See how the WAY you say the line determines the meaning (subtext). Now try adding expression before/after the line. See how a Moment Before/After affects the performance.
Continuity:
- Practice! Find a scene or monologue and film yourself performing it. Try to recreate the same movements while performing 3 more times.**This is a great exercise to do with a friend or a recording device (phone).
- Remember the dance: To get your student to become more aware of their body and what movements they make. Have them choose their favorite song and start dancing to the first 15-30 seconds of it. Have them try to repeat those moves in the same order throughout the rest of the song.
Reaction Acting Exercise and Great Kids Acting Warm-up Game! (Video Acting Lesson LINK) 3-2-1 Acting Studios.
*This lesson is not so much about continuity, rather it is about children being in control of their emotional expression and being able to follow direction. Both of these are very important for emotional continuity
An article by Stagemilk
Ways to Help Children Learn About Facial Expressions
An article by Sandbox Learning
Character Backstory
Is there a scene you would like to dive into, or an audition you are preparing for? Get out a journal and experiment with writing a backstory for your character! Where did your character grow up, or where does your character live now? Who are your character’s friends and family? What else do you know about your character, or can imagine about your character’s life? Write as much as you would like!
Character Mood Board Collage
Based on the NYCastings article “The Art of Script and Character Research”, consider creating a mood board for a character you are preparing to play. With an adult, research or draw images that represent your character and their environment, or images that inspire you and remind you of your character. How do these visuals spark your imagination?
Unit Two: Scene Elements/ Improv
*Months Two and Three
Character;
- The Art of Script and Character Research(NY Casting)
- How to Make Effective Acting Choices for a Good Performance(Vada Studios)
- How to Analyze a Script for Actors: Unleashing Your Creative Potential (David Genik)
Acting Between the Lines:
- Acting Between the Lines (Orange Kids)
- Audition Tips for Staying In Character (Top Hollywood Acting Coach)
Continuity:
- Continuity, Coverage, and Matching Shots (Top Hollywood Acting Coach)
- How Young Actors Can Play Emotional Scenes (Hitting Emotional Marks) (Backstage.com)
Audition Resources:
- The Key to Bringing the Right Mindset Into the Audition Room
- Self-Taped Monologues – Using Downtime To Get More Screentime! (NY Castings)
- What Belongs on an Acting Resume? (Backstage.com)
- How to Self-Tape Your Child’s Acting Audition (Kids Casting Academy)
Eye Acting:
- Four Ways to Act with Your Eyes in a Close Up (Backstage.com)
- 7 Ways that Your Face Expresses Emotion (Backstage.com)
Audition Tip: Staying In Character, How to Act Between The Lines
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studio
Creating A Detailed Character | Acting Tips
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
Auditioning: Did You Do Your Homework?
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
How To Bring More Life In To Your Scene | Immediate External Circumstances
(Youtube) Acting With Keira
Henry Thomas’s Audition for ET
(Video:Youtube) Universal Pics Sweden
Henry Thomas’s audition for ET. It’s a short reaction but we can see him continue to hold his emotion and thoughts even though the scene is over. The reaction happens at the time stamp 3:00
(Video: Youtube)
Cedryc Bourgeois
In this scene with Kevin, he is getting ready for his day. The reaction to the burning sensation is a good example to the continuation of acting even if there are no more lines being said.
Shake it Up – Cece & Flynn “Brother and Sister” Scene
(Video: Youtube) Zsolty Diz
Notice the way the brother and sister relationship changes in the scene. How do the expressions change and become more authentic?
(Video: Youtube) Acting4Kids
A basic acting lesson about scene analysis and character development broken down by kids
(Video: Youtube) Wes Taylor
An example of Subtext
Why Is Developing a “Story” So Important For Actors To Do?
(Video: Youtube) Backstage.com
Actors Insight : How to Listen
(Video: Youtube) Don Swaby
Film Making 101 Tutorial – Continuity
(Video: Youtube) Surfaced Studio
**Minor Language Warning
Jace Norman & Henry Danger Cast’s Never-Before-Seen Auditions | Henry Danger
(Video: Youtube) Henry Danger Official
CMTC 2019 – Child 4-11 Self-Tape Competition Winner
(Video: Youtube) Canadian Model & Talent Convention
**Pay attention to the young actress’s eye expressions!
How To: Pro Self-Tape Auditions
(Video: Youtube) Kids Casting
An article and video (Youtube) by The Acting Career Center
***A list of 10 self taping commandments and products to invest in.
Stranger Things Kids Audition Tapes
(Video: Youtube) Millie Bobby Brown Central
Acting With Your Eyes – Tips and Techniques for Using Your Eyes
(Video: Youtube) Augmented Actor
Acting Tip for Character Development: Finding Objectives and Obstacles!
(Video: Youtube) Acting is My Life
A breakdown of scene objectives, based on the film, “The Greatest Showman”
Robert Downey Jr Acting on a Green Screen
(Video: Youtube) Instagram: Robert Downey Jr Offical Profile
(Video: Youtube) Movie Clips
**Watch the various eye expressions.
Acting Tip for Character Development: Finding Objectives and Obstacles!
(Video: Youtube) Acting is My Life
A breakdown of scene objectives, based on the film, “The Greatest Showman”
5 Helpful Home Activities for Child Actor (LINK)
*Article by Backstage.com
Building Relationships
Start a relationship journal. Have your child focus on one relationship at a time. Ask: Who is it? How close am I to this person? How do I generally feel about them? How long have I known them? What do I generally expect from this person? Do this with a variety of relationships: Parents, siblings, established friends, new friends, teachers, neighbors, coaches, etc, etc. Give child a simple line like, “I need your help” and ask your child to say it like they are saying it to one of the people on their list. Ask how the details of their relationship impact the way they say their line. Try this with different people, and see how the line changes depending on who they are talking to.
Repeated Lines:
Choose one phrase, such as “Nice to meet you” or “I’m Okay”. Take turns saying in different ways. See how the WAY you say the line determines the meaning (subtext). Now try adding expression before/after the line. See how a Moment Before/After affects the performance.
Continuity:
- Practice! Find a scene or monologue and film yourself performing it. Try to recreate the same movements while performing 3 more times.**This is a great exercise to do with a friend or a recording device (phone).
- Remember the dance: To get your student to become more aware of their body and what movements they make. Have them choose their favorite song and start dancing to the first 15-30 seconds of it. Have them try to repeat those moves in the same order throughout the rest of the song.
Reaction Acting Exercise and Great Kids Acting Warm-up Game! (Video Acting Lesson LINK) 3-2-1 Acting Studios.
