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3 Ways to Prepare for Acting Classes as a Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Actor

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If you’re looking to take acting classes for beginners, intermediate, or advanced actors, read on for tips on how you can prepare for these classes.

No matter where you are in your acting career, whether you have only just started or have been busy padding your credentials with title after title, you will definitely benefit from attending acting classes. The discipline of acting is vast and deep, and much joy is found in every new nugget of wisdom you find as you go along. 

Acting classes for beginners: Build your foundation

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Truly, one of your greatest achievements in life would be the act of showing up to your first acting class. Nobody ever forgets their firsts, so make this one count by being prepared!

Start with a can-do mindset

There are many things that go through a young actor’s mind the night before their beginners acting classes. You may find yourself thinking, What if I screw up and embarrass myself? What if I say or do the wrong thing and get called out for it in front of everyone? What if I can’t do what’s asked of me? 

Put these worries to rest by remembering that every actor started somewhere. Awesome acting chops are not made overnight. That means, of course, that you may not do it perfectly the first time around. But isn’t that what training is for? Simply trust the process and just be there to soak it all in!

Learn about the school or the teachers at the enrolment stage

Every acting school is unique. It would help a great deal if you familiarise yourself with your school or mentor’s approach to acting lessons. Ask the school staff or even former students some questions and do a bit of research as well. This does not only help you enter the class prepared. It also keeps your anxiety levels down, because then you would know what you might expect. 

Stretch, hydrate, and have energy-packed meals

Expect a series of warm up exercises during acting classes for beginners. Depending on the mentor or the curriculum, these can range from basic breathing and relaxation techniques to a quick calisthenics session. These physical activities loosen up your face and body to prep you for acting lessons or drama games. Make sure your body is ready for the class! 

Acting lessons for intermediate actors: Know yourself 

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If you are at the intermediate level, by this time, you would have a pretty clear understanding of who you are as an actor. At acting lessons for intermediate actors, you will find awesome opportunities to bring out that uniqueness in you. 

Review the basics

Before stepping onto a new level, it would definitely help if you review what you had learned in your beginner classes. Most actors, even and especially professionals, go back to the basics from time to time anyway, so get in the habit of looping back to your foundation and use that as a springboard for more nuanced acting. 

Be prepared to perform on the spot

Now that you’re at the intermediate level, your mentors may have expectations set a bit higher. Make sure you’ve got something to present to your class if you are ever called on the spot; this may be a monologue, a few lines from your favourite movie, a scene from a play, or what have you. Also, be prepared to improvise! 

Come bearing good questions

The intermediate level is that sweet spot between having just started and treading the path towards greatness. This means that you are building momentum as an actor. Use these intermediate acting classes as an opportunity to really satisfy your curiosity as an actor. Ask questions like, how do I find the motivation that could propel my character. Remember to act on your mentor’s answers and suggestions, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback.

Acting lessons for advanced actors: Have a clear goal 

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Acting school will always be open to professionals in the industry. Ask any actor: there’s always something new to learn in acting. When it comes to acting, there’s not just room for improvement — there’s a whole world for it. 

There’s more to it than ‘just act good’

There’s no such thing as knowing everything there is to know about screen acting, however it is called an advanced class for a reason. Be ready when attending a class like this that you already have a strong foundation of knowledge. Technical skills such as cheating eyelines, maintaining continuity through takes and mapping blocking with a director require the students to be confident enough performers to balance, not just the demands of the scene, but also the unique requirements of film acting.

Know who inspires you as an actor

Knowing who inspires as an actor can be essential in figuring out where you yourself as an actor may want to take your career. It’s never a bad idea to plan ahead for your career, and looking at your inspirations can give you a strong foundation to build upon that will ultimately help you achieve your acting dreams. Having a strong idea of where you want to be will help you and your tutors build towards that goal.

Come as an empty vessel 

You might find it difficult to learn if there’s not much space in your mind for new lessons. In as much as beginners should go to class with a healthy can-do mindset, professionals should also access the right mental tools for temporarily putting away their knowledge, just so you can make room for new insights, skills, or perspectives. 

Let Screenwise be a part of your acting journey

At Screenwise, we offer acting lessons for beginners, intermediate, and advanced actors. We offer a range of acting training programs, from short courses to a full diploma in screen acting. We believe in the power of acting as an art and are always excited to watch students embrace this enduring art form. 

Join us today! To learn more about our classes, check out our socials Facebook, Instragram and Twitter, or call us at 02 9281 4484 or leave us a message via our online enquiry form. 

10 Ways to Improve Your Presentation Skills

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Public speaking is one of the most useful skill sets we can ever possess. This is why presentation skills training is essential for those who usually find themselves having to make impressive and effective presentations, whether it’s for a client presentation, a potential business partner or investor, or introducing a new product during a special launch. 

The value of good presentation skills doesn’t end there, however. Be it a panel job interview or a speech during your best friend’s wedding, an effective presentation can make a world of difference in the impression you make. 

If you feel your presentation skills are a bit wanting or if you simply wish to hone your public speaking ability and develop further, here are 10 ways you can improve your presentation skills. 

1. Always study your audience 

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If you’re invited to give a keynote speech or conduct a seminar, you’ll have a fair idea of whom you will be presenting to. Use this as a basis to do some research about your audience — whether it’s college-level students, members of the board of directors, foundation donors, children, or professionals in your field. 

By taking the time to get to know your audience, you’ll not only be able to tailor the content of your presentation but also your delivery or approach. It’ll also be easier for you to establish empathy or connect with them emotionally. 

2. Structure your presentation 

A prepared delivery requires you to consider three basic elements that comprise the framework or structure of your presentation: the opening or introduction, body, and closing or conclusion. 

Opening  

The purpose of your intro is for you to make an emotional connection with your audience. You can establish this bond by posing a question, a challenge, a story, facts or statistics, or a compelling quote. Whichever device you employ, choose one that you know will resonate with your listeners. 

Body  

This is the time to expand or properly discuss whatever you raised in your opening, to present data or facts to support your claim or proposal, and to engage with your audience. If the topic of your presentation provides you room to get your audience to participate or respond, make use of these opportunities to involve them.  

Also, it’s better to develop your topic around three key points. For example, if you’re talking about a new product, highlight three salient features or benefits of this product. Of course, if there are more than three, you can always expand this. However, trying to limit your discussion to three items will help to keep your discussion focused, brief, and substantial.  

Another tip: Avoid memorising your speech; use an outline instead. 

Closing  

The concluding section of your presentation is your last chance to make a lasting impression on your audience. You also need to connect it with your opening. Here, you can end with another question, motto, challenge, or call to action. If you’re pitching to a client or presenting a business proposal, make sure you end your presentation on a positive note. 

3. Practise, practise, practise 

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The cliché about practise makes perfect is a cliché because it’s true. Even seasoned public speakers have to practise their presentation. CEOs, legal professionals, directors, politicians, product endorsers, and just about anyone who has to speak in front of others can benefit from constant practise. 

So, enrolling in presentation skills training is not the end-all and be-all. You also need to rehearse your presentation until it becomes ingrained in your mind and heart. You can do this in front of a mirror, a colleague, family member, friend, or even a video camera — so you can review it for later. 

4. Watch other people’s presentations 

If you’re presenting as part of a series, such as those held in business expos or exhibitions, make time to attend earlier presentations. Focus on not only the presenters but also on the audience. What’s the mood of the crowd? Is the crowd engaged or participating? Are the presentations formal, humorous, or impactful? Use this experience to leverage your presentation — but don’t make major last-minute changes. 

5. Arrive at the venue early 

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There’s nothing more stressful than just arriving in the nick of time or even coming late to your presentation. Give yourself time to breathe and get a feel of the venue. Familiarise yourself with the equipment onstage, including the microphone and lighting. 

Walk around the stage and select three sections or points in the audience where you can make eye contact. If the audience starts arriving, chat with a couple, and hear what they have to say, such as their expectations from your presentation. Getting insights directly from your audience can help you make your presentation more relatable and interesting to them. 

