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Check Out the Ask Me Anything Event Today (Friday) and Tomorrow (Saturday) with James C. Clayton by Alexandra Stevens  •  last post Mar 28th

James C. Clayton—a Canadian filmmaker, producer, screenwriter, and actor with 25 years of experience. He’s best known for his work on Lionsgate’s Bullet Proof and its sequel Get Fast (now streaming on Amazon Prime), and he’s currently prepping his next action-thriller feature, Briefcase, 8, which he wrote, is producing, directing, and starring in.


James will be answering questions in real time while actively prepping for production—giving you a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to take a script from the page to the screen.

Whether you want to know how to make your scripts more director-friendly, understand where writers and directors often clash, or learn how to stay involved once their script is in motion—this is the moment to ask.
Curious how many of your actors also write?

How That ‘White Lotus’ Monologue Came Together: Sam Rockwell, His Acting Coach and a Leap of Faith by Richard "RB" Botto  •  last post Mar 28th

Insightful article on Sam Rockwell, his process and his relationship with his long time acting coach.


And, of course, that WHITE LOTUS monologue.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/sam-rockwell-white-lotus-monologue-acting-coach-1236175014/

Anyone Here I can ask an NDA question of. by Jill Godley  •  last post Mar 28th

Does anyone have time for a quick Zoom? I have a question about an NDA. 

Let’s Talk Negotiation, Self-Worth & Longevity in Acting by Ashley Renee Smith  •  last post Mar 27th

Hey Actors!

Whether you loved Grey’s Anatomy or not, there’s no denying Ellen Pompeo made a massive impact and she fought hard to know and demand her worth as a lead actress.

In this recent episode of the Call Her Daddy podcast, Ellen sits down with Alex Cooper to talk candidly about:

- Navigating double standards in the industry

- Becoming the highest-paid woman on network television

- Salary negotiations and advocating for herself

- Her thoughts on Meredith’s most iconic moments (and chaotic dating life)

- What it really takes to last in this business

Watch it here >> https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=jex1tGfWpno 

It’s such a raw, empowering conversation especially for actors navigating career longevity, contracts, and the pressure to “just be grateful.” It’s a reminder that knowing your value is not the same as being difficult.

Let’s open this up for discussion:

Have you ever had to negotiate your value as an actor? What’s one thing you’ve learned about advocating for yourself in this industry?

Drop your thoughts below. Let’s learn from each other’s journeys.

Casting a series in Europe by Sabrina Culver  •  last post Mar 27th

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt36304453/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk European based actors especially based in Amsterdam/ Belgium we will be looking for a few people to round out our cast in the next few months

Do You Use Music To Develop Your Characters? by Alexandra Stevens  •  last post Mar 26th

Hey all!

I've just been reading the answers that Rob Lowry is posting in his AMA today and tomorrow. I felt inspired and wanted to share here. He explained he sometimes gives character playlists with actors or the party playlist if there is a party in the film. This is fun and exciting to me and reminded me about what i've heard recently. Namely that music reaches many parts of the brain including those to do with motion, memory, and reward.  Including the retrieval of autobiographical memories which allows actors to access personal experiences that resonate with their character's journey. This process, known as Music-Evoked Autobiographical Memory (MEAM), can lead to more authentic and emotionally rich performances.  I found this video on the impact of music on emotional memory https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhoaU34HQxY
What are your thoughts? And what is the song/piece of music that most helped you when developing a character? 

Taking the temperature of the room vs. Setting the temperature by Matthew Cornwell  •  last post Mar 26th

In our weekly video that we released Monday, I talk about the metaphor of being a thermometer vs. a thermostat. Waaaaay too often, actors fall into the trap of being the thermometer. That is, taking the temperature of the room. Trying to figure what is the accurate answer to how to play the role. Owning a taping service for over 15 years, I see this EVERY DAY.


A much more powerful approach is to be the thermostat. SET the temperature of the room. And the room can be your self-tape studio, a Zoom callback, in-person audition, or being on set.

If you don't take ownership over the role and confidently bring your signature performance, then you risk becoming a carbon copy of the other 80% of actors who are all being thermometers, trying to gauge "what Casting wants." 