*This lesson is not so much about continuity, rather it is about children being in control of their emotional expression and being able to follow direction. Both of these are very important for emotional continuity
An article by Stagemilk (LINK)
Five Acting Exercises for 8–18-Year-Olds
An article by Theatre Nerds
Excellent exercises for young actors to flex their creativity, and build their script analysis skills
Ways to Help Children Learn About Facial Expressions
An article by Sandbox Learning
Character Backstory
Is there a scene you would like to dive into, or an audition you are preparing for? Get out a journal and experiment with writing a backstory for your character! Where did your character grow up, or where does your character live now? Who are your character’s friends and family? What else do you know about your character, or can imagine about your character’s life? Write as much as you would like!
Character Mood Board Collage
Based on the NYCastings article “The Art of Script and Character Research”, consider creating a mood board for a character you are preparing to play. With an adult, research or draw images that represent your character and their environment, or images that inspire you and remind you of your character. How do these visuals spark your imagination?
Unit Three: Research and Creative Choices
*Month Four
The Responsibilities for Parents of Child Actors
An article by BizParentz
An article by 3-2-1 Acting Studios
The Complete Guide to Actors Access
An article by StageMilk
The Ultimate Guide to IMDbPro: What Parents of Child Actors Need to Know
An article by Child Actor 101
5 Casting Directors in Atlanta to Know
An article by Backstage.com
What Belongs on an Acting Resume?
An article by Backstage.com
How to Create an Outstanding Acting Demo Reel for Kids?
An article by Kids Casting
How to Take Kids Acting Headshots
An article by Brandon Andre
Creative Scene Choices:
- How to Analyze Scripts for Actors (New York Film Academy)
- 8 Tips for Successful Script Analysis (Backstage.com)
- What does My Character Want? (TheatreFolk)
Auditioning: Did You Do Your Homework?
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
What Do Casting Directors Look For in an Actor?
(Youtube) Backstage
How Do I Know If My Audition Went Well?
(Youtube) Backstage
What Are the Most Important Things to Remember About On-Camera Auditions?
(Youtube) Backstage
Audition Packet:
Using the information given in class, begin building (or updating) your child’s Audition Packet. If you need extra help, book a Career Coaching Session with your coach to go over what you have and what you need.
Items to Prepare:
- Headshots
- Resume
- Reels
- Professional Profiles (Actors Access, etc).
**We have recommended services listed in our Resource Center under Additional Resources, or you can contact The Front Desk.
Research:
Note from class on who/what to research:
- Casting: be familiar with what they are looking for and projects they cast.
- AA shows you if you’ve auditioned for them before.
- Recurring auditions from same casting (even if you don’t book) is GOOD!
- This means they like what you are doing, but haven’t found the right role for you yet. They are on your side!
- Directors:
- Are you familiar with their work?
- Do they have a style?
- Alfred Hitchcocks’s horror style are different from Jordan Peele.
- Producers:
- Previous productions?
- Big money or low budget?
- CGI or Practical Effects?
- Writers:
- Specific style?
- Level involved in film?
- Is the writer the director?
- Known to want word perfect, or able to improv?
Scene Exercises to Build Creativity:
Questions and Answers
With the resource of “What Does My Character Want?”, the blog article from TheatreFolk.com, select a script to practice analyzing with several of the questions provided in this article. For example, as stated in the article, begin by reading your script and asking the question of what your character wants. Dive further into the script and answer as many of the questions in this article as you would like! What did you learn about your character and about researching with the script?
“Scene Map”
Choose a script to practice making a “script map” for, using the resource of “How to Analyze a Script for Actors”, the blog article from New York Film Academy. As the article describes, a “script map” involves breaking the script down into events or sections, or “a series of related events where A leads to B and B leads to C and so on.” How many different events did you identify in the script? What did you learn by visualizing the scene as a map of events?
Unit Three: Research and Creative Choices
*Month Four
The Ultimate Guide to IMDbPro: What Parents of Child Actors Need to Know
An article by Child Actor 101
Relationships Between Actors:
- One Exercise to Assist the Scene (Backstage.com)
- What You Need to Know About Working With Kids (Backstage.com)
- The Power of Collaboration: Embracing the Community in Acting Schools (Vada Studios)
Actor Tools | Five Benefits of Scene Study
An article by ActorSpaces
Improv Resources:
How Improv Can Help Improve Every Audition
An article by Backstage.com
Improv Audition Tips to Help You Succeed
An article by Comedic Pursuits
An article by DramaKids.com
- What Belongs on an Acting Resume? (Backstage.com)
How to Have an ENGAGING Audition
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
(Youtube) Sara Gaston Studio
(Youtube) Sara Gaston Studio
(Video: Youtube) Katy Schutte
(Video: Youtube) BuzandAnne
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studios
10 Improv Games to Develop Courage, Compassion, and Creativity
An article by Anima Blog
**Meant for small groups, but easy to play at home with family members.
Scene Study Prep Brainstorm
Create a list of favorite characters from movies or TV shows, or brainstorm a list of acting performances which inspire you! You can create a list of favorite movies and TV shows that you may be interested in doing scene study work for. Bonus: identify specific scenes in a movie or TV show that you would like to do scene studies of! What inspires you and why would you like to dive further into studying these scenes and characters?
Scene Fun
In a practice scene at home or with a friend from class, decide to implement something new to a scene rehearsal! Experiment with improv in your scene or adding something unexpected. What is a new idea that your character can add to the scene, such as a different approach to how your character is speaking or listening? What ideas did you come up with, and which was the most fun to implement?
Unit 4: Industry Skills
An article by 3-2-1 Acting Studios
Acting Tips: 12 Camera Shots Every Actor Should Know
An article by New York Film Academy
***Content warning for videos. Please use discretion when watching the video examples.
9 Camera Shots All Actors Should Know
An article by Top Hollywood Acting
Notes from class
Audition Interview Resources:
What’s Your Role as a Parent at an Audition?
An article by Kids Casting Academy
5 Audition Tips for the Parents of Child Actors
An article by Backstage.com
Do’s and Don’ts of Online Auditions for Kids
And article by Kids Casting Academy
Acting On Camera in 3 Basic Shots
(Video: Youtube) Camille Carter
Hollywood Acting Tips: The Wide Shot Vs the Close Up
(Video: Youtube) Master Talent Teacher1
Frozen 2 (Camera Angle Example)
(Video: Youtube) Disney Lover
**Example of Wide Shot, Full Shot, and Close Ups
Mrs. Doubtfire (Camera Angle Example)
(Video: Youtube) Movieclips
**Example of Over the Shoulder Shot, and Medium Shot
(Video: Youtube) Lily Gordon
**Content warning (violence) at the very end of the video. Please view with discretion
How Actors Enter and Exit Auditions
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studios
Selena Gomez’s First Disney Channel Audition
(Video: Youtube) IrisChairmane
Practice Camera Angles:
Using a phone or video recording device, choose one short monologue to practice performing before the camera.