6. Focus on positive thoughts 

Fear of failure in any scenario can immobilise or render a person catatonic. Avoid this by focusing on succeeding or giving a powerful presentation. Be poised and confident, and smile. Your audience wants you to succeed, so keep that in mind as you make your presentation. Your fear will eventually wither away as you become more comfortable and progress in your presentation. 

7. Remember to breathe 

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As you rehearse your presentation, train yourself to take relaxing deep breaths, as well. Deep breathing allows oxygen to circulate and reach your brain where you need it the most during your presentation. It’ll help relax your body, too. 

8. Stay hydrated 

Public speaking, in general, uses up a lot of energy, so it’s vital to stay hydrated during your presentation. Don’t be afraid to pause and take sips of water in between. This will help prevent dry mouth which is usually associated with anxiety. Also, make sure to drink enough water and go to the bathroom before your presentation.  

9. Develop your own style 

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Some great speakers have their own signature styles. Think Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, JFK, and Mahatma Gandhi. Of course, you don’t need to be speaking about freedom, equality, and independence all the time to become an instant hit. 

Developing your own presentation style is not something that comes overnight. It’ll come out the more you practise and the more experiences you gain in presenting. Once you’ve developed it, you’ll know and stick to it as it ensures you achieve your objectives for each presentation you make. 

10. Keep learning 

Life is a series of lessons, and the same can be said when it comes to presentation skills training. There’ll be times when you’ll be confident of the outcome, and moments when you’ll wonder what went wrong. Whatever happens, focus on growing as a presenter and developing your skills further. After all, there’s always something new to learn from each presentation experience. 

Better yet, enrol in one of our Screenwise corporate classes designed to help you become the best you can be in your business presentations. 

How Corporate Training Can Improve Your Organisation

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The most successful companies consider corporate training to be a necessity. Companies are made up of hundreds or thousands of individuals, therefore it makes sense that when individuals improve, the whole company improves as well. If the company considers itself as one organism, it would perform best if each and every cell is in tiptop shape.  

In this article, learn about how corporate training can propel your organisation forward. 

First, what exactly is Corporate Training?

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In general, the term corporate training refers to a series of programs that educate the existing workforce. The goal, of course, is to increase the company’s overall productivity. These training sessions may come in the form of upskill programs, refresher courses, knowledge sharing, or personal development classes. Examples include but are not limited to: 

Technical skill training

A great example of technical skill training is when a company introduces new software or tools, or even equipment. Usually, new hires receive technical skill training first so they can familiarise themselves with the company’s daily operations.

People skill training

With a deep concentration on communication and interpersonal skills training, people skill training is usually provided to those who interact with others on a daily basis. Examples are those in sales, HR, or management. It is also incorporated in leadership trainings or team buildings so that teams learn how to improve the way they collaborate or resolve conflict.

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Soft skills training

Ever present in any company no matter the niche, a soft skills set is regarded to be one of the most essential skill sets a person can have at his disposal. Soft skills include communication, problem-solving, time management, work ethic, and creativity — all these are essential in any type of job.

Company Culture Training

When a company undergoes major changes, they might gather all employees together to review their vision and mission, and to remind everyone of what their roles are and how they can be a valuable team player. 

Ways That Corporate Training Can Improve Your Organisation

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Building efficiency and motivation within individual members

Employees would be more than happy to acquire new skills or develop the ones they already have. They develop a new muscle for work, which allows them to move through their personal tasks with ease. 

Establishing seamless coordination within teams

One can expect that groups within a corporate setting would be composed of people with different job descriptions or assignments. Each member will also have a unique personality, strength, and talent. With team-focused training, not only will tasks be delegated efficiently, but this diversity can also be recognised and then converted into a team strength.

Encouraging employees to stay loyal to the company

Today’s culture dictates that while the existing workforce does value their income, they have effectively struck a balance between wanting a fat paycheck and finding a sense of purpose in their job. They strongly believe that the office should be a place where they can find plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth. A company that regularly offers training and development opportunities is one that values these sentiments and happily maintains a steady workforce. 

Boosts morale and job satisfaction

In the perspective of the company, training leads to productivity and overall success. In the perspective of the employee, the value of training is two-fold: they are better able to positively contribute to their company, and they are also able to move up and along their own careers as professionals. When an employee notices that they are doing better and better at their job, they’re in the perfect disposition to have awesome days at work every day. 

Opens up opportunities for management to identify and remedy weaknesses within the company

The best way to identify weaknesses is in a training setting because employees will find it to be a less intimidating space, meaning they can be honest about what they feel needs improvement in themselves, their colleagues, or the company as a whole. This is an excellent opportunity for companies to come up with ways to improve on their weaknesses. 

Ensures consistency of performance 

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Development may not mean much in the long run if a company fails to sustain its momentum. Regular corporate training in the form of refresher programs will keep everyone on the same track. It’s also a perfect way to collect feedback and nip problems in the bud should there be any. 

Opening up opportunities to build soft skills, especially their communication skills

In the past, businesses were preoccupied with technical or hard skills and did not pay enough attention to developing soft skills. Most people believed that a few select people were just born with communication skills or were naturally empathetic. Now, as businesses realise that soft skills are the foundation of all professional interaction, soft skills training now comes up regularly on company calendars. 

When giving a presentation or participating in a meeting, one must speak in a confident manner. When solving problems, one must harness their creativity to bring out plenty of possible solutions. When resolving a conflict, one must have solid interpersonal skills in order to pick up not just information but other people’s emotions as well. 

The root of all this? Communication. No matter the type of job a person has, if they’ve got their communication skills down pat, they will enjoy a clearer path towards success. 

Want to improve yours or your employees’ professional communication skills? Have your corporate training facilitated by the experts at Screenwise.

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At Screenwise, we have helped plenty of professionals in Sydney find their voice. Screenwise alumni are master communicators who keep audiences fully engaged. 

What’s in store for you at Screenwise?

We help you or your team deliver the most effective, memorable presentations through our corporate public speaking and presentation classes. Our training is conducted in a relaxed environment. This way, your interaction with Screenwise mentors is more intimate, allowing for a free flow of learning. We also give you the opportunity to record yourself as you present so you can review your performance or see yourself in the eyes of your audience. 

Our Corporate Presentation Classes are extremely beneficial for marketers, company leaders, sales and recruitment managers, change or development specialists, and more. We have a varied list of options for corporate presentation training packages so you can choose the one that suits your organisation’s needs best. We also offer on-site training. 

Apply online now! For more information, visit the Screenwise website’s Corporate Training section. For enquiries, call us at 02 9281 4484. 

7 Signs It’s Time to Update Your Existing Showreel

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Choosing the right content for your showreel can be difficult. You need to showcase your best work while promoting yourself as the great actor you are.

As with any other piece of work designed to sell your skills, your showreel must be regularly updated. This is done to reflect your most current work, but also to show others you are still taking on new jobs in the industry.

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Your showreel is what will help you land agents, impress casting directors and land you auditions. Think of it as your physical resume of your professional TV and film work.

Your showreel should demonstrate your range of acting abilities. Those viewing it will see what you’ve accomplished as a professional, so it’s best to keep it current.

As you complete more projects, you’ll have more content to add to your showreel. Since it should be no longer than around three minutes in length, you’ll need to periodically update it to reflect that content just as you would a resume. Here are seven showreel tips to get you started.

1. Your showreel doesn’t include your latest work

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Perhaps it’s been a year or more since you’ve updated your showreel. You’ve been on numerous acting jobs since then, but haven’t incorporated any of those scenes into your showreel.

The last thing you need is an outdated reel that does not adequately represent your talent. Keep in mind casting directors, producers and other industry professionals will be viewing your showreel, and clips from one of those recent jobs just might help you get a new job over someone else. The acting industry is extremely competitive after all.

