It's difficult to envision, but every step helps when you are running a marathon, and the same is true when you are acting. Developing your portfolio as an actor is all about collecting samples of your work and acquiring as much experience as possible.
Finding work as an acting extra is a great step in your career and can go a long way in helping you land future roles. Every step is crucial in the marathon that is your acting career!
Engaging in acting in any capacity allows you to embark on a journey of self-improvement and empathy, delving into a variety of characters and viewpoints.
Taking on roles as an extra grants hands-on experience in filming environments, offering valuable insights into the complexities of movie production and professionalism.
This hands-on learning helps refine your ability to express emotions sincerely and react naturally, laying a foundation for your acting career.
Even just being part of a film set creates networking opportunities, allowing you to build relationships with industry professionals. It is also a great opportunity to meet other aspiring actors across the island of Ireland and work with some accomplished directors who have spent their careers in the industry.
If any of this excites you, then you are in for a treat. In this article, I will inform you how you can become an acting extra right here in Ireland.
Before we go any further, it's important that we touch base and establish the role of an acting extra so that we are all on the same page.
Q: What are "Extras"?
A: Extras, also referred to as background actors or background talent, are performers placed in the background of a scene in an Irish film or TV show to make scenes/atmospheres feel more realistic to the viewers. Aspiring actors can perform 'extra' work on television or movie sets as a part-time job to make money or to help boost their acting careers.
"With any part you play, there is a certain amount of yourself in it. There has to be, otherwise it's just not acting. It's lying."
- Johnny Depp
Hollywood Stars Who Started as Extras
Believe it or not, some of Hollywood's biggest stars started as extras! Below are just the Top 5 Megastars that came from the background to the centre stage!
- Brad Pitt - 'Less Than Zero' (1987). Brad's portrayal as a partygoer in a vest top and sunglasses got him noticed for other future roles.
- Jackie Chan - ‘Enter The Dragon’ (1973). Yes! That's right everyone's favourite 'Rush Hour' star started off by getting his neck snapped as an extra in a Bruce Lee film!
- George Clooney - ‘Centennial’ (1978). It's hard to believe that Hollywood's most desired bachelor for over three decades, I know, the most beloved actor, once started off as an extra too. But very few people could pull off a peasant tricorn hat the way George didn't very first role as he lugged a heavy barrel in the background of a scene.
- Renee Zellweger - ‘Dazed And Confused’ (1993). It's hard to believe that our beloved Bridget Jones/Miss Potter came from the background and didn't just emerge as a star! But, Renee simply started her career as an extra in a scene as just one of the many high school girls enjoying the beginning of summer.
- Sylvester Stallone - ‘Bananas’ (1971) Before he was Rocky or Rambo, like the rest of our Megastars on this list, Sylvester Stallone started out as an extra. He starred in a small but memorable role in the comedy written by Mickey Rose and Woody Allen.
So, needless to say, if you were wondering if it is worthwhile being an extra, the answer is yes!
"I am not the richest, smartest or most talented person in the world, but I succeed because I keep going and going and going."
- Sylvester Stallone
Check out our article that talks about famous Irish actors.
Where to Find Work as an Acting Extra in Ireland
If you are serious about finding paid opportunities as an acting extra in Ireland, you have more resources than you need to get started on your journey.
Most actors will tell you that being in the right place at the right place at the right time goes a long way when looking to secure a role, regardless of its magnitude.
This is still the case, but with the prevalence of online platforms and social networking, the need to be in the right place at the right time extends to include a number of digital touchpoints.
The truth is that online platforms play a role in connecting talent with opportunities. There are several key websites that every actor should keep an eye on, regardless of whether you are searching for a role as an extra or the main lead.
Fishpond is recognised as Ireland's best casting database. It is regularly updated with casting calls for film, TV, and theatre and serves as a go-to resource for actors looking for roles nationwide.
For those seeking more opportunities as an acting extra, Casting Call Pro Ireland (irishcasting.com) provides a list of available roles.
We all know that securing a lot of auditions is one thing; being cast for the role is another. This is why it's so important to audition for suitable roles, and this platform offers an effective job of finding roles that match one's skill level and career goals.
You can also filter your search to find options that are more catered to your preferences. If you are exclusively on the hunt for a role as an extra for a particular kind of film, then that’s what you can expect to find.
Although not specific to Ireland, Backstage (backstage.com) features casting calls, including opportunities within the country. It serves as a resource for both newbies and experienced actors by offering a variety of roles to explore.
