Monday, October 12, 2009

"RED LIGHT, GREEN LIGHT: 10 DOS AND DON'TS FOR COURTING AN AGENT" BY "SECRET AGENT MAN" (BACKSTAGE, JULY 30, 2009)

1. Don't just show up.

2. Don't screw up chance encounters:"If that actor had a brain, he would have taken the time to make a personal connection [with people you meet] that he could have referenced at a later date."

3. Don't pick the wrong time: "If I'm doing something social, the odds are I'm not going to be in the mood for an actor seeking an agent."

4. Don't lie.

5. Don't suck: "... if you're not a great actor? Every opportunity you create will be wasted..."
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1. Do get fantastic headshots.

2. Do become the best actor you possibly can be.

3. Do put your talent on display: "... the more you perform, the more likely you are to attract an agent's attention."

4. Do your homework: "Don't just submit to every agent in town, hoping someone will respond. You have to do some research... find out what kind of actors it represents. Are you experienced enough for this agency?... Try to dig up some professional or personal facts about this person... Maybe the agent said something revealing, like how much he loves sushi. That's something you can reference in your cover letter. Tell the agent about your favorite sushi bar... every little bit helps when you're trying to stand out from the pack."

5. Do have someone introduce you: "So build up a group of people who admire and respect your work. I'm talking about teachers, actors, casting assistants-- anyone who can introduce you to an agent... who will speak up for you."

4 comments:

Heather said...

Don't target avery agent, pick 20-30 agents that you feel are appropriate for you.

If sending a mailing, try this as the third paragraph:
"I am currently in the process of setting up agency interviews. I would love to add you to the list."

If not from a referral, most agents meet new clients through seminars, not by going to see their shows.

Heather said...

Actor reels: Should be of mainstream work, not student films. Short clip on "Law and Order" is better than a featured role in a low budget. Sometimes, and actor is just not ready for a reel yet.

(If you are on Television, contact "Aircheck"(through actorsaccess.com), they will record your show, cut out your scene and make it internet ready).

Heather said...

"... always invite assistants to plays and showcases and whatever you're doing to show off your talent. Even if you invite the actual agent, you should make it clear that you're extending the invitation to his or her assistant too. These people don't get a lot of respect, so they might be flattered that you're including them. It gives them a chance to act like an agent. And that could work in your favor" ("The Almighty Assistant" by Secret Agent Man, Backstage, 10/29/09).

Heather said...

Once have representation, create a listing in The Players Directory: https://www.playersdirectory.com/