Each time you complete a job, comb through the scenes you filmed and make a note of those that are showreel worthy. If one in particular stands out, you may need to update your showreel right away to include it. Otherwise, make a list of scenes you want to include, and once you have enough, create a whole new reel. Remember, the idea is to stay current while always showcasing your very best work.

2. Your showreel is too long

If you’ve been adding to your showreel, it may have become too long. It’s hard to choose the right scenes, especially if you have several you feel should really make the cut. 

Using a showreel that is longer than it should be may hurt your chances of getting new work. This is especially true if your best work is at the end, but the person viewing your reel doesn’t make it that far.

Take inventory of the scenes in your showreel and make a list of those you think are the best. Ask other people you trust to view them as well. The scenes you choose should stand out, so take your time when selecting them.

As previously stated, your showreel should be no longer than three minutes. Once you have enough scenes to fit this length, put them together in a brand new showreel, being careful not to go over the three minute mark. It’s difficult to know which ones to leave out, but sometimes you need to sacrifice older work and replace it with newer, more relevant scenes.

3. Your showreel production is poor

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A badly produced showreel will hinder your chances of getting acting jobs. Unflattering lighting, garbled audio and weird framing are all elements of poor production.

A reel that isn’t produced well will have bad production value. It feels amateur and will distract the viewer. Most of these reels aren’t even viewed at all.

Instead, as another showreel tip, only use clips that are of a professional standard. Your backdrop should be clean, and the viewer should be able to see and hear you. 

4. Transitions between scenes appear weak

The transitions between each scene of your showreel should make sense. While it may be tempting to string together a murder scene with a love scene, then follow it with a rom-com, this will not appear natural to the viewer.

While it’s fine to include all those scenes in your showreel, you need to do it in a way that keeps them separate. You can still showcase your range as an actor without showing wild crazy scenes that don’t have much viewing appeal.

Instead, choose your best scenes, then think about how they will work together. If one just doesn’t fit, consider selecting another. Remember, you have three minutes to wow the viewers, not shock them.

5. Your showreel feels forced

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If possible, include only clips from professional productions in your showreel. If you can’t, do the best you can to select the most professional-looking clips you have filmed.

Your showreel should be natural. Always shoot in a good location and make sure all clips are cast appropriately. The last thing you want are clips that don’t showcase you in the best light.

6. Scene choices are bad

Scene choices are everything in your showreel. They can literally make or break your career. That is why you want to carefully choose which scenes you will include.

What constitutes a great scene will be different for every actor. Each scene you choose should be one you resonate with so your best qualities as an actor are evident.

You should always be on the hunt for your best scenes, and earmark them for your next showreel. Just think of how much easier creating it will be if you already have several great scenes in mind before you begin.

7. Your scenes don’t include the right acting partners

No matter what scenes you select for your showreel, they should include the best possible supporting actors. Choosing scenes with the wrong actors are guaranteed to help your showreel fall flat.

Look for your scenes that include acting partners who enhance the actions in them. Does the dialogue sound natural? Are the scenes convincing? Do your acting partners enhance your performance?

Think deeply about your scene partners, as they may impact the overall acting impression you want to leave behind. 

Want to learn other great showreel tips, or how to make a showreel? Check out our showreel acting course. Or, visit the Screenwise blog for more tips on acting, our courses and much more. 

Next Showreel Course audition dates:

JULY 2021Upcoming Showreel Course Auditions: Wednesday June 16th, Thursday July 1st - Online Audition are being held for the Screenwise Showreel Course July 2021 Intake Book your online audition here.

Please select 'Showreel Course' then 'Showreel Course Online Audition - July 2021 Intake' in the application form and a Screenwise staff member will coordinate with you after completion of the application form to schedule a suitable audition time.

Your audition will consist of:
- Prepared Film/TV monologue 30 seconds in length (Applicants choice)
- Prepared Film/TV scene (Provided by Screenwise)

Auditions are delivered via Zoom - an easy to use, reliable online platform for video and audio conferencing, collaboration, chat, and webinars across mobile devices and desktops.

Audition preparation material will be emailed to you after successful submission of your application.

Showreel FAQs – All You Need to Know

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For actors, a showreel functions like a curriculum vitae – it should effectively demonstrate your acting range in as little as three minutes, or even less. It works like an audition with a script; it needs to stand out so that agents, casting directors, and producers can get a feel of your acting abilities. It also gives them a glimpse of how you look on camera, as well as a sense of your on-camera presence.

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A showreel can make or break your chances of not only getting a role, but also getting signed with a reputable agent, so it truly is a big deal. For those who have a lot of nagging questions about showreels, we’ve put together this set of FAQs. If you want to know how to make a showreel you can be proud of, make sure to read on.

1. What is a showreel?

A showreel is a portfolio of your acting skills. It’s a short video demonstrating what characters you can play and how well you can act. It is a vital tool, similar to a CV or resume, for anyone wanting to pursue an acting career.

2. Why are actors required to have a showreel?

The short answer is that you need a showreel as it’s the only way casting directors will notice you. It’s the main device or tool you can use to showcase your acting abilities.

Other than your headshot, your showreel is the only other thing a casting director will see when they decide whether or not you’re fit for a role. This is why it’s important for your showreel to effectively show off your talent and highlight past work or demonstrate what you are capable of doing.

Your showreel must elicit an emotional response from the viewer so that you have a chance of getting hired. It should show your personality, style, attitude, versatility and camera presence, among other things.

2. What should I include in my showreel?

Make sure you include important personal information in your showreel. Begin your showreel with a slate screen containing basic information about yourself. This includes your name, contact details and website. Then include a headshot and a collection of your best clips.

After your headshot, you can go straightaway into showing your best clips. Always start with the clip showing your strongest performance. If you have difficulty selecting your best performance from a number of clips, get an outsider’s perspective.

Casting directors give only a few seconds of their time before deciding to press the stop button and move on to the next person’s showreel. There’s no need to explain or introduce each clip. All you need is a label or a line of text at the bottom of the screen detailing the name of the project and the genre. Try to include only two to five clips with the duration of each lasting only for 20 to 30 seconds. Aim for a total runtime of one-and-a-half minutes to three minutes max. Keep it concise and tight – no need for a montage, background music or flashy intro.

3. What makes for an impressive showreel?

An excellent showreel effectively showcases your acting range and depth through the use of carefully curated, high-quality scenes.

It should highlight your most marketable qualities and strengths. It’s not a composition of what you think is expected of you. Rather, it is an honest depiction of the way you currently look, sound and act so avoid including old material. Ensure your showreel has no technical issues; it should have high sound and image quality.

Choose clips that focus on you, not other actors, no matter how famous they are. Ideally, the scenes you include should begin and end with a shot of you.

4. Do I need to have different showreels?

If you are starting out with your first showreel, we would recommend that you have 1 showreel that showcases all of your acting skills. This means the casting agent or whoever is reviewing your showreel can see the full array of your acting capabilities. Ideally, your showreel should be varied enough to include a collection of different characters, styles and genres.

If you are applying for a very specific role in a certain genre, try to make a separate showreel specific for that genre. This way, you can showcase your range and depth as an actor and have dedicated showreels for comedy, drama and others. Think of it like tailoring your CV for a specific job, but you are tailoring your showreel for a specific role. 

5. What should I not include in my showreel?

There are a couple of things that are considered no-nos in showreels.

  • Never include confidential material that hasn’t even been shown or reviewed yet.
  • Don’t include violent or graphic footage.
  • Don’t use plagiarised or inappropriate material, or any scenes taken from your acting classes.
  • Don’t use flash drives and CDs. Instead, put your showreel online using your website, Vimeo or YouTube. Also, have a ready compressed video file that you can easily send across when required.
  • Try not to repeat projects to show your acting range; have a clip from a different film, show or performance every time.

6. Do I need to complete a showreel course before creating a showreel?

Showreel courses can benefit aspiring actors in many ways. Here are just a few: 

  • Get firsthand experience working with industry professionals
  • Develop and polish communication skills in a professional setting
  • Gain experience filming on a professional shoot
  • Hone your acting technique with professional input
  • Learn audition and screen test techniques
  • Get an industry recognised certification
  • But above all, you’ll learn how to create a showreel that wins you top roles!

