Can I answer a question that someone asked me to answer for everyone?

Question

Marianne D, top contributor asked me to talk a little about scams to enlighten some of you young actors and to put you on the alert.

I've already written about them so I will send you a link below. They are two scams that I almost became a victim of if I hadn't followed my instincts. You really have to be careful out there. It's important to find people like Marianne (at least what I know of her from her comments on yahoo answers), who have an interest in keeping acting pure.

I believe that acting is one of the greatest professions in the world and we should do what we can to protect it.
I don't want to preach. So here is the link:

http://www.actingcareerstartup.com/acting_scams.html

Be always alert!

Tony
http://www.actingcareerstartup.com/acting_scams.html

Answer 1

I've read your stories and they're very good points to remember especially for actors who are already out there pounding the pavement.

Actor's just starting out should keep those in mind too but you also need to watch out for anyone who approaches you in places such as a mall and tells you or your parent that they think you have what it takes to be a model or an actor. They invite you to a 'free' audition where you'll find that many others have also been invited. They may or may not film you reading a commercial or a scene and then whether or not you actually did well, they'll tell you that you were great, but you need training and all it will take is a few thousand dollars worth of their special classes. Please don't fall for this scam. There are many classes out there that do not cost this much and give you better training. If you live in Los Angeles a good resource is WorkingActors.com or Backstage.com. I just implore you to please do your homework before handing over your life savings to someone who's pressuring you or your parents by saying that this offer is a now or never deal. Any reputable place offering classes will in fact be there the next day, the next week, and the next year and you can take classes whenever it's convenient and financially possible for you to do so. If you're being pressured by a specific company, just do an internet seach with that company's name and the word 'scam' and see what pops up. Also check with the Better Business Bureau.

If you want to be a model, check out the websites for top agencies such as Ford & Elite, etc. They have their physical requirements and open call information listed right on the website. They even tell you that you do not need professional photos to start off and they describe exactly what type of photos they want you to bring and that you can have a friend take them. If you have possibilities, they'll see it in you and you'll get a shot!

Answer 2

Backstage.com is the BEST souce for information on scams in the acting industry.

Backstage is a New York publication for actors at various stages of their acting career.

Backstage.com

Answer 3

I'm answering so you can be one more closer to 200, Ramjet - hee hee!! Well, I guess with many answers you know your question was a hot topic! Me, I just hope for a handful of answers from at least respectful answerers . . . none of these "thanx for the 2 pts" or "who cares" types. Oh but I would love to have a zillion stars - wink!!

Answer 4

Good for all you guys! Acting is a noble profession and bravo for looking out!

Answer 5

Tony, that was a nice workaround that you and Marianne concocted. I applaud you both.

Please allow me to add my small voice to your accolades.

Answer 6

That was amazingly helpful, thank you so much!!!