About Austin
As the live music capital of the world and the capital city of the Lone Star State, there’s a lot going on in Austin, Texas. From global bands traveling in from around the world to homegrown talent playing in bars throughout the city, to everything in between, it’s the place to be if you love live music, especially rock and blues.
Austin is also a thriving metropolis that’s great for people of all ages, particularly young people. Of late, there has been an explosion of independent venues, creative spaces, and due to Texas’ low tax rates, many businesses are moving into the area. Austin lives by the motto “Keep Austin Weird”, so if you can be cool with that, it’s time you visited.
Casting Space Options in Austin
When you’re looking for an Austin casting space, just a blank canvas won’t do – here are some things to consider.
- Lighting
Chances are if you’re running casting calls you’re going to need some high quality lighting to record the auditions to watch back at a later date. Although natural light is great, as the day goes by the light is going to be continually changing. Keep control and consistency by bringing your own studio lighting.
- Catering
Depending on how many auditions you have scheduled and how many roles you’re looking for, you and the rest of the casting team might be there for quite a while. It’s always a good idea to have coffee and food on hand to keep proceedings running smoothly and without any hangry reactions.
- Furniture
In addition to any props which you might need to run the auditions, it’s important to think about chairs, tables and any other furniture you might need to be comfortable. As well as considering chairs in the audition room, think about the waiting room outside and what you’re going to need there.
Casting Space Companies in Austin
Transforming a venue into a professional looking casting space can be daunting, luckily these vendors are on hand to help.
- Royal Fig Catering
If you’re looking for something delicious and fresh to eat in between auditions, then the capable team at Royal Fig has you covered. With seasonal menus tailored to fit your requirements, there’s something tasty for everyone. They also use organic, sustainable ingredients from local Texan farms.
- TSV Sound and Vision
If you’re needing lighting, video and audio hookups to record and illuminate your casting session, then TSV can help you out. They have a whole host of equipment available to rent and can do events of all shapes and sizes.
- Monarch Event Rentals
When it comes to those last minute touches as well as your furniture needs, Monarch Event Rentals are absolute pros. They also have staging available to hire in case you need your casting experience to be a bit more on the theatrical side. They are associated with the Texas Rental Association, have been published on Junebug Weddings and more.
Pros and Cons of Casting Spaces in Austin
Although Austin is pretty great in most regards, there are disadvantages to every city and it’s important to consider them.
Advantages
- Sunshine
Being in the great state of Texas, you know that near-constant sunshine is pretty much a guarantee. So, if you’re flying south for the winter, you can definitely leave your sweaters and big coats at home.
- Outdoors
With the mighty Colorado River snaking its way through the heart of Austin and miles and miles of hiking and running trails, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy in the lovely sunshine.
- Music
A city doesn’t get the title of the live music capital of the world without a very good reason. Whatever vibe you’re looking for you’re bound to find it in one of the many bars, clubs and venues around Austin.
- Food
Naturally, being the capital of Texas, Tex-Mex and barbecue are huge in Austin and they do it very well. You can find great food on pretty much any street corner - literally, Austin is known for the most food trucks of any city in America. Finding food for the casting crew will be a breeze.
- Entertainment
In addition to live music, there are plenty of clubs, cabarets and activities to explore in Austin, especially if you’re visiting during SXSW. The prices might skyrocket but you’ll see some of the best films, bands, speakers, comedians around at the moment.
Disadvantages
- Expensive
Austin is notoriously expensive, especially when it comes to housing. Expect to pay much, much more than you would in other Southern cities – it’s the price of having such great amenities on your doorstep. Organize your casting space with the help of a budget.
- Heat
Although near constant year-round sunshine might sound great, the heat in the summer is no joke. Expect sweltering temperatures which will have you staying indoors where the air-con is blissful.
- Public transport
Despite being a state capital and well-visited destination, the public transport system in Austin leaves a lot to be desired. The buses in particular seem to be unreliable at best.
- Traffic
With bad public transport, most locals and visitors alike opt to drive – especially with gas prices in Texas being so cheap. What this does mean, however, is the traffic is pretty horrendous.
- Diversity
Although Austin is a creative hub and home for weirdos and outcasts the world over, the diversity levels are shockingly low for a city of this size. It’s reported that Austin is over 70% white, so there isn’t a whole lot of cultural diversity going on.
Famous Locations in Austin
- Lady Bird Lake
Named after the first lady, Lady Bird Johnson, this reservoir of the Colorado River is home to some of the nicest trails, parks and launch areas for canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. So, spend some time back in nature!
- Mexic-Arte Museum
Starting all the way back in 1903, this museum dedicated to Mexican, Latino and Latin American art is a must-see for anyone seeking out culture and beauty. With rotating exhibits reflecting current events and issues, it’s a powerful place to visit.
- Barton Springs
Although you can’t swim in Lady Bird Lake, if you go to Zilker Park, you’ll find Barton Springs. It’s a glorious watering hole where you’ll often see locals going for a dip as a respite from the harsh Austin heat.
