My first commercial audition: Part I

Some time ago I wrote about my first "print" audition, which left me wondering about how I would feel endorsing a product or service associated with a for-profit enterprise. Well, late last week I got wind of a certain company (that I may or may not have worked for) that was casting commercials for a new advertising campaign. The company in question is one that I firmly believe in and would love to help advertise for. Problem was, without an agent (ah-HEM all you agents), there is no way I was going to get in the door.

Soo, I kinda sorta maybe contacted someone I knew at the company and asked if they could find the right person to put in a good word--and it worked :)

On Wednesday morning, I received a phone call from the casting agent asking if I could come in later that afternoon, and lo and behold, my schedule was free (the beauty of unemployment). It was clear the moment I walked in that the casting agent was honoring a favor, as I looked nothing like (age-wise and skin color-wise) everyone else auditioning. But it took me 0.12 seconds to get over that and prep to do my best.

I'll save describing the audition for my next post, and close this one with a thought on how I got the audition. It would not have happened if (1) I had burned bridges, (2) I had not kept up communications with my contacts, and most importantly, (3) I had not asked. I keep hearing how people in LA are strictly interested in what you can do for them. I've even seen it. But IMHO, it's okay to ask people to do certain career oriented favors--like referrals and introductions--for you. If they can help, great! And if they can't/don't, you know not to ask next time. And not to send them a Holiday card. Or autograph.

Day job

"Excuse me, are you a really bad singer, or a really bad actor?" -- From Letterman's "Top ten ways to annoy your waiter", 1/13/95

Go to a trendy restaurant in the greater Los Angeles area and chances are you've got an actor for a waiter. It's the day job-of-choice for four reasons: (1) flexibility (to attend auditions, etc.), (2) pay (umm...15-20% cash off every check? cash!?), (3) the chance of being 'noticed' by someone with power (as opposed to the other 98% of the people that come through), and (4) instant, attractive friends of the opposite sex that can be found among the rest of the restaurant/bar staff. Four very, very compelling reasons. Particularly that last one.

But if I were to be a waiter, I'd get fired on my first day, likely for the "are you f'n kidding me?" type comments that I'd express to my colleagues after dealing with the obnoxious out-of-work director at table #4. Mad respect to those in the service industry. It's just not for me.

After spending time on craigslist and considering everything from "mystery shopping" to canvasing/telemarketing for select non-profit to just spending less (ha!), I've decided to try and find a gig tutoring or teaching.

The good: The first two reasons for waitering apply, and a solid third is that I'd get to start problem solving again (I was considering taking an advanced math class at SMC to challenge myself, but doing so would likley require an explanation...see?...even you think I'm crazy...).

The bad: The last reason for waitering doesn't apply.

So, step 1...figure out what SAT stands for again....
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Quick side note about this blog.

Yesterday evening when chatting with my mom, I asked what she thought about the blog, and if she liked the 'shout-outs' to her as the only person reading. Her reply? "What is a blog?"

Brutal mom. Brutal.

Sundeep Ahuja, Inc.

Okay, I know this is my third entry on the business side of being an actor, but I'll make it worth reading (but c'mon...anything I write is worth at least a skim, right mom? Be nice mom.)

I had lunch on Wednesday with an actor who's been in LA for a year and half, and for two hours he reinforced my thoughts on how to approach this profession. I believe him because for the little time he's spent here, he's done remarkably well. Below is a list of some of his more interesting tips (the only one I already knew was the first one):

1) Get lunches (and pay for 'em) with people who you can learn from.

2) Have go-to social spots so there's none-of-that "Where do you want to go?", "I dunno, where do you want to go??" when you are going to meet someone in the business. For different neighborhoods (Hollywood, Santa Monica, etc.). For different occasions (lunch spot, drink spot, etc.)

3) Carry around blank business-sized cards in case you meet someone who doesn't have a business card. Hand the individual the pen you are also carrying, and when you get it all back hand her your business card--with the location/situation you are at/in on the back so she knows how she knows you two weeks later when she discovers your bcard in her purse. [Btw, I started this paragraph with he/she structures, but they got annoying...what's the protocol on that, anyways? I just picked she :) ]

4) Invest in a good briefcase. Carry around extra headshots, audition sides, bcards, a reading book, etc. Carry around an audition log book (it'll make call backs way easier). And yes, walk into auditions with it (and scare all the other wannabes...hahahahah!!!).

5) Buy nice "thank you" cards. Oh, and use 'em. Thank you cards always get opened, and always get read (unless they are sent in 8x10 headshot envelopes, in which case they are burned with the other unopened headshot envelopes).