Of course, you decide if you want to complete a showreel course, but do understand the benefits are more than a professional showreel at the end. 

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Hopefully, with this set of Q&As, we’ve covered most (if not all) of your showreel concerns. 

Do you have more questions? Ask us at Screenwise.

We offer a comprehensive showreel course where you’ll get the exposure and training you need to hone your craft, as well as come up with an impressive professional-quality showreel.

We’ve successfully produced talented artists that have made their own mark on the world of acting, including Adam Demos, Stef Dawson and Sam Webb. Come and explore more at Screenwise. 

Next Showreel Course audition dates:

JULY 2021Upcoming Showreel Course Auditions: Wednesday June 16th, Thursday July 1st - Online Audition are being held for the Screenwise Showreel Course July 2021 Intake Book your online audition here.

Please select 'Showreel Course' then 'Showreel Course Online Audition - July 2021 Intake' in the application form and a Screenwise staff member will coordinate with you after completion of the application form to schedule a suitable audition time.

Your audition will consist of:
- Prepared Film/TV monologue 30 seconds in length (Applicants choice)
- Prepared Film/TV scene (Provided by Screenwise)

Auditions are delivered via Zoom - an easy to use, reliable online platform for video and audio conferencing, collaboration, chat, and webinars across mobile devices and desktops.

Audition preparation material will be emailed to you after successful submission of your application.

Workplace Meetings in the Age of COVID-19

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Like it or not, so much has changed since COVID-19 entered the picture. Life, it seems, has gone on a standstill as kids are forced to continue their studies online and working parents, well, have had to stay at home, too. 

In the age of COVID-19 and social distancing, most businesses quickly transitioned to work from home (WFH) mode — but that’s not to say it has all been easy and smooth sailing. With social distancing guidelines set by the Australian Government Department of Health, companies have had to adapt quickly to remote workplace 

Social distancing in the workplace 

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To properly observe and maintain social distancing in the workplace, the Department of Health lists the following measures everyone must adhere to when at their workplace: 

  • Avoid shaking hands or touching to greet others. 
  • Non-essential meetings must be cancelled, and important meetings need to be conducted via video conferencing or telephone calls. 
  • Meetings where many people must congregate must be postponed indefinitely. 
  • Essential in-person meetings must be held out in the open whenever possible. 
  • Practise hand, sneeze and cough hygiene at all times. Employees who are sick must stay at home and isolate themselves. 
  • Companies should provide staff with alcohol-based hand rub for disinfection. 
  • Employees should eat their lunch at their desks or outside in the open, not in the lunchroom. 
  • Work area surfaces should be regularly cleaned and disinfected. 
  • Windows need to be opened and air conditioning adjusted to permit natural ventilation or for more air to enter.
  • Food handling must be limited in the workplace, as well as the sharing of food. 
  • All non-essential travel must be avoided. 
  • Food preparation by canteen staff and all close contacts must be done under the strict hygiene conditions. 

While some employers may have begun to seriously entertain the thought of going back to business as usual, others are not taking a chance even as Australian COVID-19 statistics have been on a steady decline. In the absence of a vaccine and with the currently dire circumstances in various countries, it’s easy to understand why working and meeting from home are still the new normal. 

Of course, all online communication, including conducting meetings from home, come with a few challenges. To help you with this concern, there are best practices you can implement to make video conferencing work for you. 

Effective video conferencing 

covid-19, corporate training solutions, online meeting

Conference video calls are a great alternative to personal meetings when the latter is not possible. To ensure your video conferences are effectively run, take note of the following: 

1. Check your internet connection 

Conducting a meeting online requires stable internet connectivity, so that everyone’s audio and video remain fairly consistent in terms of quality. You also need a secure connection with advanced encryption and password protection if you are using a wireless connection. 

2. Use a good quality video conferencing software 

covid-19, corporate training solutions, online meeting

There are several types of free video conferencing software to choose from, which meeting attendees can simply download or use through their browser. As the host, you’ll need to provide the necessary login details to ensure their access. 

3. Dress for the meeting 

Dressing right is a basic requirement in corporate presentations. Just because you’re conducting or attending a meeting from home doesn’t mean you should be attending it in your jammies. So, ensure you’re wearing work-appropriate attire that’s not too loud or colourful. This is especially important if you’re attending a meeting with a client or your suppliers. 

4. Pick a good time 

If the meeting attendees are located in different time zones, it’s best to choose a mutually acceptable schedule using the correct time zone. 

5. Eliminate all distractions 

As much as possible, set yourself against a plain background without any clutter. Get rid of all distractions including your cell phone which should be set to silent mode. If you have a house full of kids and pets, ensure there’s someone overseeing them, so interruptions are avoided during the meeting. You should also make sure you have good lighting that doesn’t hide or distort your face, so test the video feature prior to the meeting. 

6. Come prepared 

Preparation is key whether you’re conducting a regular in-person meeting or any other type of meeting. At least a day before the meeting, all meeting attendees should already have a copy of the agenda and all other files that need to be shared. This ensures everyone is ready for the discussion and anyone who needs to present specific data can come prepared. 

7. Introduce yourselves 

covid-19, corporate training solutions, online meeting

As the meeting host, the job of having everyone else introduce themselves falls on you, especially if there are new people attending the meeting. First you need to announce yourself and have each attendee introduce themselves one by one. 

8. Take turns speaking 

Use a simple meeting programme so that people don’t start talking at the same time. Let the attendees know ahead of time that there’ll be time for questions and comments. This is part of corporate communications decorum, as it helps ensure meetings are conducted in an orderly manner. 

9. Take down notes 

You or a designated party can take care of writing down important items, questions, issues and all other points raised in the meeting. You can even get everyone’s permission to record the session for easy reference. 

10. Use the mute feature 

Sounds that shouldn’t be there can be extremely distracting, so ask everyone to keep their microphones on mute when they are not speaking. 

11. Make sure everyone is on the same page 

Before moving on to another topic, make sure all attendees are in agreement or on the same page. Anything contentious may be set for later or scheduled for a future meeting dedicated to it. 

12. Stay on track 

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Show how you value everyone’s time by making sure the meeting stays on track, moves along as scheduled and covers the set agenda. 

13. Review and summarise 

Near the end of the meeting, review all action items and key insights from the meeting. Inform the attendees of the next steps and email your meeting notes to everyone soon after the meeting is over. 

Video conferencing is currently in vogue as businesses continue to take the necessary precautions to protect the health of their employees whilst ensuring business continuity. 

If you feel your corporate presentation skills are inadequate, it would help for you to study and master effective presentation skills. By taking these types of courses, you’ll be more at ease with conducting meetings or making presentations — whether online or in person. You can also have your employees register for such courses as part of their personnel development programmes. 

Screenwise offers customised corporate training solutions delivered via video conferencing, so you and your staff can make good use of this time to learn something new and useful for your business. 

How COVID-19 Is Creating New Online Communication Opportunities for Corporate Training Solutions

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The COVID-19 virus has undercut and overwhelmed the global economy. Most businesses — from Fortune 500 corporations to sole proprietorships — will face severe strains from the global impact of the virus. 

covid-19, corporate training solutions

Impacts from the disease will change, in both the short and long terms, the way many organisations operate. Administration, marketing, production and training may follow significantly different best practices. 

Our team has worked to develop an effective set of corporate training solutions that incorporate lessons learned from the impact of the pandemic. These empower those seeking to make more powerful presentations that achieve desired results. 

We take lessons from the realm of stage and screen to help you elevate your skills and gain more confidence in material and delivery alike. 

The Need for a New Online Corporate Training Paradigm 

online corporate training solution

Even during a pandemic — and perhaps because of it — businesses need to continue to invest in training and skills development across the board. 

