i want to start acting, but how do i get an agent and where?

Question

i've only been in one play and two skits

Answer 1

Audition and get casted in an equity production (most city playhouses are affiliated with this union). Register and pay dues to be an equity actor ($100, I think). You can obtain more information about agents etc.

Answer 2

Well, first you get really great headshots done.

Then you put together a resume. Skits aren't a waste to an agent by the way, the more stage experience the better. But rather than word it as "skits" word it as "improve."

If you are getting started and you are under 16 you will need a work permit. These are easy to get. You need to show your report card and fill out an application. In LA it doesn't cost anything.

Then you write a great letter. Put it together with your headshot and resume. If you are under 18 you will need a letter from your parents enclosed as well stating that they support you and are willing to sign contracts on your behalf.

Then you go to Samuel French and get the latest booklet listing out agents. Send packs out every week until you get called in to audition or land an agent. If you mail out all the way through the list... then start again from the beginning updating your resume until you get called in.

I have personally helped about 50 or so people get agents by doing this. All of them had an agent within three weeks. to follow that up, all of these people I volunteered doing this for. I do not do this as a living. Just do the above and you will get an agent.

I hope this helps.

Oh, and if you need headshots know what you need to get good ones too. Go to http://headshots101.com They put together a really great website on any question you might have on headshots.

Answer 3

Agents only give contracts to people they can make money with. There are thousands of trained actors who can't get signed. You've got this backwards. First build up a resume of professional training and as many LEGITIMATE amateur credits as you can. Then maybe an agent will take an interest. BTW, if you don't live in NY or LA there are no jobs.
The truth is you are dreaming and this will never happen for you. Too many people think you can just get started like that. Remember that the highest paying jobs are also the hardest jobs. The overwhelming majority of people can't do them. Most people are aware they can't be surgeons yet they seem to think they can act professionally even though they've never done it before. Just act for fun.

Answer 4

You do not need an agent to get started in acting.

There are probably many theaters in the city where you live.

Call them and ask what plays they are producing this season and what is the audition procedure.

Take acting classes. You are not ready for an agent.
It takes many years of acting, before you should consider an agent.

You need more experiece before an agent will want to represent you.

Get about 10 lead acting roles, before you look for an agent. Lead roles only.

You have time, the acting industry is not going anywhere.

Answer 5

Okay, well, hate to break it to you, but one play (skits mean nothing), means squat to an agent.

So what you need to do, is do more plays, either in school, or the community.

Also, try and do some local commercials or print work for local businesses.

Then, add those to your resume, and send your resume out (along with your headshot and cover letter), to legitimate, SAG registered agencies.

Find some in your area here:
http://www.sag.org/sagWebApp/application?event=bea.portal.framework.internal.refresh&pageid=AgentInformation

Then, after 4-6 weeks, the agency will contact you if the are interested, and call you in for an interview.

If all goes well, then you should be signed by the agency after that!

If not, keep sending postcards/zed cards out to the agencies to remind them of you each time you have something new to add to your resume.

Then, eventually, that should bring you some success!

Good Luck!

Answer 6

You might want to build up your resume a bit before looking for an agent. Do some more plays, study acting with a reputable teacher and develop a bit more.

Answer 7

you can buy books that list Agents at Samuel French Book store. There aren't many of these stores around, maybe not in your area if you're not in LA or NY. But you can check them out online too. Link below.
But before you get an agent, act as much as possible. Anything. Stage, student films, etc. You can find auditions in BackStage paper.. Also avail online (Link Below)
for starters....

Answer 8

Hi,

You don't need an agent if you're just starting out.
There are many projects listed at http://www.actorspages.org
You can submit yourself for free.

Alan

Answer 9

Mimi always has pretty good answers. To get the real dope on how to start, search the web for Anthony Smith's website. He helps young actors get started.

Answer 10

For Acting, I would recommend

http://www.hollywoodnorth.com