Written for Casting Networks News by Terry Berland @berlandcasting.
For every part you audition for, you have to make choices to give personality to the character. It is a known fact that you can’t be “neutral” and give a good audition.
There are all kinds of conundrums associated with what choice to make. “Am I being too big, too small, too this or too that?” Bottom line is you have to make an intelligent choice in the venue you are working on, based on all your education and training.
In commercials, there are many hints you can find in the copy regarding each character. In my Acting in Commercials workshops, I particularly teach how to apply backstories to your discoveries. Some information comes from the copy itself revealing the attitude of the character and relationships, some of which are obvious and some are not.
The big trap is the spokesperson copy.
Definition of spokesperson: a person who speaks for another or for a group. Many times the character is labeled a spokesperson, but they would not really want you to deliver this copy according to the definition of a spokesperson. Once you speak as a spokesperson, and speak for someone else or for a group, you will strip yourself of any possibility of a personality.
How do you make a choice regarding spokesperson copy?
The answer is, you have to know how this spot is branding the company. Here are some examples of products and typical branding.
Bank. They will want their image to be knowledgeable, trustworthy, friendly and approachable.
READ: That would mean you should have a personality that is real, knowledgeable, sincere, and genuine.
Car. You’re most likely smart, “with it,” and knowing, if you own this car.
READ: A particular person who is a winner, and knowing, who feels satisfied and comfortable with themselves.
Medication. They want someone who is well and healthy speaking about the medication, not someone who is sick.
READ: Healthy, positive, understanding, and compassionate. Definitely a inspiration to the person who is having the problem.
Cell phone company. Someone in the know.
READ: Be someone in the know, “with-it,” who makes smart choices.
So instead of choosing to be a presenter, even if the copy says “Spokesperson,” understand the end result of the branding of the spot and add the particular elements to the personality of your read.
If you want to sharpen up on your commercial acting technique, follow this link to Terry Berland’s Commercial Acting workshop.