Lockdowns give businesses incredible opportunities to boost the training and skills of employees both on the job and at home. 

With millions of people on lockdown, but still connected to the internet, organisations have a tremendous opportunity to obtain top quality training for employees. They can learn from home and prepare to be as productive as possible when they return to their jobs. 

How Online Communication Will Play a Larger Role 

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The digital age has already seen tremendous changes in how people train for employment and do their jobs. Online connections enable more to do work and experience more training remotely than ever before. 

Even in states that have passed laws restricting use of independent contractors and labour, we should see a continual expansion of remote work. Learning how to communicate and make special presentations through online platforms have already become normal. What we expect to see, especially with the emergence of 5G, is expanded capabilities for remote collaboration. 

This dynamic requires that individuals boost their online communication skills. Our team will make sure that courses and other materials remain relevant to this quickly changing global situation. 

What Screenwise Can Do for Your Company 

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Whilst we effectively trained hundreds of performers, we also discovered that those in other professions could use the same skill sets that are adopted in the profession of acting. Screenwise has earned a reputation as one of Australia’s most respected schools for performance training in the arts. 

Many of the same traits, however, of great actors and actresses also elevate those successful in business and other fields. Acting skills repackaged for business purposes can help your public speaking and presentation in the business world reach its full potential. For example, acting techniques can help those in other fields learn the importance of body language while presenting individually or in groups. 

For that reason, we have created courses designed to teach performance in the world of business. 

Skills Taught By Our Team 

We take the same techniques that have elevated countless actors and actresses into stars and apply them to business communications. To create the best possible impact, we offer a variety of formats through which our  clients can learn and try new communications skills. These include: 

Presentation training in smaller, more informal and confidence-boosting environments, allowing for more one-on-one tutoring and work 

Training on how to speak and to look your best on camera. Image and perception are almost as important as knowledge, organisation and delivery in many cases. 

Your team will deliver business presentations, interact with others in meetings and communicate overall with more proficiency, ability and confidence. 

Stages of Corporate Development Training 

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Great training programs start with structures put in place before they begin. We follow three stages each time to create the most effective courses possible. 

Communications often begin with introductions and building rapport. We ask questions about your organisation to determine the right approach for our programs. 

Second, we evaluate the opportunities, challenges and environment of your business. This helps us to create a “right fit” program that will best benefit your organisation and those who work there. 

Finally, we create customised educational experiences — according to size, length, material, and needs — for your team. We also design them to suit a variety of presentation formats, including online. 

Jobs That Could Benefit From Presentation Training 

A surprising  number of jobs  can benefit from our slate of communications courses. Communication serves as a foundation skill in almost any business environment. Better communication means improved production and efficiency, as well as fewer errors. 

Some of those jobs include, but are not limited to: 

  • Community liaisons 
  • Human resources 
  • Sales and marketing 
  • Client and customer service managers and workers 
  • CEOs, CFOs, CIOs, COOs 
  • Government relations 
  • Managers and supervisors 
  • Lawyers and paralegals 

This list remains far from conclusive, but gives an idea of the breadth of positions that will benefit from our precision-developed and proven successful corporate communications education program. 

Reach Out Today 

Check out our slate of exciting and informative corporate communications courses from the performance experts at Screenwise. We take skills mastered by some of Australia’s most famous actors and actresses, then put them to work to train your staff. Enjoy a work environment made smoother by more effective communications. 

Learn more about all of our programs by calling, emailing, or sending a message. We look forward to receiving your inquiries and will respond as quickly as possible.

How Workplace Meetings Have Been Impacted by COVID-19

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The COVID-19 pandemic is by far the most life-altering global crisis to ever hit the world in the 21st century. With no vaccine in immediate sight, organisations have come to realise the possibilities that come with online communication — easily the safest way to ensure business continuity (up to a certain point) whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines. 

These social distancing requirements placed global economies on a standstill, up until businesses scrambled to adapt to the crisis and establish work- and meet-from-home practices.  As a result, almost everyone has probably gone on at least one Zoom meeting or  video conference.  New remote workers have also begun to learn the ropes of effectively working from home.  

Conducting remote workplace meetings, however, poses some unique challenges and limitations, which we discuss below. Hopefully, by knowing these things, you can adopt industry best practices to help ensure every video conference you run achieves the objectives you set. 

1. You cannot recreate real live communication. 

covid-19, online communication, corporate communication training

Here, you can probably say that there is an inherent disconnect between meeting attendees. This is especially true for teleconferencing where additional challenges are present: you may not recognise who is speaking even after introducing yourselves, and there are no visual cues to help with communication. 

With video conferencing, participants get to see each other; however, body language is largely absent as all of you will be sitting somewhere with usually just your face framed in the camera. Remember, 55 per cent  of our understanding of non-verbal communication comes from body language. So, in its absence, we’re largely incapable of recreating personal communication. 

To somehow offset these drawbacks, we advise you to look straight into the camera and occasionally utilise hand gestures that can indicate excitement and interest, as well as for emphasis. These skills can easily be improved upon in a corporate presentation skills workshop where you get to learn about verbal and non-verbal cues that help make communication effective and impactful. 

2. Time lag and network problems can crop up. 

covid-19, online communication, corporate communication training

Even if all participants have the most stable internet connection  in the world, there are times when high network traffic (and a host of other network issues) can affect video and audio quality during a video conference. In fact, you may even experience time lags and get poor audio and blurry video.  

What you can do to address this is to set the rules of your video conference early on, such as ensuring only one person talks at a time and following the meeting agenda. Try to entertain comments and questions at a later stage. These are simple elements of corporate communications decorum that’ll help ensure your communication goals are met. 

3. Staff may have inadequate training and encounter technical issues. 

covid-19, online communication, corporate communication training

If you’re already tech-savvy, you may have no issues with transitioning from the office to a work-from-home (WFH) setup. You may also have no issues leading or participating in remote meetings. However, others may require training and need assistance in acquiring the equipment necessary to facilitate these types of communication. So, prior to adopting the new normal in your organisation, you need to allocate time, money, and resources for training your employees. 

Once training is done, you also need to give your staff time to adjust and get used to the new technology and software or platform you are using. 

You also need to ensure that equipment capable of facilitating seamless online communication are available to your employees. In case they encounter technical issues, they should be able to contact the designated tech support of the platform you are using.

4. Employees may experience added stress. 

covid-19, online communication, corporate communication training

Remote workers who have embraced the WFH setup usually identify one downside: the ability to contact an employee or co-worker anytime and anywhere. While this may be viewed as helpful in a collaborative sense, it can also be bothersome and stressful. 

This is why it’s essential to set clear parameters in terms of when remote workplace meetings are necessary and when employees can be contacted. If all you need are updates on a task, a simple chat message should be sufficient. 

Managers also need to instill in employees the need to treat remote meetings such as teleconferences and video discussions seriously. By ensuring meeting attendees always come prepared, you prevent wasting time.

What you can do to improve workplace communications during this time 

As a business owner, it falls on you to set standards and implement processes to keep your team communication effective and efficient. Aside from our suggestions mentioned above, you can work on improving workplace communication by tapping into available corporate training solutions. 

Screenwise offers corporate training classes that encompass all aspects of corporate communication, whether in person or through a video conference. Our corporate classes are suitable for everyone that plays an active communication role in your company. These include: 

  • CEOs 
  • Change managers 
  • Corporate communicators 
  • Directors 
  • HR professionals 
  • Internal communicators 
  • Legal professionals 
  • Marketers 
  • Organisational development managers 
  • Project managers 
  • Real estate agents 
  • Sales and recruitment managers 
  • Start-up entrepreneurs 
  • Team managers 

Better yet, you can include these corporate courses into your training and development programme. By registering your people into these training sessions, which can also be conducted via video conference, you’ll be making good use of the “extra” time you have as you and your people continue working from home. Doing so will benefit not only your employees but your business as well in the long term. 

