Casting Director and Penguin in the Room client Shakyra Dowling visited the penguin pool this week to answer some casting and online marketing related questions.
Follow Shakyra on twitter @ShakyraDowling
Whats the biggest misconception about casting directors?
Probably that we are scary people! We want actors to do well, we only bring you in because we think you are PERFECT for the job.
What are you up to at the moment?
Casting 2 feature films – one British Independent and the other a Danish/US co-production
Top casting tips for actors?
– Always learn the sides sent to you.
– Find out who is going to be at the meeting and check them out on IMDB.
– If you can watch some of their previous work on VOD then do so.
You are on twitter and Facebook, do you post castings?
Twitter – especially for those hard to find role!
Do you think it’s important for actors to be aware of their online presence?
Yes, producers always want to know how much publicity they can get out via their cast. So if you have a large following, they are impressed.
Do you chat to actors on twitter?
Sometimes, usually ones I know personally or have cast in the past.
Do you think actors should be on youtube?
If they have a body of work online (trailers for films, online ads, shorts) then its good to have it all in one place on a youtube channel. Showreels should be on spotlight or vimeo as they are more industry tools.
Penguin in the Room @prartsmarketing is one penguin with an arts marketing dream: penguin stepping my way into the arts industry and helping creatives flourish! Specialising in online marketing, social media, branding, copy writing, media coaching and web design for actors, artists, casting directors, agents, production companies, theatre companies and creative individuals.
Contact me any time for penguin chats via email: info@penguinintheroom.com or Facebook.com/penguinintheroom or waddle over to my website:www.penguinintheroom.com