Do you think you’re a master in the kitchen? The fifth season of the FOX reality show “MasterChef” just crowned its winner last week and the network is already casting for season six.
Casting producers are currently going from city to city trying to cook up a perfect cast for the next season of the show and they will be in New Orleans this weekend.
If you’re a local home cook who’s interested in showcasing your talents on the show, we recently talked to producer Gina Gonzalez to help bring you everything you need to know about the casting process.
When/Where will the open call take place?
Saturday, September 27th 2014
Four Points French Quarter 541 Bourbon St.New Orleans, LA 70130
10am-6pm
Is there anything potential contestants should do before attending the casting call?
Pre-register here!
What does the open call process entail?
According to Gonzalez, the open call casting process consists of two stages: presenting one dish in front of a food judge and speaking with a casting producer.
“Everyone brings one prepared dish and will have a few minutes to plate the dish for the food judges to taste,” Gonzalez explained. “We actually have judges that are professional chefs and they’re going to be talking to each applicant about each dish. They’re going to taste it and they’ll want to hear how it was prepared. Then, either myself or another producer will talk to them. This part is just about them and what brought them out and why they’re applying in order to get a feel for their personality.”
Will any of the main judges from “MasterChef” be in New Orleans for the casting call?
“Since we’re filming in New Orleans this year, Graham Elliot will be there. He won’t be the one that’s judging [at the casting call], he’ll just be filming,” said Gonzales.
What will you be looking for when you’re casting in New Orleans?
“We’re coming back to New Orleans this year because we know it’s a food city and there are some great personalities and stories…I’m just looking for people who are open and honest that really want to enjoy this experience, share their stories, and share their passion for cooking,” Gonzalez added. That’s what it all comes down to: their passion for cooking.”
What would you say to potential contestants who may be nervous about eventually facing Chef Gordon Ramsay on the show?
Ramsay, one of three “MasterChef” judges, is one of the most respected chefs in the business and his high expertise often intimidates even the most talented home cooks:
“Gordon Ramsey is actually more mentoring on “MasterChef” because he understands they’re all home cooks. This isn’t “Hell’s Kitchen,” they’re not all professional chefs. It’s a journey for these home cooks. Gordon might yell from time to time, but if anything, it’s more mentoring and he’s actually quite charming.”
Any final advice for the New Orleans home cooks that are hoping for a chance on the show?
“I would just say for people having second thoughts, just come and do it. You have absolutely nothing to lose and everything in the world to gain. It’s such a great experience, just the casting process itself, we really enjoy doing it,” Gonzalez said. I would just say don’t hesitate. If you’re pre-registered, come out, bring your food, and just have fun.”
Click here for more information on the “Masterchef” open casting call.
‘MasterChef’ casting call in New Orleans
By Aggi Ashagre
September 22, 2014
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