Try performing it in a full shot, half-shot, quarter shot, and close up.
How did your expressions change as the angles got smaller? Which angles are more natural for you? Which ones are more challenging? Where is an area that you can grow in when it comes to working with challenging camera angles?
Unit 5: Monologues
Monologue Resources:
What Makes a Great Kids Monologue, According to a Casting Director
An article by Backstage.com
An article by Our Pastimes
**A theatre-focused article about how to cut an existing monologue
How to Write Your Own Monologue
An article by Backstage.com
**Minor content warning. Read with discretion.
How to Write a One-Minute Monologue
An article by Backstage.com
How to Find Audition Monologues for Child Actors
An article by Backstage.com
Self-Taped Monologues Using Downtime to Get More Screentime
An article by DirectSubmit
Practice Interviews:
Practice asking your child a question. They should answer:
- Quickly
- With energy
- Adding vivid detail (No one word answers. Use the “Because Rule”)
- Making eye contact
- Smiling
- Focusing on connecting with you, ‘the interview’.
Monologue Building Skills:
- Practice creating content. Write down as many interesting life scenarios as you can. Make sure that these scenarios are recent and contain multiple details.
- Practice cutting content. Identify characters from film and tv shows that fit your age group and your ‘type’. Write down the interesting scenarios or scenes that the character finds themselves in.
9 – 12 Year Olds
Recommended For Working Actor Students
Resources to continue learning for young Working Actor Script and Set Study actors and their parents.
Check out these general resources, then scroll down to find more recommendations broken down by monthly topics
Parenting in the Spotlight: How to raise a child star without screwing them up
By Denise Simon
When your child wants to become an actor, you may be thrilled and a little scared. The entertainment industry can be confusing and overwhelming. How do you know when to hire an agent and a manager or what kind of clothing should be worn to auditions? What about taxes, school, and helping your child cope with rejection? What’s the best way to ensure that your child actor has a successful experience and doesn’t end up in the tabloids? Denise Simon has spent 30 years as an Acting Coach, Personal Talent Manager, and Director, specializing in child actors. She’s worked with some of the best and brightest young actors in television, film, commercials and on Broadway. In this book, Simon shares not only the practical how-to information all parents need but more than 75 valuable life lessons that acting will give your child.
The Hollywood Parents Guide: Your Roadmap to Pursuing Your Child’s Dream
By Bonnie J Wallace
Written by the mother of Disney star, Dove Cameron. Accurate, experience-tested information on every step needed to give your child the best possible opportunity to make it in Hollywood. Inspiration. Resources to help you on your own journey, and even help you decide if this dream is right for you and your family to pursue at all.
By Diana Ivelis Cherubin Wolfe
Do you have a talented child that everyone says is made for television but you’ve hit a brick wall in helping them break into show business? Well this book will outline everything you need to know and do to successfully navigate the Entertainment Industry. No matter where you live, there are steps you can take to get your child’s professional acting career started today!
By Harriet Greenspan
Top Hollywood Casting Director Harriet Greenspan helps demystify the casting process for young actors and their parents, guiding them on their journey to book roles in television, movies and theater. Harriet Greenspan casts projects for all the major cable youth networks including Nickelodeon, The Disney Channel, The Hub and The Cartoon Networks.
Audrey Helps Actors is exactly what it sounds like! Every episode Audrey invites someone from the business to chat about everything from advice for auditions and getting a new agent, to the nitty gritty of exploring different markets and information about how you can better use your union.
Dana Bowling a Casting Director, Audition Coach, Career Consultant and Mom dedicated to helping young actors and their parents find their way through this confusing yet exciting business! Join her as she speaks with all kinds of people who have gone through this journey just like you, as well as other experts in this small world of “Hollywood”
Great information geared towards the family of young actors
HMB is a blog directed to parents of professional and aspiring young actors. The blog offers guides to aid parents in their children’s career as well as casting call notices
For parents who want to raise a child actor in a happy, successful, and balanced manner
Hosted by the mom of Disney star, Dove Cameron, Bonnie J Wallace walks parents through her journey of successfully taking a child actor from Hometown to Hollywood (Both a blog AND a podcast!)
Twitter:
- Tammy Smith Casting- Tammy Smith casts background roles for huge films that shoot in the Atlanta area like “Black Panther,” “Sully,” and “Jumanji.” Plus, she lets actors know of any last-minute need for background actors in the Atlanta area
- Central Casting–The official account of Central Casting, the leading background casting company in the United States. Est. in Hollywood in 1925.
- Arvold– offices in North Carolina and Atlanta, arvold. has helped cast huge projects in the southeastern United States like “House of Cards,” “Loving,” and “Lincoln.”
- Chase Paris
Instagram:
- Beyond Acting
- Rhavynn
- **Actor Minute Mondays by Rhavynn Drummer
- The Casting Directors Cut
- Atlanta Actors Collective
Facebook:
Tik Tok
Class Resources
Ready to dive deeper into your TAS curriculum? These supplemental resources are intended to give you a deeper understanding and more well rounded view of your TAS education. While these are not meant to replace your TAS classes, they are provided to enhance what you are learning in class.
**All resources are from 3rd party sources which are clearly listed. Any questions about the material can be directed to your TAS acting coach. TAS does not endorse the people or products in the articles, and suggest that students use discretion in their studies.
Unit 1: Script Analysis Template
9 Extraordinary Benefits of Being a Child Performer
An article by Kids Casting Academy
Script Analysis:
- Mastering the Art of Script Analysis: Tips for Performers (Theatre Haus)
- Why Script Analysis Is So Important (and How To Do It Right)(Backstage.com)
- Script Analysis- Actors! You Really Should Know What You’re Talking About (Casting Frontier)
Moment Before:
- Preparing a Scene Part 1 (Master Talent Teachers)
- Creating a Powerful Moment Before (Teen Actor Lab)
Scene Objectives/Goals
- What is an Objective? (Stagemilk)
- Objectives and SuperObjectives (Actor Hub)
Moment After:
- The Moment Before and After (Marci Liroff)
- Don’t End Your Audition on the Last Word (Backstage.com)
Subtext:
- What Is Subtext in Acting? (Bubblegum Casting)
- The Importance of Subtext for Actors (New York Film Academy)
- Subtext in Acting (Vada Studios)
- Why Subtext is Important + How to Find It (Backstage.com)
SMART Goals:
- SMART Goals for Actors (Larissa Thomson)
- 5 Ways To Support Your Young Actor According to the Mom of a Disney Star (Backstage.com)
Memorization Tips:
- 6 Simple Tips for Memorizing Lines (New York Film Academy)
- How to Memorize Lines (Daily Actor)
- 5 Tips for Memorizing a Monologue (Backstage.com)
- How to Memorize Lines Fast (Backstage.com)
- Breaking Down a Script Sheet from class
How to ‘Up’ Your Acting Game- Acting Tips for Kids
(Video: Youtube) AhHa Broadway
The Most Important Acting Moment- The Moment Before Action!
