Many of my students ask me from time to time, should they change their agent?
They give me the run down of making the case of changing their agent and it usually goes something like this: I've been with my new agent for a year now and all i got from them was about 8 - 10 auditions. My friend told me that he has a good agent and so I think I might change my agent, what do you think? My response: I can't tell you what to do here. You must make that decision. What I can't tell you is this. they are many reason that you are not getting as many auditions as you would like. A lot of those reasons have nothing to do with you or the agent but the writing of the shows. If you have done 8 - 10 auditions in a year then you are doing well. Many non-union actors with a principle reputable agent get less than that while others get more. My son had only about 8-10 auditions in 2016 and got three roles but we are staying with the agent we have because they are good overall and sometimes its lean and sometimes it's super busy. Is the grass greener on the other side? Who knows. Like I said, there are many reasons why you are getting only 8-10 auditions, which is still a lot. I know one girl who got only 1 audition in 1016 but she got the role! Perhaps your agent is thinking of letting you go because they got you 8-10 shots and you missed each of them. Or perhaps they know that because you are young and new to the audition reality they are going to keep pushing for you to get more auditions for another year and hope that you learn fast. Learn what? Ask yourself: 1 / have you (with parents) kept your photo up to date? 2 / Have you been on the casting websites trying to find your own work? You are non-union and so there are lots of work out there for non-union workers. 3 / have you been taking any acting workshops with casting directors? It's a great way to get to know the casting director and to show what you can do. 4 / Have you been taking any acting classes? I am not a suggesting that you take mine. NOT AT ALL. But I do suggest that you continue training with other reputable teachers. I know many professional actors who are still taking classes to sharpen their skills. It's an ongoing process. 5 / Have you done any community theater to sharpen your skills, and get involved? 6 / Have you been adding all this above to your resume and showing casting people that you are active in the industry. Yes there are many reasons you are only getting 8 - 10 auditions. There are also many reasons you are not landing any roles. However the not landing any roles you can change by taking action on the five points above consistently and thus you will be happy with your agent because you are working, and your agent will be happy and inspired by you because you have helped he/her help you in getting you off the ground and working. The relationship between your agent and you is mutual in working together to achieve a unified goal - get you working. Stop wondering if the grass is greener on the other side and start taking your situation more professional and serious and get involved in getting the 8 - 10 roles from the 8 - 10 auditions your agent got you. |
AuthorChristopher Healy is a family man who lives in Toronto, Canada. He has accumulated a wealth of seasoned experience, wisdom and knowledge over 40 years in the entertainment and media industry. Archives
March 2019
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