SET the temperature.

Now, the rub is that it takes years of training and experience to get to a place of understanding this concept (specifically what your signature performance is), because blind arrogance is just as bad as being completely passive. I guess in the metaphor that arrogance is like being a broken thermostat? The metaphor isn't perfect ;)

Here's the video from our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/7EJDM0u9OcQ

FREE live webinar with Guillaume Esmiol, Executive Director of the Marché du Film at the Cannes Film Festival by Leonardo Ramirez  •  last post Mar 25th

This Wednesday, March 26, Stage 32 is hosting a FREE live webinar with Guillaume Esmiol, Executive Director of the Marché du Film at the Cannes Film Festival, moderated by our very own Managing Director Amanda Toney.
Why this webinar matters:
•    Learn how to use your badge to its full potential
•    Build a strategic schedule and navigate key venues (Palais, Riviera, Village International)
•    Understand what buyers and collaborators are actually looking for in 2025
•    Avoid common missteps and gain a tactical advantage
•    Walk into Cannes with confidence and purpose
•    Register here: https://www.stage32.com/education/products/how-to-navigate-the-cannes-film-festival-marche-du-film-1

How Does The 'Right' Music Turn Your Performance As an Actor into a 'Goosebumps' moment? by Alexandra Stevens  •  last post Mar 25th

Come and find out in the next "Ask Me Anything' Session Tomorrow Wednesday in the Composing Lounge with acclaimed music supervisor Rob Lowry. Rob will be answering questions over a full 24-hour period about Using Music as a Narrative Tool in film and TV—a must-follow topic for filmmakers, producers, composers, editors, and storytellers of all kinds. He currently has three films in theaters right now—Companion, Heart Eyes, and Novocaine—and this is a rare opportunity for our community to hear directly from one of the most in-demand music supervisors working today.


He’s been featured in Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, THR, and more—and this is a huge opportunity for our members to gain insight from someone who has helped shape the sound of modern cinema.

Here's the link  https://www.stage32.com/lounge/composing/Ask-Me-Anything-AMA-Wednesday-3-26-Using-Music-as-a-Narrative-Tool

These 3 Self-Tape Editing Mistakes Will Ruin Your Audition: Watch and Avoid Them by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Mar 24th

These 3 Self-Tape Editing Mistakes Will Ruin Your Audition: Watch and Avoid Them


https://youtu.be/vUu-vEFCzbI

Do you have a great audition tip? If so, please share it here so we can all learn from you.

My New Website

Want to let you know that I have a new website: https://howtoactandmodel.com/

You can sign up there to be on my special mailing list. I send out helpful industry information. And, after signing up, you will receive a great video: 6 Secrets to Mastering Home Auditions.

Read about How A24 Became One of the Most Iconic Indie Brands in Film And Consider Which Negative Beliefs Are Holding You Back by Alexandra Stevens  •  last post Mar 23rd

In his blog today RB gives us a video about A24 the film distribution and production company. I was particularly interested in their strategy of not spending loads on mainstream marketing but finding ways to do viral marketing, which worked! Here is the link https://www.stage32.com/blog/coffee-content-breakthroughs-brands-letting-go-of-what-holds-you-back-4048
RB then goes on to urge us to let go of negative beliefs, emotions and experiences that are not serving us in our creative careers. Coincidentally I was thinking about this today. I reflected that I had an ‘unworthy’ (of success) belief lurking around in the background. Rationally I believe I’m totally worthy of success (and success means different things to different people). However I realised the above from certain responses and reactions i had observed in myself. For example a split second of thinking ‘oh gosh, I don’t know if I can help them’ or feeling like an imposter when a new client wants to work with me. I notice these negative beliefs in my clients too and how they can lead to self-sabotage. For example, not putting oneself forward for things, not fully selling oneself or really going for what we want. The way I tackled this belief today, and one way I suggest to clients, is to write down all the counter-evidence. All the reasons why we are worthy of success or whatever the belief is.

So, with this in mind, i'm interested, what negative beliefs, emotions or experiences are you ready to let go of that you believe are delaying or blocking your creative process and progress?

