Hi there,

So we have run into a few auditions over the years when the casting director has asked me or my husband to audition, on the spot, with our child simply because they did not have any other adult actors to audition with my child for the role. I am clearly not an actor, nor is my husband who starts to sweat at the thought of even getting close to a camera. Has this ever happened to any other parents? Does this ruin our childs' chance of booking the role since I totally suck? Should I just say "no" next time? By saying no, I feel that I would attract more attention to my non-actor self, and that I would not be setting a good example for my child. Thoughts?

Usually they ask you to do a role once you are on set. I've been an extra on a park bench, a newscaster, a railroad yard bull busting my kid for trespassing, etc. And that's just in front of the camera. I usually end up crewing too. Just have fun with it.

quote:

Originally posted by mom2btsx2:
...the casting director has asked me or my husband to audition, on the spot, with our child Does this ruin our childs' chance of booking the role since I totally suck? Should I just say "no" next time? Thoughts?

This has happened to me a number of times for SAG commercial auditions. I hate doing it because I am not interested in being on that side of the camera, but I just do it and never make a fuss. I know I'm terrible, my dd knows I'm terrible, but she just does her thing despite that fact that I stink. Sometimes our reps warn me in advance that I will be asked to go in with her, and a few times it's been a surprise. I think it's no different than my kid being in the room with another "real" actor who isn't right for the part. If she is right for the role, it won't make a difference. Or, at least that's what I tell myself.

Re Dadinwestchester's post, I could certainly see a knowledgeable parent being called to duty on a student or small non-union project. Even though I've worked in the biz for 25 years, I'd never volunteer to crew, even on a student project, because a) I want to be completely available to my kid and b) I don't want to be held responsible for anything that might go wrong...and I have seen LOTS of things go wrong on student and indie/non-union projects.

Kipmil, that's exactly why I volunteer. With over 40 years in the business I become the adjunct professor, safety coordinator, grip, best boy, LD or whatever. Once when DS was in a bathtub for a shot with a kino overhead, I made sure they put a GFI on the circuit that I tested plus tie it off to my satisfaction. I am looking out for my kid by being on set. I also shoot production stills.LOL.