Casting Kids, Author at Casting Kids

Acting, Blog

Casting for TV: What do Directors Look For?

Posted on November 19, 2021November 19, 2021 by Casting Kids

19
Nov

When casting for TV, there are some key attributes directors are looking for in their ideal child actors. Television roles, when attached to a successful program, enable your child to have reliable, consistent work for an extended period of time. Depending on their character’s storyline, this can mean many years of ongoing employment. (Think Kate Ritchie as Sally Fletcher in Home & Away). But landing this type of role can be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so your child needs to have the range and versatility to play a number of different characters at the drop of a hat.

These tips should assist in audition preparation, and help your child stand out and secure work in television.

Versatility

Character work in TV requires your child to stay on their toes and be adaptable to new situations. Depending on the role, time spent working on the same set can be finite and means your child is jumping from one character to another in very short succession. Therefore, the ability to immerse themselves in a new role quickly is vital to perform successfully in auditions.

When directors are casting for TV, your child’s adeptness at representing a diverse range of characters is something they will be paying close attention to. With particular emphasis on your child’s portrayal of the character in relation to the overall storyline, casting directors are looking for actors who not only recite the scripted lines but embody the essence of the role. With skill and confidence.

Confidence

As mentioned, confidence is a crucial component of auditioning for TV roles. When casting for TV, directors want an actor who is not afraid to put every bit of skill and energy into their character portrayal. Because passion for performance and preparation are two aspects of acting that really shine through. A child who is completely invested and loves performing will be obvious to a casting director.

Increasing confidence in acting and developing the ability to execute a successful audition is difficult. So, your child should take the time to learn as much as possible about the television industry. And even study other performers they admire. Furthermore, your child should hone their skills by practising in front of the mirror at home. Even performing for friends and family, and taking part in local productions to build their self-esteem and confidence. Your child will make the best, most lasting impression on a director who is casting for TV.

Preparation

Probably the most important aspect casting directors are looking for, is an actor who has prepared for their audition. Your child needs to absorb themselves in the character and have the ability to perform the lines without prompting or referring to the script.

Additionally, your child should be prepared to be challenged during their audition. Casting directors may wish to observe your child’s ability to improvise while remaining in character. This shows the director that your child has understood the concept of the story, and is not just reciting lines. Learning about the role and the character will demonstrate your child’s commitment and dedication to the role. And when casting for TV this is something directors will notice and make your child stand out at auditions.

Casting for TV opportunities

When you are looking for casting opportunities for a TV role, get in touch with Casting Kids. Our dedicated talent agents are experienced in finding acting work for children from the age of 0-16 years. Our knowledge of the entertainment industry and list of reputable clients will enable your child to access some of the biggest names in TV.

So, contact Casting Kids today to book a consultation and discuss how we can help your child achieve their acting dreams.

Acting, Blog

Advice for Kids Who Audition for a Movie

Posted on September 23, 2021September 23, 2021 by Casting Kids

23
Sep

There are probably very few of us that haven’t dreamed about playing the lead role in a Hollywood blockbuster. Especially as a child, this seems like the ultimate achievement in an actor’s career. And whilst this may or may not be true, it’s hard to dispute that the prestige and celebrity of being splashed around on billboards everywhere isn’t a thrilling thought. Therefore, it’s understandable that your budding child actor might have a burning desire to audition for a movie. Here are a few tips and tricks that your child needs in their acting arsenal in order to blow away the competition and snag their dream role.

Preparation is key

The more your child prepares for the audition, the better their chances at securing the role. Your child needs to know as much about their part as possible. This includes reading the whole script, learning about their character, how they fit in with the story, and how they interact with the other characters. This will give you overall context and provide you with some ideas on how your child should “play” the role during the audition.

Think about what the story is trying to say and how the writers might have intended the character to be portrayed. And then practice, practice, practice. Work through the script with your child, and occasionally question them about their character. This will prepare them in case the casting director asks their opinion about the role or the storyline.

