The Importance of Having a Good Reader for Your Auditions and How to Find One
When cranking out self tapes, it’s easy for the reader to become an afterthought.
In a time when audition turnarounds are getting quicker, our readers are often drawn from the pool of the most convenient: roommates, spouses, friends, etc. Sometimes that can be a great solution, but it’s important to remember that a skilled reader can make a big difference in the quality of an audition.
Here’s why a good reader is more important than you think and where you can find one.
Why a Good Reader is Important
The main function of a reader in a self tape is to showcase the person auditioning. You’re striving for someone who can support the flow of the audition without distracting from your performance.
Remember, a good reader can go a long way toward helping an audition sound and look professional. Volume is important. A reader’s volume should not be so loud that it competes with the auditioning actor, but not so quiet that it is difficult to hear.
A good reader also has good timing and can match and support your take on the pace of the scene during your self tape. The other advantage of a good reader is that they can help you come alive in front of the camera. Having someone who you can connect with and bounce off of will give the energy of the scene a boost.
Ideally, your reader will have experience in the industry. Good actors often make good readers. It helps to have someone that you’re comfortable with as well.
You want someone who will put you at ease when you’re filming, and who will respond quickly and well to any requests you might need to make for different takes.
Where to Find A Good Reader
Actor friends are a great go-to when looking for readers. Building a self tape support network of people that you can habitually swap taping auditions and reader services with gives you a huge advantage.
If you can’t find another actor to read for you, non-actor industry professionals are also a great resource. Your reader doesn’t have to be connected to the entertainment industry to be good at it. Start taking note of what you rely on in a reader and who best suits that.
If you’re new to town or new to the acting business, you might not have a large industry support system yet. Check out your local actor community on social media. You’ll find many groups where local actors support one another. Don’t be afraid to put out a blast on social and see who responds.
Remote options, while trickier, are also doable. I’ve known actors to zoom cross-country with their preferred readers in a pinch.
Remember, it’s ok to be picky about your reader. This is your career, and you don’t need to use a reader who doesn’t work for you out of guilt or politeness. Readers are an essential component of a good audition, so when you have the opportunity to choose one, make the most of it!
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