Recent Production Development Brings Opportunity
For nearly 49 years, TalentPlus has watched the entertainment industry evolve through changing trends, technology, economic shifts, strikes, and even a global pandemic. One thing we know for certain: the Midwest entertainment industry is entering a new chapter.
With Missouri’s current film tax incentive helping attract feature films and television projects to the region, along with Illinois continuing to expand one of the strongest incentive programs in the country, actors, models, voice talent, and background performers in the St. Louis area may begin seeing more opportunities develop across both sides of the river.
Recent announcements involving feature films shooting in St. Louis this summer, along with the development of the new Hollywood River Studios project in Wood River, Illinois, are further signs that producers are paying attention to the St. Louis region.
While no one can guarantee bookings or overnight industry growth, talent who stay prepared will be in the best position to take advantage of opportunities when productions begin staffing local performers
The Industry Has Changed Since COVID
One of the biggest shifts we’ve seen over the last several years is the move toward self-taped auditi
Before COVID-19, many auditions took place in person. Talent would often drive to casting offices, sign in, wait in lobby rooms, and audition directly for casting directors. Today, many first-round auditions for commercials, television, and films are now submitted digitally through self tapes.
Because of this shift, talent are now expected to be more prepared from home than ever before.
In many cases, productions move quickly. A casting may reque
* A self tape within 24–48 hours
* Updated photos
* A current resume
* A personality slate
* Updated sizes and contact information
* A casting profile link
Talent who are organized and ready often have a major advantage.
Why Up-To-Date Casting Profiles MatteAs more productions begin considering Missouri and Illinois for filming locations, professional casting profiles are becoming increasingly important.
Casting directors frequently search platforms like:
* Actors Access
* Casting Networks
* Casting.com
Your profile is often your first impression before an audition request is ever sent.
Talent should regularly review:
* Headshots
* Resume credits
* Reel footage
* Slate shots
* Contact information
* Sizes and measurements
* Union status
* Special skill
Even background and day-player roles may require updated materials, especially on film and television projects.
Self-Tape Auditions Are Now Industry Standard
At TalentPlus, we have seen firsthand how self-taping has transformed the audition process.
Talent no longer need expensive equipment, but they should have access to:
* A quiet filming space
* Neutral background
* Ring light or natural lighting
* Smartphone or camera with clear video
* Basic understanding of framing and eyelines
* Ability to upload files quicklyProductions often move very fast, especially when filming schedules are compressed. Being comfortable with self tapes can help reduce stress when opportunities arise
Local Hire Opportunities Are Growin
One advantage Midwest talent may have is the ability to work as a local hire.
Productions filming in Missouri and Illinois often seek talent who can
* Work locally without airfare
* Drive to set
* Be flexible with schedules
* Attend fittings or callbacks on short notice
As the St. Louis Film Office continues promoting the region and new studios begin developing across the river, productions may increasingly look to regional performers to help fill supporting, featured background, commercial, and principal roles.
Professionalism Still Matters
Even with the rise of technology and self submissions, professionalism continues to matter greatly.
Talent should:
* Respond promptly to casting notices
* Follow instructions carefully
* Submit requested materials correctly
* Keep availability calendars updated
* Maintain professional communication
Casting directors and production teams remember talent who are reliable, prepared, and easy to work with.
The Midwest Industry Is Evolving
The recent announcements involving productions filming in St. Louis, along with developments like Hollywood River Studios in Illinois, are exciting signs for the region’s future.
At TalentPlus, we’ve seen the industry change dramatically over the last 49 years — from physical headshots and VHS audition tapes to digital submissions and remote casting. The tools may change, but preparation, professionalism, and consistency continue to matter.
As new opportunities emerge across Missouri and an Illinois, now is the time for talent to make sure their materials, profiles, and audition skills are ready.
Because when casting opportunities move quickly, preparation can make all the difference.