Project confidence

At the audition, your child might be a bundle of nerves inside, but on the outside, they should exude confidence. This is where the preparation comes in. If your child knows the material inside and out, they will have the mental energy to focus on other aspects of the audition. Things like impressing the casting director with their knowledge of the character and the story. Or dressing in an outfit or costume relevant to the part they are auditioning for. Importantly, when your child is going to audition for a movie, they should not shy away from having fun and expressing themselves. Confidence goes a long way to proving suitability for a role.

On-camera experience

When your child prepares to audition for a movie, they need to be comfortable performing in front of a camera. Practice at home prior to the audition by having your child read through their lines while you film them. Simulate the audition experience by sitting behind the camera and providing them with direction. This will be useful for when it comes time for the real thing. By creating a mock scenario, your child will be less overwhelmed or daunted by the prospect of acting on camera.

Want to audition for a movie?

For the best opportunity to find an audition for a movie you need a great team by your side. Casting Kids has been representing children of all ages and abilities for over a decade. We pride ourselves on our personalised approach to finding each and every one of our clients as many acting opportunities as appropriate. If you are looking for a talent agency that cares, contact us at Casting Kids.

Acting, Blog

Types of Kids Acting Jobs in Melbourne

Posted on September 10, 2021September 10, 2021 by Casting Kids

10
Sep

There are some great opportunities for budding performers to secure acting jobs in Melbourne. Some of the country’s leading television networks and national brands have their base in Melbourne. This opens up a considerable market for kids wanting to make it big in the industry. The types of roles for kids range across speaking and non-speaking roles, extras work, and commercial advertising on television and online.

When seeking acting jobs in Melbourne a great advantage is to work with a kid’s casting agency that has all of the appropriate contacts to get your child auditions. For an idea of what types of kids acting jobs in Melbourne your child may be suitable for, here we will explore just a few.

Television or film

There are always roles for kids in television or film. Your child may secure a role as the main character in a television series or film, or be part of the supporting cast. Either way, getting hired for this type of role ensures that your child will be working regularly for the duration of the project.

The best way for your child to secure a role in television or film is to engage a kid’s casting agency. A reputable agency has the knowledge and experience within the industry to promote your child to the right people. Similarly, this will open up more opportunities for your child to attend auditions.

Television and film acting can be some of the toughest work in the industry. In order to gain traction and recognition, your child needs to put in the hard yards. From audition prep and dealing with knockbacks, to memorising lines and staying motivated and enthusiastic when on set, it takes a strong will and resilience to go all the way in TV and film.

Extras work

When a scene calls for a public setting, more than likely there will need to be extras in the background. Especially when set in a school or park. If your child is just starting out in acting, they can get a feel for the process in a non-speaking role. Before they delve deeper and audition for roles that require learning lines. Background or extras work, offers your child the chance to dip their toe in the acting waters and may lead to bigger things later in their career.

Marketing campaigns

Along with traditional forms of television advertising, there is another form of advertising that has gained popularity in recent years. Online marketing campaigns provide your child with yet another acting avenue to gain experience and build their ‘acting chops’.

Similar to a traditional TV advertisement, this form of marketing is built for social platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram. They are the ads you see before or during the video you have clicked on. Or you will scroll through in your socials feed. Your child can be the face of the next big trend to appear on a regular rotation online. This is great exposure to a wide audience far greater than local television can provide. And offers great opportunities for your child to get noticed by industry giants all over the world. A small start that can lead to great things.

Looking for acting jobs in Melbourne?

At Casting Kids, we know talent when we see it. Our experienced, friendly staff are dedicated to finding acting jobs in Melbourne for your child. Contact us today to discuss the next steps on the road to acting success for your child.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

Kids Talent Agency Melbourne: Questions to Ask

Posted on August 13, 2021August 13, 2021 by Casting Kids

13
Aug

There are a lot of uncertainties and unknowns when starting out in the entertainment industry. You want to know where to start, how it all works and what it means for your child. And it can seem completely overwhelming. To help guide you through the process, a kids talent agency can be an extremely helpful asset. But how do you work out which one is right for you? We will guide you through some of the questions you should be asking when looking for a kids talent agency in Melbourne.

