Meet and Get to Know Top Agent David Doan

Joining me today is David Doan. David is the Vice President of Young Talent in the Theatrical Department at CESD Talent Agency in NYC. He has been in the industry for over 20 years and been recognized for his work specifically with developing breakout youth talent. When he worked in casting he was  nominated for a 2012 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Casting for an Animated Series or Special for Nick Jr.’s Bubble Guppies.

I have received so many questions about representation and bringing the right people alongside you in your career journey. So I’m thrilled to have David with us today. He is a long time colleague of mine and  one of the most trusted agents in the business. He will answer many of your questions. Questions that people are often left to figure out on their own. By the end of this episode you won’t be left wondering about anything. David, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with me today.

Denise: David, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with me today

David: Thank you, Denise. Thank you so much for having me

Denise: First and foremost, people really want to know, what are you looking for in signing talent

David: The answer to that question changes as different time periods go by.

“The main thing that I look for is confidence in young talent. Obviously we want to see a personality. Someone that is comfortable in their skin and not overly nervous. A sense of fearlessness and commitment. And a support system around them.”

David: We want kids that are well rounded. It’s not like we are looking for kids that eat, sleep, and breath only performing. It is a combination and variety of things…So much of it is about personality off the camera and when you aren’t performing. 

Denise: That was a great explanation. I hear that term “it” factor quite a bit. I use it myself. I have to imagine that parents know what that means or maybe all parents think their child has the it factor.

David: I think maybe the latter. I don’t know if everyone can actually tell… I have to believe that every parent believes that their child is special and I think that’s great and you need that kind of support to succeed anywhere in life. 

Denise: Working with younger talent, obviously you are dealing with the parents… I am wondering if you can speak about how the parent can help or how they sometimes might hurt their child’s career.

David: Yes, I can speak on that. You know there’s this whole mommy board world where people get so much disinformation. And sometimes it makes our job difficult when everyone gets alerted when auditions go out… and sometimes we get the calls like “Why didn’t my daughter didn’t get an audition for this?” “Did you submit so and so for this.”  We see the breakdowns, it is in our best interest to procure work for you so  anything that your child is right for, we are pitching and trying to get the appoint because this is a business after all and we want to make money and we want to book your child or we wouldn’t represent them if we didn’t think they were competitive. I guess it’s one of the small annoyances I have when there’s all this misinformation out there, wherever it’s coming from,  that it makes our job a little bit more difficult and makes us not want to deal with you as much. Depends on the parent as well of course. Another that makes our jobs easier is just following instructions. Everything right now is self tape so there’s a lot of instructions…and it just makes our job a lot easier when you follow them.

Denise: There's so much that goes into it all and I'm not sure everyone understands… you’re working so hard on your end and it’s perhaps silently and people don’t always know and they just have to trust if they’re going to sign with you that if you’re doing your job and they have to do their doing their job and that they have a job.

David: That’s exactly right. There has to be a form of trust as a client and an agent and when you sense that there isn’t that trust then it gives you a little bit more of a pause of do i want to work for this person that i constantly have to answer questions about why you’re not getting an appointment for something when it is sometimes as simple as an age range or ethnicity or hair color.

Denise: Have you had a client that was working and doing well and you had to let them know because the parent wasn’t really a team player?

David: You know I would say yes. You know, rarely. I like to think we are able to put out those fires with early warnings or signals. So I would say rarely, but I would say yes, absolutely. And I would have to say my least favorite part of my job as an agent is parting ways with clients, especially young talent that you have worked with for many years, and in some instances their whole life. 

“Having to part ways with a client for whatever reason is never fun or enjoyable. But sometimes it is appropriate to part ways whether it is because the client needs a new set of ears and eyes to see them in a new light…to pitch them in a different way. There’s a plethora of reasons.”

David: But, yeah it is never a fun thing to do. 

Denise: It is a relationship like any and if you want it to be healthy and honest and good and it has to work for both parties and if it’s not working then the two of you together might not be the best fit and the client may be better served by someone else. 

Denise: So what are some of the best ways that actors can get representation? 

David: You know I think the easiest way for me to find talent is through referrals. A lot of the talent we end up meeting are referrals through casting directors and a lot of managers. Referrals through current clients we have… showcases that I attend… as many as I can to see as much different talent as I can from different parts of the country. And I might have opposition to this, but blind email submissions to me, I’ve found a lot of people that way. Not that you should just start emailing everyone out of the blue, but if you have a really good professional email together with a current headshot and a professional looking resume and a link of some work. It doesn't have to be professional, but a self tape or two. And if it is a category we are looking for, I have found lots of talent through blind email submissions…You know having your materials together, and current, and strong, and not trying too hard is either going to capture someone's attention or not. 

Denise: How do people know how to email you? 

David: You know all of our emails at the agency are on our website. The amount of unsolicited emails we get is pretty large but I scroll through and if there is something that catches my eye then I open it and look further.

Denise: Are you interested in signing newbies? 