(Video: Youtube) Isabel Lehoux
ALWAYS Create a Strong ‘Moment Before’
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
(Video: Youtube)
A clip from the movie, Ever After. Notice all of the expressions on the Baroness’s face before she says her first line.
Acting Tip for Character Development: Finding Objectives and Obstacles!
(Video: Youtube) Acting is My Life
A breakdown of scene objectives, based on the film, “The Greatest Showman”
Scoring Your Script: Finding Your Super-Objective!
(Video: Youtube) The Inspired Actor
How NOT to End Your Audition Scene
(Video: Youtube) Hollywood Pro Acting Tips
Scene Study with Ellen Marano: Subtext
(Video: Youtube) Scenebot
Audition Tip: Staying In Character, How to Act Between The Lines
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studio
Acting Techniques – How to be “on your objective” in a scene
(Youtube) Jane Moffatt
An article by BYU.
Laid out like a syllabus, but very easy to do these exercises at home. Will help children to build Moment Before Skills
You Can’t Take Me!
(A game to build Objective Skills)
- Give child a room of the house. Have them decide to be an appliance in the room. Pretend to be the owner of the house wanting to clean out that room and get rid of the object. Student should shout “You can’t take me!” To which the owner, replies “Why not?”. Student must then build a defense for their need to stay, and the owner must argue why their points are invalid. For example, if the child is a stove:
Owner: What a mess this room is! I need to get rid of some things. Starting with this (indicating child).
Child: No! You can’t take me.
Owner: Why not?
Child: Because if I’m gone how will you cook your food?
Owner: How much do I really cook now?
Child: You do sometimes! And what about the holidays? How will you cook for your family?
Owner: I could just order out.
Child: But what about those special meals you want to brag that you make yourself?
Owner: I could just use the microwave..
And so on. This builds their ability to define an objective (to stay), to fight for it, and communicate efficiently to their partner.
What Happens After:
Locate a script for your student to work on. Let them read it and get a good idea of what’s going on. Allow them to work through the script and at the end let the scene keep going. How do they feel and what do they think their character would say after the scene is over . Allow this to go on for another 30 seconds to a minute. This will help your student have an idea as to what their character feels like at the end of their scene and realize that the end is not really the end
Setting Analysis
Select a script to practice with, and analyze your character’s setting! Are you in a familiar or new location? What does your environment look like, feel like, or sound like? What else can you learn about your setting? Can you compare it to anywhere you have been before?
Subtext List
Practice with subtext by selecting a scene to analyze, and studying your script to identify as much subtext as possible. What information can you learn about your character or even the other characters in the scene? How does this information help you decide how you want to bring your character to life?
Scene Relationships
Select a script to study and practice identifying the relationships in the scene. You could highlight or underline each new character’s name that is introduced or referenced in the script, whether or not the character appears in the particular scene itself. Who are all of the characters you identified? How does your character know each of the characters? What impact might each of these relationships have on the scene and on your character?
Unit 2: Character Development
Character;
- The Art of Script and Character Research(NY Casting)
- How to Make Effective Acting Choices for a Good Performance(Vada Studios)
- How to Analyze a Script for Actors: Unleashing Your Creative Potential (David Genik)
Acting Between the Lines:
- Acting Between the Lines (Orange Kids)
- Audition Tips for Staying In Character (Top Hollywood Acting Coach)
Continuity:
- Continuity, Coverage, and Matching Shots (Top Hollywood Acting Coach)
- How Young Actors Can Play Emotional Scenes (Hitting Emotional Marks) (Backstage.com)
Audition Resources:
- The Key to Bringing the Right Mindset Into the Audition Room
- Self-Taped Monologues – Using Downtime To Get More Screentime! (NY Castings)
- What Belongs on an Acting Resume? (Backstage.com)
- How to Self-Tape Your Child’s Acting Audition (Kids Casting Academy)
Eye Acting:
- Four Ways to Act with Your Eyes in a Close Up (Backstage.com)
- 7 Ways that Your Face Expresses Emotion (Backstage.com)
Creating A Detailed Character | Acting Tips
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
Auditioning: Did You Do Your Homework?
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
How To Bring More Life In To Your Scene | Immediate External Circumstances
(Youtube) Acting With Keira
Henry Thomas’s Audition for ET
(Video:Youtube) Universal Pics Sweden
Henry Thomas’s audition for ET. It’s a short reaction but we can see him continue to hold his emotion and thoughts even though the scene is over. The reaction happens at the time stamp 3:00
(Video: Youtube)
Cedryc Bourgeois
In this scene with Kevin, he is getting ready for his day. The reaction to the burning sensation is a good example to the continuation of acting even if there are no more lines being said.
Shake it Up – Cece & Flynn “Brother and Sister” Scene
(Video: Youtube) Zsolty Diz
Notice the way the brother and sister relationship changes in the scene. How do the expressions change and become more authentic?
(Video: Youtube) Acting4Kids
A basic acting lesson about scene analysis and character development broken down by kids
(Video: Youtube) Wes Taylor
An example of Subtext
Why Is Developing a “Story” So Important For Actors To Do?
(Video: Youtube) Backstage.com
Actors Insight : How to Listen
(Video: Youtube) Don Swaby
Film Making 101 Tutorial – Continuity
(Video: Youtube) Surfaced Studio
**Minor Language Warning
Jace Norman & Henry Danger Cast’s Never-Before-Seen Auditions | Henry Danger
(Video: Youtube) Henry Danger Official
CMTC 2019 – Child 4-11 Self-Tape Competition Winner
(Video: Youtube) Canadian Model & Talent Convention
**Pay attention to the young actress’s eye expressions!
How To: Pro Self-Tape Auditions
(Video: Youtube) Kids Casting
An article and video (Youtube) by The Acting Career Center
***A list of 10 self taping commandments and products to invest in.
Stranger Things Kids Audition Tapes
(Video: Youtube) Millie Bobby Brown Central
Acting With Your Eyes – Tips and Techniques for Using Your Eyes
(Video: Youtube) Augmented Actor
Robert Downey Jr Acting on a Green Screen
(Video: Youtube) Instagram: Robert Downey Jr Offical Profile
(Video: Youtube) Movie Clips
**Watch the various eye expressions.
5 Helpful Home Activities for Child Actor (LINK)
*Article by Backstage.com
Building Relationships
Start a relationship journal. Have your child focus on one relationship at a time. Ask: Who is it? How close am I to this person? How do I generally feel about them? How long have I known them? What do I generally expect from this person? Do this with a variety of relationships: Parents, siblings, established friends, new friends, teachers, neighbors, coaches, etc, etc. Give child a simple line like, “I need your help” and ask your child to say it like they are saying it to one of the people on their list. Ask how the details of their relationship impact the way they say their line. Try this with different people, and see how the line changes depending on who they are talking to.