How much will my child earn?

This is probably the first question that comes to mind when engaging a kids talent agency. And it’s understandable. You will be paying membership fees to the agency therefore you want to know if your investment is going to be fruitful. You want to make sure your child is rewarded for the hard work, time and effort they put into securing acting roles. So, this question is important to raise with the talent agency. But be aware that, unfortunately, it’s not possible to get a definitive answer. It really depends on how many, and what type of, roles your child is hired for.

Is my child guaranteed work from a kid’s talent agency in Melbourne?

This question is quite common when interviewing a kids talent agency in Melbourne. You should not make assumptions about the agency’s ability to expose your child to the right industry people. It’s directly related to how much work your child will get through the agency. So, whilst no agency can guarantee work, they can provide a guarantee of working hard to promote your child. And put them forward for as many auditions as possible that suit the talents of your child.

Who are your clients?

This question will give you an idea of the calibre of work the agency can provide your child. A good indication of a well-known agency is the list of high-quality, recognisable clients they work with. The agency should be open and honest about who they have dealings with, and who you can expect your child to be connected with. Look for brands you have heard of and have seen examples of their work to decide if their brand fits with your ethical perspective and your child’s personality.

How do I apply?

When looking for a kids talent agency in Melbourne, you should find out the registration process for your child. How difficult or confusing is the paperwork? Can you apply online? Does your child need to attend an interview with the agency? A reputable agency should provide you with options, should be flexible and available to discuss the process with you, and offer advice and guidance before you make your final decision.

Looking for a kids talent agency in Melbourne?

Casting Kids has been a respected kids talent agency in Melbourne for over a decade. We pride ourselves on our personalised, professional service and dedication to finding the right role for all of our clients. We represent children of all abilities, from 6 months to 16 years. Contact us to find out more or to arrange a time to discuss registering your child with Casting Kids.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

Casting For Teens: What Directors Look For

Posted on June 30, 2021June 30, 2021 by Casting Kids

30
Jun

So, you are a teen interested in acting? Great! Acting is a fantastic outlet for creativity, boosts confidence and builds useful social skills. Plus, you can start earning some money for yourself! The entertainment industry can be intimidating for a newcomer and having some idea on what to expect can be extremely handy. What is involved? And what are directors looking for when casting for teens?

Generally speaking, when casting for teens directors are searching for many different capabilities and traits during the audition process. However, most will have a few key aspects they will focus on. Here we will discuss some of the main things you should concentrate on when auditioning.

Stand out from the crowd

Personality plays a major role in casting for teens. In most cases, directors are looking for teens with a positive and enthusiastic attitude. Whatever the audition, commercial, TV show or movie role, to put your best foot forward you need to show you are eager to work. Turning up to the audition appropriately dressed, lines memorised, with a friendly demeanour will demonstrate to the casting director that you are serious about the audition.

Perform with confidence

Passion for performance really shines through. A confident, self-assured teen who loves performing in front of others will be obvious to a director casting for teens.

You should take the time to learn about the industry, study other performers and broaden your range to make the most of every audition you attend. Practice in front of the mirror, perform for friends, and sign up for the school play to really hone your skills. A teen who has put in the hours prior to an audition, and has the confidence to throw everything into the performance will make a lasting impression.

Prepare and adapt

More often than not, an audition will require you to learn scripted lines. Before the audition, the lines will be given to you so you can read and prepare. Above all else, you need to practice, practice, practice! You can’t over-prepare in the entertainment industry! Preparation is the key to success when auditioning. Knowing the material off-book will definitely put you in good stead for securing the role.

Additionally, when casting teens directors might challenge you by asking you to perform some improvised lines at the audition. Being able to quickly adapt while staying in character will be an extremely valuable skill for you to have. Therefore, preparation will play a huge part in achieving this. Learning the role and a bit about the character itself will help you perform any ad-hoc changes to the script.

