What are background roles for kids?
Background roles are when you stand in the background of scenes to make the setting feel real. These roles usually don't have any lines, but they still help the story move forward.
Even though the parts are small, they are still in professional productions like TV shows, movies, and commercials.
Most of the time, assistant directors tell kids who are in the background what to do instead of the main director. They follow simple directions like walking through a scene, acting naturally, or talking to other extras.
Why doing background work is a good place to start
Background roles are a good way to learn about how films and TV shows are made. This exposure can be very helpful for kids who want to be actors.
Some benefits are:
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Learning how to use sets
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Knowing when to film
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Getting used to being around cameras
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Watching professional actors do their jobs
Kids learn to be patient too. On filming days, you often have to wait between takes, reset scenes, and do the same thing over and over again.
For a lot of families, background work answers a big question: does the child really like being on set?
How kids get cast as extras in the background
You can apply for kids’ background roles on KidsCasting.com, through an easy-to-use online application process. Follow these steps to create a well-constructed profile on our platform to significantly increase the child’s chances amongst the vast pool of other aspiring actors and models.
When casting for background roles, looks and how well they fit with the logistics are more important than acting ability.
If a production needs kids for a middle school scene, for instance, they might look for kids who are a certain age and height.
Casting timelines can also change quickly. Some extra roles are filled within days of being posted.
What happens on a normal day of filming
A day of filming in the background is planned out but moves slowly. A lot of families are surprised by how long they have to wait between takes.
Usually, the day includes:
1. Check-in and look over your clothes
2. Waiting with other extras in a holding area
3. Rehearsing the scene with the assistant directors
4. Shooting more than one take
5. Breaks and times to reset
Some shoots last a few hours, while others last all day. Parents should bring snacks, things to do that aren't too loud, and patience.
Even though extras may only be on screen for a short time, they help make scenes feel real.
How much do extras for kids get paid?
Pay varies based on the type of production, where it is, and whether or not there is a union.
Some common categories are:
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Work on the background that isn't part of a union (common for beginners)
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Productions that are part of a union (SAG-AFTRA projects)
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Roles as background actors in commercials
Rates differ widely, but background work is usually paid per day rather than per scene.
Parents need to know that background work should be seen as a way to gain experience rather than a way to make money.
How parents can help their kids do well
During the background casting process, parents are in charge of handling the logistics, communication, and paperwork.
Some helpful things to do are:
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Having up-to-date pictures on hand
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Quickly answering requests for casting
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Getting to the filming locations early
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Getting kids ready to wait a long time
Parents should also help keep expectations realistic. It's not about getting famous; it's about learning.
These early experiences are most helpful for kids who like the outdoors and are still curious.
How casting platforms help families find jobs
One of the hardest things for parents to do is find real opportunities. Casting platforms make this easier by putting all of the verified casting calls in one place.
Parents can do the following on platforms like KidsCasting:
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Look for roles based on where you live and how old you are
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Send your application directly to productions
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Keep track of submissions and chances
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Look into projects all over the US and Canada
This access helps families get regular audition and set experience without having to rely only on connections in the industry.
Final thoughts
Young actors can learn a lot about the entertainment industry by playing background roles. The roles might not be big, but the experience can be important. Kids learn how to follow directions from professionals, how sets work, and how productions come together behind the scenes.
If a family is interested in acting, background work is usually the easiest place to start. It gives kids a look at the industry and lets them explore their interests in a way that is both realistic and supportive.
