3 answers
rishita
Student
Frisco, Texas
2
Questions
Asked
1826 views
how do i contact an acting agent?
Having the only experience being in production theater in middle school and being in middle school plays and singing talent
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3 answers
Samuel Johnson
Actor
2
Answers
Charleston, South Carolina
Updated
Samuel’s Answer
Hey Rishita!
First off—huge props to you for putting yourself out there and asking questions. That’s a big first step, and it already shows you’re serious about acting.
Now, about contacting agents—yes, you can absolutely reach out to agents, even at your stage. Everyone starts somewhere. I personally started with only a little theater experience and some videos from school productions. I emailed and submitted to local agents for months. Eventually, I got signed—even if it wasn’t the “top” agent, it gave me experience, confidence, and motivation to push even harder.
Here’s the deal:
🎭 You don’t need to be in SAG or fully trained to start auditioning. There are commercials, student films, indie projects, and even kid roles that want fresh talent. It’s more about your attitude, work ethic, and how you present yourself.
🛑 Real agents don’t charge upfront. If someone asks for money just to “represent” you—run! Good agents make money only when you book work. Some bad coaches pretend to be agents to sell overpriced classes.
👨👩👧 Since you’re under 18, yes—your parent will need to help (with transport, paperwork, etc.). But you don’t need to wait until you’re 18 to begin. Tons of kids and teens are acting right now. It's about finding legit opportunities and support.
Lastly—don’t let anyone tell you your dream is too far away. The industry is hard, but it’s not impossible. Stay passionate, stay learning, and don’t stop trying.
You're already ahead of most people by just being curious and taking action. Keep going! 👏
Get a few simple headshots (they don’t need to be expensive).
Create a one-page resume with your school plays and singing experience.
Check out free or low-cost acting classes or community theater near you.
Start submitting to kid-friendly casting websites like Backstage, KidsCasting, or Casting Networks (with a parent helping).
Also, look into agencies in your area—Core Talent and The Horne Agency are good places to start. Just make sure any agent you talk to is legit and not charging fees.
First off—huge props to you for putting yourself out there and asking questions. That’s a big first step, and it already shows you’re serious about acting.
Now, about contacting agents—yes, you can absolutely reach out to agents, even at your stage. Everyone starts somewhere. I personally started with only a little theater experience and some videos from school productions. I emailed and submitted to local agents for months. Eventually, I got signed—even if it wasn’t the “top” agent, it gave me experience, confidence, and motivation to push even harder.
Here’s the deal:
🎭 You don’t need to be in SAG or fully trained to start auditioning. There are commercials, student films, indie projects, and even kid roles that want fresh talent. It’s more about your attitude, work ethic, and how you present yourself.
🛑 Real agents don’t charge upfront. If someone asks for money just to “represent” you—run! Good agents make money only when you book work. Some bad coaches pretend to be agents to sell overpriced classes.
👨👩👧 Since you’re under 18, yes—your parent will need to help (with transport, paperwork, etc.). But you don’t need to wait until you’re 18 to begin. Tons of kids and teens are acting right now. It's about finding legit opportunities and support.
Lastly—don’t let anyone tell you your dream is too far away. The industry is hard, but it’s not impossible. Stay passionate, stay learning, and don’t stop trying.
You're already ahead of most people by just being curious and taking action. Keep going! 👏
Samuel recommends the following next steps:
How can a child or their parent know the difference between a "legit" or non-legit agency when they do not have the professional experience or knowledge of the social ways the business is run ? And it's not just about the agency asking for money, there's a lot going on at agencies and studios. The Horne Agency and Callidus Agency indeed only represent SAG/AFTRA actors and I stated that the others in her town will take non-SAG/AFTRA. My experience is from both New York City and Hollywood as well as a small town. I always try to use caution and be very realistic with child actors so they will enjoy their path and not feel let down too often. Jumping into it too soon can be scary and confusing for someone that has no idea about the business.
