Chicago Casting Calls & Acting Auditions

Casting Call for Independent LGBTQ Short Film “Marimba Two”

Synopsis: “Marimba Two” unfolds on the emotionally charged night of the last high school concert, where two young lovers confront the reality of their diverging futures. In a bold move, one lover secretly invites the other’s unapproving parents to the concert, setting the stage for an evening of revelation, confrontation, and the testing of their bond. This story weaves themes of love, acceptance, and the pursuit of one’s true self, against the backdrop of youth and music.

Roles Available:

1. Cam (Lead Role) – Male or Female, 18yo

   • Character Brief: Cam is a charming slacker with a heart of gold. Despite their laid-back demeanor, they find profound purpose in building a future with their partner, Noel. Cam’s journey is one of self-discovery, love, and learning to fight for what truly matters.

2. Noel (Lead Role) – Male or Female, 18yo

   • Character Brief: Noel is a highly ambitious and immensely talented musician, caught between their dreams and the heavy expectations of their demanding parents. They are a people-pleaser by nature, which complicates their desires and relationship with Cam. Noel’s story explores the conflict between personal ambition and love, and the courage it takes to pursue one’s own path.

Job Responsibilities:

• Collaborate closely with the director and other cast members to bring the story and characters to life.
• Participate in rehearsals as scheduled by the director.
• Be available for costume fittings, script read-throughs, and promotional activities related to the film.
• Contribute to a positive, creative environment on set.

Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Strong acting skills with the ability to convey deep emotional states and complex relationships.
• Previous acting experience in film, theater, or similar is preferred but not required.
• Must be comfortable with LGBTQ themes and content.
• Ability to work well under pressure and adapt to changes in the shooting schedule.
• Must be local to Houston or willing to travel/relocate for the duration of the shoot (travel/accommodation not provided).

Compensation Details:

• Roles are paid. Specific compensation details will be provided upon selection.
• Credit in the film, promotional materials, and IMDB listing.
• A great opportunity to be part of a passionate project with visibility in the LGBTQ film community.

Casting Call: Industrial Web Video Host for How-To Web Series

Job Details:
Sprinkler Warehouse, a leading provider in the irrigation supply industry, is currently seeking a dynamic and engaging individual to host our upcoming how-to web series. This series aims to educate and inform our audience on various aspects of irrigation and sprinkler systems through informative and engaging web videos. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about presenting and has a knack for making complex topics easily understandable.

Job Responsibilities:

• Host and lead our industrial how-to web series, presenting content in an engaging and informative manner.
• Work with our content team to understand the topics and scripts for each episode.
• Utilize a teleprompter during shoots to deliver content professionally.
• Commit to filming 1-2 days per month, with potential for additional days based on content schedule.
• Provide feedback and collaborate with the production team to improve episode quality.

Requirements:

• Must be between the ages of 20-60, open to all genders.
• Friendly, charismatic personality with a natural on-camera presence.
• Excellent verbal communication skills and ability to convey information clearly.
• Proficient with teleprompter usage is a must.
• Previous experience in hosting, acting, or public speaking is highly preferred.
• Ability to understand and communicate technical information related to irrigation systems is a plus.
• Must be located in or able to commute to Houston, Texas for filming.

Compensation Details:

• This is a paid role. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience.
• Specific payment details will be discussed during the hiring process.

Casting Call for Heritage Safety Video Shoot

Overview:
Sprinkler Warehouse is seeking talented actors for an upcoming industrial safety video shoot. This video aims to highlight the critical importance of safety awareness in the workplace through the comedic yet educational misadventures of two characters. We are casting for two key roles for a 4-day shoot in Katy, TX. This is an excellent opportunity for actors interested in contributing to workplace safety education while showcasing their acting and, for one role, stunt capabilities.

Synopsis:
The video will focus on the importance of safety in the workplace, portrayed through the comedic adventures of two accident-prone characters, highlighting the dangers of negligence and lack of safety awareness.

