Today’s post is inspired by a recent question from a student who is interested in pursuing film acting. She asked, “Where do you get the scripts for auditions?”
I have two answers.
Answer #1: When your agent submits you, or you submit yourself on a project, and the casting director wants to see you read for the role, the script will be sent to you. Sometimes, though infrequently, a wide net is cast for talent and the script is included in the breakdown, along with taping instructions and how to submit your tape to casting. You can find some auditions on Actors Access or Backstage.
Answer #2: To practice your craft, or to prepare for a meeting or workshop, you can search for a show’s scripts online. Not all of the results will be properly formatted, but a little copy, paste, and some re-formatting will make the transcript readable. As a fan of British shows, and because they publish the production scripts, properly formatted and all, I like to browse the BBC’s Script Library for scenes to work on.
Practicing the skill of getting a two- to five-page set of sides (a selection from the script) and preparing it for performance in a 24- to 48-hour window is an important skill to hone and keep sharp. In film, in particular, turn around from receiving the script to taping can be fast – sometimes a matter of hours. If you spend a little time each week working on roles of all sizes – from the one-liner “Woman #1” to the series lead – you cultivate a routine that supports your ability to shine in the audition.