Ever wondered how major productions like Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, Return to Paradise, or Anyone But You find their background talent when they roll into town? 

This Saturday (February 7), local non-profit Screen Illawarra is hosting an exclusive Extras Casting Workshop at the Gerringong Town Hall to help residents break into the industry.

The workshop features industry heavyweights Miriam Spry, a leading extras casting director with 23 years of experience, and professional actor Karen Cobban. 

Screen Illawarra Executive Producer Nick Bolton said the organisation first ran this event in Wollongong about 18 months ago. 

"It was very, very popular for emerging or low-entry level practitioners in the industry to try and get some work as an extra," he said.

Photo: Matt Houston at IronBark photography

 "One of the reasons we do this is that we work with a lot of the major productions that come down to the Illawarra, and having a database of extras available to these major productions is really beneficial.

It's a bit of a win-win for both the individual and for the production company."

The session is designed to offer real-world insights into breaking in, understanding the "Who’s Who" of agents and casting directors, and mastering the "Toolkit" - including what makes a strong headshot and the nuances of self-taping.

 Bolton’s advice for beginners is clear: "Be professional, be courteous, don’t be on time, be early.

Photo: Matt Houston at IronBark photography

A very, very common mistake is that people don't have their file naming conventions with their names in it.

"You know, they'll send a headshot and it'll be IMG-4932. It’s really simple, basic stuff like that." 

Beyond the logistics, the workshop highlights how being an extra serves as a vital learning experience for all. 

"Most people start off as an extra and then do some acting training and then go to short films," Bolton explained.

 "The benefit is just by being an extra you are on set and observing the hierarchies and methodologies and the very specific processes of what happens on a film set.

Photo: Matt Houston at IronBark photography

It happens all the time that an extra might become a featured extra or be asked to stand right next to the lead cast."

The event runs from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Gerringong Town Hall (106 Fern St). 

It is a catered event, and while Fern Street has restricted parking on Saturdays, Belinda Street is recommended for unrestricted options.

Tickets are free for members and $15 for non-members via Humanitix.

Following the event, Bolton also invites the community to the Wollongong City Council Short Film Festival on March 7 at the Sunset Cinema in the Botanical Gardens, where six Screen Illawarra films will be commissioned.

"If anybody wants to come along and meet the local filmmaking community, that would be a great event," Bolton added.

Photo: Matt Houston at IronBark photography

For those hesitant to sign up, Bolton emphasised the supportive nature of the group.

"I'm very proud of Screen Illawarra – people always say that it's a very welcoming and open and inclusive organisation. Karen and Miriam are lovely.

"Most people are all in the same boat as extras.

Everybody comes with a little bit of nervousness, but the beauty of this workshop is that Miriam and Karen will just talk them through in a very safe place what goes on and how to do it. 

“What have you got to lose?

"Just come along and have some fun."