Roles Available:

1. Dirk
   • Gender: Male
   • Age: 20-50 years old
   • Character Overview: Dirk is a clueless warehouse worker whose lack of attention and safety awareness causes numerous accidents. We are looking for an actor who can bring humor and a touch of naivety to the role, making the serious message of safety engaging and relatable.
2. Lucky
   • Gender: Male
   • Age: 20-40 years old
   • Character Overview: Lucky is the hapless victim of Dirk’s poor decisions. This role requires the actor to perform simple stunts, including slips, trips, and falls, making previous stunt work or physical comedy experience a must.

Job Responsibilities:

• Work closely with the director and crew to bring the characters to life.
• Attend all scheduled shoot days and necessary rehearsals.
• For Lucky: Perform stunts safely and convincingly under the supervision of a stunt coordinator.

Requirements:

• Professional acting experience in film, TV, or theater.
• For Lucky: Previous experience in stunt work or physical comedy.
• Ability to take direction and work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Must be available for the entire shoot period between February 19th and March 15th.
• Local to Katy, TX, or able to self-relocate for the shoot duration.

Compensation:

• Roles are paid. Specific compensation details will be provided upon application review.

Casting Call for Short Film “She Loves Her John”

Synopsis:

“She Loves Her John” delves into the journey of redemption, exploring the complex emotions that follow betrayal, and the contemplation on moving forward. This narrative seeks to unfold the resilience of the human spirit in the face of heartbreak and adversity.

Cast Needed:

1. Female Lead: Late 20s to early 30s, Hispanic/Latina, attractive, athletic/physically fit. The character is a strong, resilient woman navigating her path through emotional turmoil and seeking redemption.

2. Male Lead: Late 20s to early 30s, attractive, athletic/physically fit, open to any ethnicity. The character is central to the unfolding of the story’s themes of betrayal and redemption.

Job Responsibilities:

• Collaborate closely with the director and other cast members to bring the story to life.

• Participate in rehearsals as scheduled by the production team.

• Be available for the entire shooting schedule in mid-March 2024 in Beaumont, Texas.

• Engage in promotional activities for the film as required.

Requirements:

• Must fit the age and physical descriptions as outlined above.

• Prior acting experience preferred but not mandatory.

• Must be available for an in-person audition on Saturday, January 20th in Houston.

• Must be available for the entire shooting period in mid-March 2024.

• Must be legally eligible to work in the United States.

Compensation:

• Roles are paid. Specific compensation details will be discussed upon casting.

• Travel and accommodation for non-local hires will be provided during the shooting period.

Crew Call for Nexo Latino TV Show on HTV

About the Show: Nexo Latino (Latin Nexus) is a pioneering Spanish-language television series dedicated to championing Hispanic entrepreneurs. Premiering on HTV, the City of Houston Government Channel, Nexo Latino is designed to showcase business success stories, offer invaluable resources, and introduce cutting-edge technology tools specifically catered to the Hispanic business community’s needs and aspirations.

Job Overview: We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Bilingual Production Assistant to join our dynamic team. This role is crucial in supporting the day-to-day operations of our production, ensuring that our content is engaging, empowering, and perfectly tailored to our audience. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in TV production and contribute to a show that makes a difference in the Hispanic entrepreneurial community.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist in the production of the TV show, including pre-production planning and on-set tasks.
• Support the coordination of schedules, equipment, and logistics for shoots.
• Provide administrative support to the production team, including data entry and managing correspondence.
• Help with set-up and breakdown of equipment and sets.
• Facilitate communication between different departments and team members.
• Perform additional duties as required to ensure the smooth operation of the production.

Requirements:

• Proficiency in both English and Spanish is mandatory.
• Strong interest in television production, media, and the Hispanic business community.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours and weekends as needed.
• Previous experience in TV production or related field is a plus, but not required.

Compensation: This is an unpaid volunteer position. However, it offers invaluable experience in the television industry, an opportunity to network with professionals, and a chance to contribute to a show with significant impact on the Hispanic business community.