8 Reasons Why You Need to Complete a Showreel Course

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If you are earnestly looking to become a professional actor or planning to get agent representation, you need to have a ready-made acting showreel first. Nowadays, agents and casting directors use showreels extensively to shortlist actors for auditions or roles. Professional headshots and a comprehensive CVs no longer cut it. These need to be accompanied by a quality showreel that effectively showcases your acting abilities.

But how do you go about creating an impressive showreel, especially when you are entering the industry or have absolutely no acting experience? Count yourself incredibly lucky because, unlike before, there are already film schools in Australia that offer courses on showreels, but none compare to Australia’s most comprehensive Showreel Course for actors.

To enlighten you about the benefits of enrolling in an acting showreel course, here are 8 compelling reasons why you need to enrol ASAP:

1. Get firsthand experience working with industry professionals

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Schools that offer acting courses in Sydney, for example, only hire tutors with relevant industry experience. They would have professional film and television actors, directors, producers, scriptwriters, cinematographers, and the like in their faculty roster.

This means that what you’ll be learning is not just grounded in theory. More importantly, whatever lessons you will have will be based on the experiences of these individuals. Learning will be in-depth, and instruction would be exciting and insightful. Whether it’s experience working in the Australian film and TV industry, Hollywood, or elsewhere, you can be certain that you’ll be learning from professionals who have been in the thick of it.

2. Develop and polish communication skills in a professional setting

Photo by Lisa Fotios from Pexels

In a showreel course, you’ll be able to work on your voice, inflection, enunciation, accent, and the simultaneous application of voice and movement in terms of scene work, as well as other communication elements that impact dialogue or the delivery of lines. As you gain more knowledge and exposure, you also get to develop confidence in your speaking and acting abilities. 

3. Gain experience filming on a professional shoot

Photo by Avel Chuklanov on Unsplash

Part of an acting showreel curriculum is being able to shoot scenes on a professional shoot. This means you’ll be working with a cameraman using an industry-standard camera, as well as lighting and sound technicians using top-of-the-line equipment.

This kind of exposure will prove invaluable once you start auditioning for actual roles as a professional actor. You’ll develop a familiarity with how a typical studio looks, so you’ll know exactly what to expect when you strike out on your own. You’ll no longer feel overwhelmed or intimidated by the presence of studio crew and equipment.

4. Hone your acting technique with professional input

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You’ll be exposed to the fundamentals of screen acting, including improvisation. You’ll know the importance and application of proper blocking, and the basics of precise, impactful performance. You’ll know how to relate with other characters, interpret and examine character motivation, and work with green screens (CGI), etc. More importantly, you’ll get to practise doing the real thing, i.e. acting.

5. Learn to apply audition and screen test techniques

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Part of the culmination of a showreel course is the professional production of a showreel you can use in applying for auditions. This project will be professionally directed, produced, shot, and edited. You’ll also get the chance to work with an actual director, so you know how you are expected to behave during auditions and casting calls.

6. Have a ready-to-use professional, broadcast-quality acting showreel

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If you are dying to audition for a role, you needn’t worry anymore. After finishing your showreel course, you will have your very own ready quality, professionally executed showreel to share with the world. Your showreel will work to get you a chance of auditioning for a role you are passionate about.

7. Develop confidence and learn the techniques of effective self-marketing

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You’ll learn how to network without seeming desperate, as well as market yourself without turning people off. You’ll know how to manage your public social media profiles, so they complement your desired reputation as an actor. You can get advice on efficiently building and presenting your portfolio as well as your professional website.

8. Get an industry recognised certificate of completion

Image by Isaín Calderón from Pixabay 

Being certified by a reputable academy offering both short and long-term, intensive acting courses in Sydney (or wherever you are located) counts for a lot in your CV. Why? It gives your prospective agents and casting directors a fair idea of the level and quality of training you received, and what they can reasonably expect from your performance.

Maximise your first ten seconds

Some industry insiders claim that even ten seconds into a showreel, an agent or casting director will already know what you’re capable of. It may not really seem like the most justified assessment in the world, but it does tell you how vital a well-executed showreel is.

A showreel course will not only prepare you for this but also provide you with professionals who will maximise these crucial moments with you. You won’t even have to worry about using an amateur showreel or spend money on paying for professional videography and editing services that you may not be completely confident in.

Be ready to share your talent

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Enrolling in a showreel course is guaranteed to make a significant difference in your future as an actor. Aside from preparing you for the rigours of professional acting, and the intricacies of the industry, you’ll develop confidence and master the fundamentals of acting. You’ll have the chance to get to know and be instructed by industry professionals as well.

You’ll learn to appreciate the entire creative process and understand why you need to be able to successfully navigate the social side of the industry to effectively network and promote yourself as a serious, passionate actor.

If you’re interested in taking an in-depth acting showreel course or have questions about the curriculum, you can directly contact us at Screenwise.

Next Showreel Course audition dates:

JULY 2021Upcoming Showreel Course Auditions: Wednesday June 16th, Thursday July 1st - Online Audition are being held for the Screenwise Showreel Course July 2021 Intake Book your online audition here.

Please select 'Showreel Course' then 'Showreel Course Online Audition - July 2021 Intake' in the application form and a Screenwise staff member will coordinate with you after completion of the application form to schedule a suitable audition time.

Your audition will consist of:
- Prepared Film/TV monologue 30 seconds in length (Applicants choice)
- Prepared Film/TV scene (Provided by Screenwise)

Auditions are delivered via Zoom - an easy to use, reliable online platform for video and audio conferencing, collaboration, chat, and webinars across mobile devices and desktops.

Audition preparation material will be emailed to you after successful submission of your application.

Learn to Be the Best by Working with an Award-Winning Acting Coach

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Many people dream of becoming a famous actor or actress. And while there are a few who are able to break into the industry by being spotted on the street or discovered on social media, they are the exception and not the norm.

It’s right to say that to break into acting, you need talent. However, it is wrong to say that your talents cannot be fostered, improved, or honed. Basically, hard work and dedication beat innate talent, every time. This is where having an award-winning acting coach comes in and can make a real difference.

In this post, we talk about the benefits of learning from award-winning acting coaches so you can become the best you can be.

Qualities of a good acting coach

Well, apart from industry recognition and accolades, a good acting coach will have the following qualities:

Years of industry experience under their belt

Good acting coaches are established and well-known for their achievements through the years, whether as a movie or television actor, a theatre actor or a voice actor. There are some that may have had the great fortune of having done all these and succeeding, whilst there are also those who prefer to hone their craft in one particular medium over the others.

Successful former students

Another important quality you need to look for in a prospective acting coach would be information on the acting coach’s past clients. Successful acting coaches would have this information ready. In fact, they may even have it posted on their own websites as a way of lending credence to their reputation.

No coach would keep this a secret because those names will add to their own industry reputation, so don’t hesitate to ask. Also, find out how many of their students have successfully landed jobs. Again, this information is something a proud acting coach would want to share. If you can’t get in contact with the coach directly then talk with the school who employs the coach.

Excellent industry reputation

They say that a person’s reputation precedes them, and this certainly applies to acting coaches. Be sure to ask around about your target acting coach’s reputation, not just with regard to their students but also with industry professionals.

Whom have they worked with? What do directors, producers, writers and other industry insiders say about him or her? You can also ask about how a particular acting coach’s former students fared in the jobs they landed. Ask former students about their experiences with a particular coach, too. 

How to choose an acting coach

Whether it be part of a class, course or private lessons, the aforementioned qualities of a good acting coach are a good basis for choosing a coach you want to learn from. However, even if it’s easy to say that all acting coaches have certain qualities and skills that can help you hone your own craft, it’s difficult to gauge this on the outset. 

It helps if the coach you choose is an expert in the medium you want to be trained in. If you are intent on pursuing a career in film & TV, you can still learn from acting coaches who are involved in theatre or animation (voice projects). However, you’re bound to learn a lot more about the specific field of acting you are interested in by working with a film & TV aficionado and practitioner. Besides, having the best acting coach for your chosen acting medium would give you access to a network of people unique to that specific endeavour—and those are the connections you need.

