How to be an extra on "One Tree Hill"

Are you a fan of the hit television series, "One Tree Hill?" Ever wonder how you could be part of the show? I can tell you how easy it is! If you are planning a trip to North Carolina in the future, or already live in the Wilmington area, read on to learn how to watch your favorite stars in action, while getting paid for it too!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A recent photo of yourself

1. If you live in the Wilmington, North Carolina area, this will be easier for you to do. Your first step would be to stop by the Fincannon & Associates Casting Office at 1235 North 23rd Street, Wilmington, NC 28405. Bring a recent photo of yourself, or for only $1, they can take a picture of you there.

2. When arriving at the office, tell whomever is at the front desk that you are interested in doing some extra work. They will give you a basic information card to fill out. List any experience you have, your physical features, and contact information. Although there is no specific place to write it on the card, I would add your availability if possible. If you are unemployed, write "Open availability" with an asterisk next to it. This shows that you can work at a moments notice, which is usually how it goes in this industry.

3. If you live outside the area, but considering a vacation to Wilmington, or willing to travel from other cities in North or South Carolina, Step 3 is for you. Send a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope, or SASE, to the address above (directed to "Extras Casting"). When the casting office receives your SASE, they will send you the basic information card that needs to be filled out. When you are finished, attach a recent photo and mail both back to "Extras Casting." You may want to include a note detailing when you expect to visit Wilmington.

4. 
    

   Once the casting office has your information card and photo, all that is left to do is... WAIT. However, you can show them how interested you are by giving them a call at the beginning of the week to see if "there is any extra work" for the week. The number is [phone]. If you are not a local, it is important that a week or so before you make your trip, you call the office to let them know when you will be in town.

5. When there is extra work available, a casting assistant will give you an initial call to make sure you can work the day they need you. If you have some other obligation, let them know you greatly appreciate them considering you, but you are not available that day, and hope they think of you for the next time. If you think you can get out of your obligation, tell the casting assistant you have to clear your schedule, and you will call back soon. If you can afford to do so, moving around your schedule to do extra work shows that you are reliable, and therefore more likely to be called again.

6. So everything has worked out, and you are finally getting the chance to work on your favorite show? Congrats! Extra work is great for anyone that wants to make a little money, while getting an insiders peek into the business. After you get that phone call, WRITE down all the information the casting assistant gives you. This will be your call time, the location you need to report to, and what you need to wear. Immediately Google map the location and get clear directions to where you are working. Bring a couple changes of clothing, just in case the wardrobe department doesn't agree with what you are wearing. And most importantly, show up 15-30 minutes BEFORE your call time. This is a job, like any other. Please, act accordingly and professionally.

7. 
    

   If you've do everything right up to this point, you will escorted into "extras holding" where you wait to be called to set. On and off set, you absolutely need to listen to whomever is speaking to you, and more importantly - be patient. Do not ask anyone in charge about "when you are going to be used" or "when is lunch?" They will give you clear directions, and you must follow them if you want to work again. You will always be given a task during the scene (walk diagonal to that door, look at the different items for sale in this window, etc). Do this every take, without looking into the camera, or speaking out loud. The sound department can pick up the softest of sounds. Learn to pantomime so it looks like you are talking, but really just moving your mouth.

Tips & Warnings

• NOTE: "One Tree Hill" films at specific times of the year, and usually not during the summer. Do not expect to work as an extra if you plan to visit then. You can however, still take a tour of the studio, and the city in search of filming locations.
• Extra work involves A LOT of sitting around and waiting to be called to set. I would recommend you bring a book, homework, cards, or anything else to pass the time. Some extras bring folding chairs, and their ipods. Dress appropriately for the weather. Extras holding may be outside. Bring a coat or a blanket to keep warm while you are waiting.
• Casting assistants love extras with flexible schedules. It is okay to call and remind them of this. However, DO NOT call them every day. Once a week (on a Monday) is plenty! If you call anymore then that, you are running the risk of never being called ever. They are busy people. If you interrupt their work too many times, they will remember you, but in a negative way.
• If you show up late, or sometimes even too close to your call time, you run the risk of being sent home for the day. You have to sign in with the casting assistant before your call time. This means if there are lots of extras and you have to wait in line for a while, you may sign in late, and ultimately - be asked to leave. Trust me, this HAS happened before.
• Absolutely NEVER speak to the actors on set. They are working, just as you are. Acting involves concentration. If you interrupt them, not only are your upsetting their scene, but the people in charge will see you and ask you to stop, and possibly - go home.