Casting Call: Eco Representative for TV Series Shoot

About Earth Angel: Earth Angel Sustainable Production Services LLC is at the forefront of integrating sustainable solutions into the entertainment industry. Our mission revolves around three core principles: Simplifying sustainable practices, Saving resources (both material and monetary), and Showing the progress and impact of our initiatives. We aim to lead by example, influencing all entertainment industry stakeholders to adopt eco-friendly practices.

Job Details: As an Eco Representative, you will be an essential part of our crew, working on a TV series shoot in the Houston area. This role is similar to that of a Production Assistant, with a specialized focus on promoting and implementing sustainable practices on set. You will work under the guidance of our experienced team to ensure the production’s environmental footprint is minimized, aligning with Earth Angel’s mission of sustainability.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development and implementation of sustainability plans for the production.
• Monitor and manage waste diversion efforts, including recycling and composting.
• Work closely with all departments to encourage sustainable practices.
• Educate crew and cast members on eco-friendly initiatives and practices.
• Track and report on sustainability metrics, including resource savings and waste reduction.
• Help source sustainable materials and supplies for the production.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support the production team and sustainability goals.

Requirements:

• Passion for sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new sustainability strategies and technologies.
• Previous experience in film/TV production or environmental studies is a plus but not required.
• Must be available for the entire duration of the shoot from March 4th to April 16th.

Compensation:

• This is a paid position. Compensation details will be provided upon application.

Casting Call: Various Crew Positions for “MO Season 2”

Synopsis:

“MO Season 2” continues the captivating journey of Mo Najjar, a character caught in the whirlwind of navigating two distinct cultures, mastering three languages, and enduring “a ton of bullshit.” This compelling narrative delves into the life of a Palestinian refugee teetering on the brink of asylum, ardently pursuing U.S. citizenship. The series is celebrated for its raw depiction of the immigrant experience, infused with heart, humor, and the relentless quest for identity and belonging.

Job Details:

Hot Costs, LLC invites talented and passionate individuals to join the crew of “MO Season 2,” a production slated for filming in Houston during March and April 2024. We are assembling a diverse team committed to bringing the story of Mo Najjar to life, capturing the essence of his journey through cinematic excellence.

Crew Positions Available:

• Camera Crew
• Grips
• Electrics
• Costume Department
• Set Dressers
• Art Department Assistants
• Location Assistants
• Cast Assistants
• Office Production Assistants
• Set Production Assistants

Job Responsibilities:

• Collaborate closely with department heads and the production team to ensure a seamless execution of the project.
• Contribute creative and technical skills to various stages of production, from pre-production planning to post-production wrap-up.
• Maintain professionalism and a positive attitude in a fast-paced, dynamic filming environment.
• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment for all crew members.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in the respective field of application (portfolio or reel may be requested).
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as required by the shooting schedule.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the workplace and in representation on screen.
• Local to Houston, TX, or willing to work as a local (preferred, but not mandatory).

Compensation Details:

• All crew positions are paid. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and role.
• Specific details regarding rates and payment schedules will be discussed during the hiring process.

Casting Call: Warehouse Associate

Texcam, Inc. is Houston’s leading rental house, offering an extensive range of cameras, lighting, and grip equipment. With over 30 years in the industry, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality gear and exceptional customer service to the film and television production community. We are currently seeking a dedicated Warehouse Associate to join our team and support our operations.

Job Description:

As a Warehouse Associate at Texcam, Inc., you will play a crucial role in maintaining and preparing our inventory of grip and lighting equipment. This position requires a hands-on approach to ensure all equipment is in optimal working condition, ready to meet the demands of our clients. You will work closely with our team to manage inventory, perform quality checks, and ensure accurate order fulfillment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Inspect, maintain, and repair grip and lighting equipment to ensure all items are in good working order.

• Conduct thorough check-ins of returned orders, verifying accuracy and completeness.

• Test equipment functionality to ensure reliability and performance standards are met.

• Perform minor to mid-level repairs and general preventative maintenance on all gear.