Actors: My Advice as a Manager by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Mar 21st


One of the biggest traps actors fall into is settling. Don’t do it. You’ve got something special don’t aim to be good when you have the potential to be great. Push yourself. Keep learning, sharpening your talent, and stay in classes and workshops.

Don’t get lost in the weeds. Headshots, agents, managers, auditions, they matter. But zoom out and look at the big picture. Keep your eyes on your larger vision. That’s what shapes your path.

This business is all about relationships. Learn to connect, really connect. Listen. Make a genuine impression one that isn’t just handing over a resume. Volunteer at events, go to festivals, attend mixers for industry professionals.

Stay grounded. I love ambition, but be real about where you’re at. If you’re just starting out, maybe don’t expect your agent to book you the lead in a huge network series tomorrow. Aim high but keep your feet on the ground while you reach up.

Sometimes, just listen. You don’t always have to fill the space. You can learn so much just by observing especially from those with more experience.

Be skeptical. This industry is full of noise. Just because someone says they booked a pilot doesn’t mean it’s true. Sometimes “pilot” means a YouTube sketch their roommate filmed on an iPhone. Take it all with a grain of salt.

Not every opportunity is a good one. If something feels off, it’s okay to say no, whether it’s a sketchy photographer or a role that crosses your boundaries. Trust your instincts.

Keep taking creative risks. You made a bold move pursuing acting don’t stop now. Stay open, stay curious, and keep challenging yourself.

Take care of your head and heart. Rejection is part of the job, but it doesn’t define you. Learn to move through it without letting it break you.

Most importantly live your life. Don’t pause it for your career. Acting is about channeling real human experience, and you can’t do that if you’re not living. Make time for the people, places, and passions that feed your spirit. It’ll serve you well as an actor, and as a human being.

Actors: go for it. by D Kreate  •  last post Mar 20th

Make your own way. It worked for me.
Encourage each other to grow and create.

Mathew McConaughey Scares Martha Stewart With his Method Acting - Curious What Your Thoughts Are About Method Acting? by Alexandra Stevens  •  last post Mar 20th

I"m doing some thinking about Method acting with a view to writing something about it. Personally I loved my experience of Method acting in London. And I know that many are wary of. it and a lot of drama schools don't go anywhere near it for fear of students getting traumatised. I can see why they might feel cautious. 

As part of my research I came across what Martha Stewart had to say about Mathhew McConaughey. Apparently he scared her because he used Method acting to get into the characters he played in the Uber Eats commercial. Here is the article:  https://pagesix.com/2025/03/13/celebrity-news/martha-stewart-admits-matthew-mcconaughey-scared-her-during-crazy-filming-experience/
I wondered what others experiences and view on Method acting are?

White Lotus Creator Reveals Sam Rockwell’s Asian Girl Monologue Was Actually Inspired By Chris Lilley by Amanda Toney  •  last post Mar 20th

https://www.betootaadvocate.com/advocate-in-focus/white-lotus-creator-reveal-sam-rockwells-asian-girl-monologue-was-actually-inspired-by-chris-lilley/

Are actors booking jobs on Stage 32? by Aferenni Richardson  •  last post Mar 19th

Hello,

I have been out of the loop for a while and I wanted to know where do I go to see where actors have been successful in booking paid roles while using Stage 32?  Thank you in advance, Aferenni

Actors - Callbacks by Tammy Hunt  •  last post Mar 18th



Getting a callback means that the casting team is intrigued by you and your acting, but they may not be totally sold yet. On top of watching you perform, they might also question you about your acting approach and experience. This is the time to showcase your range, ability to portray your character, and overall skill set.  
Expect to perform the same material in the same way as in your first audition—but know that you might be asked to make a few changes, such as reading a scene with different emotion or really diving deep into your character’s personality.

Callbacks often mean performing a scene with another actor so the director can see if you mesh well with others.

The casting director brought you back because your type and performance worked for the character and for the tone of the show. Unless you are given specific notes for the callback, do the exact same performance when you come back in but be open to adjustments.

Don’t get locked into your choices. In a callback, the director, producer, and creative team may have you take an adjustment and try the scene a different way. Spontaneous decisions are your best friend so practice various versions of the audition just to be prepared.

