A GENERAL BACKGROUND (BG) PERFORMER is a person used in a scene to create a sense of realism. Examples may be, diners in a restaurant, people walking on the street, on-lookers at the scene of an accident, etc. These people are pivotal in films and TV and are often referred to as ‘EXTRAS’.

Background performers are cast in a production, but have no spoken lines. The casting may be for a certain look, or simply a warm body to fill the frame. No experience is required and, therefore, the various departments and crew who work with these individuals must practice patience, respect, and understanding.

A background performer does not always get as much attention as other performers as there may be hundreds of people on set at one time. They are still on a contract with the production, however, which requires that they behave in a conscientious and professional manner in accordance with collective agreements, by-laws and constitution of the local unions, plus state/provincial labor and employment laws.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Meet and get advice from experienced Extras and SAG-AFTRA talent. Assistant Director Kenny Chaplin (Directors Guilds of America & Canada member) will SKYPE in to explain what is required of Background Extras and put you through the paces with different choreography exercises via his Ohio Assistant Director (AD) trainees. This workshop is hands-on, allowing you to discover and become comfortable with what exactly is expected of you on set.

Walk away with courage, confidence, and assurance that you understand ....

* Categories Of Background *

* Your Background Kit & Skins *

* Setting Up Background Holding *

* Definition of Skins, Vouchers, & Adjustments *

* Choreographing Background *

* Getting Into Screen Actor's Guild *.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

Background work is a great way to get your foot in Hollywood's door!  Getting on set gives you the opportunity to network and observe how numerous departments interact. This will benefit you whether you want to continue acting or become a writer, director, cinematographer, costume stylist, property master, or pursue any other filmmaking craft. Anyone interested in the entertainment industry will gain valuable insight from this workshop.

ABOUT KENNY CHAPLIN

Kenny Chaplin has been a part of the Director’s Team in film & television for over 20 years. He’s a member of the Directors Guilds of America (DGA) and Canada (DGC). He’s provided call times to the likes of Ethan Hawke, James Garner, Ray Liotta, Donald Sutherland, and Abigail Breslin. He has had to 'wrangle' the likes of Dustin Hoffman, John Cusack, Woody Harrelson, Sean Penn, Eva Longoria and many others.

Kenny’s credits include feature films such as Terrence Malick’s "The Thin Red Line," Ang Lee’s “Ride With The Devil," and Ridley Scott’s “Body of Lies." His television series credits include "Judging Amy" starring Amy Brenneman and Tyne Daly plus "Roswell" with Katherine Heigl.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT F.I.T.S.

"The workshop was really fruitful. We have many industry professionals come and carry out workshops, but not everybody has the ability to teach and relate/disseminate knowledge. You, my friend, did this very very well. Thank you."
Shamal Singh - Training & Development - Film Fiji

"Great education and training for anyone who is a fan of film, TV, or entertainment. Not just for industry professionals but truly for those who’ve always wished to get involved in the industry.. This is hands on, practical experience you can put to use immediately."
Barbara M - Student - 2015 F.I.T.S. Production Coordinator Workshop

"Totally enjoyable. I am soaking info like a sponge. Presented in a way that's ingestable and understandable."
Fred L - Student - 2015 F.I.T.S. Costume Seminar

BRING FILM INDUSTRY TRAINING TO YOUR REGION

Film and TV production brings both direct and indirect positive economic impact and jobs to local communities. When entertainment production companies consider a region for shooting they look at a variety of factors. One of those factors is the availability of experienced crew. F.I.T.S. live training seminars can help you build that kind of crew in your community. Contact F.I.T.S. to learn how to bring our seminars to your region.

FILM INDUSTRY TRAINING SEMINARS LLC

2331 Walnut Tree Court, Buford GA 30519
www.FilmCrewTrainer.com | 877-919-FITS (3487) | FilmSeminars@icloud.com

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