Beware of Fees

Legit Agents do NOT charge any up-front fees. Period. If you are asked for a sum of money for photos and acting classes, beware. An Agents fees are normally 10% of wages earned. If you fall for these 'offers', you will get no guarantee, and most likely, no results! There are some that offer auditions where alleged directors and producers are present. Then they will contact you and express an interest if you agree to $1000 or $2000 payment for acting lessons. Forget it. Don't fall for it..

Regarding Age..

A good age to start your child, interested in acting is around 5 or 6. Acting classes, dance, voice coaching, Children's Theater, are all good. If you are trying to get a baby under 5 in Show Biz, good luck. There is little call for this, and after all that is not talent..That's just cute!! Try a Beauty Pageant. Agents seek talent.. A good cold reader, a strong voice, personality. Able to know 'stage left' from 'stage right' or 'down-stage'.

Take direction, and remain focused..attentive.. Outgoing, bright, the more talents and skills, the better..Keep a positive attitude..Even the best are often rejected. Don't give up! You just might be what a Casting Director or Producer are looking for down the line..

Important..

Besides the head-shots and resumes, there are TWO things you must have in order for your child to be able to work. These must be with you at all times. It would be wise to get these as soon as you consider getting your child an agent, or for any commercial or print work. You must get your child a Social Security card. Also needed will be a valid Work Permit from the Department of Social Services. (Entertainment Work Permit Dept. for New York City.) There is no charge for this. If your child is in school, grades and conduct must be in good standing. Arrangements can be made with a school while on a set, where a tutor will be provided. Hours allowed to actually work will depend on age.

Comments..

Parents, be patient and remember..You always have to sacrifice something if you want to be successful. Be realistic, hope for the best, expect the worst. When you are at an agents office, or on an audition, keep quiet! Don't be a 'show-off' parent. Agents prefer their clients parents to go on an audition and be a 'deaf-mute'! They want to audition your child, not hear someone bragging about them. Be cool, stay one step removed, even if it is difficult. Keep a sense of proportion. Many kids have NOT got jobs because of their parents conduct! Some seasoned 'stage parents' even think they could do better than the director! Don't get caught up in this type of classic stage parent arrogance, ever..

Warning:

Beware of any agents or managers that want any up-front fees!! It is not accepted, condoned, common, legitimate or normal procedure. They want money? Go somewhere else! Legit agents and managers charge NO up-front fees..

Moms and Dads!

If it's a little talent, and a lot of luck! Read on, and hopefully you will become more confident and informed before you decide to take on Hollywood's maze. If you are not ready for Hollywood, keep your talented child in plays, talent shows, dance class, singing or acting classes, print work. Look for a local Agent, and by all means, a high profile (exposure) won't hurt. A Talent Agent, Casting Director or Client just might 'discover' your child is just what they want for their next TV Show, Theater production, Movie or Commercial venture. Another good place to get started is Children's Theater. Good exposure, and a successful debut for many young actorsyou have considered getting your children in Show Biz, make sure you are as familiar as you can be, with Agents and Managers, head-shots, and the tricks to give you and yours The Upper Hand. Then ..

Don't wish on a Star, reach for one, and work hard to be one.

Why the Children?

I don't know why so many parents want to get their kids into Show Business. There are many opportunities and avenues for those that succeed! There is print work, commercials, series, soaps, situation comedies, audio tracks, movies, etc. My interest became more serious after 20 years in the 'Biz' as an performer, dance and drama teacher.

A Hint or Two.. Hit the Agents during Pilot Season. Best successful age range: 5 to 12. Not too much call for younger. Same for over 12 or 13. Looks, voice and height change rapidly. Any extra talents a definite plus! (Dance, sing, skate-board, gymnastics, juggle.) Of course, a good smile, personality and a strong voice wouldn't hurt your chances either. Not that you cannot get into the business at any age, this information is geared toward the parents of Children. Don't make success in Show Business your child's only objective.