Helpful Videos Give Actors Tips

Tue., May 27, 1997

Martie Zad The Washington Post

A set of three videos is now available for the legions of would-be professional actors feeling their way into this exciting business.

These “Actors at Work” videos, produced by California director and acting coach Joel Asher, are titled “Getting the Part,” “Casting Directors” and “Agents.”

The cassettes run 40 to 50 minutes and list for $29.95 each, or $74.95 for the set. To order, phone (800) 383-8811.

“Getting the Part” explores how to audition with confidence. With actor-director Robby Benson and casting director Joey Paul, Asher teaches viewers how to break down a scene, handle scripts effectively, learn advanced cold-reading techniques, focus their powers of imagination and connect with a dynamic interview. He also explains what to do at a callback to get the part.

The second tape, “Casting Directors,” deals with what casting directors are looking for. Asher fields several questions with casting directors, including: Where do they discover new talent? What do they look for in a photo? How do they feel about training? What do they want from an actor? How does one showcase oneself? What makes a star?

“Agents” deals with what you should know to get the right agent, one who will take your calls, sign you and work with you. Asher talks with agents who candidly reveal what they look for in actors. They explain why actors get signed, what actors should look for in agents, what makes a good agent, whether you need a demo reel and when you should realize it’s time to move on.

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