Michelle M.
I agree that it can absolutely be overwhelming starting out, and yes—it’s hard at first to spot a legit agency. That’s exactly why I shared my personal experience, because I’ve been through it. I know what it’s like navigating this space young, with little guidance, and what actually helps vs. what discourages someone from even trying. My point wasn’t to simplify the industry but to show it’s possible to take those first steps safely and confidently. Gatekeeping helps no one. Clear warnings, encouragement, and practical advice are what young actors need
Samuel Johnson
Very good points on starting young with little experience or business knowledge. I held back until I could get formal training and do my career on my own at 18. I think that the encouragement comes when it is needed and even a kid will need to learn to not take things personally, it's a business, enjoy every project you do. I also taught acting to children and loved to see the strong supports some of the mom's showed. Most showed the level of concern that was reasonable and helpful to the child. Thanks for your feedback.
Michelle M.
It’s incredibly brave when young actors start asking these questions at 14 or 15. That curiosity and drive is already a big step toward the discipline they’ll need in this industry. Not everyone has strong support or access to formal training early on—and I say that as someone who had to figure it out without help from my parents. It was tough, but that’s why I share what I’ve learned. Because I know how confusing it is starting out. Encouragement matters, especially when paired with honesty. We can be real about the challenges without shutting the door on someone’s passion. Hollywood has certainly changed over the years and opened different doors then it used to have, as I’m still in the Industry I’ve seen way more children in the industry then I ever have before.
Samuel Johnson
Yes, I agree. I stayed quiet about wanting the career till I was 18 because I was in an acting desert until I went to college. That path turned out to be the best thing ever, though. True about more roles for children now, but to be honest, if I had a teen, I would have to be on top of every step of the kid's career 100%. I think that there is a certain comfort zone if a child starts in their hometown first and then makes a decision to relocate. I was a seasoned New Yorker, but L.A. was culture shock to me, yet the industry was really cool in Hollywood back then (in the 80's) and everyone I met was awesome. Then back to NYC and wow, what a difference in the industry, is nothing like L.A.
Michelle M.
I appreciate your response, but I personally wouldn’t want full control over my child’s career choices. Of course, when they’re younger, I’d stay involved to ensure things are safe and professional. But once they hit their teens (13–17), I think it’s important they learn how to book gigs, make decisions about roles, and shape how they want to be seen in the industry. It helps build confidence and a sense of ownership. I’d rather guide and support than control—help them explore who they want to be as an artist, not just tell them who to be. I think that shock you mention naturally comes with our industry and is important to navigate
Samuel Johnson
At a certain point, though, the kid doesn't make choices, the agent and producers do. They create the product and contracts also dictate to adults how they're supposed to be. The main point is, just enjoy each project as you do them. Lots of good people to meet in the business, too.
Michelle M.
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Reshita !
It's great that you are thinking about becoming a professional actress and that you came here to be better informed !
I am so sorry to start out like this, but you do not contact an Agent for Representation. Also, if you are under 18, one of your parents will have to oversee and do the business for your acting career. They must be available 24/7, pay for everything, accompany you everywhere, and provide transportation for everything. Do you know if one of your parents is available to do this ? Once you are 18, you can do an acting career on your own. Agents choose actors that they believe can generate revenue for their agency as the Agent takes a percentage of the actor's pay before paying the actor. You'll learn more about agency representation once you proceed with your training as an actress.
There are some very rare occasions in which Agents place notices on the Acting websites when they are seeking new talent. I am not aware that the big name agencies do this, but you would have to be ready for an acting career in order to submit photos/resume/reel. Not everyone who submits their materials gets chosen, also.
I, someone who is anonymous and unbiased to you, am also not happy to say that you do not have enough experience for professional representation by an agent right now. If you continue performing, you just might be at the point where you can start auditioning for paid roles. You must be trained and ready for stage, television and film as an actress.
