Ever wondered how you can be part of the casts of Neptune3’s Best Friends in the World web TV series? Thedistin.com is here to provide you with all the needed details to make your dream come true.
One of the undoubtedly best series on the web is “Best Friends In The World”. It is educative TV series birthed by three sisters from Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria.
“Best Friends in the World” is an ongoing teen-centred miniseries interesting web series about friendship, growing up, family and love.
Although the first season premiered in 2018, “Best Friends in the World” is a Nigerian high school series with some romance but without debauchery and philistinism, you can’t help but watch time and again and recommend to your friends.
Casts of this web series include Adam, Olive, Grace, Esther, Davido, musician, Lyta and many more casts.
In the series, Smart and independent girls like Olive and Esther remind us why education is not just necessary but mandatory for the girl child. The girls child’s future is just as important as the boy child and must be treated as such!.
Also, with Adam and Olive serving as the young lovers and the main characters, you might not want to miss any episode of the series which is shown on the Neptune3 Studio on YouTube.
Also, with Adam and Olive as the primary protagonists, you won’t want to miss any of the episodes of the series, which is shown on the Neptune3 Studio on YouTube.
To anyone looking forward to join Olive and her friends on set, let’s jump to the auditioning process itself.
What do you need to do?
- Read and understand the casting call
- Select a character(s) you want to audition for.
- Record your audition video. (Make sure your video is shot in a quiet environment not more than 2 minutes long).
- Record or write a personal introduction (or simply attach your Resumé/CV).
- Email everything to auditions@neptune3studios.com
Let’s have a look at what the aforementioned procedures are and what you need to do to complete them.
What is a casting call?
It is call for actors. A document which states all the vital information you will need to know concerning the audition. It lists the roles that are available for you to choose from. It also states information about the production like which company is handling it, the shooting location and whether the opportunity is paid or unpaid. Of course, there’s also information on how and where to submit your audition.
Alright! Now that you know the specifics of the production, let’s jump in!
STEP 1:
Decide if you can move to the shooting location or not. For this production, we need out-of-state/international actors to be able to transport themselves to the production location which is Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria. Some production companies choose to handle these costs, but we simply are not able to at this time. However, we can offer you accommodation, food and more when you get here.
If you can’t travel down, this particular production is not for you.
STEP 2:
This step is for all who have decided to make yourself available at the shooting location if selected. If you’re one of them then we’re so glad!
Here, you need to choose the character you want to play.
From the casting call, there’s a wide range of roles for both male and female of different ages and ethnicities. Find which role you think you can execute best without any self-doubt. A role you can shine in and perform to the best of your ability.
If you’re new to acting and you just want something small or just to be on the production set, you can choose to be an extra.
But who/what is an extra?
According to Wikipedia, a background actor or extra, is a performer in a film, television show, stage, musical, opera or ballet production, who appears in a nonspeaking or non-singing (silent) capacity, usually in the background (for example, in an audience or busy street scene).
In this production, we need LOTS and LOTS of students (about 300). We also need teachers, drivers, and other such smaller roles.
The great thing about the student and teachers in this particular production is that there are PLENTY SPEAKING OPPORTUNITIES. So if you didn’t find something among the listed roles and you really want to act, you can decide to either be a student or a teacher, depending on your age.
STEP 3:
THE MONOLOGUE (aka the most important step). What is this monologue thing you’ve been hearing? What does it even mean? Well, if you’re too lazy to google it, here’s a simplified definition that relates to this particular production:
“For your purposes, a monologue is a scene where only one character speaks. The other character listens. And here’s the catch… you’re going to imagine that other character standing in front of you.”
This means you will be THE ONLY ONE in the video performing one role. No, you cannot act with your friend. No, you cannot act as more than one character. JUST YOU playing a single role.
A good resource you should definitely check out to better understand monologues is Ace Your Audition.
Now you know what a monologue is, for this production you need to select a monologue (or write one) that suits the role you have chosen.
If you’ve chosen to be an extra and you don’t want much responsibility, please SKIP THIS STEP. But if you’re hoping to say a few lines here and there, definitely do the monologue.
Now, which monologue should you use? Well, it depends on the role you’ve selected. Are you hoping to be Ms. Lucille, the no-nonsense, difficult to impress, hardly emotional class teacher? Then based on her description, you can already tell the type of things she could say. Select a monologue that brings out her character and personality.
Where can you get the monologue from? The internet! Some productions provide the lines you should use, but we are leaving this to you. Go online and search free monologues. There are PLENTY resources. Like we said, you can definitely write your own but this is risky as it could sound unprofessional. If you must write your own, make sure you memorize the lines. DO NOT FREESTYLE.
