frequently asked questions
What is a Background Performer?
Background Performers create the atmosphere of a scene in Film & TV. All the activity you see happening behind the lead actors is done by BG Performers.
“A Background Performer is any performer/actor who is:
1. Not required to give individual characterizations;
2. Not required to speak or sing any word or line of dialogue;
3. Not required to perform any special skills. BG may be booked as SSE(Special Skills Engagement) but they are still considered a Background Performer.
It is incumbent upon you to know your Rights, Rules, & Regulations as a performer.
Do I have to be experienced?
No. We also accept people who have a sparked interested in exploring and being introduced to the entertainment industry.
Can I have more than one background agent?
Yes. You can have as many as you want.
What separates Show Catcher Talent from the other agencies?
Our Team members combined have worked in almost every aspect of the film industry. We have created long-standing and respectful relationships with all GTA Casting Directors & Productions, making us one of the go-to agencies to work with.
Because of our experience working as Background Performers in the past we know what’s needed to make your Background experience better. We’re on your side!
What is the registration fee for?
The registration fee is for administration costs.
How old do I have to be to become a Background Performer?
We represent all ages except infants under the age of 1.
Minors under 18 years old, please visit our Minors page.
How do I ensure my Minor stays safe on set?
Every Minor must have a guardian or trusted chaperon on set at all times. If there are over 6 Minors on set a Minors Coordinator will be present to ensure all the Minors’ working laws are implemented and to answer any of your questions. Your child is to be under their guardian’s supervision at all times so if there is anything you/they are uncomfortable with, it is recommended to speak up about it.
How do bookings work?
When we get an order that fits your look, status, and/or age we will contact you to see if you are available. If you are chosen, we will send you a confirmation email saying “YOU ARE BOOKED”. That email will tell you everything you need to know and if it doesn’t, we don’t have the information from Casting yet.
How often will I work?
We cannot guarantee how often you work but a flexible schedule will help you out a lot.
How long will I work?
Work days can range as long as 12-16 hours depending on production’s day and what needs to be completed.
If you accept a booking you must commit to the full day regardless of the amount of hours.
What is a Call Time & what do I do with it?
Call Times are the time at which a BG Performer must report for work at the designated location. It is sometimes referred to as your “Call”.
Call Times are in 24hr clock. (i.e. 4pm= 16:00)
Show Catcher Talent is responsible for providing you with your Call Time. Most Call Times will be given the evening before therefore it is important to have constant access to internet so you can check your emails and messages. Depending on the show’s schedule, Call Times may not be given out until late at night or the morning of, if it’s a Night shoot. Always double check for updates as our industry is constantly making changes to looks, locations, etc.
If you are booked and confirmed but receive no call time by 11pm the night before work please email us at bookings@showcatcher.ca with “NO CALL” in the subject header.
First time on set- who do I go to with my questions?
Please report to the BG Representative with all your questions. The BG Representative is usually the person who signs you in and gives you a voucher.
Am I Union or Non-Union?
If you are unsure of your status then you are likely Non-Union. ACTRA Members are a part of the Union and have an ACTRA number assigned to them. ACTRA Additional Background Performers (AABP) will also have a number assigned to them.
How do I fill out my voucher?
Filling out your voucher is a hugely important task so we put this information on it’s own page. Please visit the Vouchers page.
How long does it take to get paid?
BG Performers can usually expect their pay within 2 weeks from the original work date. They are sometimes delayed if there was a performance upgrade or an issue with the cheque.
What is commission for?
The commission fee is essentially our payment for getting you the job.
Why are there fees for lates, no-shows, and cancellations?
If there is no consequence for this type of behaviour more and more people will feel like they can get away with it. That makes us all look bad.
What is the IPA?
I.P.A stands for Independent Production Agreement. This book, published by ACTRA, is a Memorandum of Agreements for all performers in Film, TV, & Commercial productions. The I.P.A can be obtained at the ACTRA office or on the ACTRA website. We suggest that you carry a copy of the I.P.A with you when you are working on any set or production.
Can I make changes to my database profile?
Yes you can! Please see our “SEND UPDATE” link in the footer menu to submit changes. All other changes that are unlisted there can be sent to management@showcatcher.ca. At this time we do not have talent profiles for you to access.