David: Absolutely, we do sign all levels of experience. Clearly if you are a six year old, we don’t expect you to have a full resume… you know the older you get the more we would like to see on a resume, but we go to college graduating showcases and meet and sign early twenties talent that have no professional experience on their resume. But it’s not a set general rule. Having something for us to see that is current that will make you pop is really what we are looking for. 

Denise: Can you speak about how you feel about your clients being trained and kids in general being trained. 

David: 

“You know I think training is important. I think it helps hone and develop young actors. Whether it’s one on one coaching… or in a class setting… that gives you a place or sanctuary or a place to feel a party of a group. I think that’s why so many young people are attracted to acting in the first place…”

David: The training goes along with starting to understand what this business is about and what it is actually like to be an actor…I think it all starts with training because that’s where you figure it all out and that’s where you figure out if you want to do this for a career…

Denise: I’d love to dive deeper into growing the best relationship with your rep. If a client is lucky enough to be repped, what is the best way to have a long and lasting relationship? Something I hear a lot from parents is they want more done so they think it’s time to add a manager to the team, maybe even without knowing what that is. 

David: Correct, I do hear that a lot. And sometimes parents think adding a manager to the team will get you more opportunities, and sometimes that is true… it depends on who that person is…It should be a team. 

Denise: What if a client comes to you and tells you that it might be time. Is that something you assist with? 

David: Oftentimes, yes. If it is a client we don’t want to lose, we want to make sure that whoever they are adding to their team is someone we can work with or hopefully that we have a previous relationship with, and if not then we want to have that relationship with them prior to entering into this partnership with them.

Denise: Something you said earlier, we were talking about clients not always knowing the work that you are doing. I’m curious, when you are working with clients…how does a client know they are submitted for projects

David: The simple answer is, most of the time they don't know, it has to come down to trusting your representation and trusting that they are trying their hardest to get opportunities for you. I have seen people in the past ask for submission reports and we don’t do that. One, it makes us feel like there is a lack of trust already by asking that question. If you’re not happy with your representation because you feel like they aren’t getting you enough opportunities… then maybe it is time to find other representation…they can certainly ask about specific projects without being too overwhelming about it… but it shouldn't feel like we are defending ourselves every time you are reaching out to us. 

Denise: I am so happy to hear you see that it is a wonderful time to be in the business and that there is lots of opportunities for kids… but it is probably more competitive than ever? 

David: Yeah, I think it definitely is more competitive now that a kid from Texas can compete for a Law and Order episode. They don’t have to be in town. Previously if you weren’t here for the actual live audition, you couldn’t even compete. And if you’re able to be a local higher, it doesn't matter where you are at the moment. 

Denise: The world is changing, it’s always changing, and it’s always going to change. I think for parents to know what was in yesterday might not be in today and it may be different tomorrow. Understanding the market a little bit. I just wonder what your thoughts are on that marketability piece. What is in right now? 

David: What makes you marketable is,,, I don't think there is one thing. Obviously having your materials together is extremely important. Social media I think falls into this question… you have to be very careful with what you put out there… does having an instagram page for the 10 year old make a difference? it definitely does start to make a difference when you get more into the teen world and the young adult world. Not only because people are looking at it, but it gives people a sense of who you are.  As a young actor, sometimes that can work against you..,so you just have to be careful and specific about what you are putting out into the world. Also, making sure that there aren’t any videos on youtube that you don’t want people to access. You have to make sure that you only have stuff that you want out there, out there because everyone is looking and anyone can.  

Denise: David, you have shared so much. I respect you and I think you are one of the best. I appreciate you being my first guest! [David] and I hope that you enjoyed the episode and that it answered some of your questions and perhaps provided some clarity about representation and how to build your team as your grow your career!

How to Get and Keep an Agent or a Manager

So a very common question I am asked by parents and young actors is how do I get an agent or manager. Now, most of the time they aren’t even sure of the roles they play so I’d like to start with that.

WHAT IS AN AGENT?

Basically, a talent agent in New York or California is licensed by the state and their job is to solicit employment for their clients. Kind of like a temp agency if you will. They are franchised by the union and are generally limited to taking a 10% commission on money earned from employment. Agents can have a small or large number of clients. Their job is to get an actor into an audition and secure a job as well as negotiate contracts to get the most money they can for their clients. They normally sign a client to a one year contract. Some states are called “right to work” states and those agents will not have a union affiliation and they can take more than 10% if they desire so you’re going to want to make sure that you are clear about that.

WHAT IS A MANAGER?

A manager sees the big picture while cultivating a career. They develop talent.

Managers counsel, advise and provide career direction and guidance. They generally have fewer clients than an agent, which enables them to give more personalized attention to their clients such as working on your image, making sure you are audition and camera ready, finding classes for you, pitching you to agencies and producers, recommending photographers, and believing in you when nobody else does. They are in it for the long haul. They are INVESTING in your career. Managers take anywhere from a 10 to 20% commission. They are not bound by a union so they can do this. They usually sign a client to a three-year contract. I know that sounds like a lot, but it really takes a long time to develop and cultivate a career.  A benefit to working with a manager is that while a client is signed with them, they can freelance with several agents, and then have access to more auditions. An actor can also have a manager and work exclusively with one agent.

HOW DO I GET AN AGENT OR MANAGER?

Now that you know some differences between an agent or a manager I’m sure you want to know how to get one.

Agents and managers are always there. They’re the next step to moving a career forward but MAKE SURE  your child is ready.

Once you believe your child is ready for the next step, here are some ways to find the right match. It is always best to be seen in action.

1. Agents and managers love to frequent theatrical productions, as they are always on the hunt for new talent. If your child is serious about acting professionally, make sure he is involved in school plays, community theater, camp plays, and even regional theater. Reps are always looking for a child who has potential and they love to visit productions.

2. Industry showcases are the perfect opportunity for young performers to gain industry attention. This is an event in which agents, managers, and casting directors watch actors perform exclusively for them. Actors perform scenes, monologues, songs, commercial copy- whatever they excel in. If a rep responds to the actor, they will arrange a meeting and possibly sign on a new client. Even if your child doesn’t sign with an agent or manager, they might keep their name on file to be seen again in the future.

3. Another great way: workshops and classes. Many acting workshops and classes will culminate with an informal performance for an agent or manager. Now these are generally for educational purposes where your child will practice in audition-like settings. However, if an agent or manager sees promise in a performer, they might ask for their name and set up an interview. I know the classes I hold always culminate, especially at the end of the year, for reps because I think it is one of the great ways for actors to be seen while they’re doing great work.

4. Old-fashioned mailings. Well it actually still exists. Make sure you have a great photo that looks like your child and a résumé which details your child’s experience and training. Get a list of agents and managers who work with young performers. You can do that through CallSheet which is published by Backstage Magazine. And once you get the names you can send a hard copy to them with a short cover letter. Make sure you read how they like to be contacted. If they have an address, you can send a picture and resume. If they list an email, you might be able to send it digitally.

5. Now hopefully your child has an acting or voice teacher or coach. And one of the best ways is for that teacher to refer your child to the rep. I never pass up an opportunity to send one of my students to one of my colleagues when I believe they are ready to work. Since they have been vetted by me, my colleague, the rep, is much more inclined to respond. I have introduced many of my students to both agents and managers and I will tell you they continue to have really wonderful and incredibly successful careers.

YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR REP

I recently got a call from a parent asking my advice on whether she should call her daughter’s agent about an upcoming audition. I was curious why she was asking me and when I asked her that she said she was afraid to ask the agent because she didn't want him to drop her daughter. Now that’s crazy. Because if she’s afraid to ask the agent, she is probably with the wrong agent. We talked about how to get an agent or manager but if you want to foster a good relationship with them and make sure the relationship lasts, which is no different than dating by the way, you really need to have a good relationship. 

What is a good relationship? Well, one that is open and honest, learning how to communicate. How does one like to be communicated with. Finding that out from the get-go. Be prepared. Right? The child has to be ready, and not be overloaded during the week. Being available for auditions. Not turning auditions down. Always have your phone available, responding to your emails. Bening right on top of it. Be prepared. This is a very fast business. 

Know when to leave your agent or manager alone. They’re not just working for you, they’ve got other clients. And they are also working for you even though you don’t know they are working for you. 

They are trying to get your child work! So know when to leave them alone.

And most of all, be a good team player. If you do your part, they will do their part.

QUESTIONS TO ASK POTENTIAL REPRESENTATION

So now you are lucky enough to take some meetings with agents or managers and you may want to know some good questions to ask when meeting with them. Well, I guess for either one of the questions is how many clients do you have.

1. You want to know if there is a small amount or a large amount?

2. Do they have more than a few of the same type?

3. How often should you communicate with them? How should you communicate with them? By email? Telephone? Just popping by…which I don’t recommend.

4. How often should you update your child’s resumes and photos? Are the contracts negotiable?

5. Can you take a three-year management agreement and negotiate it down to one or two?

6. A great question is if you find work on your own for your child, do they take a commission on that.

7. For a manager, you might want to find out which agencies they work with and when they will be introducing your child to an agent. Will you be looking for agencies on your own or are they going to provide that service?

8. Can you submit your child for a project on your own? 

Regardless of if your child gets an agent or manager right away, they should always be looking for ways to continue growing their career and network by working on their skill set through classes and pursuing other hobbies that make them the unique individual they are. 

Not everyone will have an easy path to finding representation, but don’t give up, they’re going to  be a huge asset to your career.

So Your Child Wants to be a Star? Now what.

What do I do? Help! There’s no training or ”how to” guide about how to coach you or your child through this new adventure. Today I am talking about what you can do to support your child’s dream in acting right now. I will discuss what some of your initial steps should be and give you a course of action to make them the most successful version of themselves.

WHAT DO I DO NOW?

So your child wants to be on tv, broadway, movies, fantastic! You are probably here because you care deeply about making sure your child is given every opportunity possible to make their dreams a reality. And guess what? I am here to help you logistically figure out how to make that happen. So let’s talk about the signs that your child wants to pursue this on a more serious level?

There are tell-tale signs like when your child starts asking to take an acting class, to audition for school plays, are they making movies with their friends, are they potentially more interested in being involved in these things than hanging out with their friends or other hobbies or events.  I believe It’s genetic. I believe It’s in their DNA. They do it because they have to. 

Don’t discourage your child when they express an interest in acting. Because this is how they are going to communicate and exist with the world. I know this first hand because it is how I communicate with the world.

Look, I get when this happens it might seem daunting, especially if the resources that are available to you are a bit more limited. But l’m going to reassure you right now, especially in today’s world, you can pursue a career in acting from anywhere. 

BENEFITS OF SHOW BUSINESS

A lot of parents can get scared about this idea of their child being in show business because it is a business and that might seem scary to expose your child to that. Another daunting element of your child expressing interest in the arts is all of the unknown or the fear that your child might not get their “big break” they might get discouraged. There are so many benefits for your child to gain from pursuing a career in show business

I have worked with so many young actors and a few have moved on to celebrity status, some have moved out of the business, and many others have moved to other areas within the business. But what they all have in common is that they are all VERY SUCCESSFUL adults.

A reason to support your child: it builds self esteem and confidence, they learn how to deal with rejection from an early age, they learn how to listen better, it improves their reading skills, they learn how to think on their feet, they learn how to take risks, and they’re gaining independence.

PROFESSIONAL ASSESSMENT

So you’ve determined that your child wants to pursue this to a more professional degree. So let’s talk about the tools you need to jumpstart your child’s career. It can be incredibly helpful to seek out an industry evaluation or assessment. These assessments are going to give a better understanding of how your child fits in the industry as a whole.

Do they have the skill &  ability to be competitive in the industry? Are they taking classes and studying the craft? Are they marketable in the industry? As in do they have the right look for what’s being produced in today’s industry. How competitive are they in a saturated market ? How do they stack up against talent that is already established in the industry? And are they marketable right now. Places you might get an assessment are from a vetted industry pro like talent manager, acting coach/consultant, or even a casting director.

DIGITAL PROFILES

Get your child out there! Set up Digital profiles on various acting websites including Casting Networks and Actor’s Access and Backstage. If you’re not familiar with this, these are websites that are online databases that casting directors use to cast their shows. They are audition breakdowns, which are essentially lists of auditions and the various characters that are needed for the project, and you are able to submit your child for and hopefully have them book these roles. These online profiles will make sure you have a competitive edge even prior to landing representation.

HEADSHOTS

Headshots. Headshots. Headshots. It’s your child’s calling card.  If they are young, you can easily take a nice photo on their iphone, but eventually, you will need to find someone to take a professional photo of your child. Those images should capture your child’s personality and give a clear example of what roles they would be perfect in!

RESUME

Put together a resume. And this is different than a business resume. An acting resume should fit on one page with three columns, very easy to read. If you’re not sure how to do this and you are interested in a template for that, you can find one in my book, Parenting in the Spotlight: How to Raise a Child Star without Screwing Them Up available on Amazon and if you’re in the NY area The Drama Bookshop which is a place you should visit whenever you’re in town..

At first your child may not have a lot to add to their resume, if anything, on their resume, but it should list the basics about their training and appearance as well as any roles or experience they have had up to that point. Don’t worry if they don’t have anything to list on their resume yet, that will come with time!

REEL

Once your child starts putting together auditions or they’ve been cast in a few projects, you should start to think about putting together a professional reel for them. A reel or a sizzle clip is a series of clips that shows what your child is capable of doing. Think of a reel as a trailer of your child’s career! Look as they have more experience and you’re ready to sink in a little bit more money, they can get a beautiful professional reel and we’ll talk about that later on as well.

REPRESENTATION

Eventually, it will be important for your child to seek out representation with an agent or manager. You can start to find work for them without one, but to advance their career and book more important roles, larger roles, they really must have representation.

TRAINING

Most importantly, you must get your child in a class where they can begin their training. A lot of times agents and managers will attend showcases or final performances of these classes even because they’re looking for kids who are in training and working the right way. But before signing your child they want to know that they are well trained and that they’re committed to the process. Training never stops. It’s really really key! 

BE READY!

Again I can’t stress enough READINESS. Before you take the leap make sure your child  has the skills and confidence ready to move forward. I tell my students all the time , only confident actors get hired. Confidence comes with experience, time and maturity.  TRUST THE PROCESS. Once you have done the things I’ve talked about, know that the right things will come at the right time. Try not to micromanage your child or their career. I know it’s hard as a mom, but stay on top of it and be the best advocate you can be for your child. 

Pursuing the performing arts is a wonderful and amazing thing that builds character and strength and whatever they choose to do later on they will be really good at because you supported them now!

Your child chose this because they have no other choice. Nothing satisfies them more than getting up on stage or being in front of a camera. Support them!! Don’t stand in the way of your child's self empowerment, success, happiness, AND becoming the best they can be! This is the beginning of an exciting and thrilling journey for your child and you and I am happy to go on it with you!