All that being said, becoming a professional actress is a process and everyone's process is different. It will depend on your circumstance: age, supports, training, experience meaning amount of shows you've been in, accessibility to an acting and theatre or film/television community and the ability and accessibility of networking opportunities to meet contacts in the business.
North Texas Performing Arts in your town offers programs for your age group and that would be a great way to train and get experience. You should also follow the season and attend plays at Theatre Frisco and The Black Box Theatre. If you offer to do volunteer work there, you will learn so much and even become aware if they do any plays casting an actress in your age range that you can audition for. It's well worth it. Also connect with Frisco Community Theatre, Lakeside Community Theatre, Allen's Community Theatre, PIC Fairview, Inwood Theatre, and Texas Theatre as they are other venues in your town to seek experience at. Community Theatre carries good weight on an actor's resume over middle school or high school theatre.
Acting is not a career to jump into before you are fully trained and aware of the way the business operates. It is also not done through social media, so please do not post any photos or your identity on any social media websites. Your acting teachers will guide you correctly when you are ready to start auditioning for serious professional roles.
I do not advise calling them, but just to be aware, there are some Agencies near you. They are Core Talent, but The Horne Agency and Callidus Agency are both agencies that represent professional SAG/AFTRA actors that are in the actor's union. After you gain lots of experience and join SAG/AFTRA, you can invite agents from these places to see you in shows and they may or may not offer you representation.
So for now, keep learning at your current school and in high school and then consider going to college as a Theatre Major with an emphasis on Acting. Being around other actors and theatre professionals will teach you everything that you need to know to start your professional acting career. If you have any more specific detailed questions about your circumstances around acting, definitely return here and I would be happy to help out.
Best wishes to you !
It's great that you are thinking about becoming a professional actress and that you came here to be better informed !
I am so sorry to start out like this, but you do not contact an Agent for Representation. Also, if you are under 18, one of your parents will have to oversee and do the business for your acting career. They must be available 24/7, pay for everything, accompany you everywhere, and provide transportation for everything. Do you know if one of your parents is available to do this ? Once you are 18, you can do an acting career on your own. Agents choose actors that they believe can generate revenue for their agency as the Agent takes a percentage of the actor's pay before paying the actor. You'll learn more about agency representation once you proceed with your training as an actress.
There are some very rare occasions in which Agents place notices on the Acting websites when they are seeking new talent. I am not aware that the big name agencies do this, but you would have to be ready for an acting career in order to submit photos/resume/reel. Not everyone who submits their materials gets chosen, also.
I, someone who is anonymous and unbiased to you, am also not happy to say that you do not have enough experience for professional representation by an agent right now. If you continue performing, you just might be at the point where you can start auditioning for paid roles. You must be trained and ready for stage, television and film as an actress.
All that being said, becoming a professional actress is a process and everyone's process is different. It will depend on your circumstance: age, supports, training, experience meaning amount of shows you've been in, accessibility to an acting and theatre or film/television community and the ability and accessibility of networking opportunities to meet contacts in the business.
North Texas Performing Arts in your town offers programs for your age group and that would be a great way to train and get experience. You should also follow the season and attend plays at Theatre Frisco and The Black Box Theatre. If you offer to do volunteer work there, you will learn so much and even become aware if they do any plays casting an actress in your age range that you can audition for. It's well worth it. Also connect with Frisco Community Theatre, Lakeside Community Theatre, Allen's Community Theatre, PIC Fairview, Inwood Theatre, and Texas Theatre as they are other venues in your town to seek experience at. Community Theatre carries good weight on an actor's resume over middle school or high school theatre.
Acting is not a career to jump into before you are fully trained and aware of the way the business operates. It is also not done through social media, so please do not post any photos or your identity on any social media websites. Your acting teachers will guide you correctly when you are ready to start auditioning for serious professional roles.