Repeated Lines:
Choose one phrase, such as “Nice to meet you” or “I’m Okay”. Take turns saying in different ways. See how the WAY you say the line determines the meaning (subtext). Now try adding expression before/after the line. See how a Moment Before/After affects the performance.
Continuity:
- Practice! Find a scene or monologue and film yourself performing it. Try to recreate the same movements while performing 3 more times.**This is a great exercise to do with a friend or a recording device (phone).
- Remember the dance: To get your student to become more aware of their body and what movements they make. Have them choose their favorite song and start dancing to the first 15-30 seconds of it. Have them try to repeat those moves in the same order throughout the rest of the song.
Reaction Acting Exercise and Great Kids Acting Warm-up Game! (Video Acting Lesson LINK) 3-2-1 Acting Studios.
*This lesson is not so much about continuity, rather it is about children being in control of their emotional expression and being able to follow direction. Both of these are very important for emotional continuity
An article by Stagemilk (LINK)
Five Acting Exercises for 8–18-Year-Olds
An article by Theatre Nerds
Excellent exercises for young actors to flex their creativity, and build their script analysis skills
Ways to Help Children Learn About Facial Expressions
An article by Sandbox Learning
Character Backstory
Is there a scene you would like to dive into, or an audition you are preparing for? Get out a journal and experiment with writing a backstory for your character! Where did your character grow up, or where does your character live now? Who are your character’s friends and family? What else do you know about your character, or can imagine about your character’s life? Write as much as you would like!
Character Mood Board Collage
Based on the NYCastings article “The Art of Script and Character Research”, consider creating a mood board for a character you are preparing to play. With an adult, research or draw images that represent your character and their environment, or images that inspire you and remind you of your character. How do these visuals spark your imagination?
Unit 3: Scene Study and Improv Resources
Relationships Between Actors:
- One Exercise to Assist the Scene (Backstage.com)
- What You Need to Know About Working With Kids (Backstage.com)
- The Power of Collaboration: Embracing the Community in Acting Schools (Vada Studios)
Actor Tools | Five Benefits of Scene Study
An article by ActorSpaces
Improv Resources:
How Improv Can Help Improve Every Audition
An article by Backstage.com
Improv Audition Tips to Help You Succeed
An article by Comedic Pursuits
An article by DramaKids.com
Speaking Off the Cuff: 10 Tips to Help Your Child Improv Like a Pro
An article by Singapore Motherhood
How to Have an ENGAGING Audition
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
(Youtube) Sara Gaston Studio
(Youtube) Sara Gaston Studio
(Video: Youtube) Katy Schutte
(Video: Youtube) BuzandAnne
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studios
10 Improv Games to Develop Courage, Compassion, and Creativity
An article by Anima Blog
**Meant for small groups, but easy to play at home with family members.
Scene Study Prep Brainstorm
Create a list of favorite characters from movies or TV shows, or brainstorm a list of acting performances which inspire you! You can create a list of favorite movies and TV shows that you may be interested in doing scene study work for. Bonus: identify specific scenes in a movie or TV show that you would like to do scene studies of! What inspires you and why would you like to dive further into studying these scenes and characters?
Scene Fun
In a practice scene at home or with a friend from class, decide to implement something new to a scene rehearsal! Experiment with improv in your scene or adding something unexpected. What is a new idea that your character can add to the scene, such as a different approach to how your character is speaking or listening? What ideas did you come up with, and which was the most fun to implement?
Unit 4: Industry Skills
An article by 3-2-1 Acting Studios
Acting Tips: 12 Camera Shots Every Actor Should Know
An article by New York Film Academy
***Content warning for videos. Please use discretion when watching the video examples.
9 Camera Shots All Actors Should Know
An article by Top Hollywood Acting
Notes from class
Audition Interview Resources:
What’s Your Role as a Parent at an Audition?
An article by Kids Casting Academy
5 Audition Tips for the Parents of Child Actors
An article by Backstage.com
Do’s and Don’ts of Online Auditions for Kids
And article by Kids Casting Academy
Acting On Camera in 3 Basic Shots
(Video: Youtube) Camille Carter
Hollywood Acting Tips: The Wide Shot Vs the Close Up
(Video: Youtube) Master Talent Teacher1
Frozen 2 (Camera Angle Example)
(Video: Youtube) Disney Lover
**Example of Wide Shot, Full Shot, and Close Ups
Mrs. Doubtfire (Camera Angle Example)
(Video: Youtube) Movieclips
**Example of Over the Shoulder Shot, and Medium Shot
(Video: Youtube) Lily Gordon
**Content warning (violence) at the very end of the video. Please view with discretion
How Actors Enter and Exit Auditions
(Video: Youtube) 3-2-1 Acting Studios
Selena Gomez’s First Disney Channel Audition
(Video: Youtube) IrisChairmane
Practice Camera Angles:
Using a phone or video recording device, choose one short monologue to practice performing before the camera.
Try performing it in a full shot, half-shot, quarter shot, and close up.
How did your expressions change as the angles got smaller? Which angles are more natural for you? Which ones are more challenging? Where is an area that you can grow in when it comes to working with challenging camera angles?
Unit 5: Monologues
Monologue Resources:
What Makes a Great Kids Monologue, According to a Casting Director
An article by Backstage.com
An article by Our Pastimes
**A theatre-focused article about how to cut an existing monologue
How to Write Your Own Monologue
An article by Backstage.com
**Minor content warning. Read with discretion.
How to Write a One-Minute Monologue
An article by Backstage.com
How to Find Audition Monologues for Child Actors
An article by Backstage.com
Self-Taped Monologues Using Downtime to Get More Screentime
An article by DirectSubmit
Practice Interviews:
Practice asking your child a question. They should answer:
- Quickly
- With energy
- Adding vivid detail (No one word answers. Use the “Because Rule”)
- Making eye contact
- Smiling
- Focusing on connecting with you, ‘the interview’.
Monologue Building Skills:
- Practice creating content. Write down as many interesting life scenarios as you can. Make sure that these scenarios are recent and contain multiple details.
- Practice cutting content. Identify characters from film and tv shows that fit your age group and your ‘type’. Write down the interesting scenarios or scenes that the character finds themselves in.
13 Years and Older
Recommended For Working Actors
Resources to continue learning for Working Actor: Script and Set Study Students.
Check out these general resources, then scroll down to find more recommendations broken down by monthly topic!
By Jen Rudin
Confessions of a Casting Director is a must-have for any aspiring actor or stage parent—the definitive guide to breaking into film, television, theater, and even YouTube from longtime casting director and studio executive Jen Rudin. Packed with information that aspiring actors want, her up-to-the-minute expert advice is essential for anyone pursuing an acting career.
