Southern Casting Associates

How to Get Cast in a Tyler Perry TV Show or Movie Learn how to get cast in a Tyler Perry’s Tyler Perry Studios production Tyler Perry, the creator, and CEO of Tyler Perry Studios has dominated the film business for more than 15 years. As an actor, writer, director, and producer, he manages the biggest movie production company in Georgia and works on several films and series at once. Tyler Perry Studios (TPS) has been a significant economic force in the state, creating jobs and spending millions on the production. Perry is often praised for his work ethic and unique ability to tell stories that resonate with a large audience. Naturally, Mr. Murdoch has spent a lot of time mining for talent to participate in his numerous projects on his wide spectrum. What distinguishes Perry's films from the competition is that many of the actors who are cast in these parts are usually unknown or have struggled to obtain significant work: “There’ve been many times that people will come in and audition and they weren’t the best talents but they had a hunger and a zeal,” Perry says. “That hunger is enough to catapult them to greatness in what they’re doing. And I’m always looking for the underdog.” If you're interested in working for Tyler Perry, this in-depth guide explains how the TPS casting process works, how to audition, and advice from the man himself, as well as his casting director and actors. What is the Tyler Perry Studios' casting procedure? Casting Perry is known for his insistence on finding individuals who have something to prove, have struggled to find work, or haven't yet been given a chance. Tyler Perry Studios has long been extremely encouraging, straightforward, and approachable when it comes to people seeking a chance. The studio's official Facebook page recently shared a helpful handbook for those wanting to audition for any Tyler Perry production. To be considered for a role in a Tyler Perry film, there are a few simple things you can do: -Register with Central Casting Georgia. This is the only official agency that Perry uses for casting. Be sure to create an online profile and select "Film & Television Projects" from the list of options. - Attend one of the many open calls that are announced on the Central Casting website and in local publications such as GA casting calls. These open calls are for a wide variety of projects, including background roles, principal roles, and extras. -If you're selected to audition for a role, prepare well and give it your best shot! Many successful actors have landed their first big break by auditioning for a Tyler Perry production. Tyler Perry Studios gets the word out about casting calls for leads, minor parts, background actors/extras, dancers, musicians, and stand-ins/photo doubles using a few casting agencies, mostly Southern Casting Associates, which you can find on Project Casting. Despite being very hands-on and having the final word, Perry has enough assistance managing talent searches. Since its founding in 2006, Tyler Perry Studios has helped many aspiring actors and actresses get their start in the entertainment industry. Among its successful alumni are Tiffany Haddish, Taraji P. Henson, Lance Gross, and Keshia Knight Pulliam. To cast her films, Tyler researched the market and found that many producers were looking for a specific type of person. She started by reading each script thoroughly to figure out who she needed for it to work, then pored through notebooks full of headshots and resumes. She also sought actors from the local community, professional, and even church groups. Tyler also realized that some of the people she needed were not actors at all, but everyday citizens with interesting stories. When it comes to pulling off a production, Tyler is known for being very hands-on. She is involved in every aspect of her movies, from the writing and casting to the directing and editing. This level of involvement allows her to create the specific vision she has for each project. Sometimes she'd have to wade through more than 1,000 applications for a production that just required 20 actors, eventually narrowing down the list to about 200 for an in-person audition. In 2016, the Tyler Perry Studio team held open auditions (also known as "new talent") for Atlanta-based actors (also known as "fresh faces") to appear in current and upcoming productions. Actors who had never auditioned for the company before were now able to submit general submissions.  Finally, in 2020, the studio released a casting call for residents of Atlanta to participate as paid extras, background actors, and stand-ins on the set of Perry's White House drama "The Oval."  