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? asked in Arts & HumanitiesTheater & Acting · 7 years ago

Where can I find a Legitimate talent agent in HOUSTON?

I went to john casablanca and one source talent. They both asked for money for either classes or fee charge. I know talent agents should not ask for money until once you start making money they get a certain percentage. BUT every person or audition so far has been asked for money. Does anyone know a REAL talent company in Houston Texas. Please help.

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  • 7 years ago

    As you know, legitimate agencies are paid on commission (getting a percentage of what the actor makes). Because they're paid only if the actor books professional jobs, they're very picky about who they take on as clients. The best way to get an agent is through networking. If you can impress an acting teacher/coach, director, fellow actor or someone else in the industry they may be willing to refer you to a agent/agency. Agents also attend showcases put on by well respected acting programs, so you could get an agent's attention that way.

    If you're hoping to do blind submission, understand that they're not always very effective. Basically you're sending your professional head shot and resume to an agency/agent who hasn't requested it. What do you do with junk mail/marketing materials you get in the mail? But if that's an approach you want to do, then you need to make a list of legitimate agents in your area. Industry publications like the Call Sheet (http://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/resourc... ) list agents/agencies. Also Industry websites lists agencies like the SAG/AFTRA website and backstage.com list them:

    http://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representativ...

    http://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representativ...

    http://www.backstage.com/resources/search/agent/

    You'll want to research the industry to see things like do they accept unsolicited submissions, what type of work do they get their clients, and things like that. You can try their website to start with for that information. Here's an article about researching people as well: http://bizparentz.org/gettingstarted/howtoresearch...

    You only need an agent if you're going to try to work professionally and professional acting is a business. There's a lot more involved than just "getting an agent" - you need to understand the casting process, industry contracts, actor unions, legal requirements/restrictions (especially if you're a minor), and how to effectively market yourself to talent agents. And there are a lot of scams and rip offs that prey on people who haven't done the research and are just hoping to be "discovered" or something. So make sure you have a realistic understanding of what is involved in professional acting and what you're acting goals are. You don't just need "an" agent - you need one that can help you reach your goals.

    Good luck.

  • ?
    Lv 6
    7 years ago

    are you wanting to model? i assume so since you went to john casablanca. you are absolutely correct. a modeling agency that is legit will not ask you for money or even to produce your own book. you can submit a casting application or go to an open call at ford modeling in houston.

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