Want to get my daughter into auditions for acting?

Question

What agency should you use and what are the costs I should expect.

I am in Boston Mass. She has had some acting / in local childrens theaters also she is taking voice lessons.

her love is acting/singing/ dancing she did a childrens theater class from September to May every sat for 2hrs that led to a production she was so proud of along with dance, singing and now for her birthday she wants nothing more than a guitar and lessons .... I myself was always athletic and very involved in sports so this is all new to me. I appreciate the help I have received this far ! I know child acting can be an overwhelming business and I dont want her to lose out on regular childhood activities/ friends/ school. That is why before I make any further moves I wanted a little advice from those who have been there or are in the business.

Answer 1

Just got back from meeting lots of family in Scituate and Mass is BEAUTIFUL!! Fanuel Hall had good eats and Fenway was a treat (even though they had a grand slam in the first inning so the game wasn't even close!)

As for you daughter... Well I think your best start will be a casting director! You'll need to not only find one who's in your area but also one who offers some sort of workshop or training "inhouse". These casting directors who offer their own classes get a chance to see new talent face to face (which is key). This also gives the casting director time to see how your daughter responds to direction, cameras and other people. If your daughter can make a good impression (by studying hard and coming in prepared) every time they meet, the casting director will feel much more comfortable attaching their name to your child. This will keep you daughters talent fresh in his/her head and will usually deliver very fast results.

Your daughter may have to start as an "extra" with little to no lines at all but the very experience of being on set and seeing others "do" often has a highly motivating effect on even the youngest actors. This also shakes out the cobwebs for when it's her turn to shine (with make-up, lines, cues, lights, etc...). Remember that casting directors NEED new talant to stay fresh in the game. However also remember that "talent" means just that, so encourage your young one to accept extra and non scripted roles in an effort to grow. There are tons of casting calls for McD's and the latest clothing and on and on.

As an actress without lines there are simple yet important responsibilities like 1) Be on time 2) Be quiet and 3) Always stay professional.


There are a couple don'ts as well 1) Extras DON"T need headshots (so don't buy them if you don't yet want to) 2) Extras do not get charged a booking AND agent fee. (Any casting director who tries to charge you both is a scam artist banking on the fact that you don't know any better) and 3) Extras don't pay for craft services. (The food is out so help your self).

This is all why a casting director is a better first step then an agent. Besides agents prefer to see "proven" talent with a resume a mile long. Try to find a casting director who has workshops (where producers and agents watch) rather then going straight for an agent. When you are approached by an agent remember that this is a two way street. If you are not comfortable for any reason or don't feel your childs best interests are being met you should move on. This is a lucrative industry and it has more than it's share of greasy characters!

Best wishes to your potential career little lady and study hard. Booking the big gigs is a combination of preparedness and LUCK!! One you have total control over, the other is in the STARS!

Break a leg!

Answer 2

Did you evaluate the reason you want your daughter in acting? Does she want to act?

BOSTON:
Maggie, Inc.
35 Newbury Street
Boston, MA 02116
Tel: [phone]

Model Club, Inc.
329 Columbus Ave
Boston, MA 02116
Tel: [phone]

A legitimate Talent Agent is entitled to a 10%-15% commission of the amount made by the actor.

Your daughter must have a few years of acting classes,
as well as, have performed in plays.

If you have a file of her acting reviews that's even better.
An agent would like to see them.

Answer 3

As the person prior to me stated, it's important to know where you are located.
You don't necessarily need an agent just yet.
The best thing to do is to see a casting director, speak with him/her about the business.
Eventually, you will need photos but to tell you the truth, it's all a crap shoot.

There are casting calls for reputable agencies periodically.

Check the internet for reputable registered agencies.
Call around. Do not pretend to know more than you know.
Ask questions.