Your Guide to Television: How to Become a Screen Star

Television now reaches vast audiences, and it often seems like anyone can appear on screen. Do you have an interesting collection? You could become part of a show. Dreaming of living with strangers? You should consider getting on television. Even if you just want to wave in the crowd, you have a chance! And believe me, it’s not as difficult as it seems: a bit of effort and luck, and you could be on screen.

How to Get Cast in a TV Show or Movie

Step 1. Prepare Your Acting Resume and Headshot

Create your acting resume and take a quality headshot. Whether you want to land a leading role or a small part, having a resume and photos ready is essential. This helps casting directors see how you look and your experience. After browsing through many resumes, yours needs to stand out.

• An acting resume is similar to a standard resume. You can read more about how to write one in the article “How to Write a Theatrical Resume” (https://ru.wikihow.com/написать-резюме-для-театра).
• Taking headshots isn't too complicated. If you know someone with a good camera, just snap a few photos and pick the best one. You’ll need a solid background and one outfit. You could also opt for a professional photoshoot to build your portfolio.

Step 2. Keep an Eye on Castings and Auditions in Your City

Find out about all open castings and auditions in your city. In large cities, these events happen quite often. You can easily find the information online and connect with others who are also looking to get on screen.

• Open auditions mean anyone can participate. This is convenient as you don’t need to sign up in advance. The level of preparation in these cases is not as crucial, but such castings are not held as frequently. Closed auditions require pre-registration and more thorough preparation.

Step 3. Find an Agent

You can search for castings on your own, but why not let an agent handle it? Find someone who can take care of all the paperwork. You’ll only need to show up for the audition and win the desired role.

• A good agent doesn’t charge you upfront. You pay for their services only after you receive your fee. If an agent asks for an advance, be cautious — it could be a scam.

Step 4. Attend Auditions

Go to auditions regularly. Now that you have a list of all the castings, it’s just important to attend them. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks — sometimes waiting can take all day. When it’s your turn, try to present yourself in the best light!

• If you’re auditioning for a more serious role, the casting may be more intense but also quicker. If there are few competitors, decisions may be announced the same day, but sometimes you may have to wait several weeks.

Step 5. Develop Your Skills with Acting Classes

Enroll in acting classes and speech training. Your preparation is crucial right now, so start investing in yourself. Take acting classes, begin voice and speech training, and develop skills that can help you in this profession. Language lessons can also be beneficial.

• Additional courses in directing and stage design can also be helpful, even if they’re not directly related to your profession. If a project requires a specific skill, you’ll benefit from possessing it. Plus, you’ll meet many interesting and creative people.

How to Get on a Reality Show

Step 1. Decide Which Reality Shows You Want to Join

First, pick which reality shows you want to join. Recently, these projects have been popping up everywhere, so find a few that appeal to you most. Learn how and where you can audition. Which shows are easier, and which are harder? Are there auditions in your city?

• Make a list of the shows you want to prioritize. Spend more time on the projects that truly interest you.

Step 2. Find Out Where the Auditions Will Be Held

Find out where the auditions will take place. Usually, these events are held in big cities, but organizers are increasingly traveling around the country looking for new talents. If the production team isn’t coming to your city, consider traveling to audition in another city.

• Create a schedule of all the castings you want to attend, so you don’t get confused and can clearly plan your time for preparation.

Step 3. Sign Up for the Audition

Sign up for the audition. If you see an announcement for a casting you want to attend, you’ll likely need to register in advance. Organizers usually plan to see a specific number of participants in a limited time, so it’s important to express your intention.

• For some castings, like certain reality shows, the first 5000 applicants may be accepted. Those who don’t make the list can come but without guarantee of consideration. This isn’t the best option, as you risk wasting a lot of time preparing and waiting.

Step 4. Create a Video or Audio Submission

Create a video or audio recording. Many organizers search for participants online. If you don’t want to wait for the casting to come to you, record yourself and send your submission to the show’s organizers. They will definitely watch it, and you might soon receive an invitation to participate.

• Carefully review the submission requirements. Make sure you meet all deadlines and formats, and know who to contact with your application.

