Tag Archives: casting for kids

Acting, Blog

Casting for Kids: Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Audition Process

Posted on by Casting Kids
casting for kids
13
May

As a parent of a child interested in modelling, the audition process can be a nerve-wracking experience for both you and your child. It’s important to remember that auditions are a learning experience and an opportunity for your child to showcase their skills. However, there are some common mistakes parents make during the casting for kids audition process that can negatively impact their child’s chances of success. Here are five common mistakes to avoid during the audition process.

Arriving late

Arriving late to an audition not only shows a lack of respect for the casting director’s time but can also throw off your child’s mental state before they even begin. It’s important to arrive on time or even a few minutes early to allow your child to mentally prepare for the audition. If you do arrive late, don’t rush your child. Take a few deep breaths and try to calm them down before they enter the audition room.

Over-preparing your child

While it’s important to practice and prepare for the audition, over-preparing your child can have negative consequences. Over-rehearsing can lead to a robotic performance that lacks authenticity. Encourage your child to be themselves and have fun during the audition. This will give them the best chance of standing out in the crowd.

Failing to read the brief

Reading the brief is crucial before attending any audition. IF you don’t, it can lead to your child showing up in the wrong outfit or with the wrong props. It’s important to follow the brief closely to give your child the best chance of success. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to contact the casting director for clarification.

Not letting your child speak for themselves

You want to support your child during the audition process, but it’s also important to allow them to speak for themselves. Encourage your child to introduce themselves and answer questions asked by the casting director. This shows confidence and independence, two traits that casting directors are looking for in young talent.

Signing with an unsupportive acting agency

One of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent of a child interested in modelling is choosing an agency. It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable agency that has your child’s best interests at heart. Beware of agencies that make unrealistic promises. A reputable agency such as Casting Kids has a strong track record of success in the industry.

Looking for help with casting for kids?

Casting Kids is a modelling agency that represents talented young models in Australia. Our team of industry experts is dedicated to providing the best possible opportunities for our young talent. We are committed to ensuring that our models and their families are treated with respect and professionalism. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child achieve their modelling dreams.

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Acting, Modelling

Why Casting for Teens is Different Than for Younger Children

Posted on by Casting Kids
teenage modelling agencies melbourne casting for teens
15
Jan

Casting for teens is often a totally different process than say, casting for babies or younger children. Essentially, more is expected of teens, and the roles they audition for are likely to be more involved. Whether it’s learning lines, working with costumes and other actors, or simply adopting more of a character-based role, it’s important that teens know what’s expected of them. With that in mind, here are some of the reasons casting for teens can be a lot different than what they have experienced as younger children.

It’s difficult to find a good teen actor

Firstly, when casting for teens, directors need to take into account that the actor’s schedule might be busier. They may be in school or working. They could also have sports or other extracurricular activities they need to attend to. Because of this, it can be difficult to find good teen actors who are available on the days and times you need them.

All this really means is that you might find there is less competition for teen roles. Actors might not be available, or they may even step away from acting after trying it as a kid. With that being said, auditions aren’t a walk in the park, and there will still be plenty of competition for good roles.

Teens are more capable of taking direction

One of the key differences between kids’ casting and teens’ casting is the fact that teens are more capable of taking direction and listening to the director. Second, they may need to be more collaborative with other actors, or work with props and costumes. This is not always the case when casting younger children, but there is a little more expected of teens. The great thing is, teens are still encouraged to show their personality and express themselves during auditions.

Casting for teens is more likely to involve learning lines

As we mentioned above, teens are more capable of learning and reciting lines, so there is more expected of them during an audition. It really depends on the role, because not every acting job involves a speaking role. However, most of them do, so your teen will need to be prepared to learn lines before an audition.

In some cases, they may only be given lines on the day, so if they area skilled at reading lines and memorising them quickly, they will have a big advantage over other aspiring actors. This is a skill you should definitely encourage your child or teen to pursue.

Need help with casting for teens?

Casting for teens is a bit different than casting for younger children. It’s more likely that you’ll need to learn lines and take direction, which can be difficult for some teens. We’ve been casting for teens and children in the Melbourne area for years and have developed a strong reputation. If your child wants excellent representation in the entertainment industry, contact us today.

Acting, Modelling

What Does Casting for Babies Involve?

Posted on by Casting Kids
casting for babies
04
May

Acting and modelling for babies is a great way to earn a little extra money and give your baby a fun experience. Most people running casting for babies are skilled in making it fun for everyone. Of course, your baby won’t be thinking about a future career, but you can potentially earn a nice bit of money to put aside for them.