StarNow.com is another tool that is quite useful for finding acting opportunities that are posted weekly. Similarly, CastandHire.ie serves as a similar portal for job listings, though in this case, the roles are catered to actors in Ireland and cover roles in theatre, film and television.
Avenues to Becoming an Acting Extra in Ireland
Of course, one of the best ways of marketing yourself as an actor is to give your all to the craft and produce stellar performances. If you continuously do your job and show up as a good extra, this will most certainly catch some eyes.
Just look at what happened to Timothy Chamalet after the release of Dune 1; his great performance in this enormous title was seen by so many eyes across the world and had a major impact on catapulting his career to a whole new level.
Think about your acting as an extra in the same way, only on a smaller scale, at least for now, that is.
Getting into the acting scene as an extra in Ireland can be quite thrilling as it opens doors to the film and television industry. Apart from the casting websites I walked through earlier, there are a number of alternative routes that you can explore.
It is definitely worth your time to check out drama groups and acting schools. They often collaborate on film and TV projects and have ties with some of the country’s largest casting professionals.
Getting involved in these groups and attending acting classes not only sharpens your skills but raises your profile among other actors in the Irish acting sphere!
Stay alert for casting calls by keeping an eye out for announcements in newspapers, community boards or online platforms. Some production companies hold auditions for extras giving you an opportunity to stand out and potentially land roles.
There are a few different ways to become an acting extra, first, we are going to look at the options that mean you don't have to pay. However, as always, if you're not going to pay for a service, it means you will have a lot more work to do yourself.
Netflix is one major company always looking for extras and, they don't just use agencies. Netflix advertise everywhere! On social media, in local media (newspapers and radio) and online adverts.
When they have acting roles they want to be filled, Netflix is all about getting the right person for the role despite your level of experience, so I highly recommend googling and searching on your social media accounts for Netflix extras auditions on the regular.
Another effective method of securing work is by reaching out directly to film and TV production companies working in Ireland. Do some research and get in touch with them, as some might have casting teams or be open to submissions from aspiring extras.
Making Your Work Visible
Sending your headshot, portfolio, and a brief introduction could lead to some potential opportunities an extra so you should also keep these readily available on your person and online on a portfolio website.
There are plenty of agencies here in Ireland, so have a look for some in your area. Ask about their submission process while being aware that they may require a commission if you get work through them.
Attending industry events, film screenings or workshops is another way to connect with industry professionals such as casting directors, producers and fellow actors. Establishing relationships within the industry can open doors to opportunities and recommendations for roles.
If it isn’t already, social media should be at the forefront of your strategy to secure work as an acting extra.
Follow casting directors, production companies, and industry experts on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Calls for extras are often shared directly on these platforms, providing a channel for interested actors.
Social media is also the best way for you to broadcast your work to an audience. Establishing an audience on social media platforms will also add to your credibility as a potential candidate for any role as an extra.
By broadcasting your work and actively pursuing opportunities you can enhance your chances of securing roles as an extra in Ireland.
What Extras Agencies are in Ireland?
There are actually quite a few different extras agencies in Ireland. For this article, I'm going to focus on the ones whose clients end up on the set of the shows and films you know and love.
Despite their headquarters being based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, The Extras Dept is one of the biggest extras agencies on the entire island of Ireland. The Extras Dept is actually free to sign up to, which is rare, so why not visit their website and get started?
Based in Wickl0w MovieExtras have been involved in over 1,200 productions from Irish tv shows to films and even advertisements. Joining MovieExtras costs €89.95 for a year per adult.
If your budget allows, it's a good idea to sign up for at least one extras agency. The aforementioned options are just some of the options that you have at your disposal when searching for that next acting gig. They can make life a whole lot easier for you even if you have to part ways with a subscription or finders fee.
I can already hear you questioning this advice, but if your time is limited when it comes to seeking out roles for yourself, being part of these agencies means that they will submit your portfolio to every casting call it's appropriate for.
It's also important to remember that agencies have access to movie and TV casting calls that the general public doesn't. So the subscription and contract fee may end up worth it while you're waiting for your big break!
"I think acting is something that is within you. It's a very natural thing for me. It comes from myself, really."
- Saoirse Ronan
You can put any confusion or anxiety that you might have heading into your next audition to rest by working closely with a private acting tutor. Superprof has become a favourite amongst actors in Ireland who are looking to learn in a personalised setting.
All you need to get started is to head over to the Superprof homepage and input acting along with the area that you wish to learn from. You can learn both in person and online and filter your search according to your learning preferences.
Whichever type of acting you venture into, we wish you all the best and hope your journey is filled with memorable and fun experiences!
Résumer avec l'IA :
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