6) Scope important places out. Studios, agencies, etc. So when you go for something important, you know the layout, you know the vibe. Think about it...anytime you revisit a place for something important, you walk in with a familiarity, a sureness. And sureness=confidence=respect. And we all know what respect equals, yes? That's right. Ego.

Auditions (yeay!)

In the past week I've had four auditions :). That brings me to an average of one audition a week (since I moved down), which ain't bad for someone without an agent (I think); I've even received call-backs for two of 'em. I'll now take two questions from the one actor I know reading this (my roommate):

1) How?

How what...the call-backs? Cause I'm f'n good. Oh! How'd I get the auditions. I've signed up with two websites, Now Casting and Actors Access (from Breakdown Services). The former charges $10/month, and the latter a flat fee of $60/year, which includes access to sides (pieces of the script used for auditioning, mom). There are numerous sites out there, but I believe these two are legit; I plan to also sign up with LA Casting.

2) What types of gigs?

Three of the four have been for films (short or feature), while one was for a stage performance. Unfortunately, even if get these they are all NON-PAYING (yes, donations from readers are accepted); however, if I find a project I believe in, I'll do it for the experience (and the food; it is true, most actors in LA work for food...but instead of cardboard signs on the street corner we carry headshots and wounded egos).

I spend maybe 30 minutes a day on the two websites trying to find roles that suit me. I'll continue to submit via these sites even after I get an agent, but will likely be a bit more selective. Right now, "food" is good enough compensation for my time.

Ahh, the ugly side of Hollywood...

Hollywood has some not-so-nice people. I was lucky enough to come across one of them last week.

I mentioned earlier that I audited/interviewed with several acting studios before deciding to go with Howard Fine (not super impressed so far, by the way...more later). I learned about one of the studios through a friend of mine, and when I mentioned his name at the interview, I was happy to see it work it my favor--so much so that a few days after the interview one of the owners of the studio left me a voicemail encouraging me to join.

I was impressed, and wasn't sure how much of it had to do with my friend (I mean he's good, but that good?), and how much of it had to do with my wallet (a studio, afterall, is still a business). I didn't return the phonecall (I mean, she owns the studio...it was clearly a courtesy call).

A week later, on a Saturday afternoon, I received a second phonecall from the studio owner.

First I was floored. The lady was talking all about all the talented actors that went through her school--an impressive list--and then about how much I would get from the school.

But then I was confused. I mean, why does she care about me? Who am I to get two phonecalls from the head of a studio? I wrote it off to good salesmanship on her part, and left it at that. The following week I left a message with the studio (note: not with her, but the administrative contact at the studio) about my intention to join Howard's class.

The next day, I receive a third phone call from the lady. And what began as a nice "you really should study here" became a "well, don't come back later because we won't let you in" and finally ended with a "I swear that you won't make it...I mean, you're not smart enough to do the right thing."

Umm...excuse me??

Yeah, now I totally want to join your studio.

Marketing Marketing Marketing

Before I moved down here, I mused with my work colleagues that I was going to be starting a company in LA, with me as the product. I joked (hey, I thought I was funny), but now that I'm here, I'm realizing that's exactly what's happening.

Wednesday evening, I checked out an information session held by Sam Christensen, an "image and brand" guru. He called "product identity" the "PIN number" to a person's untapped potential (I know, it sounds kooky, but in context it made sense). He also called it the most important part of a marketing plan, and stressed the importance of marketing for actors.

As I think through the best way to get an agent, the best way to get in front of casting directors, and the best way to "make it happen", I'm beginning to think I should detail out a marketing plan and then launch a campaign for my brand--of course, after first figuring out my "product identity" (and let me tell you, it's not going to be the "t" word). Maybe I should have gotten an MBA before doing this whole acting thing....

Anyways, I need to spend the next couple of days thinking about this (and about how I'm going to afford all these classes; Sam's program is $695). For now, this is my working slogan: "Sundeep Ahuja...tastes great, less filling."

Training

For the past month I've been researching acting classes (or "actor's training programs" for the more sophisticated) in LA. Below is a list of the bigger ones I checked out, and quick thoughts on each. Please note that (1) this is by no means an exahaustive list, and (2) these are my opinions (so please, no hate mail or law suits).

