Ramani Leah, CSA, Author at The Casting Director's Cut

Terminology Tuesday – Fi-Core

May 19, 2020March 10, 2020 by Ramani Leah, CSA

Fi-Core stands for ‘financial core’. This status is an option within (SAG-AFTRA) which allows actors to work both union and non-union jobs. There are some disadvantages to being Fi-Core. Most notably, you become a “non-member” in SAG-AFTRA’s estimation. Technically, they categorize you as a Fee Paying Non-Member (FPNM), but since you still pay your dues, you have a valid performer number, retain your benefits and are represented in all collective bargaining activities. Some of the rights you lose when you …

Monday Myth Debunkers – Self Tapes are Replacing In-Person Auditions

May 19, 2020March 9, 2020 by Ramani Leah, CSA

So many different “rules”, opinions & ideas are thrown out there, it’s sometimes hard to know what the right answer is. Self tapes are not replacing live auditions. Self tapes are a great way to still audition for a role when you physically can’t be in the room. Despite this, you still won’t get the advantage of having a casting director direct you into the take that is going to help you get the job. Self tapes are generally used …

Terminology Tuesday – Top of Show

May 19, 2020March 3, 2020 by Ramani Leah, CSA

Top of Show refers to a set amount of money that is budgeted in a show for its guest star roles. For example, a role might say that the show “does not break top of show,” which means that no matter who the actor is, the show will not pay that person more than what their top of show rate is. Top of show rates vary on the type of show (1 hour, ½ hour), and the type of platform. …