What to Expect at Meals for Monologues

This morning I headed out to Portland for the Cast Iron Studios Meals for Monologues.  I got there about an hour before the place opened and was the third one in line.  I was a bit shocked because in NYC I went two to three hours early to a slightly similar event and was the 50th in line. 

 I took in some cans of beans.  The requirement was three.  I became friends with the amazing actors, Kate, Linda, and Kat, that were sitting near me. We cheered each other on and Linda, specifically, gave me some really great pointers since I am still new at this whole auditioning process.  She told me don't forget your slate and frame.  For those reading unsure what a slate is, it is when you introduce yourself before hand.  Nearly every time I practiced my monologue, I introduced myself to the imaginary casting directors watching. . . this time I forgot.  Oopsie.  I know I made two mistakes in my monologue, but I did my best at pretending I didn't and moved forward.  I also asked about the framing to find out if it was okay.  

Now for what to expect:

• Get there early--like within fifteen minutes of the start time to get into line.  I saw a facebook message from Cast Iron Studios around 3:30 p.m. that said that they had one more hour for people to come in before they would be out of spots.  This is Portland, not New York, so it's easier to make it into the studio.  
• Bring at least three cans of food with you.  Toys are accepted as well.
• Have your two minute monologue all prepared
• When I walked into the room there were three people there.
• Cast Iron Studios representative, Lana
• Damon--an agent.  They invite several different agents to come and keep time.
• Casting Director, Eryn
• a camera
• lighting equipment
• a computer
• Do your slate (thanks, Linda)--introduce yourself and ask how you are framed by the camera--full-body or what.
• Do not expect feedback--you're just giving them with a taste of what you can do.

When I started to leave, this entire group that came as a studio from North East Portland. When I said, "Do you want to be in a picture I am putting on my blog?" They posed in five seconds flat.   I had no idea I was biting my tongue.

I took in some thank you notes.  I hope Lana and Eryn get them.

Added Later:  I found out that the agent that was there was Damon Jones of the Actors in Action Talent Agency. Just thought you may want to know.