• Assist in loading and unloading trucks, organizing warehouse space, and preparing equipment for rental.

• Utilize our rental management software to process orders and maintain accurate inventory records.

• Drive company vehicles as needed and work towards obtaining a CDL with air brake endorsement.

Requirements:

• Proven knowledge of grip and lighting equipment, including familiarity with its functions and applications.

• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform minor to mid-level equipment repairs.

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record; willingness to obtain a CDL with air brake endorsement.

• Reliable transportation to and from work.

• Basic computer skills to navigate rental management software.

• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.

• Ability to lift and move heavy equipment and work in a physically demanding environment.

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with a commitment to providing great customer service.

Compensation Details:

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.

• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance.

• Opportunities for professional development and training for CDL certification.

Casting Call: Major Kids Brand Commercial

About the Project:
We are currently casting for a major commercial campaign for a leading kids brand. This project seeks to showcase the diverse talents of young individuals in a vibrant and engaging manner. We are looking for real skill and authenticity in each role, not just acting ability. This is an exciting opportunity for talented youngsters to be a part of a major brand’s marketing initiative, which will be widely distributed across various media platforms.

Roles and Responsibilities:
We are casting for the following roles. Please note that for each role, the talent must possess the actual skills described:

1. [REAL DRUMMER]: Ages 8 to 10, all ethnicities, any gender. Candidates must have genuine drumming skills and be able to perform believably on camera.

2. [REAL BREAKDANCER]: Ages 8 to 10, all ethnicities, any gender. Looking for individuals with real breakdancing abilities who can execute moves confidently.

3. [REAL TRICK SHOT]: Ages 12 to 14, all ethnicities, boys. Must have basic basketball trickshot abilities and can perform them on camera.

4. [REAL YOGA]: Ages 10 to 12, all ethnicities, any gender. Seeking individuals with a basic understanding of yoga and the ability to demonstrate poses.

5. [REAL SKATER]: Ages 10 to 12, all ethnicities, any gender. Looking for skaters with genuine skateboarding skills.

6. [POUCH TOSS (Cornhole)]: Ages 12 to 14, all ethnicities, any gender. Candidates should have experience and skill in playing Cornhole.

7. [HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER TEAM]: Ages 13 to 15, all ethnicities, girls. Seeking a team or individuals with real soccer skills.

8. [DOUBLE DUTCH SCENE]: Ages 10 to 12, all ethnicities, any gender. Must have skills in double dutch jump roping.

Requirements:

• Must fit the age range and skill level specified for the desired role.

• Able to submit a self-tape video showcasing the required skill(s) for the role.

• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. (if applicable).

• Parent or guardian approval and supervision for minors.

Compensation Details:

• Talent will receive a payment of $500 for their participation.

• An additional $500 buyout for the commercial rights.

• This is a non-union project.

Casting Call: Actor/Actress for Mockumentary TV Show

Job Details: We are seeking diverse and talented individuals to fill various roles in an upcoming mockumentary-style television show. Applicants should be prepared to deliver comedic and improvisational performances that contribute to the satirical nature of the mockumentary genre. The ability to embody unique and quirky characters convincingly is crucial.

Job Responsibilities:

• Participate in readings and rehearsals as scheduled by the director.
• Deliver performances that align with the creative vision of the show.
• Engage with improvisational scenarios while maintaining the integrity of the character.
• Work cooperatively with the cast and crew to ensure a smooth production process.
• Be available for costume fittings and makeup sessions as required by the production team.
• Adhere to the production schedule, including call times and wrap times.

Requirements:

• Previous acting experience in film, TV, or theater is preferred.
• Strong improvisational skills and comedic timing.
• Ability to take direction and adapt performance as needed.
• Reliable transportation to and from the set.
• Flexible schedule to accommodate shooting times, which may include nights and weekends.
• Legal eligibility to work in the entertainment industry in the United States.

Compensation Details:

• The role is a paid position, with compensation rates to be discussed upon application approval.
• Payment terms and conditions will be outlined in the talent contract.