Check out Project Casting for more Perry auditions. Who are the most famous Tyler Perry Studios casting director? Tyler Perry Studios has had a few CDs connected to it, including Alpha Tyler and Reuben Cannon (who also produced many of Tyler's films), but Rhavynn Drummer is the main name linked to his works. Since 2011, her eye for talent has been responsible for some of the most successful TV shows and blockbusters (“For  Better or Worse,” “The Haves and the Have Nots,” “If Loving You is Wrong,” “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” “Nobody's Fool,” and “A Fall from Grace”). She also held an open call in 2016 for new actors to work on Tyler's projects. Before becoming a Casting Director, Drummer began as an intern at the firm and advanced to the positions of assistant, associate casting director, and then CD. With a background in theater acting herself, she has a distinct—and extremely actor-friendly—approach to her job. She is credited with discovering and/or developing the careers of stars like Tiffany Haddish, Keshia Knight Pulliam, Lance Gross, and Taraji P. Henson. Tyler has said that he often relies on her casting instincts to help him make decisions about his productions. So, if you're looking to work with Tyler Perry Studios, make sure to submit to Rhavynn Drummer first and foremost. She tells it like it is, sharing that TPS and the casting crew are "the human resources for talent," noting they're "always looking for new actors and musicians since I never know what part will appear in a script, so we want to be prepared." The hardest part of casting a voice actor is not the creative work, but rather fielding their auditions. Drummer also casts 10-20 speaking roles per series and three to five voice actors per film for TPS. She explains, When I cast a voice actor, I'm attempting to hear how they connect with the script and scene vocally. What is the most famous Tyler Perry Studios production? The most famous Tyler Perry Studios production is probably the "Madea" franchise, which includes the movies "Diary of a Mad Black Woman," "Madea's Family Reunion," "Boo! A Madea Halloween," and "A Madea Christmas." The franchise has been extremely successful, with each movie-making more than its predecessor at the box office. In total, the Madea movies have grossed over $500 million worldwide. Perry has also produced several other successful films, like "The Family That Preys" and "Why Did I Get Married?" What is the Tyler Perry Studios open call policy? The Tyler Perry Studios' open call policy is that they hold open calls for new talent periodically. When they do, actors who are interested in working with the studio can submit their headshots and resumes to an email address that is provided. The studio team will then review the submissions and invite actors to come in for an audition if they are interested. What Tyler Perry projects are currently casting? Tyler Perry Projects now casting include Tyler Perry’s Sistas Tyler Perry’s The Oval And so much more! Where can you find Tyler Perry Studios casting calls and auditions?   The best place to find Tyler Perry Studios casting calls and auditions is through Project Casting. Project Casting posts current casting calls on their website, as well as information on how to submit for each one.  What are the best tips for auditioning for a Tyler Perry project? If you’re gearing up for the audition room at Tyler Perry Studios and need a little boost of confidence/inspiration, check out these tips from casting directors and actors. -Be Yourself: This is possibly the most important piece of advice that can be given. Casting directors and filmmakers are always on the lookout for genuine, authentic talent, so let your true personality shine through when you audition. -Do Your Research: Come into the room knowing as much as possible about the character you’re playing and the project you’re auditioning for. This will show that you’re serious about the role and that you’ve put in the effort to prepare. -Make a Good First Impression: Dress appropriately, be on time, and be polite and respectful to everyone you encounter in the room. Remember, you want to make a good impression from the moment you walk in the door. -Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks: When you’re auditioning, it’s important to take risks and go outside of your comfort zone. Try something new and see what happens – you may just surprise yourself. -Be Confident: This one goes hand in hand with being yourself. Own your talent and be proud of your work. When you walk into that audition room, let the casting directors see how confident you are in your abilities. -Stay Positive: This industry can be tough, but it’s important to stay positive and keep your head up. There will be good days and bad days, but the key is to always move forward. -Network: Meeting other actors and casting directors is a great way to build relationships in the industry and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes. Attend industry events, workshops, and panels whenever possible. What are the most important things to remember when auditioning for Tyler Perry Studios? The most important things to remember when auditioning for Tyler Perry Studios are to be prepared and to be yourself. The studio is looking for actors who are ready to bring their best performance to the table, so make sure you know your material inside and out. And, above all else, just relax and have fun! The casting team wants to see your personality come through in your audition.  

