Hello guys!
I'm non-SAG. If I were to submit to a feature film in NYC what exactly do I put in my cover letter? I would like to be more then an extra(I'm trying to stay away from that). As non-SAG am I allowed to submit for an under 5 or a one day(not sure if this is what its called). But when you come on as say the 'waitress' or the 'doorman' exc. Any help on this topic would be helpful. Thank you!

You don't need to put anything special in-just that you are interested in auditioning for a role-and maybe mention a project you were just in or a class you're taking. Keep it very short. Make sure the headshot is slammin'. If they like your look/ability enough they will see you anyway. If the CD doesn't want to call you in because they aren't allowed to or don't want to taft-hartley, well, there's nothing you can do about it. Just do what you can.

Hi, Grace. Great question!

The good news is that it really doesn't matter whether you are SAG or non-SAG when it comes to submitting for projects. A casting director can call in anyone they feel is right for a role, regardless of union affiliation. If they bring you in and they want to offer you a role, you will be Taft Hartley'd. (The only exception to this would be on the lowest budget SAG contract and student films waivers- these projects do not Taft-Hartley actors, but they are allowed to use non-union talent so you can still be offered a role.) Bottom line- there is NOTHING that you cannot submit for as a non-union actor, so if you feel you are ready, I encourage you to get your headshot out there!

In film, the smallest principal (speaking) roles are referred to as "featured" roles. The next step up are "supporting" roles. So, as far as the cover letter, you can simply tell them what size role you are interested in being considered for, and why you think that you are a good fit for their project. Be specific, and be succinct. If you think you would be a good fit for a "waitress" or "doorman" tell them so. In addition, if you have a personal connection to the casting office or the project you are submitting for you, you can mention those in the cover letter as well.

I hope this has been useful to you- if you have any other questions, just post a reply!

Hi guys!
Thank you both for your responses. It is very helpful info.

Thanks!
Grace