For aspiring actors trying to get their foot in the door, casting calls can be a daunting experience. Sure, you know the basics (i.e. memorize your lines, know your character), but do you really know what impresses those all-powerful casting directors? Take note from industry veteran Tracy “Twinkie†Byrd, known for casting such notable movies as Stomp the Yard, Notorious, and Whitney Houston’s final film, Sparkle. With over 10 years in the business, Byrd has helped launch countless careers, including Laz Alonso [Jumping the Broom, Avatar], Michael Kenneth Williams [Boardwalk Empire], and, if you follow these tips closely, you could be the next star in the making to go from the casting couch to the big screen. —Aliya Ewing
For aspiring actors trying to get their foot in the door, casting calls can be a daunting experience. Sure, you know the basics (i.e. memorize your lines, know your character), but do you really know what impresses those all-powerful casting directors? Take note from industry veteran Tracy “Twinkie†Byrd, known for casting such notable movies as Stomp the Yard, Notorious, and Whitney Houston’s final film, Sparkle. With over 10 years in the business, Byrd has helped launch countless careers, including Laz Alonso [Jumping the Broom, Avatar], Michael Kenneth Williams [Boardwalk Empire], and, if you follow these tips closely, you could be the next star in the making to go from the casting couch to the big screen. —Aliya Ewingmore
Don’t Try to Impress Anyone but Yourself:
“‘Impressing’ means you’re putting on,†explains Byrd. “Be your authentic self—and if you don’t know your authentic self that’s a problem.†As well known for her infectious energy as she is for her casting expertise, that’s a problem Twinkie never had to worry about. People gravitate towards her for who she is not what she does. “I’ve been told I light up an entire room,†she laughs.
more
(Image: Thinkstock)
Study Your Craft or Prepare to Fail:
“So many people, young actors especially, don’t know whose shoulders they stand on,†says Byrd. “They don’t know Robert Hooks, they don’t know Ben Vereen, Richard Roundtree, Diahann Carroll… They don’t know anything.†Being passionate about a career path means being knowledgeable, so no matter how talented you are you wont get far if you don’t take the time to study your craft.
more
Say, You’re Welcome:
While Byrd recognizes showing gratefulness is a good idea, actors should also leave the audition knowing they did a job worthy of compliment. “The true answer to, ‘Thank you’ is, ‘You’re welcome,’†she says in reference to actors who reply, “No, thank you,†when she shows gratitude for a great performance. “It’s my job to audition you—know that you did your best.â€
more