Naked Auditions

Nudity is perhaps not so prevalent in theatre, but it is quite likely some of you may encounter this situation in auditioning for roles in films. I'm paraphrasing here, but these are roughly the professional guidelines from legitimate practices such as Actors Equity and the Screen Actors Guild. Amateur auditions would do well to follow a similar code: In no particular order: The Artist is not required to disrobe or partially disrobe at a first audition. Subsequent call backs must be specifically designated for that purpose. Also, a director can't simply keep giving you 'call backs'. After the first certain number, legally they ought to pay you for your time to attend more call backs. (This is true whether nudity is involved or not). Details such as what specific scenes or episodes in the play, film or TV; the extent of disrobing (ie full, partial, underwear, see-through tops etc); the treatment or purpose of the nude scenes; who else will be present in the scene, whether there is any body-to-body contact; whether there is any simulated sex act; the duration of the scene; etc; must all be spelled out and made clear beforehand. Any part of an audition displaying nudity is to take place after other acting, singing, dancing, etc audition pieces have been performed. The credentials of anyone present are to be established as to their reason for attending. The director, producer, choreographer, another actor to read in the scene, etc, may be considered legitimate. Others with no legitimate concern may be asked to leave. The Artist is allowed to nominate a person to attend the audition (or the rehearsing or filming of a nude scene). This could be a parent, partner, trusted friend, etc. No part of the audition can be filmed. Still shots (polaroids) may be taken, with the artist's permission for each shot, and the artist has the power to view and veto any such photos prior to their use. Naturally there are huge legal requirements concerning naked photography or film, who is responsible for storing it, its legitimate use for audition purposes, and when it needs to be destroyed or returned to the artist after the process. Occupational Health and Safety requires a safe and secure environment for such activity - ie access to a bathroom to prepare if necessary, adequate heating, protection from environmental hazards, etc. The legal age of the auditionee is obviously a factor. Once you actually are offered the part, there are other guidelines for the conduct of the experience. For example a closed set, where only the essential staff are present - camera/sound/makeup, etc. Having a robe available to cover up immediately prior and after the shooting, etc. You also have rights concerning whether a body double is used, ie it can't be represented on film, through editing, that you were nude, without your express approval. If you ever have concerns in a professional situation involving an audition for theatre or screen, contact the MEAA Equity for more specific details. Cheers, Craig ~<8>-/====\---------