#actor #audition #callback #casting #film #tv

Sharing this behind-the-scenes blog post about the making of the film "Alix" in the Colombian Jungle by Alexandra Stevens  •  last post Mar 18th

Here is the link.https://www.stage32.com/blog/behind-the-scenes-part-2-the-making-of-catalyst-studios-alix-with-leading-actors-cristal-aparicio-roberto-urbina-4041


I wonder what unique or high-stakes conditions any of you actors have experienced during filming?

Why Most Actors Fail Their First Line And How to Fix It by Aaron Marcus  •  last post Mar 17th

Why Most Actors Fail Their First Line And How to Fix It

https://youtu.be/lnt8YSVlD8c

Do you have a great audition tip? If so, please share it here so we can all learn from you.

Don't forget to check out my new website howtoactandmodel.com. When you sign up you will get an incredibly helpful video - 6 Secrets to Mastering Home Auditions

Tips for Those Actors Just Starting Out by Alexandra Stevens  •  last post Mar 16th

Hi all. After re-introducing myself this weekend I got asked by Amanda Toney Managing Director for Stage 32 if I had any tips for actors starting out. I thought I’d re-post my tips here too. I guess most of you have many years more industry experience than me but here goes. 


1.Celebrate the process, not perfection. Acting is a lifelong journey, so set process goals rather than chasing an elusive idea of "perfection." Focus on things like connecting more deeply with vulnerability or learning to let go a little more. Celebrate these moments, even if they’re not perfect. The more you recognize your growth, the more motivated and fulfilled you’ll feel.

2. Trust that your passion has a purpose. If you have the drive to act, it’s because you have something valuable to bring to the world through your creativity. When doubts creep in—impostor syndrome, comparison, self-criticism—remind yourself that your voice and perspective are unique and worth sharing.

3.. Prioritize self-care and protect against burnout. Acting is a long-haul journey, and staying in it requires self-compassion. Notice your inner critic and challenge it. Instead of focusing on what you did "wrong," practice acknowledging what you did well. Self-care looks different for everyone—whether it’s walks in nature, yoga, time with friends, or simply getting enough rest. These moments of stillness allow for the "fertile void" (a Gestalt Therapy term), where creativity and renewal emerge.

4.Own your uniqueness. There is only one you. Instead of trying to be what you think casting directors want, focus on how you would naturally respond to a scene. React authentically to your scene partners and circumstances—this is what captivates an audience.

5. Believe that you are enough. Many actors struggle with a deep-rooted feeling of not being good enough, which can lead to overacting. Work on challenging these beliefs—whether through self-reflection or therapy. The more you trust that you are enough, the more naturally confident and compelling your performances will be.

6.. Strengthen your instincts. Improvisation is a great tool for learning to trust yourself. Reflect on times in life when following your instincts led to something positive. If trusting yourself feels difficult, ask yourself where that belief came from. Experiment with small ways to rebuild trust in yourself—it will make your acting bolder and more authentic.

7.. Connect with your body. Your body is your instrument. Take time to notice how you hold tension throughout the day. Try body scans, breathing exercises, or gentle movement. Instead of forcing relaxation, simply befriend the tension. When we stop resisting parts of ourselves, they soften naturally.

8.. Understand what acting gives you—and give it to yourself. Often, our deeper motivations for acting come from unmet emotional needs—perhaps a longing to feel seen, valued, or validated. There’s nothing wrong with these desires, but the more we recognize them, the more we can meet those needs in healthy ways outside of acting. This frees us to fully enjoy the craft, rather than using it to fill emotional gaps.

9.. Live a full life. The richer your experiences, the more depth you bring to your acting. Engage with different people, cultures, and perspectives. Every encounter adds layers to your understanding of human emotion, which enriches your performances.

10. Know your worth. It’s easy to feel desperate for a role, but no opportunity is worth compromising your self-respect. Many sensitive, empathetic people struggle with unconscious feelings of unworthiness, which can lead to accepting unprofessional or exploitative situations. No matter how much you want to act, always remember your value and set boundaries accordingly.

I’d love to hear additional tips that you would suggest to those starting out: