My daughter really wants to get into acting. What are some of the best steps..?

Question

to take in order to keep her from being exploited? Are there any agencies that specialize in biracial children? (Shes' 11)

Answer 1

Like the others said, you start at local theatres, but she should get into some classes first or in conjunction with that because she won't know what she's doing at that first audition. Acting, dancing & voice lessons or at the very least a starter workshop that combines the three but really you should take the disciplines separately. In my opinion and ideally, dance should be ballet, jazz & tap. I know that's a lot to start with so make your own decision there.

As for agents who specialize in biracial children, no. Most agents have a trove of different types and if they don't have anyone of her specific type or they happen to need someone of her type then they might give her a chance. If she's really cute you may want to submit her first for print work and see if you get any bites and once she builds a resume through theatre then submit her to agents for commercial and theatrical work.

If you want to find a legitimate agent to represent you for commercials, TV & film go to Sag.org. Use the dropdown menu on the right labeled 'resources' and choose 'agent information'. On the next screen, on the left choose 'Find a SAG franchised agent' and follow the directions. You can look up agents all over the US, but there are higher concentrations where the work is (Los Angeles, NY, IL, FL, GA etc.). Another great resource is Ross Reports especially because they update their info so often but not all of the agents they list are SAG and you have to pay for the list. That doesn’t mean they’re not legit, but that’s why I always tell people to start with the SAG list. It’s free and those agents have signed an agreement to put the actor first! www.rossreports.com If you subscribe to backstage.com you can get a combo subscription which can come in handy but can also get quite expensive.

Then you can send the agencies your headshot, resume, and a cover letter stating that you are seeking representation and wait to see if they call you in for an interview. You never call the agencies directly. That is a big no-no! At least it is in LA. Please remember that reputable agents take exactly 10% of your pay AFTER they help you get a job. Not one cent more and not one cent before. Anything else is a scam. This is strictly for talent agents, not modeling agents or talent managers who take different percentages.

Once you have an agent, they will get you the auditions, but until then you can check out actorsaccess.com. You can also see if your state has a film alliance / commission / society or whatever your state calls theirs (some have more than one). Sometimes they post audition information for projects filming locally. For theatre (and other auditions on backstage), you can go to backstage.com or www.actorsequity.com (click on casting call) If you find the audition on the Equity site, you still may be able to go, as long as their not taking appointments from equity actor's only :-) On backstage.com you have to pay to get all of the info, but the initial search is free and you may be able to see enough info to find out the rest on your own without paying.

best of luck to you!

Answer 2

You have one good answer all ready. To keep her from being exploited, you have to make sure that those with whom you deal are legitimate and ethical. I have heard of agencies that specialize in ethnic talent, but that is as far as it goes for specialization. Show business is the leader in diverisity and it always has been. Agents, casting directors, etc, only care if the actor is marketable and fits the role. Nothing else much matters. So any agency would be good as long as it is ethical. Often the best thing an aspiring actor can do is to have a mentor. Click on my name, read my profile and get in touch with me at my aol address if you need more info.

Answer 3

Echo what everyone else says, and find an agency that you really trust. I have done some work with the T. Coet Agency, and they handle children (and their parents) with respect and dignity. Tara Coet is a Mom and a Foster Parent.

The link below is their web site.

Answer 4

1. start acting in local community theatre, shakespeare in the park etc.
2. join a local children's theatre or drama group (most communities have them)
3. audition for children's roles in local plays
start small and local. then just audition and get bigger and bigger roles. when it comes time for an agent, you can get one. right now make sure she has the skills she needs. have her start acting somehow, even in local or school talent shows.