The Actor’s Life: A Survival Guide
By Jenna Fischer
Jenna Fischer’s Hollywood journey began at the age of 22 when she moved to Los Angeles from her hometown of St. Louis. With a theater degree in hand, she was determined, she was confident, she was ready to work hard. So, what could go wrong? Uh, basically everything. Learn from her journey in this witty and informative book.
How To Audition On Camera: A Hollywood Insider’s Guide for Actors
By Sharon Bialy
To win a role in a movie or on network or cable TV, you must make a strong first impression in your brief, crucial audition―and the first person you have to impress is the casting director.
In How to Audition On Camera, Casting Director Sharon Bialy answers the twenty-five questions actors ask most frequently about how to nail an audition. What is the casting director looking for? If you mess up, can you start over? What is the most common mistake experienced actors make? Should you audition off book or can you look at the page? Should you dress in character? How much can you improvise? Actors―both novice and professional―are often misled by myths and outdated prescriptions. This guide replaces such misinformation with concise and accurate advice from someone who is in the room helping to make the decision on who gets the job. Bialy gets readers started immediately on the road to screen acting success.
By Brian O’Neil
Since its original publication, Acting as a Business has earned a reputation as an indispensable tool for working and aspiring actors. Avoiding the usual advice about persistence and luck, Brian O’Neil provides clear-cut guidelines that will give actors a solid knowledge of the business behind their art. It’s packed with practical information—on everything from what to say in a cover letter to where to stand when performing in an agent’s office—including:
— Tactics for getting an agent, including preparing for the interview
— How to research who will be casting what—and whether there is a role for you—well in advance
— Examples of correspondence to agents and casting directors for both beginning and advanced professionals
— A detailed analysis of the current trend of paying to meet industry personnel
— How to communicate effectively with an agent or personal manager
— Creative ways to use the internet and social media
O’Neil has updated Acting as a Business to keep up with the latest show-business trends, making this fifth edition a reference no actor should be without
6 Essential Podcasts for Actors
An article by Podcast Review
Welcome to The Actors Lounge Podcast, where actors share their stories including the challenges, successes and lessons learned along the way!
Dana Bowling is a Casting Director, Audition Coach, Career Consultant and Mom dedicated to helping young actors find their way through this confusing yet exciting business!
Audrey Helps Actors is exactly what it sounds like! Every episode Audrey invites someone from the business to chat about everything from advice for auditions and getting a new agent, to the nitty gritty of exploring different markets and information about how you can better use your union.
Great articles for working actors.
A blog for new working actors and for veteran actors alike
Facebook:
- Casting Directors For Actors
- Atlanta Georgia Casting Calls & Auditions for Film/TV Actors & Actresses
- Casting directors for Actors and Actresses
- Actors and Filmmakers Collective (Cali)
- Amy Jo Berman
Twitter:
Instagram:
Tik Tok:
Class Resources
Ready to dive deeper into your TAS curriculum? These supplemental resources are intended to give you a deeper understanding and more well rounded view of your TAS education. While these are not meant to replace your TAS classes, they are provided to enhance what you are learning in class.
**All resources are from 3rd party sources which are clearly listed. Any questions about the material can be directed to your TAS acting coach. TAS does not endorse the people or products in the articles, and suggests that students use discretion in their studies.
Unit 1: Script Analysis Template
Script Analysis Resources:
What is Script Analysis? And Why is It Important for Actors?
An article by Backstage.com
Mastering the Art of Script Analysis: Tips for Performers
An article by Theatre Haus
6 Ways to Combat Nerves at Your Next Audition
An article by Spotlight: the Home of Casting
Script Analysis: Actors! You Really Should Know What You’re Talking About
An article by Casting Frontier
Michael Shurtleff’s Guideposts
An article by Acting Studio Chicago
Moment Before Resources:
An article by Acting Class for Film
An article by Backstage.com
Creating a Powerful Moment Before
An article by Teen Actor Lab
Moment After Resources:
The Moment Before and The Moment After
An article by Marci Liroff
Don’t End Your Audition on the Last Word
An article by Backstage.com
Scene Objective/ Goals:
Try This Foolproof Way to Define Your Character’s Objective
An article by Backstage.com
***Contains adult situations, that may not be suitable for young readers. Please read with discretion.
The Art of Wavering Between Choices
An article by Backstage.com
An article by Stagemilk
The Objective: ACTING your character’s NEED
An article by Master Talent Teachers
Subtext Resources:
Why Subtext is so Important for Actors
An article by Backstage.com
The Importance of Subtext for Actors
An article by New York Film Academy
Memorization Tips
6 Simple Tips for Memorizing Lines
An article by New York Film Academy
How to Memorize Lines: 8 Fast Methods and Tips
An article by Daily Actor
An Acting Coach’s 5 Tips for Memorizing a Monologue
An article by Backstage.com
Research Tips
How to Get an Acting Agent: Acting Career and Managers
An article by Casting Frontier
An article by Project Casting
By Backstage.com
**Requires Registration
Essential Acting Lesson for Beginners | Making Strong Choices
(Video: Youtube) Acting Career Center
**Minor Language Warning
ACTING 101: Master “The Moment Before”
(Video: Youtube) Mark St Cyr
Acting Coach Tips: The Moment Before
(Video: Youtube) DB Coaching
Creating a Moment Before in Acting
(Video: Youtube) Teen Actor Lab
Always Create A Strong “Moment Before”
(Youtube) Mel Mack Acting Studio
THE OBJECTIVE – Part 1 – Acting your Character’s Need
(Video: Youtube) Kimberly Jentzen
Acting Techniques – How to be “on your objective” in a scene
(Video: Youtube) Jane Moffat
Acting Tip for Character Development: Finding Objectives and Obstacles!
(Video: Youtube) Acting is My Life
Pro Acting Coach Breaks Down 17 Love-At-First-Sight Scenes | Good & Bad Acting
(Video: Youtube) Insider
**Follow the acting coach’s reviews and see the actors’ expressions. Notice how the actors use expression to showcase relationship and goals. ***Minor language and content warning.
(Video:Youtube) Film Courage
**Minor Content Warning
Subtext Example: The Restaurant of Life
(Video: Youtube) Studio C
Never End Your Audition on the Last Word
(Video: Youtube) How to Act and Model
(Video: Youtube) Hollywood Pro Acting Tips
Subtext in Acting: A Beginner’s Introduction
(Video: Youtube) Alannah Marie
It’s the Subtext: Free Acting Tips
(Video: Youtube) Free Acting Tips
Script Analysis Exercises:
- Take a scene from any script. Imagine how the scene would be different if you began it with different emotions. Then different activities. Which ones led to a more in-depth performance? Do this with a friend or a recording device so you can check to see what looks natural.
