Many people have asked me my thoughts
on accepting extra work. I have heard
that in the L.A. market, if you want to get
principal acting work, then actors should
not accept extra work. In that market, actors
will only be considered extras.
In many other markets, especially, on the East Coast,
many actors work as extras and also get principal
work. If I am available, I will take extra work.
Sometimes the scenes are small enough that I get
the opportunity to learn from watching some
amazing actors prepare and deliver their lines
over and over again.
It is also wonderful to listen to the director discuss
deliveries and character ideas with the actors.
While on the set, it is great to network, make new contacts,
learn about new projects, find out about agents in different markets,
and so much more.
Sometimes actors are even given lines and up-graded on the set.
I find that doing extra work can be a great experience if you
go into the day with the right frame of mind, and a pen and paper
to make lots of notes.
If you have ever done extra work, share your experiences as a comment below.