Reality Shows Open Calls

If you've always wanted to be a contestant on reality shows, open calls are one way to get involved with the application and casting process. Open calls for reality TV shows attract a wide variety of people from all walks of life with a common goal: getting on their favorite show and competing to win the top prize.

Open calls involve waiting to be seen by producers.

Open calls, also called open casting calls, are held by production companies searching for contestants on television shows. These calls are set up in major cities across the country, usually at a local arena or event hall. Sometimes, however, the calls will take place outdoors or at a local, well-known bar or restaurant.

Dates and times for the open calls are announced and becomes an open invitation for anyone to come and try out for the show. These reality shows open calls can generate a huge turnout depending on the popularity of the show and the number of people who are willing to go through the casting process.

The first thing you can expect at an open call for a reality show is a long lineup. People tend to arrive very early to ensure a spot in line. You have likely seen the footage from the American Idol auditions, for example, with thousands of hopeful contestants packing the arena where auditions are being held. This is not unusual at all, at least for the popular reality TV shows. Plan to get there as early as possible!

The process for auditions at reality shows open calls generally goes something like this:

• Potential contestants line up for a chance to meet the casting staff and/or judging panel.
• Everyone in line (or up to the cut-off point) is assigned a number or otherwise grouped.
• Applications are handed out and must be filled in completely.
• Small groups are called in for initial screening. Here, you'll meet someone from the casting crew who will go over your application and ask you a few questions about yourself.
• If you make it through this initial selection step, it's on to meet the producers or judging panel.
• You'll have approximately two minutes to make a good impression, depending on the format of the auditions.

Of course each show chooses their cast differently, so there will be variations on the process from show to show. If it's a talent-based competition, for example, you'll have to perform your particular skill for judges. Otherwise, the production staff is looking at personality and appearance.

There are several places you can look online for open casting calls, including:

• Network websites, like CBS, NBC, FOX, and ABC.
• Reality Wanted
• Craigslist – Check your nearest major city, as well as New York and Los Angeles, where most of the casting originates.
• Reality TV Websites – Many reality television sites that are run by fans include a section for open calls.

Once you've been to a couple of open calls it will start to seem like a familiar experience. There are a few things to keep in mind when auditioning for any show including:

• Dress comfortably, in your own style. While sexy outfits are fine, you should avoid wearing anything too revealing.
• Read the casting call announcement carefully and make sure you bring anything requested, such as identification, photographs, or a printed application form.
• Bring bottled water, snacks, reading material, and anything else you'll need to ensure you don't lose your place in line by running out to pick something up.
• When your turn comes up to meet with the casting staff, be yourself. Try to bring out the best aspects of your personality without going overboard.

If you've completed a casting call and made it through to meet the producers or judges, congratulations! It them becomes a waiting game to see if you've made it on the show. Generally speaking, staff will give you some idea of the time frame within which you can expect to hear back from them.

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