How to Become an Extra on The Wire

Acting is one of the most common aspirations in life. Few actually make it to a full-fledged acting career. For those who don't make it to Hollywood or New York, acting may start out with parts as extras. "The Wire," for example, is shot entirely in the city of Baltimore, Maryland. The show has embraced the city and offers locals the opportunity to be extras on the show.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Contact an extras casting service. There are some casting companies that specialize in getting extras on a set. Centralcastinguse.com is a good place to start. An Internet search on Yahoo Hot Jobs may also reveal extra opportunities. Enter Baltimore into any search request for best results.

2. Have head shots and proper ID available. Professional services will want to see pictures and verify a legal right to work in the United states. Legal ID will include drivers' license, social security card or a passport. Make sure these items are up to date.

3. Decide if a SAG membership is necessary. "The Wire" is a SAG set, but is it not necessary to be a member of the Screen Actors Guild in order to be an extra. There are a variety of ways to gain membership. Visit SAG.org to get the details. Membership is a personal decision, but will no doubt improve access to a set like "The Wire."

4. Be prepared to arrive on set at a moment's notice with head shots and ID. The role of an extra is not a glamorous one. It may require long periods of sitting and standing around waiting for the director to get to the scene involving extras. Keep the attitude positive and show behind the scenes staff a low maintenance actor willing to do whatever is necessary.