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Crew and Extras Casting Calls

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Crew worker setting up lighting for a scene - Casting Calls (Photo by: Chuck Hodes)

Production Assistants Needed

Bitter Jester Creative (BJC) is an Emmy award-winning production company established in 2001 and based in Highland Park, IL. BJC also produces The Comic Thread (TCT), the fifteen-year-old live sketch comedy troupe that won *Best Group* at the LA Comedy Festival, *Audience Choice* at the Chicago Fringe Festival, and has sold out its Chicago Sketchfest appearances four years in a row.

BJC is currently producing a series of about a dozen short films/sketches with TCT between May 16 and May 27, 2013.  BJC is seeking interested and enthusiastic volunteer Production Assistants. As this is a low-budget/self-funded venture, we cannot offer monetary compensation to PAs, unfortunately. However… all meals will be provided, transportation will be reimbursed at standard rates, credit will be given in the films, online, and (if we get on IMDB) on IMDB as well. Additionally, contact information will be kept on file for future (paying) BJC productions (which regularly include documentaries, web series, tv commercials, corporate productions, etc).

TCT filming will take place primarily in and around Highland Park, IL, with select filming in Chicago (May 17 and 18) and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (May 20-22/3).

While extra help during any part of the full production period (one day or many days) would be gladly accepted, we are specifically looking for four (4) able-bodied men to help create an Amish Farm set on May 20th in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. This job entails a lot of heavy lifting, moving of heavy objects, transferring 100+ bales of hay, set dressing, cataloging and storing the original barn contents, replacing with prop/set pieces, painting, outside labor (removing tire tracks and replacing with wagon tracks), etc. We will be transforming a run-down modern barn into a run-down Amish barn. This will be a long day filled with back-breaking labor … and a lot of fun. If you like that sort of thing. You would work directly with our Production Coordinator and our Art Director. A professional film set food truck will be on site all day. Three hot meals will be provided as well as snacks and drinks throughout the day. We know - from personal experience - that when you work for free, getting fed well is awesome.

In closing, we will add that this is an exceptionally talented group of people AND an exceptionally kind and considerate cast and crew. We take our comedy very seriously but we have fun on set. If you're excited about making some great connections that will very likely lead to some other great connections, then this is the production company to get to know!

www.BitterJester.com

www.ComicThread.com

847.433.8660

bjc@bitterjester.com

 

SFX Makeup Artists(s) & Assistants Needed


Bitter Jester Creative (BJC) is an Emmy award-winning production company established in 2001 and based in Highland Park, IL. BJC also produces The Comic Thread (TCT), the fifteen-year-old live sketch comedy troupe that won *Best Group* at the LA Comedy Festival, *Audience Choice* at the Chicago Fringe Festival, and has sold out its Chicago Sketchfest appearances four years in a row.

BJC is currently producing a series of about a dozen short films/sketches with TCT between May 16 and May 27, 2013. Several of them require special effects makeup (from simple cuts/scratches.bruises on a single actor to very intricate monster makeup using latex prosthetics, molds, etc).

BJC is seeking interested and enthusiastic Makeup Artists and Hair/Makeup Assistants. As this is a low-budget/self-funded venture, we cannot offer full monetary compensation but we are able to reimburse for kit expenses and travel. We would discuss each individual sketch with you to determine needs, product, etc. Our Art Director is a professional Makeup Artist, so you will be in very good hands and will work with someone who understands your needs, requirements, and concerns. All on-set meals will be provided, transportation will be reimbursed at standard rates, credit will be given in the films, online, and (if we get on IMDB) on IMDB as well. Additionally, contact information will be kept on file for future (paying) BJC productions (which regularly include documentaries, web series, tv commercials, corporate productions, etc).

TCT filming will take place primarily in and around Highland Park, IL, with select filming in Chicago (May 17 and 18) and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (May 20-22/3).

We are specifically looking for SFX Makeup Artists to apply beards to a dozen+ actors turning them into Amish men. This would be an overnight shoot up in Lake Geneva, WI and you would be put up for the night(s) you are needed. This is the May 20-22 film shoot.

We are also looking for someone to design, create, and implement original realistic/scary monster makeup on three actors (two males and one female). We have basic concepts but need creativity and direction. All product will be paid for and we are asking for someone to volunteer their time on set and leading up to the shoot. We realize this is a HUGE request, so an ideal candidate would be someone who is capable of this type of SFX work and has always wanted to do it (or do more of it) but who hasn't ever had a chance to. We are more than happy to answer any/all of your questions. This scene will be filmed May 26 and May 27 (Memorial Day).

In closing, we will add that this is an exceptionally talented group of people AND an exceptionally kind and considerate cast and crew. We take our comedy very seriously but we have fun on set. If you're excited about making some great connections that will very likely lead to some other great connections, then this is the production company to get to know!

Contact Sylvi Davidson

www.BitterJester.com

www.ComicThread.com

847.208.8288

sdavidson@bitterjester.com

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Following is a list casting agencies in Chicago that may be able to provide additional information and opportunities.


Refer to Frequently Asked Questions and www.illinoisfilm.biz/productionguide for other ideas and suggestions.

