About New Orleans
A feast for the senses, New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind metropolis situated in the heart of America's Deep South. It is the largest city in Louisiana and one of the most diverse cities in the United States. The city is known for its distinct Creole culture, jazz music, and distinctive cuisine that blends French, African, Caribbean, and American influences.
New Orleans has been awarded several nicknames over time. These include “The Big Easy” due to its laid-back atmosphere, “The Crescent City” due to its location along a crescent-shaped bend in the Mississippi River, and “The City that Care Forgot” for its hedonistic reputation during the 19th century. No matter what you may want to call the city, there’s no denying that New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind destination in the country.
If you want to create a name in the entertainment industry, New Orleans is also a fantastic place to be for aspiring actors. Its booming film industry presents lots of opportunities to get cast in short videos, commercials, or feature films without the competition you’ll experience in places like Hollywood. Filmmakers, directors, and executives can also find a roomy and convenient casting space in New Orleans to find the best talents for the project.
Casting Options in New Orleans
- Audio/Visual Equipment
New Orleans is home to a variety of vendors offering audio/visual equipment for casting auditions. From large-scale projectors to small sound systems, these vendors offer a full array of equipment that can be tailored to any project or event. Not only do these vendors provide high-quality equipment, but they also possess the expertise needed to help clients find the best possible solution for their needs.
- Catering
When it comes to hosting a casting in New Orleans, catering is an absolute must. The city boasts an abundance of culinary talent and unique dishes, making it easy to find something that everyone can enjoy. Many catering companies also offer specialized menus and custom packages so clients can pick out exactly what they need without having to worry about exceeding their budget.
- Lighting
Lighting plays an important role in any setting, especially for casting spaces. Luckily, New Orleans has plenty of lighting options available that can be used to create the desired ambiance and atmosphere. Whether it's accent lights, up-lighting, or stage lighting, there are many different options available that can help bring any vision or concept to life.
Casting Vendors in New Orleans
- Mitey AV
With clients ranging from $100 to $100,000, Mitey AV has provided trusted and reliable AV equipment for a variety of occasions, from corporate events and conventions to social gatherings and even weddings and funerals. Their experience in providing AV equipment spans numerous industries, including entertainment, pharmaceuticals, public relations, museums, and expositions.
- Michael's Catering
Michael's Catering in New Orleans has more than thirty years worth of success stories. They provide quality service and delicious food for any celebration — big or small. No matter what type of occasion you are organizing, be it a corporate gathering, a family reunion, or an extravagant wedding, Michael’s Catering can help. They have built an excellent reputation over their many years.
- Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights
The French Quarter is an iconic piece of New Orleans architecture, and the timeless light fixture so renowned in the city was originally designed by esteemed architect A. Hays Town. Commissioned to bring this distinctive piece of 17th-century European architecture to life, Andrew Bevolo Sr.'s legacy lives on through the continued production of this beautiful light today. Now customers have access to a wide variety of original custom designs from Bevolo Lighting, which has gained recognition across the whole United States and beyond its borders in 29 countries.
Pros and Cons of Casting Spaces in New Orleans
New Orleans is home to a vibrant film and television industry with many production companies operating in the city. This has been made possible by the expansive castings spaces available for use by both local productions and those from outside of Louisiana. Hosting an event at casting spaces in New Orleans can offer many advantages. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider when planning an event in New Orleans.
Advantages
- One of the primary benefits of using casting spaces in New Orleans is cost savings. The cost of renting out space can be substantially lower than securing a studio or other large set location.
- Using a casting venue in New Orleans allows you access to experienced crew members that know how to navigate the area’s unique climate as well as local scouting opportunities.
- Since most casting spaces in New Orleans are within the central city, they are easily accessible via public transportation.
Disadvantages
- One potential downside of using casting spaces in New Orleans is limited space available due to high demand from productions within the city limits and from outside sources looking for a way into Louisiana's film scene without going through extensive permitting processes or paying exorbitant fees associated with larger studio rentals located away from urban areas or across state lines.
- Some casting venues may have limited amenities such as bathrooms, catering options, and places for guests — features typically found at studio rentals but not always guaranteed.
- Unreliable electricity from nearby power sources and unpredictable weather conditions should both be taken into account when considering hosting a casting audition at any casting locations throughout New Orleans' metro area. Most sites may not have reliable backup generators installed.
Tips on How to Organize Casting Spaces in New Orleans
Organizing an event at castings spaces in New Orleans requires careful planning, considering the city's unique culture and layout. Here are some tips to consider when planning a casting event in the Big Easy:
- Get familiar with the area: Take some time to explore the city, get to know its neighborhoods, and find out which areas offer good accessibility for cast members. Learn about local regulations and restrictions.
- Choose a central location: You want to select a place that is easily accessible from all areas of New Orleans while still providing an atmosphere conducive to casting events. Consider factors such as parking availability and public transportation options when selecting your site. It's also important to ensure that any permits necessary for the space are obtained.
- Prioritize the safety of cast members: Make sure you provide adequate security measures during the casting event, such as having staff available at all times or requiring all participants to check in with ID badges upon arrival. Also, be aware of any potential hazards around you, such as inclement weather or flooding risks associated with certain areas in New Orleans due to its proximity to water.
- Follow up after the event: Make sure that you connect with all guests who were involved in your casting event afterward, either via email or phone call. Give them feedback on how they did throughout the audition process so they can better understand what direction they need to take next time they attend a casting audition.
Famous Locations in New Orleans
- Luling Mansion
Luling Mansion was once the epitome of luxury and grandeur. Built by wealthy cotton merchant Florence Luling in 1865, this Italianate masterpiece was composed of 22 rooms and stood on 30 acres of lush land, including a lake and an island within. But tragedy would soon hit the Luling family— two of his sons passed away after residing in the mansion, and with sadness, he eventually returned to Europe, never to return again. Afterward, it served various purposes — at one stage being used as part of the Fairgrounds Racetrack owned by the Louisiana Jockey Club before finally becoming apartments in 1905. Today, only small remnants remain of its former beauty, captivating visitors from near and far who are drawn to its mysterious allure.
- Magazine Street
Magazine Street in New Orleans is a six-mile stretch of paradise for shoppers, foodies, and sightseers alike. Tourists will be faced with seemingly endless choices of unique boutiques, galleries, and costume shops to browse or sample delicious local treats. The mossy trees along either side provide a shady oasis in the hot Louisiana weather. What's more, you can explore the mystery of the street's name — magazines of ammunition are said to have inspired it — while taking a trolley or walking down its length. When it comes to finding the perfect present for yourself or someone special, Magazine Street is your go-to destination for endless possibilities.
- Fort Macomb Ruins
Exploring the 19th-century brick face of Fort Macomb Ruins is an exciting experience for history buffs visiting New Orleans. Built in 1822, the fort is one of 42 forts guarding Louisiana's coast and was part of the important plans for Third System defense. It played a significant role in multiple key battles, including the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Unfortunately, it has suffered through a series of disasters over time, starting with a massive fire in 1867 and later experiencing severe damage from Hurricane Katrina. Even though it's not safe to enter its deteriorating structure today, this hidden gem has become popular for travelers looking for an exciting adventure in New Orleans.
