Open Call Madness

If you have been involved in the modeling or acting industry for any amount of time you have probably heard the word “open call” more than once. Open calls can be hectic, especially it is for a younger child. Whether it’s an open call for a department store fashion show, or for a modeling agency seeking new talent, there are a few things you should know before venturing out to one.

First of all, “open call” simply means “casting” or “audition” but the term “open call” means there will be many more people attending then at a regular casting. A lot of castings and auditions are for pre-selected talent, but an open call is usually for the general public, or if you are with an agency, it is for many more people than just a regular casting. Be ready to wait in long lines, bring lots of food, and if you are with a young child, make sure he/she has gotten his or her nap right before (if applicable) or that they are not too tired that day. It takes a lot of patience on the parents’ part, but the child also needs to be prepared.

Prepared for what? Well, sometimes hundreds of children show up at the same time…I don’t think I need to tell you the problem with that one. Or, if the client who is casting for the job runs out of time or the open call is running too many hours, they will start to line people up and pick them out for who is going to be staying and who will be leaving. Sound a little inhumane? Well, unfortunately it happens, and all those warnings of needing to have a thick skin and take rejection well will come into play here.

SUMMARY:
• Open calls tend to have a lot of people attending and long waiting periods to see the client
• Bring snacks and make sure children are rested
• Prepare your child for a long wait and possibly dealing with a large crowd