Work on the Script

Before they even begin to see actors, directors and producers have a script they believe in. When they start casting, they want to find actors who will make their script work.
In television, the executive producers are almost always writers. In film, directors very often have also written or co-written the script. Not surprisingly, all these people view the story as being very important. So, it’s in the actor’s best interest to look at his or her character and scenes and figure out how they contribute to the storytelling, the tension, the suspense, the humor, and the believability of the world that goes into making a successful production.

Even a one-line character has an important role in a script. Otherwise, cost-conscious producers wouldn’t be paying money to hire an additional actor!

You can give a terrific “performance” in your audition but if you haven’t made the scene work, chances are you will not get the job.

Work on the script involves:

Understanding the purpose of your role and scene within the context of the story and the project
Knowing what your character wants and how your character goes about achieving it
Exploring character relationships
Making active, exciting choices

Identifying transitions and beats
Finding and playing moments before and after
Understanding the style of the production

Work on the script changes with each audition. There are always new questions, new challenges, and new solutions with every script you get.

Are you there to provide conflict to a main character?
Are you there to emphasize certain character traits of a lead character? (how kind they are, or how generous, or how evil)
Are you there to provide a “plot point” and move the story along?
Are you there to provide an important bit of exposition or information?
If the scene is with a star (especially those with casting approval!), what choices can you make that will make the star shine the way he or she wants to shine?

Once you understand how your character and your scenes fit into the script, you can do your homework to make your character a living, breathing, believable participant in the story.

The ultimate goal is for them not to see any of the work you’ve done on the script. Once you're in the room, trust that the work will stay with you. Throw away the work and just "play". If the scene “works” and they believe you ARE the character without your having to work at it...you’ve got a great shot at getting the role!