How do I apply to a casting on Backstage?

Backstage postings are more varied than other platforms — you'll see a mix of union, non-union, student, indie, and web series work. Applying is simple but the quality of your application matters.

To apply:

1. Open the casting notice from the Browse page or your saved searches.
2. Read the entire posting — role requirements, pay rate (or lack of one), location, shoot dates, self-tape instructions.
3. Click Apply and pick your headshot + resume from your profile.
4. Write a short cover note if the notice asks for one. Two to three sentences.
5. If a self-tape is requested, upload directly in the submission.

The things that set good Backstage applications apart:

• You actually match the breakdown. Backstage casting directors see a lot of over-submitting. Don't be the actor they remember for always being wrong.
• Your cover note is specific. "I loved your short film [X] — would love to audition for this" beats "Happy to audition, see resume."
• Your self-tape is uploaded to the submission, not linked from Google Drive. Casting sees a lot of broken links.

Before you apply:

Check the poster's history on Backstage if you can. Backstage has work ranging from top-tier studio pilots to unpaid student projects, and the quality of casting notices varies accordingly.