- Howard Fine studio: Audited the Masters class, and dug it. Mr. Fine is professional, funny, and knows what he's doing. I'm now enrolled in the "Comprehensive Technique" class which is taught by Howard himself (one of the main reasons I enrolled).
- Larry Moss studio: After attending the information session, I took the required two day scene study class taught by Michelle Danner and liked it. Though way overpriced at $195 for two days (and class starting 30 minutes late each day didn't help), I felt like Michelle knew how to "take us there". Decided against them only because I was more impressed by Howard.
- Beverly Hill Playhouse: The interview went well and I left excited about their approach, which--as described--balances the business and the art. However I met faar too many people that pooh pooh'd the Playhouse for various reasons. I may yet enroll at a later date though...just need to get more G2.
- Playhouse West: Audited the beginner's class, and did not like it--but only because I've already done Meisner and didn't want to start over. The students I met after class raved about it, so if you're just starting training it's worth checking out.
- DW Brown / Joanne Baron: Interviewed and it sounded interesting, but like Playhouse West I felt I was going to be repeating training I've already had and wanted to try something new. A friend of mine recently graduated from their two year program and loved it.

The business versus the art

When someone says "acting" in a business sense, words that might come to mind include 'cut-throat', 'hyper competitive', 'brutal' (or, if you're a traditional South Asian American parent, 'stupid'). When someone says "acting" in an artistic sense, words that might come to mind include 'touching', 'inspiring', 'brilliant' (or, if you're a traditional South Asian American parent, 'stupid'). Just so, I think these two angles are the two ways to approach the profession of acting--business and artistic. I believe the best commercially successful actors (note the qualifiers) have mastered both.

My approach here in LA is to balance both, whereby I'm developing the art and the business of being an actor. For the art, I've enrolled in an acting class (more later), and for the business, I'm spending time writing a blog no one reads.

I saw a play Saturday night in which a friend of mine played a leading role. He's been in LA two years, and this is his second play. He hasn't had any speaking roles in TV or film. He has no agent, no manager. He has no business cards. In the last two years, this friend has solely focused on developing his craft: acting classes; voice classes; movies; books; smoking; more movies. All of it.

For awhile I used to wonder why he was wasting his time. But after seeing his incredible performance Saturday night, I realized that he has been as passionate about his profession these past two years as I can only hope to be.

On a side but very personal note, I also realized that I'm not a true artist. I would go friggin nutz if I was here for two whole years and only had one lead stage role to show for it.

Weekend Intensive at the Larry Moss Studio

This weekend I took a two day scene study class at the Larry Moss Studio at Edgemar Center, taught by Michelle Danner. It had been awhile since I'd been in a classroom, and even though I'm still shopping for the perfect class (more later), this seemed like a great opportunity to really check out a teaching style to aid my decision, and more importantly, get back in the classroom.

Couple of impressions:
1) Acting is ridonkulously difficult. I mean, it's all about being raw, being real...being honest. It's not for the weak, because it's really about getting to know yourself--the good and especially the bad. It's about looking in the mirror past the reflection. It's...it's...it's....yeah.

2) IMHO, training is soo important. The best thing someone can do if he or she wants to be an actor is get into a good training program. I think.

3) I hate wasting time.

Okay, the third point seems a bit random, but coming from a banking/technology background, productivity is huge for me, and I hate when my time is wasted--and this class wasted maybe 2 hours of my time (class started late, etc.). Though I learned about endowing objects and triggers and what not, my biggest takeaway this weekend is the challenge I face to not going f'n nuts in situations where my time will be wasted and there is nothing I can do about it. Like traffic, for instance. Or looking for parking. Or stupid questions (I know, it's lame to say this, but I really do believe there are such things as stupid questions...anyone ever see Empire Records? This dude working there picks up the phone and says "Empire Records open till midnight"...and then a pause...and then he says "midnight!" and hangs up. I hate those kinds of questions. Ahh!)

I know...I need to breathe....

Headshots

Ahhh...the headshot. Critical. Vital. Narcissistic.

When I first got headshots taken a couple of years ago, I conducted a fair amount of research (websites, references, etc.), and finally met with four photographers. Of the four, I ended up going with the one that I vibed with the most; the one that could most help (and let) me be honest in front of the camera. The photos turned out pretty good, but times have changed (these days, color is in and B&W is out), and so has my hair (thankfully most of it is still there). So, I needed new ones.

But before going through the above routine again, this time I decided to first see what a few friends of mine who dabble in photography could do--headshots can cost from $200-$600, and my friends would be, umm...doing me a favor :)

Don't get me wrong, there are some fabulous photographers out there worth the money, but I really feel that headshot photos--where it's all about the emotion exuded by a 2D picture--are more about the actor. I mean, for a 3D moment to be captured by a 2D medium the actor has to feel entirely comfortable. And where better to feel honest and comfortable than in the company of friends? (Above paragraph can also be read: "hey, I'm just tryin to save $400").

Last night, I got pictures back from one of the friends I shot with last weekend, and damn. Not bad. And they only cost me a $51 bar tab.

