Cracking the Scene: How to Become an Extra in Toronto

Introduction

Toronto, Canada's largest city, has long been a hub for the entertainment industry. Home to luminaries such as Drake and The Weeknd, Toronto also plays host to countless film and television productions each year. Securing a position as an extra can be an exciting way to get a foot in the door of this lively, engaging and glamorous field. In this guide, we reveal the steps you need to take to become an extra in Toronto.

Understand the Role of an Extra

Extras, also referred to as "background performers," add depth and authenticity to a scene by mimicking real-life scenarios. They don't have lines but they are a crucial part of any production as they bring the cinematic world to life. Consequently, it's important not only to be prompt and professional but also to be realistic in your portrayal of everyday life.

Get Comfortable On Camera

To prepare for work as an extra, you may consider enrolling in acting classes or workshops. While this isn't strictly necessary for background work, it can boost your confidence and comfort on set, and may open doors to more substantial on-camera roles.

Register with Casting Agencies

Casting agencies are pivotal resources for aspiring extras. Agencies in Toronto such as the Background Performer's Casting Agency or Melissa Lee's Casting regularly post casting calls for extras on their websites. Registering with one or more of these agencies can lead to more opportunities.

Resume and Headshots

A professional resume and headshot are necessary when registering with casting agencies. Your resume should outline any relevant experience, including acting classes, theatre performances, and previous work as an extra. Your headshot, on the other hand, needs to be a high-quality, recent photo that showcases your ability to suit a range of roles.

Prepare for the Audition

Although extras don’t typically have lines, there’s a good chance you’ll have to audition. This might involve demonstrating your ability to act naturally in a crowd or busy public scene.

Get ACTRA Membership

The Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) represents performers in the film, radio, and television industry. Membership provides access to certain benefits and protections. While not mandatory to get extra work, it can offer more opportunities.

Be Flexible and Patient

Being an extra often means early call times and long days on set, so flexibility is key. Moreover, patience is critical as it can take time to hear back about applications or to move up in the industry.

Network

The entertainment industry thrives on connections. Networking with fellow extras, crew members, and industry professionals can lead to more opportunities and steadily advance your career.

Conclusion

Becoming an extra in Toronto is an exciting venture. The path demands patience, flexibility, and dedication. However, with the right guidance, solid professionalism, and a fair bit of grit, you can make your mark in Toronto's vibrant entertainment landscape. So go ahead, step onto the set, and bring your unique spark to the cinematic landscape of Toronto!