<h3 class="richtitle3">CBS Baking Show</h3>
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<p>Are you a passionate amateur baker? Can you whip up an impressive cake, tart, or loaf of bread? CBS is coming to Chicago December 8th to find amateur bakers. Apply now! <a target="_blank" href="http://cbsbakingshow.com">cbsbakingshow.com</a><br>
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Seeking all types of non-professional bakers from across the country. Whether you’re an athlete, teacher, truck driver or retiree, as long as you have the zest for baking, we want to hear from you!<br>
<br>
Amateur skilled bakers will compete against one another in baking challenges that will test every aspect of their baking skills. At the end of the competition, one baker will ultimately be crowned the winner. The series follows the trials and tribulations of the competitors – young, old, from every background and every corner of the United States – as they attempt to prove their baking prowess. <br>
<br>
<strong>Saturday, December 8th, 2012<br>
11am - 4pm<br>
Kendall College <br>
900 N. North Branch St.<br>
Chicago, IL 60622</strong></p>
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<h3 class="richtitle3">Now Casting The Food Network Star 9 in Chicago!<a href="/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office.Par.96125.Image.-1.-1.1.gif" target="_blank"><img src="/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office.Par.67696.Image.-1.-1.1.gif" alt="Food Network Star 9 flyer" id="/authorp2/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office#Par.67696.Image.-1.-1.1.gif /etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office#Par.96125.Image.gif" width="160" align="right" border="1" height="207"></a></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>We are looking for those with a captivating personality who believe they’re at the top of the culinary game and want to inspire a Food Network audience through their passion for food and cooking! We are currently search for innovative and experienced chef's for The Next Food Network Star, a widely successful culinary reality series on The Food Network! We are casting for Season 9 and we are holding an open casting call in Chicago on <strong>Wednesday, November 28th</strong>. If you are not available to attend one of the open calls, then you can still apply by submitting a home video.<br>
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<strong>Who:</strong> Those with a unique food perspective<br>
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<strong>When:</strong>            Wednesday, November, 28th, 2012 10 am-2 pm<br>
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<strong>Where: </strong> The Westin Michigan Avenue, 909 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611<br>
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<strong>How:</strong> For more info visit <a href="http://www.FoodNetworkStarCasting.com" target="_blank">www.FoodNetworkStarCasting.com</a> for details on how to apply.</p>
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<h3 class="richtitle3">&nbsp;</h3>
<h3 class="richtitle3">NBC/Bear Grylls Casting in Chicago<a target="_blank" href="/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office.Par.90831.Image.-1.-1.1.gif"><img id="/authorp2/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office#Par.93644.Image.-1.-1.1.gif /etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office#Par.90831.Image.gif" alt="NBC/Bear Grylls Casting in Chicago flyer" src="/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office.Par.93644.Image.-1.-1.1.gif" width="160" align="right" border="1" height="115"></a></h3>
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<p>Looking for dynamic Teams of Two to take part in a new adventure competition series along with the king of survival experts, Bear Grylls! The duos will be dropped in a remote wilderness location - make it to the end and win the reward of a lifetime! We are looking for confident and competitive duos (married, siblings, parent/child 21+, best friends, engaged couples, co-workers, dating, exes, etc.) who think they have what it takes to survive the wild.<br>
<u><br>
<strong>Open Casting Call Details:</strong></u><br>
<strong><br>
December 1, 2012 <br>
10 am - 4 pm<br>
XSport Fitness<br>
819 South State St.<br>
Chicago, IL 60605<br>
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For details and to apply, visit: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nbcbearshow.com">www.nbcbearshow.com</a></strong></p>
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<h3 class="richtitle3">VH1’S Hit Show “Tough Love” Is Back And Looking For Single Women!</h3>
<p><a href="/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office.Par.89948.Image.-1.-1.1.gif" target="_blank"><img src="/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office.Par.9690.Image.-1.-1.1.gif" alt="VH1’S Hit Show “Tough Love” Is Back And Looking For Single Women!" id="/authorp2/etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office#Par.9690.Image.-1.-1.1.gif /etc/medialib/explore_chicago/mose/film_office#Par.89948.Image.gif" width="160" align="right" border="1" height="214"></a></p>
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<p>VH1 Casting Directors and Master Matchmaker Steve Ward are looking for single women nationwide who need dating help for Season 5 of VH1’s “TOUGH LOVE”!</p>
<p><br>
If you’re a terrific woman who is still single because you’re husband hungry, baby obsessed, married to your job, a single mom, too picky, unable to commit, or stuck in the ‘friend-zone’ then we want to meet you! Regardless of the reason for your being single, Steve will help you find your true love!</p>
<p><br>
We are looking for single, attractive, successful, outgoing WOMEN who are up for the challenge! Let Steve help you figure out what you are doing wrong and teach you how to find Mr. Right!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Applicants must be single, appear to be between the ages of 23 and 39, and ready, willing and able to meet the man of their dreams. We want real women with real dating stories! <br>
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Link to the application: <a href="https://ccasting.wufoo.com/forms/sexy-single-women-application/%20" target="_blank"> https://ccasting.wufoo.com/forms/sexy-single-women-application/ </a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Following is a list casting agencies in Chicago that may be able to provide additional information and opportunities.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>
<h3 class="richtitle3"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.atmospherecastingchicago.com">Atmosphere Casting of Chicago </a></h3>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
    <li>
<h3 class="richtitle3"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.extrascastingagency.com">Extras Casting Agency </a></h3>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<h3 class="richtitle3"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.extraordinarycasting.net">Extra Ordinary Casting of Chicago </a></h3>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<h3 class="richtitle3"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.thedarlingseries.com/joan-philo-casting/default.aspx">Joan Philo Casting </a></h3>
</li>
</ul>
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<p><br>
Refer to <strong><a target="_self" href="http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___special_events/events/mose/chicago_film_office.html">Frequently Asked Questions </a></strong>and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.illinoisfilm.biz/productionguide"><strong>www.illinoisfilm.biz/productionguide </strong></a>for other ideas and suggestions.</p>