204. Elizabeth Boykewich (Disney Casting Executive & Coach) on All Things Casting
Jan 18, 2024
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Casting director & life coach, Elizabeth Boykewich, discusses the holistic approach to casting, career transitions, and managing professionalism on set. She shares valuable insights into making it in the acting industry and the qualities she looks for in actors. The podcast also explores challenges faced by actors, the impact of physical appearance, and the importance of finding one's purpose in the industry.
Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of seeing actors holistically, considering not just their acting skills but also their off-screen attributes.
Elizabeth discusses the challenges of managing actors who want to move on to bigger projects and highlights the significance of appreciating one's current position.
Elizabeth incorporates coaching into her work, assisting actors in their journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and shining their authentic light.
Deep dives
The Role of a Casting Director in Hollywood
Elizabeth Boykevich, a casting director with a stacked resume, shares her insights on the casting process in Hollywood. She emphasizes the importance of seeing actors as holistic human beings, rather than just performers for a show. Elizabeth explains the process of selecting casting directors and offers valuable advice on what she looks for in new actors. She highlights the significance of professionalism and good citizenship in the industry, urging actors to be the best version of themselves and treat others with respect.
The Challenges and Rewards of Executive Casting Directing
Elizabeth discusses her transition from being a casting associate to an executive casting director. She shares her experiences overseeing casting for various projects, including movies of the week, series, sitcoms, and reality shows. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of energy and connection in casting, describing it as a click that determines the right fit for a role. She also delves into the challenges of managing actors who want to move on to bigger projects, and the importance of appreciating one's current position rather than constantly seeking the next opportunity.
Embracing Self-Growth and Coaching in Hollywood
Having pursued personal growth and spirituality in her own life, Elizabeth decided to formalize her knowledge and become a certified meditation teacher, life coach, and mindfulness guide. She discusses the transformative power of these practices and their impact on her personal and professional life. Elizabeth believes in helping actors find self-acceptance and contentment in an industry that often fosters insecurity and comparison. She now incorporates coaching into her work, assisting actors in their journey towards self-discovery, resilience, and shining their authentic light.
Casting Process and Creating a Warm Testing Room
The speaker discusses her experience in the casting process, particularly in creating a warm and supportive environment during auditions. She emphasizes the importance of getting to know the actors, conducting general meetings, and establishing a positive atmosphere in the testing room. By personally meeting with actors, she gains insights into their behavior, their ability to handle the pressures of the industry, and their compatibility with the production team.
Authenticity and Creating a Connection in Auditions
The speaker highlights the significance of authenticity in auditions and the importance of showing a unique and genuine interpretation of the role. She explains that while actors may try to stand out by doing something unconventional, it is crucial to bring their true selves to the performance. By focusing on their own expression and bringing their individuality to the role, actors can make a lasting impression. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the need for actors to do thorough research on the project, understand its tone and style, and make informed decisions that align with their own vision for the character.
I’m sitting down with an incredible casting director and personal life coach, Elizabeth Boykewich. Elizabeth has an impressive resume, having worked on shows like 'Good Trouble', 'Pretty Little Liars', and 'The Bold Type'. She provides an in-depth look at the casting process, explaining her role as an executive casting director and how she selects people not just for their acting skills but also for their off-screen attributes. She discusses looking at actors holistically, her career transitions, the nuances of the casting process, and shares insightful advice and stories about the inner workings of casting. From identifying potential in green actors, to managing professionalism on set, Elizabeth offers valuable insights into making it in the acting industry that all of us need to know.
Watch the Full Video Podcast Here!
00:00 — Introduction
02:51 — Where Elizabeth is Today
04:04 — Elizabeth's Journey in the Casting Industry
09:09 — Casting Associate vs. Casting Assistant
12:51 — How to Become an Executive Casting Director
16:11 — Casting Director Meeting Breakdown
22:20 — AD: Go to oliveandjune.com/BROKE20 for 20% off Your Mani System!
25:00 — Working with & Testing Actors
32:09 — Self-Tapes
40:25 — Recognizing Who Will Go the Distance
43:09 — Professionalism in Actors
52:41 — Becoming a Life Coach
55:33 — AD: The Membership’s Doors are OPEN!
58:28 — Centering Our “Why”
1:00:35 — Evaluate Your Mentors & Do Your Research
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
★ The EB Co
★ Elizabeth's IMDb
★ Elizabeth’s IG @the.eb.co
★ Watch “Working Actor Life: Allergies, Working from Home, and Side Hustles”
★ Listen to “WTF with Marc Maron Episode 1488 - Fisher Stevens”
★ Listen to The EB Co.: OFF BOOK Podcast!
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