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| Indian Parents of Aspiring Actors |
1. Your kid is not the cutest thing. There are hundreds of others all over the India.
Yes, this was Mrs. Gupta's first shock. When her son went to his first casting call, she was sure he would get the role. Then she walked into a huge audition hall that was filled with the most unimaginable beautiful children all gathered in one spot, all vying for the same spot as her son.
Be realistic.
2. So you want a child actor coordinator for your child? Do your research.
There are many. The best way is to find out from the parents you meet them when you go for auditions or during a shoot, where like you other parents are also present. Or, ask your kid's acting coach to do a research and recommand.
3. Before you spend money on a portfolio, it’s always cool to take a few yourself.
Headshots can get mighty expensive, so it's best to make sure that your coordinator wants and insists on professional portraits, on the first visit of yours or before promoting your child. But how do you land a coordinator or an agent without them? Take a few pictures yourself and send them out. If your child has the look, the coordinator can see it easily. Later, you can go head with a professional portfolio.
4. You need to be available.
Often times, you will be told of your child's audition with just a few hours/days' notice. In such situations, you need to be able to make it happen. If you're not okay with juggling schedules on last minute plans, this is not going to work. Plus, there is a lot of waiting in this business. Even if your audition is set for a certain time, add in traveling time and delays. It's just the nature of the game.
5. Know your kid
What are her/his peculiar habits? Is s/he is naughty or rowdy? Restless? Too curious/, does s/he has a habit of running around and picking up things? It is necessary that you prepare your child beforehand. In the audition waiting room or while auditioning, maintaining discipline is a must!
6. Be friendly
Even though everyone in the room is your child's competition, life is so much more fun when you show manners and respect. Don't ignore other kids or especially their parents. Remember, the other parents are a great source of information on this business and they can help you a lot.
7. Don't pressurize your child to practice the way you want
Just suggest. Let the children be what they are- free, in themselves and dreaming. They can play any character because they are bestowed with this talent much better than adults. So, let them audition the way they want. Let them have a fun.
