Casting 101
Frame Society’s very own Jorge Enrique Ponce (left) and Mike Tavarez (right) shared two different styles for how to hold a casting session. Interestingly enough, both methods emphasized not letting anything hold you back.
Jorge outlined 3 questions to ask yourself when holding a casting session:
- Do they listen?
- Can they take direction?
- What is their emotional range?
To test these, he suggests offering room for interpretation to give your actor something to play with. For instance, try raising or lowering the intensity or giving them an interactive direction like flirting, or threatening someone. Another fun idea was to play opposites. Say “I love you”, but mean “I hate you”.
Both Jorge and Mike encouraged being open minded to what comes through the door and to resist the urge to get locked into what you see in your head.
“Acting is reacting.” – Jorge Enrique Ponce
For many of us, casting may seem intimidating, but don’t let a lack of know-how get in your way. Do what works for you. Mike Tavarez shared one of his more resourceful tips that night: Don’t have a space for a real casting session? Use Skype.
Reference Links:
Photos by Evan Parsons.