Become a background actor Extra Career Description: A Background Actor is someone who works in front of the camera. Background actors arrive early on the set and are guided by the Production Assistant, who gives them the paperwork to fill out for that day’s work. The background extra then gets put into “holding,” which is an area where Extras spend their time until the assistant director needs them for the scene. Traditionally, the casting call will say what they will be doing that day. An extra may need to go to wardrobe if the scene requires specific clothing, props or attire. Some background actors may go to hair and makeup if they are going to be “FEATURED” in a scene. Once it is their time to film their scene, Production Assistants direct extras, most of the time, background actors receive a meal, and they eat alongside the cast and crew of the production. For scenes that require a large number of background actors, otherwise known as “Cattle Calls,” background actors will have their location for their meals. [caption id="attachment_152501" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] extras at the set Filming for the World War II action thriller Dunkirk by Urk Netherlands June 2016 - Image (fokke baarssen / Shutterstock.com)[/caption] Career Advancement for Background Actors Background actors gain access to the film industry and are a great way to make networking connections to become an actor, director, cinematographer, producer, screenwriter, and more. However, for background extras looking to become speaking role actors, many productions may upgrade an actor for a speaking role. For example, Southern Casting Associates, the extras casting company behind Tyler Perry’s TV shows, announced on Facebook that Tyler Perry upgraded background actors to principal speaking roles. “Thanks to all the talent that helped make these televisions shows happen!,” Southern Casting Associates posted on Facebook. “Congratulations to the two that got bumped to principal today as well- you know who you are.” That is not the first time Tyler Perry Upgraded background actors to principal speaking roles. On the set of Tyler Perry’s Too Close to Home,  an aspiring actor, hired to work as a background extra, was upgraded to a Principal speaking role in the series. Casting directors posted on Facebook the excellent news. “Congratulations to Hunter Watson on being bumped to a PRINCIPAL ROLE. He is signing his contract as we speak! This goes to show you that it can happen to you at ANY MOMENT when you are working with us at Tyler Perry Studio!” Education and Training for Extras Unlike many careers, a college degree is not necessary to become a background actor. The majority of background actors also do not have formal acting training. However, being a background extra does require some basic skills such as being able to follow direction. Working as an extra can also be beneficial for someone who wants to become an actor and land more prominent roles. So for anyone with a passion for a professional acting career, acting classes are essential to gain a basic set of tools. However, working as an extra allows for an actor to practice primarily in featured scenes. Skills for Background Extras Casting directors who hire background extras are looking for a specific look. It is crucial for anyone looking to become a background extra must be able to look differently for different projects. For example, a production may be filming a high school scene so actors must be able to look like students or teachers. Also, background actors with cars, bicycles, and pets are often sought after in casting calls. While someone looking for extra work may not be able to anticipate casting calls, have a wide range of looks and skills will help increase their odds of getting hired by a production. Background actors often must wait for extended portions of the day until the production needs them to shoot a scene. It is essential extras can work long hours and keep themselves busy while filming. Most importantly, background actors who are easy-going and follow directions are more likely going to get called back for more work and receive better camera-time in a scene. Casting Calls do not leave much time for planning ahead of time. Most casting notices go out between a week to a few days before the scene starts filming. Background Extras must check their emails and Project Casting often to make sure they respond immediately to any casting call for which they are eligible. Depending upon where an Extra lives, they may need to drive long distances to the shooting locations. That said, one benefit is that extras may not have to worry about working overnight or over the weekend. Productions also pay higher rates for filming dates that go longer than eight hours in a day. How to Find Extra Jobs: You can read our guide on how to find casting calls here. Background actors also gain the opportunity to other jobs including working as a stand-in and photo double. A Stand-in has similar job functions as an extra and gets paid more. Working as a Stand-in has the same experience on set as an Extra. However, Stand-ins help the Director of Photography set up lighting for a scene and are not in front of the camera once the camera starts rolling. How much does a Background Extra get paid? Background actors can earn between minimum wage to around $12/hour. If production goes beyond eight hours in a day, background extras get paid time-and-a-half. If the production goes into 12 or more hours, it becomes double pay for union actors. Actors who join the union SAG-AFTRA are often compensated more than non-union actors. A vast majority of Background Extras work is in Los Angeles, California,  New York City, New York, Chicago, Illinois, Atlanta, Georgia and Oahu, Hawaii. Continue Reading: How to Find Acting Auditions and Casting Calls How to find acting auditions and casting calls for TV shows, movies, commercials, and plays. If you are interested in becoming an actor, one of the first things you have to do is find acting… The Average Salary of an Actor Here’s how much the average actor gets paid. Millions of people dream of becoming an actor but, a small fraction of those aspiring of making it in Hollywood know how much the average actor gets… How To Become an Actor With No Acting Experience Learn how to become an actor with no acting experience – 5 tips you should know before becoming an actor. One of the most commonly asked questions is how do I become an actor without…

