What is a stand-in?

A stand-in is a performer engaged to physically replace a principal or supporting actor while the crew (including but not limited to: Director of Photography, camera operators, lighting and sound) set up a shot.

Most often, a performer chosen to stand-in for a particular actor is not only experienced as a stand-in but is also physically similar in height, weight, skin tone and hair colour; this allows the actor to leave the set to further prepare for the scene while their stand-in takes their place as the crew works to set ‘the stage’. Once everything is in place and the is scene ready to be filmed, the actors are invited back, and the stand-ins step out until needed again.

Not only do stand-ins move through a set up as the actor does, but they may be asked to read lines of dialogue for blocking purposes; they might also be used as off-camera eye lines during the filming of a scene; and in some cases, will be used as a photo double for the actor they’re standing in for.

What is the purpose of the Stand-in Committee?

The stand-in committee, working closely with ACTRA Alberta staff, was formed to help support union members who work, or hope to work, as stand-ins in the Alberta film and tv industry. It’s a collective of experienced stand-ins who know the inner workings of life on set and who can offer guidance, share experiences, and provide knowledge and training. It’s a little community, within a much bigger system, created to promote of sense of belonging for ACTRA Alberta stand-ins.

MISSION STATEMENT:

The Stand-in Committee is comprised of a diverse group of ACTRA actors who work as stand-ins in the Alberta Film and TV Industry. Our goal is to support one another and to provide key information and training for union members interested in stand-in work while also promoting ACTRA Alberta membership to potential engagers.

To represent, support and grow the Stand-In Community.

Stephanie Chabeniuk – Chair and Alberta ACTRA Member

If you are interested in joining the committee or have questions, please email at Branch Rep. Taisa Dekker (tdekker@actra.ca)