Welcome to the Open Road! A blog for actors and other entertainment professionals who want a Chicago perspective on the industry.

Mastering Monologues!
Vagabond School Vagabond School

Mastering Monologues!

One of the biggest tools an actor can have in their back pocket is a well-fitted and well-rehearsed monologue. You never know when you'll need to use it. Casting Directors may use it for a general audition or even for a particular play or film/tv script where the clients may not want to release sides. This could be for NDA purposes or the project is still in development.

But how do you go about choosing the perfect monologue? And what are the different types to consider? Let's break it down.

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So…You Want to Get a Talent Agent?
Vagabond School Vagabond School

So…You Want to Get a Talent Agent?

So you want to get an agent? Your first step is to do your research. We've provided a list below of all the SAG-AFTRA franchised agencies here in Chicago with direct links to their websites. Make sure to visit their sites to check all that is required by that agency before you submit for representation.

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Nailing Your Zoom Audition/Callback: 5 Tips for Actors
ROBYN COFFIN ROBYN COFFIN

Nailing Your Zoom Audition/Callback: 5 Tips for Actors

In the digital age, the world of auditions has undergone a significant transformation. Zoom auditions/callbacks have become the new norm, providing actors with a convenient platform to showcase their talent from the comfort of their own homes. However, ensuring a successful Zoom audition requires more than just turning on your camera and reading your lines. Here are some essential tips for actors to ace their Zoom auditions.

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The Casting Process: A Game of Darts
Michael McCracken Michael McCracken

The Casting Process: A Game of Darts

When it comes to the casting process in the entertainment industry, I often find myself thinking of it as a giant game of darts. Each actor stepping up to the board brings their own set of unique darts - with their own colors and feathers - and aims them at the role, which is the metaphorical dartboard. The bullseye represents the perfect fit for a role, the one that perfectly aligns with the vision of the role that the director has in mind.

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