Start Your New Year Off Right

2022 is going to be a good year and here’s why….

We have lived through trying times these past few years. Between the times of isolation, fewer auditions, and trainings on Zoom instead of with people, it’s been challenging. Thankfully, things are starting to return to a sense of normal. As you begin thinking about 2022, here are some ideas to start your new year off right:

Get fit mentally, physically, and spiritually

There is no time like the present to get in shape. One of the perks of the pandemic is greater access to free fitness apps and at-home programs to enhance all areas of health. Strength training, cardio and yoga can all be done in 30 mins or less and give you a daily dose of the right mindset. Exercise helps regulate serotonin, which is a brain chemical linked to improving your appetite and sleep cycle, relieving stress, and balancing your emotional state. Pursuing an acting career is demanding work and you must be fit mentally, physically, and even spiritually to succeed. Consider adding a new exercise routine or meditation practice to your daily schedule and reap the benefits of increased vitality.

Update your headshots and reel footage

You’re another year older, a few inches taller, and probably are sporting a new hairstyle or look. It may be time to update your marketing materials and show off the new you. Additionally, you’ve grown in your techniques and skills. Updating your headshots and reel footage will prepare you for new opportunities coming over the horizon.

Set goals and take action

We all make promises each year but how many do we actually achieve? Setting and achieving goals can be fun when you aim for goals that inspire you. Instead of a lengthy list of goals that feel impossible, aim for two of three things that you know you can achieve. Once you master them, you can set more goals. Try some of these ideas:

• Start a gratitude journal listing three things you are grateful for each day

• Read a book or play  just for fun

• Put down your devices for a day

• Pick up the phone instead of texting someone

• Take a new class

• Volunteer to go first in acting class

• Create a business action plan for yourself

• Send a thank you note to someone, with extra points if you send it via snail mail 

• -Create a vision board to manifest what you want 

Take up an activity to increase brain power

With so much time spent indoors these past 18 months you might try picking up a sport such as tennis, basketball, a dance class, or a martial art like karate or kickboxing. These activities will get your body moving and test your endurance, discipline, and improve your brain function. Playing a sport like tennis encourages you to work to improve your technique which improves critical thinking, mental alertness, and tactical thinking. You may find picking up choreography or memorizing those lines will become a whole lot easier after you’ve mastered a new sport or physical activity. 

Be a good human

Directors want to work with kind people. Practice being a good citizen by doing random acts of kindness. Talk to someone in school who might need a friend, send a note of appreciation to a teacher or mentor who has made a difference in your life, offer to walk a neighbor’s dog without pay, don’t engage in gossip, and use your social media to inspire kindness and respect. 

Re-evaluate what’s important to you

I have always wrapped myself in my work to define me. Like many, these past few years taught me that my family, friends, and my quality of life are more important to me than work. Training, putting yourself out there and networking are all important to having a fruitful acting career but appreciating your support team and those who matter most will keep you happy and enjoying the present moment. It may feel counterintuitive but having a fulfilling life will enhance your acting career in every respect. It is possible and profitable to aim for happiest and professional success at the same time.

Parents of Child Actors: Why You Can Benefit From Taking Acting Classes

One of the most common questions I get asked by parents of young actors is how they can best support their children at auditions. Whether it’s running lines, serving as a reader, or helping with a self-tape, if parents don’t know a thing or two about technique, they may actually be doing more harm than good. 

I recently worked with a top L.A.-based casting director and when asked how to remedy these issues, her advice was simple: “Take an acting class.” Here are five reasons why that advice is sound: 

Empathy: Parents of a young actor play an important role. They’re their child’s biggest cheerleader when they succeed and their emotional support when they face rejection. It can be helpful for parents to understand the process an actor undergoes to inhabit a character because it can be draining, especially if the scene is emotional or personal. Knowing the steps they take to give a truthful performance can help you better support your child emotionally as they grow and learn.

Looking for habits: Everyone loves having a dedicated teacher in their corner, but taking advice from a parent isn’t a good idea if the parent doesn’t know anything about acting. Being familiar with pace, rhythm, and volume can help parents identify when their young actors are falling into bad habits during self-tapes in ways the kid may not notice. It’s never a good idea to assume the role of an acting coach, but it can be helpful for parents to know the basic mistakes casting directors look for so you’re able to let your child know if they ask for help.

Reading: Having a good reading partner can be the difference between getting the callback and not. It’s great when parents can help their actor by reading with them for self-tapes, but it can be distracting if they don’t know how to do it in a way that showcases their child. Learning how to listen and react and knowing about acting styles for different genres can really help your child stand out in a self-tape. 

Teamwork: It’s always helpful when a parent and child have the same vocabulary; it helps them work together and communicate effectively when it comes to auditions. As a parent, taking the time to get to know your child’s process with acting can really help you better understand their goals and the industry. This will make you more literate on set and allow you to communicate with your child.