- Often actors do not visualize or often provide a sketchy idea of the moment before or the moment after a scene. By improvising the actions that might occur before or after a scene they are given the opportunity to ‘flesh out’ the action preceding and following their scene. What emotions are behind these actions? How can the actions be shown within certain camera angles (such as close up or half body)?
- Pull up sample scripts online, and using the information you have so far, break the script down. Be creative, without negating the non-negotiables in the scene, to build up different scenarios, motivations, and reactions for the character. Play them out to see what feels natural. The more you practice, the more your ‘creative juices’ flow, and the easier it becomes to break down a script quickly.
Moment After Exercises:
- Go through moments in your day. Isolate a specific one. Think about what you said, what you really meant, and all the things you thought would happen vs what actually happened. Create a catalogue of emotions associated with each stage and realization. Do this with different moments to build up a range of natural situations and corresponding emotions.
- Meditate. Become comfortable with silence and with experiencing the ‘feeling’ of the present moment. How does this help with moment after? How does it keep the spotlight on you, without you filling it with words or forced actions?
Subtext Exercises:
- Improv the scene: Identify your character’s objective and overall feeling, then take away the lines and improvise them. Try this several times using various words and phrases. See what discoveries resonate with you and can be applied to your character. Take these discoveries and try adding them to the script by using nonverbal expression.
- Practice with subtext by selecting a scene to analyze, and studying your script to identify as much subtext as possible. What information can you learn about your character or even the other characters in the scene? How does this information help you decide how you want to bring your character to life?
- Playwriting Exercise: Subtext (Theatre Folk)
Setting Analysis
Select a script to practice with, and analyze your character’s setting! Are you in a familiar or new location? What does your environment look like, feel like, or sound like? What else can you learn about your setting? Can you compare it to anywhere you have been before?
Scene Relationships
Select a script to study and practice identifying the relationships in the scene. You could highlight or underline each new character’s name that is introduced or referenced in the script, whether or not the character appears in the particular scene itself. Who are all of the characters you identified? How does your character know each of the characters? What impact might each of these relationships have on the scene and on your character?
Unit 2: Character Development
Character Resources:
Acting Oneself as Another: An Actor’s Empathy for her Character
An article by Spring Link
Character Building and What Makes a Truly Great Actor
An article by The Guardian
The Art of Script and Character Research
An article by NY Castings
How to Make Effective Acting Choices for a Good Performance
An article by Vada Studios
Acting Between the Lines Resources:
An article by Working Actor Wisdom
How to Analyze a Script for Actors: Unleashing Your Creative Potential
An article by David Genik
An article by Backstage.com
Directing Tip: Acting Between the Lines
An article by Orange Kids
Audition Resources:
The Audition Process: Acting in Television and Film
An article by Top Hollywood Acting Coach
31 Audition and Casting Terms You Need to Know
An article by Backstage.com
How to Make Yourself Unforgettable to Casting Directors
An article by Backstage.com
Ten Key Do’s & Don’ts for a Successful Self-Taped Audition
An article by Backstage.com
Auditioning for an Acting Role: What to Expect
An article by Dummies: A Wiley Brand
An article by Backstage.com
Acting CV 101: Beginner Acting Resume Example for Inexperienced
An article by Acting in London
***While this article gives an in-depth look at the Why of a resume layout, we recommend you stick to your coach’s instructions for how to create a resume, which is discussed in class
10 Key Dos + Don’ts for a Successful Self-Taped Audition
An article by Backstage.com
The Audition Process: Acting in Television and Film
An article by Top Hollywood Acting Coach
31 Audition Terms You Need to Know
An article by Backstage.com
An article by The Producer’s Perspective
Your Guide to a Perfect Self-Tape
An article by Backstage.com
4 Practical On-Camera Tips That Make Directors Want To Hire You
An article by Backstage.com
2 Types of Connection That Can Help You in an Audition
An article by Backstage.com
Why Eye Contact is Vital to Great Acting
An article by Backstage.com
How to Analyze a Character in a Drama for Actors
(Video: Youtube) Hobby Lark
**Note: This is an article with a video at the end
How to Get Into Character And Develop Your Character
(Youtube) The Actors Academy
Creating a Detailed Character: Acting Tips
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
Researching a Role: Connecting with Your Character
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
The Objective: What Does My Character Want?
(Youtube) Sara Gaston Studio
How To Bring More Life In To Your Scene: Immediate External Circumstances
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
(Video: Youtube) Famous Actor Audition
**Content Warning
You Need Subtext in Your Acting
(Video: Youtube) Dan Tracy
Scene Study with Ellen Marano: Subtext
(Video: Youtube) Scenebot
(Video: Youtube) Movie Clips
**Scene from Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility that shows all characters acting between the lines.
Audition Video Resources:
What an Audition Looks Like: Self Tape/In-Person
(Video: Youtube) Eliana Ghen
Acting Tips For When a Casting Director Says, “Tell Me About Yourself”
(Video: Youtube) TipsOnActing
(Video: Youtube) The Actors Academy
(Video: Youtube) Daisy Mitchell
Pixar’s Inside Out: Family Dinner Scene
(Video: Youtube) Movie Remixer
**Subtext example that gives you a unique view of what the characters are thinking vs what they are saying
What an Audition Looks Like: Self Tape Audition: In Person Audition: Acting Tips with Eliana
(Video: Youtube) Eliana Ghen
Self Tape Tools for Auditions:
Everything You Need to Record an Amazing Audition at Home
(Article and Video: Youtube) The Acting Career Center
Acting With Your Eyes – Tips and Techniques for Using Your Eyes
(Video: Youtube) Augmented Actor
Jake Gyllenhaal: It’s All In The Eyes
(Video: Youtube) Mr Nerdista
(Video: Instagram) Robert Downey Jr Official
***Check out RDJ on the set of End Game. He must create a dynamic scene, despite being surrounded by a green screen. Watch his eyes!
AUDITION TAPE: Rachel McAdams audition for The Notebook
(Video: Youtube) Let It Cast
Character Exercises:
- Character Hot Seat: Acting Exercises to Get Into Character- Acting Exercises to do Alone (Youtube: Drama Made Simple)
- Movement Direction: Creating Character (Youtube: National Theatre)
Character Backstory
Is there a scene you would like to dive into, or an audition you are preparing for? Get out a journal and experiment with writing a backstory for your character! Where did your character grow up, or where does your character live now? Who are your character’s friends and family? What else do you know about your character, or can imagine about your character’s life? Write as much as you would like!
Character Mood Board Collage
Based on the NYCastings article “The Art of Script and Character Research”, consider creating a mood board for a character you are preparing to play. Research or draw images that represent your character and their environment, or images that inspire you and remind you of your character. How do these visuals spark your imagination?
