FAQs
Do I need to register in person or can I do it by mail?
You need to register in person at our office so that we can conduct an interview, digitally photograph you, and have you fill out an I-9 and W-4 forms. All of the information on how to register with Central Casting New York can be found by calling our Registration Hotline at 646.473.9033. Please make sure to call the hotline and listen closely to all of the details before coming in to register with Central Casting.
Does Central Casting cast speaking roles?
No. We hire non-speaking background actor roles, commonly called “extras”.
What kind of experience do I need to become a background actor?
None. You just have to have a desire to perform an honest day’s work, follow instructions and know how to be on time.
How do I get work once I register at Central Casting?
When you register you will be given instructions on how to seek employment through Central Casting.
Do we register minors?
Yes. There is a very strict criteria that has to be completed prior to registering a minor. They must have a trust account set up in their name. Specific Child Work Permits must be obtained. Click here for more information.
Do I need to be a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) to do background acting?
No. We hire as many non-SAG actors as we do SAG actors.
How do I obtain a SAG card?
Please visit the SAG website at www.sag.com for the most current information about obtaining a SAG card.
How do I get a SAG voucher?
Excellent question; but there is truly no simple answer. The best way is to show up on set early and prepared to work. Bringing the proper wardrobe to set. Listening when the crew is speaking. Occasionally there immediate need for a certain look or ability on the set and if you are in the right place at the right time you will get a SAG voucher. Sporadically a casting director will offer you a SAG voucher if they are unable to locate a SAG member that fits the requirements of the production company.
Once I get my 3 vouchers how do I join SAG?
Call SAG membership office and make an appointment to join. They will tell you everything that you will need to know from there. You need to keep a copy of your vouchers and bring them with you.
How often should I expect work?
The answer to this question differs with each person depending on your look, wardrobe and skill levels. It will depend on how much production is currently filming in town. The general rule of thumb is that our busiest seasons are October through mid December and from January through April.
Why does it seem that some people who are in my category are working more than I am?
It could be a thousand different reasons—which we can’t even attempt to answer. Send your resume more often to each casting agency in the city.
What do I do if I forget or lose my work information for the next day and I can’t get through to the director that hired me?
Please call 646-205-8244 and press the correct number for Emergency Contact.
How do I know if I have been hired as union or non-union background actor?
When you are hired, make sure that you ask your casting director. Never hang up without making sure you know all the information.
What happens when I am left a voicemail and get no answer when I try to call back?
It could be that you waited to long too call back or that the director is away from their desk. The best thing that you can do is to try back later. Do not call the emergency number and don not ask “Do you know the cal time?”
What if I’m already registered with Central Casting in Los Angeles?
Even though you are entered in the data base in L.A. you still have to register here in New York. All of the information on how to register with Central Casting New York can be found by calling our Registration Hotline at 646.473.9033. Please make sure to call the hotline and listen closely to all of the details before coming in to register with Central Casting.
What do I do if I have an emergency and either can’t get to my job on time or I have to cancel my next day?
Call us immediately! The sooner we get your information, the sooner we can make arrangements.
Why does Central Casting occasionally call me late at night and change my call time for the next day?
Frequently the production company will change the time that you will be needed to arrive at work. Unfortunately that means that on occasion we will need to call you late at night to tell you the new information. We apologize for the inconvenience but, it’s a required part of the job. Please make sure that you keep your phone on and that you are checking your voicemails in the mornings.
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