I do not advise calling them, but just to be aware, there are some Agencies near you. They are Core Talent, but The Horne Agency and Callidus Agency are both agencies that represent professional SAG/AFTRA actors that are in the actor's union. After you gain lots of experience and join SAG/AFTRA, you can invite agents from these places to see you in shows and they may or may not offer you representation.
So for now, keep learning at your current school and in high school and then consider going to college as a Theatre Major with an emphasis on Acting. Being around other actors and theatre professionals will teach you everything that you need to know to start your professional acting career. If you have any more specific detailed questions about your circumstances around acting, definitely return here and I would be happy to help out.
Best wishes to you !
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Rishita,
Here's a straightforward example of a cover letter for a casting agent. You can customize it to show your own experiences and personality:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Agent's Name]
[Agency Name]
[Agency Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
Subject: Representation Inquiry
Dear [Agent's Name],
I hope you are doing well. My name is [Your Name], and I am an actor focused on [specific acting niche, e.g., dramatic roles, comedy]. I am interested in joining your agency, [Agency Name].
Recently, I [mention a notable achievement, e.g., completed a lead role in a short film, performed in a well-received play, or graduated from a top acting program]. My skills include [highlight your skills, e.g., versatility in roles, strong improvisation, or fluency in languages].
I have attached my headshot, resume, and a link to my showreel ([insert link]). I believe my dedication and unique perspective would be a great fit for your agency.
Thank you for considering my application. I would love to discuss how I can contribute to your team and am open to meeting at your convenience.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Remember to attach your headshot, resume, and any relevant links when sending this letter.
To find an acting agent, consider the following steps:
Research: Look for reputable acting agencies and read reviews. Websites like IMDbPro and Backstage can provide valuable information.
Networking: Connect with industry professionals and fellow actors to get recommendations for agents.
Prepare Your Materials: Have a professional headshot and resume ready to present to potential agents.
Submit Applications: Reach out to agencies with your materials and express your interest in representation.
Understand Their Role: An acting agent helps find jobs, manage your career, and negotiate contracts.
For more detailed guidance, you can refer to sources like Backstage and MasterClass
Backstage
https://www.backstage.com › magazine › article
How to Get an Agent for Acting | Backstage
May 15, 2025 · In this article, we’ll walk you through how to get an acting agent, from identifying the best acting agencies to understanding how much agents charge in commissions when you …
Acting Magazine
https://actingmagazine.com › how-to-contact-agents-for …
How to Contact Agents for Acting - Acting Magazine
Breaking into the acting industry can be challenging, but having a good talent agent can open doors to auditions, roles, and professional opportunities. Agents help actors by connecting them with casting directors, negotiating contracts, …
WORK ON THE NETWORKING. Networking methods include: -
‣ Indeed, LinkedIn ‣ Joining a networking group ‣ Utilizing social media ‣ Letting people pick your brain at seminars answering questions
‣ Growing a database of new friends, and professional business contacts ‣ Joining industry groups ‣ Attending conventions and conferences
‣ Sending cold emails ‣ Setting up informational interviews ‣ Offering assistance ‣ Attending group networking events to introduce yourself
‣ Attending industry-related conferences ‣ Joining online communities ‣ Participating in online forums ‣ Meeting new contacts for coffee
‣ Reaching out to potential contacts via email or social networking sites ‣ Asking friends to introduce you to their contacts as a reliable person
‣ Staying in touch with former coworkers ‣ Going to shows with people ‣ Going to people's houses to have meals with them and watch movies and shows
‣ Holding public discussion groups ‣ Meeting with Parents' and Teachers' Association Groups ‣ Having telescopes at an amateur astronomer's star party
‣ Winetasting ‣ Getting to know and talk to your local medical doctors ‣ Meeting with neighborhood clubs ‣ Meeting with local health action groups
‣ Joining public speaking groups like Toastmasters and Zonta ‣ Meeting people at a fancy restaurant, sitting down, talking, having a meals together
‣ Paying your waiter a tab ‣ Give local schoolchildren a talk about your work so that they can follow in your footsteps and get a career happening
‣ Getting to know therapists. GIVING PEOPLE VALUABLE GIFTS. VOLUNTEERING.