Here are some of the things you should know about casting for babies, and how you can maximise the experience.

An overview of the job

Before you attend casting, or an audition, you should have a good idea of the job’s requirements. More importantly, what is the job for? While this information may not make a huge amount of difference, it’s good to know. Your baby obviously won’t be expected to learn lines or do anything too complicated. However, you probably still want to know what kind of advertisements they might appear in.

If you have a reputable casting agent, they should provide you with all of the information you need. This will include casting address, a contact person’s name and any other guidelines for the day.

Clothing guidelines

One of the things that may be required when attending casting for babies is special clothing. As we mentioned, babies aren’t expected to do anything too complicated. Most of the time, they won’t need any special clothes or costumes. However, in rare circumstances a casting call may ask for a particular colour of clothing.

If there are no guidelines, use your own intuition. When you’ve got some details about the advertisement and who it’s for, why not play up to that? If it’s for a clothing brand, try to attend the audition with your baby dressed in that brand.

Casting for babies is unpredictable

As we know, anything involving our little ones can be quite unpredictable. As such, directors don’t expect perfection. Generally, casting directors are looking for a happy, smiling baby who can look cute on camera. However, they understand that a child who is charming on one day may not be the next day.

Don’t stress too much about the audition, because directors are used to working with children and babies. Temperament is important, but when it comes to babies, that can change within seconds, let alone days. Just keep the experience positive and fun, and hopefully your baby has a great time too.

Looking for casting for babies?

If you’ve got a little one that you’d love to see on the big or small screen, or even in other forms of advertising, we can help. Casting Kids has been helping children realise their dreams for over 16 years, and we’ve built up a strong client base who trust us.

We’re also fully inclusive, representing babies and children of all abilities. It all starts with a meeting where we get to know you and your child. So, don’t hesitate to give us a call or contact us online to find out how we can help.

Acting, Blog

Casting for TV: What do Directors Look For?

Posted on by Casting Kids
casting for tv
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.

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Acting, Blog, Modelling

Casting For Teens: What Directors Look For

Posted on by Casting Kids
teenage modelling agencies melbourne casting for teens
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.

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Acting, Blog, Modelling

The Importance of Diversity when Casting for Kids

Posted on by Casting Kids
casting for 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.

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Acting, Blog, Modelling

Casting For Kids: What’s Involved?

Posted on by Casting Kids
casting for kids
11
Jan

Many parents out there have probably thought about getting their sone or daughter involved in acting and modelling. Children love being the centre of attention, and some show more enthusiasm for performing than others. So, if you’ve got a youngster who has some flair and interest in performing, acting and modelling could be just the thing for them.

But how do you actually get children involved? Of course, they can get into drama at school, or even externally take some classes. But to actually get them into the industry, you’ll need to explore casting for kids. That’s the way they can really get their break, so here’s what you need to know.

Choosing a reputable child talent agency

Firstly, you need to seek out a reputable casting agency. Much like us here at Casting Kids, there are agencies who specialises in representing children and babies. However, as parents you naturally want to make sure your children are protected. That means finding an agency with a good reputation.

When choosing a casting agency, look for ones who show genuine care for their kids, and also ones who have a range of good clients.

Casting for kids: Meeting your casting agent

Once you’ve chosen a casting agent, you’ll attend a first meeting. This is usually so the agent can learn more about your child and your family. You’ll talk about goals, expectations, and the agent will decide whether they’d like to offer registration to your child.

Good casting agencies don’t register every child, because they want to be sure they can find work for the kids. A reputable agent will be honest and tell you if they’re not confident finding work for your child.

Referrals to casting directors

The next step is a referral to casting directors. This is where a company puts the call out to casting agencies, seeking suitable kids to audition. If your child fits a particular job, your agent will let you know that an audition will be coming up.

This referral process usually happens behind the scenes, and you might not be notified of every single referral. This is because ultimately the client has the final say on who they’d like to see. This is another reason you want to have confidence that your agency is truly representing your child well.

Attending auditions

If your child is lucky enough to be selected for an audition, that’s where the preparation begins. You’ll be given information about the client, the job and what’s expected at audition. Casting for kids is a fun process, and it’s important you and your child are relaxed. Generally, directors want to see your child’s personality shine. So, while there’s certainly a need to remember lines and be familiar with characters in some instances, mostly, it’s all about having fun.

Want the best casting for kids in Melbourne?

Here at Casting Kids, we represent children of all abilities from ages 6 months through to 16 years. Contact us at any time if you have questions, or to find out more about what we do here at Casting Kids.