Learning from industry pros: Getting information from people who know more than you about something is always a good idea. For parents, this can be a great place to ask questions and learn from the experiences of others. Especially for parents who are new to the industry, it’s great to meet people whose information you trust. While other parents you meet in auditions may try to be helpful, they aren’t always the best resource. Getting information and guidance from casting directors, directors, and coaches can expose you to the many facets of the entertainment industry and give you support as your child continues to grow.

In my experience, many kids don’t like working with their parents; the interactions can make them feel judged, criticized, or misunderstood when filming a self-tape. Acting classes are the best ways for parents to bridge that divide and look at the world from their child’s point of view. By taking an acting class, you’re learning to appreciate their perspective and support them as they carve their path as an actor.

5 Tips for Preparing Child Actors for Post-Pandemic Auditions

Many of my students are curious about theater opening up again and changes to the industry. More specifically, the audition process. With Broadway, television, and film resuming production, the question of auditioning in our new reality is increasingly becoming a hot topic among actors. 

I recently held a livestream where I brought on three different casting directors and directors. They shared their vision of a hybrid audition process with many first auditions by self-tape and further down the road, in person. Theatrical casting hopes to be in person sooner than later. So now that the world is opening up, how do you best prepare? Here are some tips

1. Vaccines and testing.

The unions and productions are still figuring out how to open safely. Most sets will require proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test before shooting. Store your vaccination card on your phone or in Excelsior Pass if you live in New York state. If you’re traveling to and from certain cities, you may be asked to quarantine so research requirements and plan ahead. 

2. Perfect your setup.

Over the past year, actors had to adapt to the new virtual world. Now that we know casting directors are planning to work this way, having the right gear should be of utmost importance. It not only makes you look professional but being seen and heard with no distractions will help you stand out. Make sure you have a blank wall in a neutral color or purchase a pop-up screen. I like the blue and grey ones. You’ll need a tripod for your camera or phone and good lighting. Many of my students have a tripod ring light. Whether you like it or not, the self-tape is becoming an integral part of the process and well worth the small investment. Auditions have been conducted by self-tape and Zoom for over a year now. Proper equipment is expected. There is so much out of your control in this business that you don’t want to be passed over by inadequate equipment. 

3. Use the self-tape to your advantage.

Self-taping allows casting to see many more actors and it provides many benefits to the actor. They can put their best foot forward by doing multiple takes and choosing the best one to send in. They have more time with the scene and more time to prepare. There are no excuses for memorizing their lines, understanding their scene, and making strong acting choices. Also, since actors may still be taping at home, parents should get savvy on being a good reader to increase their child’s chances of having a great audition. 

4. Talk about the audition room.

As casting progresses into callbacks, testing and chemistry reads, actors will be brought back into the live audition room. Since it may have been over a year that your child has been in an audition, remind them of new protocols like no shaking hands. Being around people may generate some anxiety or nerves, especially for those kids who have been worried about getting sick. Talk to them and assure them no one wants to get sick, and everyone is taking measures to ensure their safety. 

5. Stay flexible, adaptable, and open-minded.  

Don’t keep your child so overscheduled and overbooked that they can’t take adequate time to prepare for the auditions that lie ahead. They may have become so used to taping in the basement that the thought of traveling to an audition or performing in a show again might stress them out. Have a family meeting where you talk to your children about their worries, fears, and excitement. What are they looking forward to most? What are they not? Give them space to share their thoughts and feelings. 

For me, teaching online this past year has been both challenging and rewarding. My students have been more disciplined than ever, with fewer distractions in their Zoom boxes but craving the connection with others. We are a strong community and will all do our part to ensure a safe transition back into the room, on set and onstage.

The Differences Between Notes From an Acting Coach and A Director

Imagine yourself in an audition. You may be reviewing a monologue or reciting lines from a scene as you nervously wait to be called in. While preparing, you remind yourself of the notes that you were given by your acting coach. Once in the audition room, you slate and perform your monologue or scene. What happens next is the wild card. The panel of casting, film, and/or TV directors might smile and say, “Thank you, next!” Or they may give you direction and adjustments. In order to take the direction given, you need to have the foundational skills to act and the ability to understand the language and concepts. A casting director or director expects the actor to be trained and ready for the role they’re auditioning for. To succeed in your audition, you need to understand the differences between working with coaches and directors, and the notes you’ll receive from both.

If you’ve ever worked with me or another acting coach, you’ll understand what I’m about to say. A coach helps students dive deep into a character’s motivations, objectives, and struggles. It’s a collaborative process to help the actor find their truth in the character. Sometimes you’ll be playing a character similar to you. Other times a character could not be more different than you. It’s the job of the coach to help you understand the scene and character while helping you to make strong and interesting choices. 

A director may give a note that says, “Go bigger.” I often give actors notes that say “Go deeper.” A casting director may ask the actor to speak faster. I might say, “Find the urgency that makes you speak faster.” These notes help guide students to think about their character beyond a surface level. It’s not my job to tell students how to act. One of my biggest pet peeves is when actors ask me how they should say a line. I’ll never answer that. Instead, I might have them reframe the question to ask, “Why does my character say that or what do they want right now?” They will then know how to say the line.   

