AFTRA/SAG Conservatory Workshop: Know Your "Types" with Guest Presenter Casting Director Ann Baker

On December 5, Ann Baker led a conservatory at the AFTRA/SAG office before a sold-out room. Ann is a long-time Boston casting director who has generously offered her expertise in helping our members hone their craft, improve their marketability, and advance their careers. Recently, she has partnered with the unions to give audition workshops to our members on an ongoing basis, for which she has received tremendous positive feedback.

Ann Baker interviewed by Boston SAG President Doug Bowen-Flynn

Answering attendees' questions

At the conservatory, Ann addressed the expectations casting directors have of talent, how they match actors up with particular roles, how actors can present themselves against type, and how to make the move from background to principal roles. She then spent an hour with individual actors going over their headshots and resumes and making suggestions for how the actors could more successfully market themselves.

Ann Baker gives feedback to Stephen Kyle on his headshot and resume

Ann Baker peruses a member's headshot and resume

On a side note, this Conservatory was the first to use our new PayPal system for pre-payment of fees allowing members a guaranteed seat. 90% of the attendees pre-paid through PayPal, making it a smashing success.