Of course, the best way to find a future acting coach or mentor who will expertly guide you in the process of acting is to enrol in acting classes. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to meet different acting tutors whose expertise can contribute to your growth as an artist.

The benefits of working with an acting coach

Acting coaches do not teach the way university professors do. Instead, they will guide you through the process of acting itself. But to do this, coaches need to establish rapport and a level of comfort with their students first so that honest communication and feedback are possible. Acting coaches bring out the best of the actors in their class (or whom they are privately coaching) by helping them make better, honest performances.

This is easier said than done, of course. But the best acting coaches not only help actors hone their acting skills but also help them prepare for other aspects of their chosen career. This includes getting ready for auditions, certain roles or projects, and for their career development. Moreover, these acting experts can:

  • Skilfully bring specific nuances or shades and qualities out of a character
  • Illustrate how actors can analyse and dissect a character to skilfully take on its mannerisms and total persona, which will ultimately improve their performance
  • Help actors develop and master strategies to relax during interviews and auditions
  • Teach actors how they can best remember their lines and practise for their roles
  • Help actors develop the desired attitude and approach for taking direction and accepting feedback

Best of all, acting coaches can help aspiring actors thrive and succeed in their career.

Learn only from the best at Screenwise

At Screenwise, our goal is to help you develop and mature in your craft, and launch your career in the industry. This is why we have world-famous acting tutors at Screenwise including:

  • Three-time Laurence Olivier awardee Philip Quast of the stage musical Les Misérables and Les Misérables: The Dream Cast in Concert
  • Renowned vocal expert Natasha McNamara, who has worked with the likes of Hugh Jackman
  • Award-winning director, writer and actor Ben Mathews
  • Improv theatre and television actor Daniel Cordeaux of the hit comedy “Thank God You’re Here”
  • Theatre heavyweight Anna Lee who is famous for “Calendar Girls,” “Private Lives” and “The Recruiting Officer”
  • Theatre and film actor Winston Cooper of “The Interviewer” (2012) and “Cybergirl” (2001-2002)

All of the above industry-recognised professionals teach in the Diploma of Screen Acting (10065NAT) programme at Screenwise. These tutors are all accomplished actors and industry experts who are ready to impart their knowledge and wisdom to their acting students.

So if you’re ready to learn from the best, find our more about our short screen acting courses, Showreel Course, Diploma of Screen Acting (10065NAT) or call the office on (02) 9281 4484.

How Screen Acting Classes Can Improve Your Body Language

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Nonverbal communication is an essential part of acting. We do it without thinking in our day to day lives, but when you’re playing a part, everything from your posture to the movement of your hands should be deliberate. The physical, non-verbal aspect of acting is commonly considered to be the hardest part to master, but screen acting classes are incredibly valuable to giving you the tools and guidance you need.

We communicate much more nonverbally than we do verbally. While this proves to be critical for actors who want to play a variety of roles in a believable manner, it is also very important in practical life also, such as during auditions and interviews. Here are just a few of the reasons why body language is something every new actor needs to take seriously.

Act Natural

Put simply, good actors don’t look like they’re acting. You’re meant to fully embody a role, not to just appear as yourself reading someone’s else’s lines. While acting naturally can be difficult for newer actors to learn, it’s necessary if you want a career with any sort of longevity. 

Acting naturally covers a wide range of things, including the number of times you choose to blink in a scene, how you sit down in a chair, and just how you carry yourself in general. Are you moving around and interacting with objects the way someone would in real life? Or are you in your head and thinking about it too much? This all relates to body language. Body language not only helps communicate things nonverbally, but it also allows you to exist naturally in a space while in character. 

Screen acting classes connect you with instructors who can point out to you when your body language isn’t quite right. From there, you can learn strategies and get all the tips and tricks you need so that you feel confident about tackling this challenge head-on. 

Claiming Your Space

Similarly to acting natural, it’s important for an actor to create normal amounts of space between themselves and other actors and props, all the while looking completely natural. Learning about how much space you should have between yourself, other actors, and objects is valuable. Not only does it help you act naturally, but it also allows you to feel confident during auditions and other important meetings.

The Loudest Micro-Expressions

Micro-expressions may sound small, but they are far from insignificant. Invoking the minor, involuntary changes of one’s face when feeling a strong emotion in your work as an actor will set you aside from amateurs. 

Among the universally understood micro-expressions are emotions like disgust, sadness, and contempt. Standing in front of a mirror is a great way of practising making these expressions, whether it be in a more subtle or dramatic fashion. A screen acting class can be helpful in this case, as it’s good to have somewhere you can learn about these tiny movements, work on incorporating them into your acting, and then receive feedback.

The people you audition for will be able to observe your personal micro-expressions, whether this is in your role as a character, or simply when being yourself walking into the room. That’s why you should find the right balance between polite and professional, without being disingenuous or desperate. Casting directors can detect those micro-expressions too. 

Use Your Eyes

The eyes really are the window to the soul. How you use them can turn an okay audition into an unforgettable one. If you’re doing a reading of a script for an audition, the last thing you should do is avoid eye contact or anything else that closes you off. Sometimes having unwavering, deliberate eye contact can be all you need to really communicate a message. 

Beyond the audition, using your eyes is also just a general acting tip, and a critical one at that. Being aware of how much you’ve been blinking, or whether your use of eye contact is abnormal or not, is a great thing to unpack in a classroom setting.

Emotional Impact

Some underestimate the emotional punch that a nonverbal act of body language can have on a scene. A father’s hand on a son’s shoulder, the slight nod to confirm bad news, and the grabbing of a friend’s jacket during a hug can all be such powerful indicators of these strong emotions. Sometimes we, as viewers, get tired of just being told how people feel. We want to see it. It doesn’t have to be spelled out all the time.

This is why making the decision to invest in something that will help you with your body language is a good idea. It’s these quiet moments that can be the most important, emotional, and gripping moments of a performance. Don’t neglect the power of subtlety.

A Diploma of Screen Acting Changes Careers

Finding it hard to set yourself apart from the other actors in your city? Are you tired of being good, and want to be great? Getting some level of training is valuable for actors of every kind. To have someone to guide you, teach you, tell you about what they’ve learned, and the mistakes they’ve made in this industry, can be really beneficial to those looking to break into the world of acting.

Visit the link to learn more about the Screenwise Diploma of Screen Acting 10065NAT or by calling us at 9281 4484. It’s that easy! 

You may also find it helpful to read through the testimonials of our amazing alumni and the fulfilling and lengthy careers that so many have made. With a combination of our training and your own hard work, there’s nothing you can’t achieve. We hope you’ll be the next to join us!

10 Auditions & Audition Tapes That Made These Actors Famous

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All famous actors had to start somewhere. And usually, they got their big break from an audition that turned out to be in their favour. Of course, auditions are stressful and awkward at the outset. You have strangers in the room watching your every move, facial expression, and gesture, and listening intently for volume, inflection, accent – not the greatest feeling in the world.

However, for the brave actor, passing an audition can be the career-changing break they need, allowing them to put together showreel examples once they become established. To enjoy in retrospect, below is a list of examples that brought virtually unknown actors out into the spotlight:

1. Daisy Ridley – Rey, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”

Photo Source: Metro

Among the new generation of actors, Daisy Ridley’s audition for the role of Rey was nothing short of intense. The casting directors were having a hard time looking for the right Rey as they wanted an unknown actor who could channel both vulnerability and strength at the same time.

What impressed the movie director J.J. Abrams while watching Ridley’s audition clip was the accuracy and intensity of the emotions Daisy projected onscreen when called for. The scene asked for her character, Rey, to strongly resist Kylo Ren’s attempt to control her mind using the Force. What was even more impressive was that after getting some notes from the director, Daisy could do it all over again, with as much intensity and passion as before.