Interested in casting for teens in Melbourne?

At Casting Kids, our focus is on finding work for all of our clients. We represent children and teens of all abilities up to 16 years of age, and pride ourselves on our personalised approach to each individual child and their family.

If you are looking for a talent agency that cares, contact us at Casting Kids. As one of the most trusted, professional talent agencies in Melbourne, you can be confident you will receive the best opportunities to succeed in the entertainment industry.

Acting, Blog

Are There Many Extra Castings in Melbourne?

Posted on June 18, 2021June 18, 2021 by Casting Kids

18
Jun

A huge number of kids love being the centre of attention. Some dress up in old clothes and put on a show in the backyard. Some sing into a hairbrush in the bathroom mirror. You can harness a dramatic flair from an early age.

Extra work on TV or film provides a great creative outlet for kids, whilst also offering a stepping stone into acting if this is the direction your child wants to head. But where do you start to find this kind of work and is there much available out there? To make things a little easier, here are a few pointers to get you on the right track.

Make sure your kids have a true interest

The entertainment industry can be intimidating to newcomers. It’s a large step from messing around in your bedroom to stepping in front of strangers and performing, however it’s a great way for kids to develop strong social and communication skills.

Kids need to understand that what they are seeing on TV is the culmination of many hours of hard work and practice. If your child has expressed interest, or has shown a talent for performance, having a realistic conversation with them is a good idea before making any big decisions.

A useful step might be to try out some extra work to see if the on-screen process is something your child finds interesting and rewarding.

Use a reputable Melbourne agency

Knowing where to find extra work for kids can be difficult and confusing with limited experience in the industry. This is where engaging the services of a good child talent agency is extremely helpful. A good agency will have the knowledge and know-how to connect your child with opportunities to work as an extra.

Kids’ extra castings in Melbourne are quite common, in particular when production is based in a school. Likewise, in a public setting where kids or teens are required to provide background support. With a good talent agency on your team, you can be confident that your child is put forward for all legitimate extra castings that may arise.

Make the most of extra castings in Melbourne

Prepare, listen and be aware. Your child is more likely to be successful if they’re ready to work, take direction easily and conduct themselves professionally. Whilst the role of an extra is not as demanding as an actor, it still requires focus and attention. Casting directors may stipulate certain conditions for extras, such as a specific outfit or hairstyle. For a better chance of success, follow all these requirements.

Looking for extra castings in Melbourne?

Established over a decade ago, Casting Kids is a highly respected children’s talent agency based in Melbourne. We represent children of all abilities, from 6 months to 16 years. We’re dedicated to finding the right role for our clients. Contact us today to find out more or to register your child with Casting Kids.

Modelling

Tips for Child Modelling Careers

Posted on May 26, 2021May 26, 2021 by Casting Kids

26
May

Child modelling careers seem like a great idea, especially if your child has a bit of flair and loves to entertain. However, it’s not something you should blindly go into, because it’s a lot of hard work. Of course, it’s also heaps of fun and can be great for a child’s self-confidence, but it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself in for.

Remember to keep it fun

Firstly, you need to remember that child modelling should be fun. Most photographers and directors you’ll encounter are experienced in working with children. So, they’ll do their best to keep it fun. While it’s still a job, and we’ll touch on this later, you need to make sure your child enjoys it. If it stops being fun for them, it’s time for a break. Unfortunately, children often love doing something for a while and then move on to something else. It’s natural, so don’t force your child to keep going if it stops being fun.

Ensure your child can take direction

One of the most crucial things for a child model is the ability to take direction. Kids don’t always have the best attention span. But if they want a child modelling career, they’ll need to know when to listen carefully.

Child modelling is hard work

Child modelling is great fun, and you should always do everything you can to keep it that way. However, children are human just like us. Their self-esteem gets dented, they get overwhelmed, and sometimes they just straight out don’t enjoy things. Modelling is fun, but it’s still work. When being paid, your child needs to be ready to put in the required work.