When an actor is brought into an audition, the casting director or director believes that they can play the role and play it well. That being said, they may still give direction to see if the actor can make the adjustment and not get stuck in one way of playing something. A casting director or director may often give notes to the actor such as “more energy please,” “incorporate more gestures,” or “speak louder or more slowly.” They may even give a line reading to get what they need from the actor quickly. It’s the actor’s job to justify these notes with why their character may do these things. 

The director looks for actors that can listen and follow direction. They’re not only looking for great actors but actors that can be flexible. Onset there is an exorbitant amount of pressure on directors to get scenes done in a timely manner. Actors that can’t incorporate style notes and adjust their performances will have more difficulty booking work. Casting directors are also looking for a level of confidence. As I always say, “only confident actors get hired.” If the actor has worked hard with their acting coach or teacher the actor will be prepared to incorporate casting director comments with ease. Also, the more auditions you do, the better you’ll understand how to interpret and apply any director’s notes.  

Working with an acting coach can be a different experience than working with a director. However, both are essential experiences for the actor to learn, grow, and work in the field. When an actor is ready to audition, they need to understand the key differences between how directors and coaches give notes. Directors give notes that should be followed while coaches give notes to help you develop your performance organically. It’s essential to train as an actor either in classes or one on one with a coach so you’re ready to audition and perform, but ultimately it will be the director that hires you and guides your final performance. 

What Makes a Good Youth Talent Representative

I’ve worked in the youth acting industry for over 30 years as an acting teacher, career consultant, and former talent manager. I know and collaborate with many youth agents and managers, and can shed some light on what makes a good agent or manager for your child. Let’s first start with the differences between the two, the roles they play, and why some are better than others.

A talent agent or agency in New York or California is licensed by the state. They find employment for clients. Most are franchised by the Actors’ Equity Association and the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) unions, and are affiliated with the Association of Talent Agents (ATA) and/or the National Association of Talent Representatives (NATR). They are usually limited to taking a 10% commission for employment contracts. Some agents prefer an exclusive agreement initially. Others freelance, getting permission to submit a client by calling or emailing.

Just as in many other businesses, agents come in all sizes with different specialties. Large agencies can have several departments including beauty (modeling and print), commercials and voiceover, and “legit,” meaning TV, film, and theater. A smaller boutique agency may be able to provide some of the services a manager provides.

I spoke with David Gilbert, director of young talent at Zuri Agency in NY, who is very selective about who he signs to their theatrical roster. David and his team watch every tape their clients submit, giving notes and adjustments as needed before submitting to casting. They recommend their clients coach whenever possible allowing them to put their best work forward as they see each audition as a chance to be remembered by another casting office.

Another sign of a good agent is one who appreciates managers and can communicate and coordinate with them. Actors with managers can be more appealing to agents, therefore more likely to gain and maintain representation.

While an agent’s focus is to secure employment for an actor, a manager is more focused on growing your career. With fewer clients than agents, they can offer more personalized attention. This doesn’t mean the manager doesn’t get involved in the audition process. Many have good relationships with casting directors themselves and get on the phone to push for their client as well as get feedback after the audition is over.

A good manager will communicate well, help you find other professionals that can benefit your career like acting coaches and photographers, and more. They also help your child and you manage success when they finally land that one job that catapults them into stardom. A manager takes a 10–20% commission on earnings, and usually offers a three-year contract with a two-year extension. 

Before signing with an agent or talent manager, make sure they share your vision of where your child’s career is headed. You must be comfortable communicating with them while being mindful that they have other clients too. Both agents and managers provide representation and support for young actors. What is most important is having a rep who believes in your child’s talent and ability, fights for them, and helps keep their spirits alive during inevitable slumps while including you as part of the team. After all, you are your child’s best advocate.

How Teen Actors Can Pay for College

College is a big investment! With today’s tuition ranging anywhere from $25,000–$75,000 per year students often have to scramble to figure out how to pay. There’s no guarantee that the career you choose will pay for all of your expenses, so it’s important to consider your future before leaping too quickly into student loans. Here are five ways teen actors can lighten the burden of college tuition.

1. Save

You’re never too young to get a job and start saving for college. You can make a decent salary dog walking, babysitting, or even in food services. If you have been lucky enough to work as a young actor, you can also put that money away. Opening a savings account is a great way to earn compound interest (that is, interest added to the initial sum you put in the bank). There are also plenty of student accounts you can open to avoid service fees or to lower the taxes on the money. Saving can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. It can take a while for spare change to turn into big money, but just remember not to get discouraged. Every little bit counts.

2. Invest

If you make money as an actor, consider meeting with an accountant or a financial advisor to talk about investing some of your earnings in the stock market. If you understand the market and are capable of making educated decisions, you can invest in public companies and increase your profits as the company grows. You can also reap the benefits of compound interest, and earn money through both interest payments and investment returns.

