Passers by

Vancouver Actors Guide is casting Passers By, a background and featured extra role based in Vancouver, BC. Passers By populate the foreground and background of scripted scenes, contributing directly to the visual storytelling by creating the lived-in texture of a location that camera and editorial depend on. This role suits performers who understand on-set protocol, take direction efficiently, and know how to stay present in a scene without drawing focus away from principal action.

About the Role

Passers By work within the background artistry department, appearing in street scenes, public spaces, or crowd sequences as part of scripted film or television production in the Vancouver market. A typical day involves holding for position, executing movement on cue, and adjusting performance based on direction from the first or second assistant director. Vancouver Actors Guide coordinates this role as part of its ongoing support for the local acting community.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute background movement naturally within a scripted scene, hitting marks and maintaining consistent eyeline across multiple takes.
• Take and retain direction from the AD team quickly, including adjustments to pace, path, and timing between setups.
• Stay in character and maintain continuity of costume, props, and movement across all coverage angles during episodic television or feature film production.
• Hold position during camera resets without breaking the geography of the scene or compromising the sightlines of principal actors.
• Be available for the full duration of the shooting day, understanding that call times and release are dictated by the production schedule.
• Represent the production professionally on set, following all on-set conduct expectations and departmental instructions.

What You Bring

• Prior experience as a background performer or extra on film or television sets is an asset, though emerging performers are considered.
• A current headshot and acting resume ready to submit at time of application.
• Comfort working in outdoor or public location shoots across the Greater Vancouver area.
• Ability to follow direction without prompting and adapt quickly to changing production conditions.
• Reliable availability and the discipline to hold a position for extended periods during background casting work.

Why This Role

Vancouver Actors Guide is one of the longest-running free resources for the Vancouver acting community, connecting performers to real production opportunities through its weekly newsletter network. Volunteer compensation includes food and transport, making this accessible to performers at any stage of their career. For those building credits in the Vancouver film market, Passers By roles are a practical way to accumulate set experience and on-camera time.

Apply now for the Passers By role with Vancouver Actors Guide and include your headshot and acting resume along with the specific role you are interested in.