The Callback
This year of 2020 has been interesting, to say the least. With the world shutting down because of a global pandemic somehow I managed to book a PSA commercial. I was made aware that I had a callback by receiving a text message while I was at work. I had to ask my boss to leave early to make it home for my first online callback on Zoom. I was so surprised. I confirmed the callback appointment and rushed home to get ready all the while racking my brain trying to figure out what project this callback was for. I hadn’t auditioned recently, the world has shut down, and the whole entertainment industry is trying to figure out how to navigate in these new circumstances. I was nervous, my hairstyle was different not at all like my headshots.
Zoom Meeting
Before I knew it, I was in a virtual waiting room, with a message saying I was up next. The callbacks were being run by the director of the commercial. When he came on he apologized for being in his bedroom closet. It was the quietest place in his house at the moment. I assured him I totally understood. I told him to forgive me if he starts hearing children running and laughing in the background. My neighbors seem to have a knack for making noise just at the time when I need it to be quiet. We discussed the project and continued with the callback. I had originally auditioned before the pandemic that’s why initially I couldn’t remember it. The production was now up and running again. The callback was for a PSA titled Belonging for the Ad Council Organization. With everything happening in the world right now, quarantines, being in isolation, and protests for equal rights and justice, this PSA could not have come at a better time. The ad is about making sure we’re all cultivating a welcoming nation where everyone regardless of their background can belong.
On Set
On the set of course they were new protocols we had to follow. We first had to get a covid test, then wait in our cars until the results were in. If your test was negative then you were allowed on set. Everyone was safe and had negative test results. Masks had to stay on at all times until you were on camera. All meals were individually wrapped in t own containers. Everyone complied with the rules and it was a great shooting day. The shooting location was outdoors in a park, but gratefully it wasn’t too hot. A lot of children were around which made filming even better. I really enjoy working with kids, they are so fun and carefree. It was a great shoot. Working during the pandemic wasn’t a bad experience in any way. I was so thankful to be a part of this production. It was a great experience with a great message behind it. I can’t wait until the PSA comes out. I’m eager to see it.