Q: My dream is to become a Reality TV star. I want to make my audition tape so I can send it in to my favorite shows and get cast. What should I do and say to make it stand out?
Instructions
1. A: It seems like every day you hear about a new Reality TV show hitting the networks. There are Reality TV shows covering any and every topic. From America's Next Top Model, to I Love New York to Beauty and the Geek, you'd think Reality TV would have room for all of us. The truth is, with more and more shows popping up on TV, there are more and more future Reality stars to compete with. Making your audition tape stand out from the thousands of other applicants is a must.
Here are a few things to remember when creating your own winning Reality TV audition tape:
2. Watch Reality TV shows. This may sound obvious, but the more you pay attention to the show's cast, the better idea you'll have for the types of people casting directors are looking for.
3. Just because you haven't seen someone that looks or acts like you on Reality TV, doesn't mean you don't have a chance at getting cast. Casting directors are looking for interesting people with great character. Sure, Reality TV has a reputation of pigeon-holing characters - the ditz, the comedian, the confrontational, the frat boy, etc. - but that doesn't mean your type, whatever that may be, is out of the running. Decide who you really are and how you want to portray yourself, and be clear about that in your tape.
4. Be yourself. How you act and look in your tape should be a true representation of who you are. Just as with headshots, if you look a certain way on tape and look totally different in person, you'll be wasting the casting director's time and your own. You will get a call back if you're the right person for the show. You won't cast if you got a call back and misled the casting director completely.
5. Make sure you include your name and contact information clearly on the tape. The easier you make it for the casting director to get in touch with you, the better. Also, make sure they can hear and see you clearly.
6. Be sure to follow the application directions. Each show will have different requirements. With thousands of applicants to go through, the ones who create more work by not following directions aren't as likely to get viewed at all. Whether it is age limit, deadlines, VHS vs. Mini-DV, or even your U.S. citizenship status, make sure to find out what's required before you send your tape.
7. If you want to be a Reality star, go for it. Just follow directions, be clear, and be yourself. Before you know it, you'll be on your way towards the big prize, whatever that may be.
Break a Leg,
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