Become a Supporting Artiste
Want to find work as a supporting artist films and TV productions made in the UK?
What is a Supporting Artist?
Supporting Artist is the new industry term for film and television “extras” or “background artists” working in film and television. Supporting Artists mainly work in the background of a scene, but may occasionally be asked to perform a few words or lines and may be asked to use “special skills” (horse-riding, driving, weapon handling etc).
Who becomes a “Supporting Artist”?
Supporting Artist's come from all backgrounds, ages and ethnic groups.
Supporting Artists are all sorts of “real people” like you and me!
A background
in the performing arts helps and performing arts schools supply lots of people
into the profession. Naturally, an interest in performance and performing is
essential, however, many people who have simply always dreamt of doing some
acting and appearing on TV or on film, but who have little or no special
training, are working regularly as Supporting Artists.
Do I have to be a member of a union?
No, but if you are working regularly we recommend that you think about joining one.
Extra Film or extra TV?
Are you keen to be a film extra or TV extra? Want to work in a video production or a film production? Is it better to work as a movie extra - or just in TV? Actually, most Supporting Artists work in ALL these areas.
Should you join a film and television extra agency?
We recommend that if you are serious about being a Supporting Artist you join a reputable extras agency. Possibly more than one…
How does casting work?
There are various ways to be cast as a Supporting Artist. Most agencies regularly put their Supporting Artists forward for castings. You can also check in industry publications like “The Stage”.
Can you contact casting agents & casting directors?
No, we do not recommend this route. However, being a part of Polease means that you have the chance to be seen by lots of reputable Casting Agencies and individual Casting Agents searching for a particular ‘look’ or special skill.