Acting Between the Lines Exercises
- Gibberish: First, it is important to identify the objectives in the scene, the emotions, and any other underlying factors. Next, run the lines with a partner, though you cannot use the actual words. You can only speak gibberish. The challenge is to convey all of the underlying constructs without the benefit of words. How do you get the same point across with only your non verbal expressions. This can also be done in silence, where there are no words or gibberish, but only expressions and indications.
- Yes/No is an easy improv game to play at home. It is a great way to build nonverbal skills. You will need a willing partner, and will have to plan out a narrative ahead of time. Two people come together trying to convince the other to agree with them, even though the other person disagrees and wants the opposite. The only two words that can be spoken are Yes and No. Using those two words and an abundance of nonverbal expressions, how can the two opposite viewpoints come to an agreement? Suggestions for narratives: 2 people trying to choose a pet, but want very different animals. 1 person wants to take a nap, while the other wants to finish a project. 2 people cooking dinner together, but they have different palates. 2 people trying to decorate a room but cannot decide how to arrange the furniture.
10 Tips for a Winning Audition
An article by Backstage.com
2 Ways to Calm Audition Nerves
(Video:Youtube) Backstage
10 Tips for a Winning Audition
An article by Backstage.com
***Read through the article to identify the areas you do well, and the areas where you need additional training.
Two Ways to Calm Audition Nerves
(Video: Youtube) Backstage
4 Easy steps to have expressive eyes
An article by Good Act
Unit 3: Scene Study and Improv Resources
5 Tips for Creating a Character Relationship
An article by New York Film Academy
4 Tips for Connecting to Your Scene Partner
An article by Backstage.com
The Power of Collaboration: Embracing the Community in Acting Schools
An article by VADA Studios
What Is Scene Study and Why Does It Matter?
An article by Backstage.com
Actor Tools | Five Benefits of Scene Study
An article by ActorSpaces
Improv Resources
How Improv Can Help Improve Every Audition
An article by Backstage.com
Improv Audition Tips to Help You Succeed
An article by Comedic Pursuits
Why is Improv So Scary? “I can’t think fast enough”
An article by Improv Cincinnati
(Youtube) Interlochen Center for the Arts
(Youtube) Acting with Keira
(Youtube) Sara Gaston Studio
Acting with Sara Gaston: Stakes
(Youtube) Sara Gaston Studio
Seth Rogen Reveals What Makes Great Improv
(Video: Youtube) The Off Camera Show
Keegan-Michael Key, “Improv Actors are at War Together”
(Video: Youtube) The Off Camera Show
***Language Warning.
Jason Mantzoukas “Improv is Funny, but It Doesn’t Have to Be”
(Video: Youtube) The Off Camera Show
Scene Study Prep Brainstorm
Create a list of favorite characters from movies or TV shows, or brainstorm a list of acting performances which inspire you! You can create a list of favorite movies and TV shows that you may be interested in doing scene study work for. Bonus: identify specific scenes in a movie or TV show that you would like to do scene studies of! What inspires you and why would you like to dive further into studying these scenes and characters?
Scene Fun
In a practice scene at home or with a friend from class, decide to implement something new to a scene rehearsal! Experiment with improv in your scene or adding something unexpected. What is a new idea that your character can add to the scene, such as a different approach to how your character is speaking or listening? What ideas did you come up with, and which was the most fun to implement?
An article by New York Film Academy
**Activities to do alone that will build a bigger expression range
Seven Acting Exercises to Do Alone
An article by Method Acting for Me
An article by Finest City Improv
***Article, video, and exercises
Unit 4: Industry Skills
An article by 3-2-1 Acting Studios
Acting Tips: 12 Camera Shots Every Actor Should Know
An article by New York Film Academy
Types of Shots in Television and Film
An article by Acting and Voice Studios
7 Need to Know Tips for Acting on Camera
An article by Backstage.com
Continuity, Coverage and Matching Shots: What Actors Need to Know
An article by Top Hollywood Acting Coach
5 Acting Tips That Will Help You Give (And Get) Better Performances
An article by No Film School
How to Maintain Continuity in Film
An article by MasterClass
Emotional Continuity in Film and Theater
An article by Emotional Preparation
Acting Oneself as Another: An Actor’s Empathy for her Character
An article by Springer Link
Film Studios 101: The 30 Film Shots Every Film Fan Needs to Know
(Video: Youtube) Article by: New York Film Academy
Hollywood Acting Tips: The Wide Shot vs The Close-up
(Video: Youtube) Master Talent Teacher
Mrs. Doubtfire (Camera Angle Example)
(Video: Youtube) Movieclips
**Example of Over the Shoulder Shot, and Medium Shot
Frozen 2 (Camera Angle Example)
(Video: Youtube) Clip Clown
**Example of Wide Shot, Full Shot, and Close Ups
(Video: Youtube) Lily Gordon
(Video: Youtube) Kimberly Jentzen
Retaining A Powerful Emotion When Filming Multiple Takes
(Video: Youtube) West Hollywood Lee Strasberg
Physicality 101 for Actors: Using the body to communicate
(Video: Youtube) Rozay’s Acting Studio
Practice Camera Angles:
Using a phone or video recording device, choose one short monologue to practice performing before the camera.
Try performing it in a full shot, half-shot, quarter shot, and close up.
How did your expressions change as the angles got smaller? Which angles are more natural for you? Which ones are more challenging? Where is an area that you can grow in when it comes to working with challenging camera angles?
4 Practical On-Camera Tips that Will Make Directors Want to Hire You
Article by Backstage.com
***Read through the articles and identify where you can grow.
6 Ways to Be Consistently Great on Camera
An article by Backstage.com
How Meditation Can Help Your Acting Career
An article by Casting Frontier
Focus on Acting – Emotional Range Exercise
(Video: Youtube) Robert Carne
**Not about continuity, but about ways to better control your acting range- which can benefit an actor’s ability to maintain continuity.
Unit 5: Monologues
Monologue Resources:
Three Rules for Preparing a Film Monologue for Your Audition
An article by Backstage.com
Eight Rules for Cutting Your Audition Monologue
An article by Backstage.com
Monologues and Scenes: Picking the Right Ones
An article by Catapult Acting Studios
Choosing a Monologue That Makes Sense for You
An article by Backstage.com
Self-Taped Monologues: Using Downtime to Get More Screentime!
An article by Direct Submit
How to Write a Monologue with Examples
An article by MasterClass
Monologue Video Resources:
(Video: Youtube) Bryan Bounds
(Video: Youtube) Stagemilk
An Actor’s 5 Minute Exercise for Memorizing a Monologue
An article by Backstage.com
Monologue from Song Lyrics Exercise
(Video: Youtube) Acting Career Center
