Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions

Welcome to “Cut Above” Casting! Please read the following carefully. Your compliance with these points is important for achieving a successful relationship with our call-in service.

Guide to being a successful background actor

  1. Check the website bulletin board. We will post what is current or upcoming.
  2. Maintain your child's calendar online and set your availability.
  1. GETTING BOOKED: It is very important that, before you submit and accept a job, you make sure you are available for a full day’s work. That can mean up to or over 9 hours (depending on the child's age).

  1. CONFIRMATION PHONE NUMBER: Once you have been booked, you will receive an e-mail with the Confirmation Phone Number that will supply you with all the pertinent information for that particular job. Call this number the evening prior to the job and have a pen and paper ready! Everything you need to know regarding your call time, location, directions, wardrobe, etc., will be listed on the outgoing message at the Confirmation Number. Listen to this message in its entirety! Often times you’re required to confirm your name after the “beep”!

NOTE: “Cut Above” Casting is not responsible for giving you production information once you’re booked! It is provided by the actual casting agency. Always call the Confirmation Number the night before the job!


  1. CALL TIME: YOU MUST BE ON TIME to the location! (Preferably 15 minutes early!) Being late will be marked in our files and can prevent you from being booked on future jobs. You may not leave the set for any reason, unless production has wrapped for the day and you have been released.
  2. LOCATION: A Thomas Brothers Guide Map Book is highly recommended, and is simply the best way to find your way around town. We do not provide detailed directions to sets! You can also use Google Maps or MapQuest for directions.
  3. WARDROBE: We can only provide a general idea of what the production is looking for in terms of wardrobe. The confirmation (phone) number will give you exact wardrobe information. You will be expected to report to the set “camera ready”! You will also be expected to take a minimum of two additional wardrobe selections. Avoid solid red, white or black. No logos.
  4. THINGS TO BRING: Bring pens and original work permit and Coogan account forms. Bring photo copies if possible.
  5. SCHOOL WORK: Bring child's school work/homework if currently in school.

Proper set etiquette

  • A designated waiting area will be available to you when you’re not on set. Do not wander or leave the holding area without first informing your Set Coordinator.
  • Never enter a soundstage/set when the red light is flashing!
  • When you’re on the set, be alert and listen for specific instructions.
  • Maintain silence when the camera is rolling. When you’re on set, pantomime only, unless instructed to speak out loud by the Director.
  • Never look into the camera unless instructed to do so by the Director.
  • Do not bother cast or crew. No autographs or photographs.

Take the initiative to make a good impression and give a great performance. Directors do recognize this! You never know what can happen!

Payroll procedures

  1. VOUCHERS: Your Set Coordinator will give you a payment voucher. This is proof of payment for your working day. Be sure to print, with blue or black ink, all of your correct and current information. (The payroll company will send a check to the address on your voucher.) You will be asked to fill out the voucher completely, including the I-9 information, and provide an ID. DO NOT LOSE YOUR VOUCHER! At the end of the workday, sign and return your voucher. Retain the pink copy as your receipt; this is your only proof of working for any accounting or payroll inquiries.

  1. PAYMENT: Allow at least 14 business days to receive your paycheck. If you don’t receive your check within that time, direct your inquiries to the Payroll Company listed on your voucher. Have your voucher in hand when you call.

Final reminders to begin working

  • Once you are booked, we will provide you, via e-mail, with a Confirmation Phone Number. Call it the evening before the production. Confirm with your and your child's name if necessary.
  • Emergency phone number: 323/465-3055
  • Keep track of your bookings! Make sure you are never booked on more than one production at the same time.
  • Remain “active” on our submission list by visiting our website often and checking the bulletin boards.
  • Do not let production keep you on set longer than the child labor laws allow. Click on or hover over the age field in your child's profile to find out how long your child can stay on set.

Be organized, responsible, reliable AND HAVE FUN!
Welcome to “Cut Above” Casting Services!