How do you record the monologue? You can simply place your phone camera on a stable surface in front of you and act to the camera. Make sure you record it in a quiet environment.
Still using Ms. Lucille as an example, will you need to dress up as Ms. Lucille and perform your monologue in a classroom setting? All that is left to you. The only thing we require is that the acting convinces us that you really are Ms. Lucille. THAT IS ALL.
How long should it be? Less than 2 minutes. If you read the Ace Your Audition article, you’d know that casting directors don’t need more than 30 seconds to decide if you’re a good fit or not.
You don’t need a fancy camera or high-end equipment/environment. Make sure the lighting is bright. Face the light, don’t back it so we can see your face. Make sure you look clean, neat and presentable. Our impression of you matters a lot. Speak clearly and confidently. In order to do this, you must have memorized the words of your monologue extremely well. DO NOT read the words from a paper or your phone. On set, you won’t be able to read the words, so you need to show us that you’re able to handle the work.
This is the most important step, so don’t leave out anything crucial.
STEP 4:
SUBMISSION. Now that you have an audition video, you’re ready for submission. But first, make sure you have the other required documents.
For this production, we need a headshot or clear photo of you. We also need your self-introduction (written or video). If you want to do a video introduction, it should be separate from your monologue video. The video should not be more than one minute, the written introduction should not be more than 500 words. Make sure the self-introduction includes your full name, date of birth and phone number. You can also add your CV/resumé if you have one but it is not mandatory.
You got everything?
- Headshot/photo
- Self-introduction (written/video)
- Audition video
Yes? Great. Now put it all in ONE email and send it to auditions@neptune3studios.com. Don’t send it anywhere else. It won’t be evaluated. The only auditions that will be considered at the ones sent to the provided address. Not instagram or facebook DMs, not any other email address. NONE. And it won’t change just because you beg. This is the only way we can keep track of everything.
If your file is too large, for example with gmail users, you could get a message saying your file has exceeded 25MB, reduce the file size using free apps like InShot or Videoshop. If you don’t want to do that, you can upload your video to any file-sharing site like google drive or dropbox and email the link to us with your headshot and self-introduction.
PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL. Make sure your email has everything you need before you press send. That includes the SUBJECT of the email. Write your name and the character you are auditioning for in the subject space. For Example: Jane Doe – Ms. Lucille Audition.
Finally, how long will we need you on set? It is dependent on the role you audition for. If you need this information for school or work, indicate it in your email to us and we will let you know. Please note that we will only give this information to those who we are seriously considering for a role. But a general range will be JUNE – SEPTEMBER 2021.
STEP 5:
THE CALL BACK. This is when we inform those who were successful that they have been selected. Non-successful auditions will NOT receive a call back. We will start doing call backs will start doing call backs from June 13 to June 19, 2021.
Note: If you auditioned for a specific role but you don’t mind being an extra if you don’t get the role you auditioned for, please indicate so in your initial email to us.
WHEW. This is it. This is all you need to know. As always, read it thoroughly and if you have further questions then comment them below. But if you have friends who are so lost on this then please refer them to this. Also, if you sent it an audition and it was missing all the essential ingredients then feel free to send in the REAL one. We get it. You didn’t know. But now you do.
Most frequently asked questions/other details about the web series and it’s audition processes:
1. The birth/origin of Neptune3 Studio
Like most things, Neptune3 studio company was created from a desire to tell Nigerian stories and to add to the diverse meaning of what it means to be Nigerian. This desire was mutual among the founders; Jemima, Jesimiel and Jeiel Damina, three sisters with passions in different expressive arts including film, creative writing and music. They formed an idea to combine individual strengths and express themselves through film.
2. The Team – Who are the founders/brains behind Neptune3 studio?
Not entirely new to the entertainment scene, the founders were first a band called Triple J Plus
3. Neptune3 Studio journey
Their first *unofficial* project was a short film called “Presentation”. It was the first time the collaborative efforts of our founders were tested with a screenplay by Jesimiel Damina and directed by Jemima Damina. Entirely new to the process, Jemi and Jesi also handled the wardrobe, production design and technical production of the film with the assistance of supportive friends outside the film field. The film was eventually released under Jemima Damina’s YouTube channel with a fair amount of interest from the public.
The journey really kicked off with their next project; a short film called “The New Girl”. Producers Jemima and Jesimiel Damina wanted to make films and launch their careers, but having grown up in small-town, Uyo, the Nigerian film industry (Nollywood), which was largely based in big city Lagos, seemed out of reach. They decided to start where they were. They also decided on the best way to ensure that their stories reached its audience in the most honest and authentic way to post the film online; which is where YouTube came in.
