Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1401622
56 SAG-AFTRA | Summer 2021 | sagaftra.org I f you're a young performer moving away from children's roles, landing a gig can be especially difficult. At times, it can even feel as though the odds are stacked against you or that your career is ending. But know that casting directors are on your side, even as you're moving through that phase. Casting directors understand that you're in a unique time in your career during which you are developing new skills. Oftentimes, they are using the audition to provide you with feedback to make you better. "We want to help nurture [young performers] and see how their [performing] changes over time," said casting director Suzanne Goddard-Smythe, CSA, during SAG-AFTRA's Audition Tips for Parents and Young Performers livestream on Jan. 5. "So, if we keep wanting to see you, that's good!" And while many young performers worry that a less-than-stellar audition or taking a hiatus will cause permanent damage to their careers, the casting directors said that's not necessarily the case. "If there's a period of time where an actor feels like they need to take a break or would rather be doing other things, they probably should, and that's okay," said casting director Howie Meltzer, CSA. "But if it's someone we feel passionate about, we'll likely call [their representative] and find out what's going on." "We want you to feel great about the audition and that it's a great experience. If you get the part, that's great — but if you don't, you'll be remembered for something else," added casting director Monika Mikkelsen, CSA. Watching Young Performers Grow