Register online in 3 steps!

1- PREPARE YOUR PHOTO TO BE ATTACHED OR OTHER MATERIALS

Prepare a RECENT photograph where we can see your face clearly. A good picture with a smile sells, the better the picture, the more chances to get work. To maintain your file, please keep an updated photo every subsequent year. If you have trouble uploading your photos, please email them to info@totalcasting.ca.

2- PAY REGISTRATION FEE

There is a fee of 30$ to open your file. Online registration requires you to pay via Paypal (Visa, Mastercard etc) or Interac eTransfer to our email at totalcastinmontreal@yahoo.com and we will send you a link to register. You can also schedule an appointment to register in person if you prefer. Uda members, for $5 discount, email us the $25 plus taxes and we will send you a link back.


CLICK HERE now

 

3- AFTER PAYMENT IS DONE

You will be forwarded to our application form so you can fill out all information and upload your pictures and demos. Please fill out as much as you can so when we do a search, we can find you easily. It is not necessary to call us to check out if work is available since any work that fits your profile will be emailed to you.

YOU CAN ALSO REGISTER IN PERSON:

By appointment only totalcastingmontreal@yahoo.com

What is the difference between an Agent and a Casting Director?

Casting directors, agents, and managers all have different responsibilities in the business. It is important for anyone entering the business to be aware of these differences. Here's a brief description of how each functions:

CASTING DIRECTORS (or casting agents)

CASTING DIRECTORS (or casting agents) are hired by producers, advertising agencies, photographers and other related companies to find the cast for their movie, TV show, commercial, video and so forth. They screen actors, contact agents, put out casting calls, and arrange auditions. Many specialize in one area of the business: film, TV, commercials, voice-overs, etc… There are about 12 casting directors working in the Montreal area and one in Quebec City. (Beware of those who use the word CASTING in their name: they usually are TALENT agencies who opened up without knowing the difference .They therefore work on commission) There are several hundred casting agencies in the Los Angeles area. If you are a freelance actor or you want to do extra work only without any representation, you should register with many casting agencies in your area.

AGENTS

AGENTS are the link between actors/models and casting directors/clients. Talent agencies earn their living by taking a percentage of the actor's income and sometimes charge a monthly fee. There are many different kinds of agents. Some agencies are full-service, and represent talent for film, TV, commercials, voice-overs, and print. Within an agency, agents may specialize in representing union or non-union actors, kids, comedians, singers, dancers or voice talent. Agencies can represent few to many actors depending on the number of agents within the agency. Many agents require actors to sign contracts, usually for one to three years. Some agents prefer taking on talent unsigned for a trial period. Occasionally, an agent will require some form of power of attorney to ensure that performer's checks and residuals go to the agent, who then cuts a new check to the performer minus their commission. Agents negotiate contracts between performers and employers.

MANAGERS

MANAGERS keep a smaller client list than agents. They groom, develop and manage careers. They typically get 15-50% commission, and many require three-year contracts. They may add an additional option period, due to the investment of time they make in each actor or performer. Managers also advise the actor in regards to private coaches, promotional material, and general direction, including selecting an agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need an agent to audition? Why?

    A casting director may hold "open call" auditions for a particular project allowing for actors, not represented by an agent, the opportunity to try out. But most of the time they go through agents.


    A casting director receives dozens of submissions for each role on every project. If everyone who wanted to be in movies were able to submit themselves for a project, casting directors would be inundated with requests and could not perform their jobs properly. An agent provides a professional buffer to the casting process. Furthermore, an agent is familiar with the rules that govern the industry. Casting directors therefore submit most (but not all) of their castings to talent agencies to ensure that those submitted have experience and are serious.


    To make sure you have a chance to be called, you need to register on-line or in person to our database or other casting agencies.

  • How do I get experience without an agent?

    There are many ways to gain experience. Local community theater companies are always looking for dedicated actors for their productions. Universities and film schools require actors for their projects and independent filmmakers often advertise on the Internet and in newspapers. These are but a few examples that are easily accessible to all performers. They help build experience and strengthen the acting community.

  • How do I get an agent? Where do I find an agent?

    Before you get an agent you should have ample training and some acting experience. Working as an extra and taking acting classes are some of the steps you should take before looking for an agent. You’ll get to know the business a bit and you’ll have something to put on your resume.You can find agents listed in industry publications such as UDA.ca or on-line.

  • Want to audition but the auditions are too far away?

    Self-tape services are available at our offices for a role of about 30 seconds to 5 minutes - 50$


    The service includes:


    • Audition Room
    • Camera and cameraman
    • Reader
    • Mini DV transfer (digital)
    • Editing with name, contacts and credits
    • Email audition by email right after (casting director, agent, manager, producer, director)

RULES FOR EXTRAS ON SET

1. NEVER LOOK DIRECTLY INTO THE CAMERA LENS!


2.SILENCE! Please keep quiet; it's easier and nicer to work when no one has to scream. If you're asked to talk while doing your action remember you must fake it. We shouldn't hear any sounds unless specified by an A.D. that they do need sound for a shot.


3.When you come in or leave ALWAYS check in/out with the 3rd AD or the person responsible for background performers. It's the only way for them to know where you are and to pay you for your hours.


4. Once on set, always listen carefully to the instructions given to you. There might be a few rehearsals first. Remember your action and position as well as those around you. You'll have to repeat that action many times exactly the same way. Be aware of what's going on around you, especially in relation with the actors and their dialogue.


5. Start your action on "ACTION" or "BACKGROUND ACTION" and stop on "CUT". Then get ready to go back to your "FIRST POSITION" and do the same action once again.


6. When shooting you'll hear "ROLL CAMERA". This cue is for crew only.


7. Sometimes you might be asked to "FREEZE", just stay in place until given further instructions.


8. Always try to act as natural as you can. It must look like real life.


9. If you are given props; take care of them and remember to give them back to the props person before leaving the set.


10. Avoid talking to the director and actors. They need their concentration.


11. Be alert and set-wise. There are a lot of people working on set try not to be in their way.


12. At the end of the day, return your wardrobe, props etc... to those who gave them to you, and make sure to sign your timesheet.


13. Have Fun!

HEY, YOU IN THE BACK...QUIT ACTING!

By Susan Davy

The definition of the background performer category (IPA) is "any performer other than a principal actor or an actor who is not required to give individual characterization, speak any words or line of dialogue."

So why do some actors avoid it like the plague? After talking to dozens of actors. I found several compelling reasons that were voiced again and again. "It's a step backward for an actor who is auditioning for speaking roles. I have enough trouble getting auditions", "extras are treated like cattle". "I don't want to be categorized as a background performer", and "my agent would drop me from the roster". Whether these are valid is a matter of debate, but it's up to individual actors to decide what they want to do. It's a great way for new actors to gain experience. Background work seems to be the "learning" ground for many actors. As a beginner, it is a paid opportunity to learn about "on camera" work (talking to other performers, watching the production, learning direction and developing patience).

"I have made valuable connections while doing a background job. Each time I work, more money goes into my RRSP's. I am comfortable". How many actors can say that?

Background work is also lucrative for senior actors who find it difficult to land satisfying and adequate employment outside of the business. For many it is an opportunity to continue working in a career that they love. And they can work in couples. And here's another tip: bring a thick book.

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