3. 529 Plan

Ask your parents if they started a 529 plan for you when you were younger. This is a plan that parents can open for their kids when they’re born so that in 18 years their investment can grow tax-free. This money can be used for any qualified expense related to education (for example, you can use it to pay for textbooks, computers, expenses related to accessibility for disabled students, or just for tuition). If you get scholarship money from a school, you’re also able to take that amount out of your 529 to use for whatever you want. It’s a great investment opportunity for students looking to save from a young age. 

4. Grants and Scholarships

There are a lot of wonderful grants and scholarship programs for students in need of financial aid, no matter their economic situation. You may find these programs through the school you’re attending or independently through high school programs. For actors, a great place to start is with acting and talent competitions, where prizes can range from $100 to upwards of $15,000. If you’re an actor with a story to tell, there are also plenty of writing and essay opportunities out there to help (“Dear Evan Hansen,” for example, hosts an essay contest with a $10,000 prize). These programs are great ways for you to build your skills and résumé, and they help you to pay off your college tuition by doing something you love.

5. Financial Aid

It’s no secret that many schools (especially elite institutions) offer financial aid to qualifying students. While you don’t have much control over the value, there are still ways that you can maximize the financial aid you receive. For example, if you receive a financial aid package that you believe is insufficient for you to attend, you can often appeal the decision to the school. There are also work-study programs that you can participate in, where a school will forgive portions of your tuition in exchange for work on campus. Working with admissions is a great example. It’s also perfect for theater kids with natural charisma who would be eager to give tours. Just make sure you read your financial aid award letter carefully. This can be the difference between getting a deal you can be satisfied with and being unable to attend.

There are plenty of other ways for you to earn money for a college fund. For example, many students use a two-step college option, where they attend an affordable two-year college for a bachelor’s degree before transferring to a more expensive four-year program. It’s important to remember that there are people out there (parents, extended family, employers), who are willing to support you in any way they can, even if not financially. Just make sure you’ve discussed your future with them before you make any big financial decisions.

5 Ways Young Actors Can Improve Their Diction

Having clear and proper speech is essential. It’s how we communicate and share our ideas, and, more importantly, it lets us express emotion. For an actor, the voice and the body are tools that work together to tell a story. If one can’t be properly understood, how can a young actor do their job and get an audience engaged? Many of my younger students have trouble understanding and controlling their voices. Here are five ways young actors can improve their diction.

1. Tongue Twisters

“I want a cup of coffee in a proper coffee pot.” The first step to mastering diction is making your tongue flexible and the best way to do that is by exercising it, just like any other muscle. Start with something slow, making sure you’re enunciating the vowels. Then speed up and try to keep your jaw relaxed without dropping any syllables. If you want to work on controlling your voice quality (which actors can change to convey emotions), slow it down and assign different emotions to the tongue twister, noting how your voice changes with each. These can be really fun ways for students to gain better control over their voices.

2. Breath

Voice is produced when the air in the lungs passes over the vocal cords, making vibrations. If an actor doesn’t have proper breath support, they won’t be able to control their vocal intonations and will probably get tired more easily, too. But there’s good news! You’ve been breathing since you were born, so you’re already a master. First, make sure you have good posture. This will help you to maintain good vocal health. The voice can only be produced by an exhale, so actors need to work to build their breath support in a way that gives them better control (this is true for singers as well). Try placing a hand on either side of the area below your rib cage. Stand with good posture, inhale slowly, and hold your breath without straining for a count of six. Then exhale slowly while you count to 15, then 20, then 25, etc. This will help you to build your stamina and give you better volume onstage without needing to strain your voice.

3. Relax

Having a relaxed throat, lips, and tongue is the key to maintaining a healthy voice. Just make sure that before you begin any exercise or performance, including tongue twisters, your body and throat aren’t tense or strained. This will prevent you from being hoarse when you speak and sing.

4. Dialects

“The rain in Spain stays mainly on the plain.” Dialects are diverse and specific. Even if we say we can do an English accent, it’s unclear whether that means Southern English, Midland English, Northern English, Cockney, Geordie, or any one of the numerous tongues specific to the region. As such, to really master a dialect a young actor needs to have an ear for intonation, cadence, phrasing, inflection, and pitch. Working with a coach can be a great place to start, but there are also numerous books and CDs available to help (some personal favorite authors are Edda Sharpe, Jan Haydn Rowles, and Jerry Blunt). Make sure you have a solid grasp on the basics of diction before you begin. This will make it easier to start developing more fine-tuned skills.

5. Voiceover Work

We’ve seen a huge spike in voiceover work for actors during the pandemic, and we don’t predict this increase will dwindle any time soon. Voiceover work is a great way for young actors to flex their diction muscles once they understand diction because it relies solely on voice. It requires a good command of speech, tone, and inflection, but couples that with a need to understand character and intention. Voiceover work requires training and effort before it can be mastered, but when you think you’re ready, it can really help you to use your voice creatively which will help you master other work as well.

In our classes, we always start with a vocal warmup to wake up the lips, teeth, and tongue. This is because diction and vocal control are paramount to a good performance! When an actor can enunciate and use their voice to convey emotion, they can form deeper connections with viewers. If they start building these skills when they’re young, they’ll be unstoppable in whatever career path they choose.