They might have a long day on a set, go through endless costume changes, deal with a photographer or director who they just don’t click with. Plenty of things can make modelling feel like a chore. So, make sure your child is prepared to put in the hard work when required.

Prepare thoroughly for auditions

While modelling is less about learning lines and more about presenting yourself in a certain way, you still need to prepare. Generally, you’ll have a good idea of the client you’re auditioning for. You may even be given some detailed information about what your child will be modelling. So, if you do get that extra information, make sure your child is comfortable. For example, if they need to wear a style of shoes they’ve never worn before, can you have them wear some before casting to get used to them?

Want to help your child start a modelling career?

Casting Kids has a reputation for being a caring, inclusive and supportive child talent agency. We’ve been in the business for a long time, and our clients trust us to find the very best child models in Melbourne. We continue to promote diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, and we pride ourselves on getting to know all of the children and families we represent. Contact us today to find out how we can get your child started!

Acting, Blog, Modelling

The Importance of Diversity when Casting for Kids

Posted on May 10, 2021May 9, 2021 by Casting Kids

10
May

When casting for kids, how much do you think about diversity and inclusion? Or do you already have a set idea in your mind of how children should look in your advertising? As a business leader, your advertising speaks to millions of Australians, and all of those people have a right to be represented.

A representation of all Australians

Businesses have a great opportunity to lead the way when it comes to diversity and inclusion. Because marketing and advertising are so prevalent in our society, people look up to big companies. So much so, that really successful ad campaigns become part of our culture and live on for years after they air. So, advertising is a great chance to show that your brand represents all Australians.

We have a rich multicultural lifestyle in Australia. We’ve also made great strides in how we view disabilities. As such, brands need to show that they recognise all people as equal. When you’re casting for kids, think about how you can accurately reflect all of Australian society. It’s

Promote yourself as a caring brand when casting for kids

One of the other reasons to actively seek out diversity in your advertising campaigns is a little more self-serving. The fact is, businesses in today’s world perform better when they adopt a genuine social conscience. Whether it’s promoting charities, implementing environmentally friendly practices, or representing everyone in their ad campaigns.

Customers want to connect with a brand, and in most cases, they do this a lot more easily if they can see a brand stands for something. By casting for kids and including a diverse representation of children in your marketing material, you show yourself to be a caring, inclusive brand.

Everybody has different abilities

It’s no secret that everywhere you go in life, people have different traits that make them amazing. Some are funny, some are generous, some are technically brilliant. The same applies in the acting and modelling world. Kids of all different races, religions, physical ability and appearance have something to offer.

When we decide whether to not to represent a child, it’s based on a number of things. However, we never turn away someone for being differently abled. What we truly look for is that spark, that special something that makes kids great for acting or modelling. It might be temperament, a child’s laugh, or just a certain charisma, but everybody brings something unique to the table.

The best casting for kids is right here

At Casting Kids, we’ve got a reputation for being professional and kind. While we don’t represent every child, we certainly do meet with all aspiring actors and models. We promote diversity and inclusion, representing children of all abilities. For transparent, honest representation that can really help your child’s career, you’ve come to the right place.

If you’d like to find out more about casting for kids, auditions, or how we can help make your advertising campaigns a success, contact us today at Casting Kids.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

How Important is Finding the Right Child Agency?

Posted on April 28, 2021 by Casting Kids

28
Apr

Thinking about getting your child involved in acting or modelling? It’s a great way to develop social skills, performance skills and make a little extra money. However, it can be a difficult field to break into if you don’t have the right support. That’s why it’s crucial to find the right child agency to help you along the way. Here’s a few reasons it’s so important to get professional representation.

A child agency to guide you

It’s not easy knowing where to start for child acting and modelling. As a parent, if you’ve never had any exposure to the entertainment industry yourself, it’s extremely confusing. There are requirements for auditions, methods for audition prep, then the actual work. You’re not expected to know how everything works, and that’s why it’s great to have a good child agency on your side.