Networking

Networking is formally defined by Merriam-Webster as "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions". They should add to that "it's also the only way to build a career in Hollywood" (or anywhere?).

Tonight I attended a "fireside chat" with an Executive Producer of a major television show, organized by my alumni association (great resource, btw). The 'chat'--between the organizer and the Producer; the rest of us 'sat'--was both entertaining and informative. My biggest takeaway, though, was how her career always seemed to move forward through someone she knew. Probably not coincidentally, in her parting words of advice she impressed upon us that "it's all about who you know".

Question is, how does one get to 'know' people? This mentally probably contributes to the 'shallow' attitude assigned to most of LA's population. 30 seconds into a conversation you figure out if a person can help you or not: "Hmm...so you are a rocket scientist...greaaat...." With so many other people to meet, do you keep chattin? Or do the career minded (and shallow?) thing: excuse yourself to the restroom, take 3 steps in the direction of the restroom, and meet someone else?

Anyways, I took the producer's advice and met two writers and an actress today. And left the finance guy by the potato chips....

My first "print" audition

First off, for the one or two people who have found this blog (hi mom) , I'll be writing as often as I do something career related (that is both legal and moral). That should be everyday. But yeah...I kinda took a loong wkend.

Last Thursday I went to a print audition (so more of a modeling thing than an acting thing, but hey, it was going to pay well). I heard about it via email from a third party who found my picture on Hollywood Masala, a website/portal for South Asians in entertainment. Couple of impressions:

1) Cattle call - esque
2) Suuuper fast. Sign-in, get your number, get called, pose for one pic (holding the number, no less), pose for another pic, leave ("ahem...now").
3) Thought provoking. Not the audition itself per-se, but as I was getting in my car, I kept wondering if (IF) I got the gig, would I do it? I mean, do I believe in the company enough to represent it to other consumers? Even if only one person bought the product because they liked my smile (or the sale advertised next to it), would I feel good about that? Luckily, I didn't have to make this decision.

Though it would have been nice to.

Agent hunting: mass mailings

There are two philosophies on mass mailings to agents: (1) they work, and (2) they don't work. The best way to get in front of an agent is of course through referral. I've been advertising my need for an agent for weeks now, and have only had one actor say "you should totally call my agency". Every other actor I've met is clearly afraid I'll get all the auditions and so doesn't help (youbastardguys). So, rather than just wait around for a referral (no matter how many actor/director/agent types I meet with), a mass mailing seems like one way to take control of the situation. I'm hoping my look is different enough that it'll catch the eye of the hungover-unpaid-wannabe-actor-intern who will be flipping through them.

First step? Assuming you already have a headshot (which I do), get the postcards printed. After some research, I went with Reproductions because they seem to be legit and offer a reasonable price.

On a side note, I'm also getting business cards printed. Kinda wierd after years of having distinguished business cards with one corporate logo or another to go ahead and pay someone to put my face on a card--like it is a friggin logo. I really, really hope they make me look good.....

"Soft push"

I recently heard the phrase "soft push", and dug it (stop snickering...it's not what you think). Everyday, do something that pushes you in the direction of your goal. It can kinda sorta MAYBE be overwhelming starting out as an actor in LA, and I've met more than a few people who got distracted (something about having to make money) or burnt out (though, if you are never a 'star', can you really 'burn out'?).

Today my "soft push" was lunch with Raj Raghavan, who is on the agent track at CAA, arguably the top talent agency in LA. His advice? "Don't waste time having lunch with anyone on the agent track at CAA." If I'm looking for an agent, I need to talk with other actors at or above my level of experience who have agents. SO. Anyone reading this have an agent? I'll buy....

I also spoke with an acquaintance at Groundlings, one of the top improv schools in LA, who advised me to think through my desire to audition for the entry level class (Level I). He's been taking the "Fun Shop" class there, and recommended it as a great way to introduce myself to the school. It's cheaper, more kick back, and will better position me to rock the audition when I'm ready. Oh, and I still get to put "Groundlings" on my resume. BRILLIANT!!

Week 3

Wow. So this is blogging. I don't get it...what's all the hype about??

Anyways, join me as dig my heels into LA and blaze a career as an actor. I'll only be posting notes relevant to acting, and will spare you what I ate for breakfast (bagel) and where I slept last night (not sure).

Real quick, I want to take a question from the audience: "What happened to weeks 1 and 2?"

They were spent figuring out how to get this blog up.

Other relevant notes:
I'm already eligible to join SAG, and have the beginnings of a resume (www.sundeepahuja.com/resume.html). I've also already had headshots taken (www.sundeepahuja.com/photos.html), but will be going through that process again soon so stay tuned.....