If you’re looking to break through to stardom, you have to understand that it’s not as simple as having talent. Lots of people have talent. Granted, if you’ve got no talent you definitely won’t go far either. But if you don’t know the right people in the right way, your future in acting may seriously suffer or be delayed!
That’s why it’s so important to know who’s who and if they’re good for you. Besides that, if you’ve got talent, you’re likely to be approached by people in the industry wanting to connect or even represent you and you don’t want to get suckered into a bad situation or dodgy deal.
So today, I want to give you a brief summary of who’s who so you can determine if it’s time for you to know them, get your foot into some harder doors and also protect yourself if they’re not quite who they say they are.
The first person you’re likely to connect with will be the Casting Director. They’re hired by the producers of the show/commercial/film you’re trying out for, to find just the right people for the part. This is who you or your agent will send photos and resumes to, and the actor will audition for. While it is possible to submit your photo and resume directly to a Casting Director, they usually only seriously consider actors submitted by an agent. So that leads us to the next person you need to know about:
A talent Agent is the person so many people want to be discovered by but not many people know the details of what’s involved with having one. The benefit of having an agent is that you’ve got someone with inside connections finding you work, in exchange for a 10-15% cut of what you mak (10% for union actors, typically more for nonunion). The better the agent, the more plugged in they are to the inner exclusive network of who’s who. They use this extensive network of to get interviews and auditions for the actor. They also will work on the terms of your contract when you get a job. As an actor, you are a product and the agent is your salesperson.
A manager is similar to the agent but has it’s differences. Managers are specifically hired by the actor to not just find work, but also give advice, and guide the actor's career. (Agents don’t advice - they mainly connect). The exception here is where it involves child actors (who often need extra development and guidance into the business). Most actors will not require a real manager until they are well on the road to success and are establishing themselves enough to need to consult for bigger decisions and negotiations.
Who is the Producer in all this? Working alongside the casting director is the director; the person in charge of all the "behind the scenes" work of a show or film. They bring together a script, director, and actors, then oversee the film until it is released. The easiest way into Hollywood is knowing a producer, be they family or friend. Unfortunately for most of us, this isn't possible. But if you do happen to have a connection, use it. But be respectful, be thankful and give back.
Keep in mind that no matter who you know or who helps you on this path, that they don’t have to help you. So if they do, be thankful and respectful about it. Don’t name drop the connection. And definitely give back. Some ideas include thank you cards, thoughtful gifts or dinner invitations.
The more you’re able to meet different people of influence in the industry, and establish a positive reputation for yourself, the more likely you will be to get your foot in the right doors at the right time! There are always an abundance of different people in the entertainment industry who are essential to an actor.
We want to be on your list of helpers along the way. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with us at the New York Acting School for Film and Television and ask about our acting coaches, acting classes and school for further training and practice.
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