2. Chris Hemsworth – Thor, “Thor”

Photo Source: Polygon

Although Chris Hemsworth had already acted in a couple of movies prior to “Thor” (2011), he’s arguably most recognised for it. However, he didn’t get the role of the God of Thunder on a silver platter. In fact, he didn’t even make it during the first round of auditions. Lucky for him, though, none of the final four actors (which included his little brother Liam) were able to nail the part.

According to Chris, he was particularly keen on the character and a bit disappointed that his younger brother made more headway than him. So, while in Vancouver, Canada shooting “Cabin in the Woods,” Hemsworth decided to have another go at the role. He recorded an audition tape with his mum in a hotel room. She read Sir Anthony Hopkins’ lines as Chris played Thor, and this earned him another shot at the role, which he ultimately got.

In this case, Chris’s commitment to the role is surely one of the best showreel tips aspiring actors can learn from. Landing the role of Thor led to Chris getting years of lucrative projects with Marvel Studios and building a prestigious showreel from there. 

3. Miley Cyrus – Hannah, “Hannah Montana”

Photo Source: Just Jared Jr

Although Miley Cyrus has focussed more on her music, her audition as an innocent 12 year old for the role of Hannah Montana was considered impressive. Aside from being able to do a nice duet with her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley was everything Hannah was supposed to be. She was candid, friendly, sassy, funny, and always smiling. She could also talk super fast and had great timing.

What’s really surprising about Miley is that she originally auditioned for the role of Zoey, Hannah’s best friend. However, Disney, after seeing her audition tape, asked her to audition for the lead instead. Miley ended up playing Hannah Montana from 2006 to 2010.

4. Rachel McAdams – Allison “Allie” Hamilton, “The Notebook”

Photo Source: Vogue

After playing the bad girl in “Mean Girls,” Rachel McAdams was poised to make love story history in her 2004 audition for the role of Allie Hamilton in “The Notebook.” In the audition clip, you can clearly hear the voice of her soon-to-be co-star Ryan Gosling. Rachel’s inflection, timing, and facial expressions helped her to ultimately deliver a strong, memorable audition which got her the role. If the clip seems familiar, the scene chosen for her audition is actually one of the more emotionally charged scenes in the movie itself.

5. Mel Gibson – Max Rockatansky, “Mad Max”

Photo Source: WallpaperUP

Australian permanent resident Mel Gibson is one of Hollywood heavyweights, who will always be known as the original Mad Max Rockatansky. Mel didn’t even have a showreel prepared for the part. In fact, he didn’t even come to audition for the film. Mel was there to support a friend who was auditioning for Mad Max. However, the casting agency noticed his beat-up look (he had gotten into a brawl the weekend prior) and was told that they needed freaks in the film. So Mel was told to come back after he recovered. Two weeks later, he returned, was given the script, and ad-libbed his way to movie history.

We all know how Mel Gibson’s charisma, brooding, intense acting, and wry humour have made him one of the most in-demand, award-winning actors of the 1980s to the early 2000s. And perhaps Mad Max director George Miller saw something special about the then-unknown young actor, so he gave Mel the lead role.

6. Kit Harington – Jon Snow, “Game of Thrones”

Photo Source: TV

Much like Mel Gibson, Kit Harington turned up on audition day with a black eye. He was auditioning for the role of Jon Snow for the “Game of Thrones” series. Turning up looking less than perfect would normally work against an aspiring actor.

Apparently, Kit got beat up by a huge guy at a McDonald’s after trying to defend his date’s honour. This ultimately made Harington seem perfect for the role, and the rest is history. If you’re familiar with the character of Jon Snow, you’d know that Jon is known for being an earnest, self-appointed defender of the poor, meek, and helpless. So, it comes as no surprise that Harington got the part and did justice to it.

7. Hugh Jackman – Wolverine, “X-Men”

Photo Source: GamesRadar

The role of Wolverine was originally intended for Dougray Scott, who was injured shooting “MI2.” So, it fell on the next choice, Hugh Jackman, to fill the void. In Hugh’s audition, it’s apparent that his accent needed some work; however, he brought a certain kind of mercurial coolness to a character who was originally envisioned to be nastier and edgier.

Hugh was unimpressed with his own audition and never thought he’d get the role. But when Scott couldn’t play the character, both the director (Bryan Singer) and scriptwriter (David Hayter) agreed that Hugh softened and humanised Wolverine, ultimately making the character more likeable and sympathetic.

8. Aaron Paul – Jesse Pinkman, “Breaking Bad”

Photo Source: Netflix Life

Just like the breakout series and surprise hit “Breaking Bad” where Aaron Paul played the role of Jesse Pinkman for five whole seasons, Aaron’s audition for the role, in retrospect, was pretty impressive. Aaron literally nailed the role from the beginning. And although watching the clip reveals Aaron making a few slips and fumbles here and there, there’s no doubting his suitability for the role of Jesse. What’s even more surprising, of course, is knowing he had no prior formal acting training at all.

After snagging what was planned to be a one-season character, Aaron’s chemistry with the lead, Bryan Cranston, was so apparent and impressive that Jesse was promoted into a main character, eventually outliving Cranston’s character, Walter White, in the series.

9. Jason Momoa – Khal Drogo, “Game of Thrones”

Photo Source: TV Guide

According to GOT casting director Amy Jo Berman, Khal Drogo’s character was among the hardest to cast. They needed someone distinctive in looks and impressive in stature, who looked like someone who could lead a fierce army of Dothraki warriors. He also needed to have a tender side for his future khaleesi.

Enter Jason Momoa.

What Jason did was perform a Maori haka or ceremonial war dance which showed his fearsome yet emotional character. Jason’s rationale was that there was almost nothing to say in the script, so he had to be creative, and he got the part.

10. Jennifer Garner – Sydney Bristow, “Alias”

Photo Source: Hypable

Jennifer Garner auditioned for the role of Sydney Bristow five times, although series creator J.J. Abrams said he wrote the character with Jennifer in mind. A copy of Jennifer’s approximately 38-minute audition tape for “Alias” showcases her versatility as an actor exhibiting a range of emotions.

Of course, the character Sydney is a spy so the actor to ultimately play her had to be a chameleon of sorts, and Jennifer was all these. J.J. Abrams found Jennifer to be funny, sexy, smart, and mischievous – something he said he wanted to show in the character of Sydney. It also helped that Jennifer was physically fit, which made her ideal for the role.

Audition Tapes & Showreel Tips

Are you thinking, “How can I create my showreel to impress casting directors and gain access to auditions too?” Here are some showreel tips that draw on the auditions you just read about: 

  • Stand out to directors and casting directors by creating a showreel that’s shot and edited by professionals. 
  • Study acting formally, so you can show the range of emotions exhibited by people like Daisy Ridley and Jennifer Garner. 
  • If you stumble during an audition, keep going, like Aaron Paul from “Breaking Bad.”
  • Think outside the audition box, when appropriate, like Jason Momoa. 
  • Become a “triple threat:” learn how to sing and dance, as well as act, so you can compete with talent like Miley Cyrus. 
  • Be persistent, even when it looks like you might not get the part. Don’t give up on your dreams!

If you want to learn more about our showreel course and what it has to offer, check out our course structure here. Why wait, you could be the next Hemsworth or McAdams.

Next Showreel Course audition dates:

JULY 2021Upcoming Showreel Course Auditions: Wednesday June 16th, Thursday July 1st - Online Audition are being held for the Screenwise Showreel Course July 2021 Intake Book your online audition here.

Please select 'Showreel Course' then 'Showreel Course Online Audition - July 2021 Intake' in the application form and a Screenwise staff member will coordinate with you after completion of the application form to schedule a suitable audition time.

Your audition will consist of:
- Prepared Film/TV monologue 30 seconds in length (Applicants choice)
- Prepared Film/TV scene (Provided by Screenwise)

Auditions are delivered via Zoom - an easy to use, reliable online platform for video and audio conferencing, collaboration, chat, and webinars across mobile devices and desktops.

Audition preparation material will be emailed to you after successful submission of your application.