________________________________________________________________________________________
GOD BLESS!
Good luck!
Here's a straightforward example of a cover letter for a casting agent. You can customize it to show your own experiences and personality:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Agent's Name]
[Agency Name]
[Agency Address]
[City, State, Postcode]
Subject: Representation Inquiry
Dear [Agent's Name],
I hope you are doing well. My name is [Your Name], and I am an actor focused on [specific acting niche, e.g., dramatic roles, comedy]. I am interested in joining your agency, [Agency Name].
Recently, I [mention a notable achievement, e.g., completed a lead role in a short film, performed in a well-received play, or graduated from a top acting program]. My skills include [highlight your skills, e.g., versatility in roles, strong improvisation, or fluency in languages].
I have attached my headshot, resume, and a link to my showreel ([insert link]). I believe my dedication and unique perspective would be a great fit for your agency.
Thank you for considering my application. I would love to discuss how I can contribute to your team and am open to meeting at your convenience.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Remember to attach your headshot, resume, and any relevant links when sending this letter.
To find an acting agent, consider the following steps:
Research: Look for reputable acting agencies and read reviews. Websites like IMDbPro and Backstage can provide valuable information.
Networking: Connect with industry professionals and fellow actors to get recommendations for agents.
Prepare Your Materials: Have a professional headshot and resume ready to present to potential agents.
Submit Applications: Reach out to agencies with your materials and express your interest in representation.
Understand Their Role: An acting agent helps find jobs, manage your career, and negotiate contracts.
For more detailed guidance, you can refer to sources like Backstage and MasterClass
Backstage
https://www.backstage.com › magazine › article
How to Get an Agent for Acting | Backstage
May 15, 2025 · In this article, we’ll walk you through how to get an acting agent, from identifying the best acting agencies to understanding how much agents charge in commissions when you …
Acting Magazine
https://actingmagazine.com › how-to-contact-agents-for …
How to Contact Agents for Acting - Acting Magazine
Breaking into the acting industry can be challenging, but having a good talent agent can open doors to auditions, roles, and professional opportunities. Agents help actors by connecting them with casting directors, negotiating contracts, …
WORK ON THE NETWORKING. Networking methods include: -
‣ Indeed, LinkedIn ‣ Joining a networking group ‣ Utilizing social media ‣ Letting people pick your brain at seminars answering questions
‣ Growing a database of new friends, and professional business contacts ‣ Joining industry groups ‣ Attending conventions and conferences
‣ Sending cold emails ‣ Setting up informational interviews ‣ Offering assistance ‣ Attending group networking events to introduce yourself
‣ Attending industry-related conferences ‣ Joining online communities ‣ Participating in online forums ‣ Meeting new contacts for coffee
‣ Reaching out to potential contacts via email or social networking sites ‣ Asking friends to introduce you to their contacts as a reliable person
‣ Staying in touch with former coworkers ‣ Going to shows with people ‣ Going to people's houses to have meals with them and watch movies and shows
‣ Holding public discussion groups ‣ Meeting with Parents' and Teachers' Association Groups ‣ Having telescopes at an amateur astronomer's star party
‣ Winetasting ‣ Getting to know and talk to your local medical doctors ‣ Meeting with neighborhood clubs ‣ Meeting with local health action groups
‣ Joining public speaking groups like Toastmasters and Zonta ‣ Meeting people at a fancy restaurant, sitting down, talking, having a meals together
‣ Paying your waiter a tab ‣ Give local schoolchildren a talk about your work so that they can follow in your footsteps and get a career happening
‣ Getting to know therapists. GIVING PEOPLE VALUABLE GIFTS. VOLUNTEERING.
________________________________________________________________________________________
GOD BLESS!
Good luck!