Tyler Perry‘s ‘The Oval‘ is now casting new background actors to work on scenes filming this week in Atlanta, Georgia. Casting directors are now casting actors, models, and talent to work on August 1st in Atlanta, Georgia. Producers are seeking the following types: 1. INAUGURAL BALL PATRONS- $112/12 Caucasian/ASIAN/LATINO/INDIAN males and females only as the other categories have been booked. 18-60 year olds whom have gowns and suits for the scene 2. MILITARY ORCHESTRA - $112/12 $112/12 Caucasian/ASIAN/LATINO/INDIAN males and females only as the other categories have been booked. 18-60 year olds whom CAN PRETEND TO PLAY AN INSTRUMENT for the scene. 3. MEET THE PRESS- $112/12 ALL ETHNICITIES-18-60 year olds WHO HAVE UPSCALE, CLEAN CUT, REPORTER LOOKS WITH BUSINESS SUITS AND PANT SUITS About Tyler Perry’s “The Oval: Related: Tyler Perry’s New Series ‘The Oval’ To Film in Atlanta This Summer Writer, director, producer and entrepreneur Tyler Perry is working on “The Oval”, which is a new BET Networks drama set in the White House and focusing on a fictional first family. Filming is set to film this summer at Tyler Perry Studios in Georgia. The show’s cast includes Ed Quinn, Kron Moore, Paige Hurd and Daniel Croix Henderson. “I’ve been hard at work on The Oval and can’t wait to share this story with audiences,” Perry said in a press release. “I’ve set out to create a show that tells the story of a family placed in the White House by people of power while also highlighting the personal side and everyday lives of the staff who run the inner workings of the nation’s most iconic residence.” Tyler Perry, 49, wrote the series and will also be directing and producing the project. His many credits include the Madea franchise as well as the OWN series, “The Haves and the Have Nots”. How to apply: Southern Casting Associates at Tyler Perry Studios is now accepting submissions for 8/1/19 this THURSDAY for a few roles. See below for rates, breakdowns, details and how to apply: 1. INAUGURAL BALL PATRONS- $112/12 Caucasian/ASIAN/LATINO/INDIAN males and females only as the other categories have been booked. 18-60 year olds whom have gowns and suits for the scene-To apply: send a headshot, resume, direct contact number, city/state you are located out of to: [email protected] subject line: " INAUGURAL " 2. MILITARY ORCHESTRA-$112/12 $112/12 Caucasian/ASIAN/LATINO/INDIAN males and females only as the other categories have been booked. 18-60 year olds whom CAN PRETEND TO PLAY AN INSTRUMENT for the scene. To apply: send a headshot, resume, direct contact number, city/state you are located out of to: [email protected] subject line: " BAND " 3. MEET THE PRESS-$112/12 ALL ETHNICITIES-18-60 year olds WHO HAVE UPSCALE, CLEAN CUT, REPORTER LOOKS WITH BUSINESS SUITS AND PANT SUITS-To apply: send a headshot, resume, direct contact number, city/state you are located out of to: [email protected] subject line: " PRESS " SEE YOU ON SET! Related: How to Find Acting Auditions and Casting Calls Please do not apply, if you are not local or if you do not fit the description. What do you think? Discuss this story with other fans on Instagram @projectcasting

Tyler Perry is now casting background actors for a featured role in Atlanta for a new series. Casting directors are now casting actors, models, and talent to work on scenes filming in August. Southern Casting Associates, who has cast for several Tyler Perry TV shows and movies and recently announced production for Tyler Perry’s ‘The Oval’ is now casting background actors in Atlanta. Casting directors are now casting actors, models, and talent to work on scenes filming on July 8th in Atlanta, Georgia. Casting directors are casting background actors for recurring and multiple day bookings. Producers are seeking the following types: 1. WIFE of a main character. 18-40 year olds- females only-No lines but HIGH visibility. 2. BAND MEMBERS - If you have your own guitar GREAT, otherwise apply if you play music or NOT as we will be pretending/pantomiming to play in a small 5 person BAND scene similar to a graduation party. How to apply: PICTURE PICK Casting call now accepting submissions for a director's pick for the following roles, see below. PROFESSIONAL head-shots recommended but not necessary. All rates are $112/12 and shoot in August-we do not have a date yet so flexible schedules/ open availability is preferred. 1. WIFE of a main character. 18-40 year olds- females only-No lines but HIGH visibility. $112/12 Asian, Latin or Caucasian females as that is what the SCRIPT calls for. To apply send a professional head shot, resume, direct contact number to: [email protected] subject line " WIFEY" 2. BAND MEMBERS-If you have your own guitar GREAT, otherwise apply if you play music or NOT as we will be pretending/pantomiming to play in a small 5 person BAND scene similar to a graduation party. 18-60 year old males and females of all ethnicities for this shoot. To apply send a head shot, resume, direct contact number to: [email protected] subject line "BAND" 3. MILITARY VET with your own uniform preferred but not necessary. 18-60 year old males and females of all ethnicities to be in a small collection of vets on stage. Not a veteran, NOT A PROB! We will have you fit for a uniform if you have the right look. To apply send a head shot, resume, direct contact number to: [email protected] subject line "VET" This shoots 7/25-7/31 tentatively. No exp. acting no problem, great additional/ summer income! Related: How to Find Acting Auditions and Casting Calls Please do not apply, if you are not local or if you do not fit the description. What do you think? Discuss this story with other fans on Instagram @projectcasting