Union Extra Work in Detroit
Detroit's job market might require some hustle, but putting in the extra effort can be your key to breaking in. While the sheer volume of available work can be discouraging, it also presents a valuable opportunity to gain experience and industry knowledge. Landing a union affiliation in Detroit can be challenging, but there are workarounds. Reach out to local casting directors and inquire about opportunities for unionized background actors. This approach allows you to connect with casting professionals and build name recognition. Sure, it might take a bit more persistence, but it's a solid way to get your foot in the door of the Detroit film scene.
Being a union member can provide a slight advantage in landing film work, especially for productions shot locally. Since these films are close to the city, they frequently recruit crew members from the established union talent pool within the industry.
Joining the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) is a great first step if you're looking for extra work in Detroit, but for extras specifically, a tie to AFTRA might be more beneficial.
While both unions offer valuable support, AFTRA maintains a specific database for extras. This database allows directors and casting directors to easily find potential extras who are a good fit for their Detroit productions. In the fast-paced world of filmmaking, saving time on casting can be a major advantage, and after all, time is money.
Therefore, upon joining either union, be sure to submit a headshot and resume to the AFTRA headquarters in Detroit so you can be included in this extras file
The first step to becoming a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) member is to join another performers' union and remain there for at least a year. After that, you'll need to secure work as a principal extra, which involves a speaking role or appearing on screen for a significant amount of time, within the union's jurisdiction. However, there's one seemingly circular requirement: SAG membership itself is necessary to qualify for SAG membership. This stipulation likely refers to needing sponsorship from a current member to complete the application process.
Detroit residents with acting aspirations can land work as SAG extras. While productions in Detroit typically require a small number of SAG extras daily, missing a shoot opens the door for non-union replacements who will receive a voucher for their work.
Aspiring actors in Detroit and other U.S. cities seeking SAG membership need to acquire three SAG vouchers. Securing these vouchers hinges on professionalism and memorizing the assistant director's name. Going the extra mile by being helpful on set, staying inconspicuous, and demonstrating patience will also leave a positive impression. Following a shoot, sending a thank you note to the assistant director can further solidify a good rapport. For those on the SAG membership path, the assistant director's mailing address can be located online through the Director's Guild of America (DGA).