“The New Girl” has been widely viewed and commended. It has reached millions today and became the base for the next Neptune3 Studios project; ‘Best Friends in the World’. This web series, after a year and a half, has concluded its first season with 24 episodes and an original soundtrack album. It has also built a global fanbase and inspired its creators to continue on their own path of wholesomeness and inspiration.
4. How will I know when to audition?
This is usually an announcement on our social media pages informing actors of an upcoming production. It will contain vital details such as the production title, production location, audition/shooting dates, available roles, required ages, etc. It will also let you know if the auditions are open internationally or for a specific region only. The casting call will also state if the auditions will be held online (video auditions), or in person.
If you are interested, please wait until casting for a new project before you contact them, and be sure to follow the specifications in the casting call. Unsolicited emails, DMs and requests will be deleted or redirected to this page.
Here are the social media pages to follow so you don’t miss a casting announcement:
www.facebook.com/neptune3studios
www.instagram.com/neptune3studios
www.twitter.com/neptune3studios
5. Who can participate in BFW auditions?
The casting post will usually indicate. However at this time, Nigerian residents only. (This means anyone with a residential address in Nigeria, regardless of nationality or origin).
Neptune3 Studios do not have the capacity for international actors who may be expecting our assistance with accommodations or sustenance. However, we encourage international talents to collaborate with independent filmmakers in their local communities and of course, audition when eligible.
6. Can you audition for more than one role?
YES. Just make sure you make separate videos and name the videos after the character OR say the character name before you play the part.
7. You don’t have to be a professional actor with experience.
Auditions are mostly open to all. (The casting call will indicate what Neptune3 Studios looking for) Whether you’ve acted in a production or not, Neptune3 Studios are more interested in your skills as an actor which is your ability to convincingly interpret a role.
8. Global Audition
Wherever you are located in the world, JUMP IN! You are welcome to audition regardless of race, cultural background, religion or otherwise. As long as you fit in within the role, please try your hand at it.
9. Important note for people outside Uyo, Nigeria and want to join the global audition.
The important thing you must note is that if you are selected, you will need to transport yourself to Uyo, Nigeria which is the production location. Neptune3 Studios are happy to assist with accommodation and feeding for our international or out-of-state guests.
10. Respond to calls for extras.
This is the best way to get some live set experience and become conversant with the dos and don’ts of film production. Most times, we cast from among extras who have faithfully attended shoots and have shown an acting strength.
If you’re new to acting, you can audition to be an extra. We need about 300 students! Too old to be a student? Try playing a teacher, we need 15! There are LOTS of speaking opportunities for extras, so don’t neglect this opportunity.
Note: Extras do not need to record a monologue. Just a video/written introduction with your headshot/photo is acceptable. However, we do encourage you to record a 1-2 minute monologue. You never know, your hidden talent could shine through.
11. Do Neptune3 Studios discriminate?
Nationality, race or religion don’t matter. As long as the actor can:
– Be available in the casting location for the required duration of time
– Properly interpret the role
– Work well with and respect others different from you
– Be unproblematic, basically
12. NOTE:
Auditions are mandatory. Only auditions submitted to the RIGHT ADDRESS will be considered.
13. How long will you need to be available for the shoot?
Shooting time is different for each role. It varies depending on the role you’ll be cast for — could be 2 weeks, could be 4 months. If you’re being seriously considered for a role, we’ll let you know this information on time so you can decide whether or not you’ll be available to participate.
14. There are NO registration fees to get into the project.
Neptune3 Studios will NEVER ask for money to join this production, so PLEASE BEWARE OF SCAMMERS asking for money to get in.
15. Don’t ask when.
Producers of the web series “Best Friends In The World” do not know when next they will have auditions, so please don’t ask. Just patiently wait until you see a casting call and follow the instructions stated.
16. How to know when it’s audition time?
A large number of you are interested in the auditions, so it would be impossible to contact everyone. Therefore, the team will not be reminding anyone personally. Instead, Neptune3 Studios encourage you all to follow them on their social media accounts for frequent updates.
17. What ages can audition?
The roles available will determine what ages can audition. Usually, actors that fit the required age and older can audition for the role. For example, if a role requires a 19-year-old and you look like and can act like a 19-year-old even though you’re 25, don’t let the age requirement stop you from trying out. Roles are available for male and female actors aged 16 – 60. There’s something for everyone!
18. Career opportunities. Where do you fit in?
Neptune3 Studio aside hiring casts also hires people to help in the creation of an original content.
Positions available:
Full time video editor / remote (work from home)
Contract video editor / remote or office (based on location) and,
A skilled/talented/passionate/professional video editor
19. Deadline for casts:
Be sure to submit your video on or before June 5, 2021.