Applying for an agent... definition of "experience"?
Tue, 7 Oct 2008, 01:26 pmAyane29 posts in thread
Applying for an agent... definition of "experience"?
Tue, 7 Oct 2008, 01:26 pmExperience
Now I cannot speak for any specific agency so you might want to speak with them as to what they expect. Most of the time, they will not be looking for "lead" role exp, although that would be a big plus. What they are looking for (IMHO) is familiarity with aspects of the industry such as having worked on a filming production (Professional, Student, Am), or done courses in film/stage, maybe been cast as an extra in an ad already.
If they expect you to be a pro before you even join up, then they are not the right agent for you. Look elsewhere.
They want to see that you are actively articipating in the industry off your own initiative, gaining fundamental knowledge. Directors will not likely cast someone with zip experience, althoug even that rule gets broken from time to time. Show them you are keen, self-motivated and already making a path.
There is a question asked of many an Idol or Wannabe Dancer on those famous reality TV shows - "How much do you need this?" - You should never need an agent because you should have the attitude that you will make it on your own if you have to. An agent will only help (a little) to smooth the path out for you. They'll only take you on if they see profit.
At the same time, by taking on an agent you are in effect taking on a representative who works for you but will not work you, as such. You will always manage your own career.
Absit invidia
Jeff Watkins
Can I add this to the
Objections?
Don't see why not, it is a valid and very useful question. I leave it to the author...
Absit invidia
Jeff Watkins
Fair enough - I'll
It should definitely be
Low Level
There are always several ways to get involved in all sorts of projects. The honest best way is a network of contacts, people you have worked with and such. A legit agent already has a vast network established and in effect you are asking them to get you in.
Knowing where to look for work is another useful tool, and again, knowing people who can point you in the right direction is key.
Basically, the fundamental purpose of an agent is to provide a network (at a cost) for people such as your self trying to get a start. If you already know enough people already, then you will have no need for this service.
As for the Nothing after that, have you pushed them for anything further? Maybe even asked them for feedback on your last job? Why hasn't there been anything further? You're the manager of your career and they are your staff. Push them. If they don't like it, you can always sack 'em and hire someone else.
We often forget that really we the performer holds the power. We represent potential to the agent. Our potential is in how we present ourselves, our pursuit of work, our work ethic and our motivations. If we feel that we are getting a raw deal, then we can always move on.
Now for performers who do not push themselves enough, sit back and Expect the agent to do the work for them, then there is no loss to the Agent if we decide to leave, but for the engaged performer, who is working hard and making the agent a little profit, to have them leave would mean a loss, and the 'bigger' you are, the bigger the loss. This is where the performer's power rests and it is hard work to get there.
Absit invidia
Jeff Watkins
St Martins is definitely
Now added to FAQ under the
The main reason why there
Hard Yakka
That's just it, it isn't easy at all. Building a solid network of contacts can take years of working gigs, attending training sessions, workshops, seminars, etc. Trying to hob-nob at functions. Badgering film and TV studios for some work experience doing anything.
Yet at the same time, it is something that can be happening all the time. Even bar tending or waiting tables can be a great source for network development. There are a lot of part-time actors who work bars, wait-tables and so forth.
That is why so many people do fall into the trap of believing an agent is all they need. Very few are prepared to face what is in store for them forgetting that they are one of a very large industry all trying to be heard. You have to be louder and more noticable than those around you. Sometimes it's luck. More often it is hard work.
Absit invidia
Jeff Watkins
Theatre People
This website is probably
I've discovered there's
Have to agree with that one
Thought so, but wanted to
I should probably get some
Film Classes
They can be a bit pricey but that is to be expected.
IMHO one of the best courses around (and WA Based) is offered by the Perth Actors Collective
"PAC Screen Workshops were founded in 1992 by director Ross Hutchens and then actor / now casting director Annie Murtagh-Monks. Unique in the world when initially started in 1992, these bring together professional actors, directors and screenwriters into the one workshop where they are given a practical understanding of Stanislavski's system and how it is particularly applicable to screen performance, direction and writing."
These courses are specifically designed to both give you useful knowledge and start developing a contacts network. There are two levels;
- Basic Course - which you do once
- Advanced Course - which has a number of different variations each focusing on different aspects of Film/TV and acting styles.
At $225 each course you attend, it may sound a little pricey, but they are some of the best courses around and for the price, dirt cheap.
Absit invidia (and DFT)
Jeff Watkins
Film classes that aren't
Helpful... but in the wrong
Oops
Getting my threads all mixed up. Apologies to all.
Hangs head and gets coat.
Absit invidia (and DFT)
Jeff Watkins
I didn't know there were
ACOPA is a small acting
That's what I thought. I
Sounds like a good plan...
Really? Just keep going and
Well, supposedly. You'll
I see. So that's the basic
Oh, we're not that close...