Thanks to a global pandemic, the entertainment industry has gone through quite a shakeup in the past four years. Everything changed from auditions to production itself in 2020 with the rise of self tapes.
The following year, 2021, saw a radical adaptation to the shift in the way actors search for work, audition, book jobs and sometimes even perform. The industry continued to adapt and evolve in 2022 and 2023, with some chatter of in-person auditions returning.
Now that we’re in the new normal of 2024, there are more acting opportunities than ever before.
That also means more ways to find those auditions. However, you might not know how to find auditions online or where you might even find open auditions in your area.
To save you time from Googling “acting auditions” or “casting calls near me” for the umpteenth time, we’ve put together this updated guide to help you discover all the best ways to find open casting calls, theatrical and commercial auditions in this new day and age.
How to Find Casting Calls Without an Agent
In 2024, you can find plenty of acting auditions even if you don’t have representation. Online casting calls have become more abundant than ever in the past several years.
Some of the best ways to get your foot in the door for open casting calls, TV, film, and commercial auditions include:
- Following casting directors on social media.
- Browsing legit casting call websites regularly.
- Connecting with other actors, directors, writers and creatives to build up your online and IRL network
Searching hashtags like #castingcall and #opencall.
With the audition process continuing to be largely online in 2024, it’s become commonplace to find, submit and book jobs on national TV without ever leaving home.
That means it’s time to double down on your online presence — and there are two main ways to do that: social media and reputable casting call websites.
Here, we’ll answer some common questions about how to find casting calls on social media and the best casting websites for theatrical and commercial auditions.
How do Actors get Discovered on Instagram (or TikTok)?
Most casting directors connected on Instagram in 2021, and 2022 saw the rise of acting auditions on TikTok. Although some are still posting on Facebook, TikTok became a force of nature in 2023 (X, the former Twitter, not so much). This trend will continue in 2024.
Now, you’ll find loads of casting calls on TikTok as well as casting and audition advice from casting directors and actors alike. Pick whichever platform you like the best and commit to building relationships there.
Make sure your profile is professional but still has some personality. If a casting director does decide to check out your profile, you’ll want them to know you’re more than an actor – you’re a real person. Share moments from your personal life, pets, hobbies, adventures or anything else you’re passionate about.
Include a link to your website or acting reel in your bio and don’t be shy about promoting your work — especially your successes. Aim for about 50% personal content and 50% work-related posts.
Once your profile is in good shape, start following and interacting with casting directors in your area. Just like in the real world, it’s important to create a genuine authentic connection and build a relationship. Who knows, you might even score some acting auditions!
Another way to find casting calls and auditions on social media is to follow and search hashtags. These are a great way to discover casting calls but be sure to do your research and watch out for scams. Here are a few hashtags to check out:
#castingcall
#nowcasting
#opencastingcall
#actingauditions
#castingcallNYC*
#losangelescastingcall*
*Swap out NYC or Los Angeles for your city to keep your audition search local.
Is it Okay to Contact Casting Directors on Instagram?
The answer is yes — but it must be in response to something they’ve posted. This is the difference between building a meaningful relationship and coming across as desperate.
For example, if a casting director posts a picture of her dog, it’s fine to leave a comment like “What a good boy! Does he like to chase tennis balls or just chew on them?” However, it’s not okay to leave a comment like, “Hey, just booked a role on Netflix. Check out my profile.”
Be careful about sending direct messages. Unless a casting director has specifically asked for it, stay out of the DMs.
DMing a casting director without permission is a quick way to get on someone’s “no” list. You don’t want to be in that category.
The casting industry is smaller than you think. People talk. Keep it public unless they’re asking you to reach out via DM.
How do you Find Casting Calls Outside of LA and NYC?
Remember, your dreams aren’t over because you don’t live in New York or Los Angeles. Building your network of actors, directors, producers and other creatives is even more important outside of the big cities.
In smaller regions, it’s easier to connect with the people making decisions. Take an acting class or audition for local theater. As you build relationships, you’ll meet other creatives and learn about new opportunities.
Many casting directors outside of big cities have physical files or online databases for local talent. Check out who does casting in your area and find out how to get on their radar.
Local talent agencies often have open talent submissions, too. Look into their submission procedures.
Legit casting websites cover smaller cities too. Check out a few and see if they have any opportunities in your area.
Many actors find the best way to get started in acting is to do it in their hometown. Try to see what acting auditions are in your area, get some experience under your belt and build up your resume before moving to a big city with lots of competition. These are some of the best ways for finding casting calls without an agent, and sometimes how to find casting calls for free.
How do you get Into Commercial Auditions?
Commercial casting directors are usually looking for a very specific type of person. If you have special skills like archery, rock climbing or stone carving, make sure that information is on your resume, online casting profiles and social media pages. Casting directors will often search for actors with these skills through hashtags, Google or casting websites.
You can find commercial auditions the same ways we’ve already shared — check out casting websites and social media, and utilize your network.
How do you Audition for Netflix?
How do you audition for Netflix, Hulu, HBO, or any other major network or streaming service? Most acting auditions for the roles in your
favorite TV shows are posted on professional casting websites.
Having an agent is the best way to get an audition for these shows, but if you use the information we’ve shared here, you may have some luck on your own!
If you’re dying to be on a certain Netflix show, follow that casting director on social media (see our Instagram interaction section for proper social etiquette). You can find out who casts the show on IMDb. Stay informed so you know when the show is in production and when you should be looking for casting calls.
What Is the Best Website for Casting Calls?
A trusted way to find legit casting calls is through professional casting websites. Casting Networks and Casting Frontier are websites where you’ll find casting calls and auditions for projects being cast by professional casting directors. The best part is that you can get started for free.
Kick off 2024 with a bang. Sign up or login to Casting Frontier to find casting calls and start auditioning now!
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