If you ever need advice, assistance or guidance through the process of auditioning and working, your agency is there to help.

More job opportunities

Naturally, if you’re paying a registration fee to have your child signed to an agency, you want a return. Quite simply, the more chances your child has to audition, the more likely they’ll get work. With a great child agency on your side, you should get plenty of audition opportunities. That hopefully leads to more paying jobs, and a good return on your registration fees.

There are no guarantees, of course, but being with a good child agency is about peace of mind. If you’re confident the agency actively refers your child’s profile to directors, you feel a lot better. More jobs mean more money, but it also means more experience. The more opportunities we can give children to build their skills, the better we feel!

Safety and reputable clients

When attending auditions and also jobs, safety is paramount. Children are extremely vulnerable, and as parents we understand that you want them protected at all times. This is just another reason to choose a child agency with reputable clients on their books.

The alternative is looking for casting calls online, and frankly, you never know what you’re going to get. You could be walking into an extremely unprofessional environment, but a great child agency helps you avoid that. Look for agencies with a long list of good clients, because this is a good indication that your child will always be walking into a professional environment when auditioning and working.

Looking for the best child agency in Melbourne?

There are so many advantages to finding the right child agency to support your child’s career. It’s not about the cheapest, or even the most auditions. It’s about developing a relationship with a reputable agency that puts children first. We’ve represented children in acting and modelling pursuits for over 16 years, and we’re a fully inclusive agency. We actively promote diversity, and have an impressive list of clients. Contact us at any time if you have questions, or to find out more about what we do here at Casting Kids.

Acting

What do Casting Directors Look for in Auditions?

Posted on April 14, 2021April 14, 2021 by Casting Kids

14
Apr

Have you thought about helping your child get into the world of acting? It’s a lot of fun, great for self-confidence and gives kids an opportunity to shine. But for parents, it can also be a tricky industry to navigate. Even if you’ve got a great kid’s talent agency on your side, it’s hard to know what to expect from auditions.

Casting directors all have different needs depending on the individual job. However, there are a few common things that nearly all casting directors look for when holding auditions. Here’s some great advice to help your kids prepare for auditions.

Personality is everything

It doesn’t matter whether it’s a modelling shoot, a TV shoe or a TV commercial. Casting directors love kids with personality. In most cases, especially in advertising, directors are looking for smiling, happy kids to be in commercials. Whatever product they’re selling, they want to create excitement and joy around it. So, if your child has a happy demeanour and loves performing, they should do well at auditions.

Remembering lines

Depending on the role, casting directors might like to hear some dialogue from kids in auditions. If lines are expected, you’ll be given these beforehand so you can help your child prepare. This can add extra stress to the process, so it’s a great idea to go over the lines with your child well before the audition. Kids actually have a great memory for things like this, so you shouldn’t worry too much. Have you ever read storybooks to a child, only to find they can recite most of the book to you before they can read? It’s often the same if they practice their lines enough!

The right temperament

Temperament is also very important when it comes to auditions. Casting directors understand that small children get distracted or struggle in very rigid environments. So, they certainly do make an effort to create a fun audition environment. But at the end of the day, it’s a business, and they need children who can take direction.

All children get distracted, but if you can help your child to focus and listen clearly to instructions, it could give them the advantage in an audition scenario. Directors love working with children who can get the job done with minimal fuss. So, if your child is prone to temper tantrums at the drop of a hat, they may not be a perfect fit for the acting world!

Let us help find the best auditions for your child

At Casting Kids, we’ve got a reputation for being professional and kind. We promote diversity and inclusion, representing children of all abilities. We’re also extremely dedicated to finding work for all of our kids, so you can be assured that we’re putting your child’s name forward to casting directors. We love helping out kids reach auditions and succeed! If you’d like to find out more about the best kids talent agency Melbourne has to offer, contact us today at Casting Kids.