Step 5. Showcase Your Personality and Interest

Show your uniqueness and appeal to viewers. Your goal in the submission is to make an impression so producers want to work with you. No one will want to collaborate with someone viewers will forget in a few minutes.

• But don’t overdo it: trying too hard to showcase yourself can lead to poor performance. Try to highlight your strengths while still being yourself.
• Don’t forget to take care of your appearance — looking attractive is important for almost any show.

How to Get on a Game Show

Step 1. Visit Your Favorite Game Show Websites

Check out the websites of your favorite game shows. Organizers are constantly looking for new participants. Familiarize yourself with the game rules and fill out an application. Check if you need to attend an interview. All the information can be found online.

• Find out what requirements are set for participants. There might be age restrictions, residency requirements, etc. It’s better to know all this in advance than to regret wasting your time later.

Step 2. Find Out When the Production Team Will Be in Your City

Learn when casting will take place in your city. Some shows travel around the country looking for participants. Most auditions are held in large cities, so check where is closest for you to go.

• Many shows don’t travel, and you’ll have to go to a major city like Moscow. Sometimes auditions are held remotely — then you’ll only need to show up for the filming.

Step 3. Sign Up for the Casting or Send a Video Submission

Sign up for the audition or make a video submission. You have two options: attend the casting in person or send a recording to the organizers. If you want to participate in person, make sure you register in advance — this guarantees your participation in the casting.

• If you’re sending a video, do it as soon as possible. Making a great impression is important; organizers need to see that you love being in the spotlight. Ensure that your submission meets all the requirements.

Step 4. Prepare Yourself!

Don’t waste time on unproductive entertainment. If you’re participating in a trivia game, invest time in studying and preparing. Review literature and watch old episodes — this will help you be ready for the questions.

• Your game might feature similar questions, so immerse yourself in the atmosphere to feel confident on the show.

Step 5. Shine in the First Round

Present yourself positively in the first live round. Once you enter the venue, drink some water and try to present yourself in the best way. Be friendly with the judges and other participants, ask questions, and show that you are an energetic and interesting person.

• Most castings happen in several stages. The number of participants will be reduced, and you’ll know who is leaving. A game show advantage is that results are usually known quite quickly.

Step 6. Wait for the Call

After all the stages, just wait for a call from the organizers, which may come in a few weeks or months. Be patient! They will inform you in advance, so don’t worry — you’ll have time to prepare.

• If the filming day doesn’t work for you, the organizers might be able to reschedule. They are looking for not just qualified but also personable participants, so if they find it easy to work with you, they may accommodate you.

How to Get on the News

Step 1. Name Something After Yourself

Name something after yourself, whether it’s a product or an article. When people start discussing your matter, they will remember your name. This is the first step to getting on the news. Who will they interview if not you?

• Think about what you are working on. It could be your business, hobby, or event that you are involved in. It should be something you are an expert in.

Step 2. Become a Local Expert

Become a local expert in your field. If you’re not writing or creating, become known for your knowledge. Once you have a good reputation, you’ll become a sought-after specialist.

• Make sure people know you can provide answers to their questions. Build your network and earn trust. The more people you know, the higher the chances of meeting someone who decides to do a story with you.

Step 3. Tell Your Story

Share your story and your work. If it’s an article, publish it on social media. If it’s a business, promote it. If it’s an event, create flyers and distribute them. Be active!

• For example, if you grow strawberries and have a particularly large harvest, share photos, hold tastings, and talk about your success. Even simple things can be interesting.

Step 4. Reach Out to Local Media

Contact local media. If they’re not showing interest, visit them. Share your news with the editorial team of a local newspaper or TV station. If your news is interesting, journalists may take an interest.

• Find contact information on websites. Make sure you’re speaking to someone who covers your topic. If you’re selling giant strawberries, reach out to someone involved with “Gardening and Horticulture” or “Local Business” themes.

Step 5. Prepare an Interesting Story

Prepare an interesting story for journalists. Your task is not only to present a nice picture but also to comment on it. Think about what to say to make your story newsworthy.

• If you’re selling giant strawberries, be ready to explain how you achieved such results. Make sure you have answers to all possible questions to leave a good impression.
• Be ready to promote yourself. By appearing in the news, you’ll gain visibility, which can help you grow your business.