How do you find an Agent

[jools1]

My son, aged 11, is a keen actor, singer, taking part in local shows and school plays etc. Lots of people tell me that he is talented and should go far? Who knows whether that is true or not but he asked me for an Agent for Christmas and I don't know how to begin finding one. Even Google was no help.

Any advice would be much appreciated.

[Quizmonkey]

This is only worth pursuing if you are serious about him going into the business (and if he is totally devoted). No agent will be interested unless he know's he's going to get his 20% from all your son's work.

The Actor's Yearbook lists all the theatrical agent - might be a good start buying an issue of The Stage from the newsagent too.

[Maydup]

There are a number of agents who work with children and here's a link to a list of someof them. Also children's casting opportunities can be found on this site.

http://www.theactingwebsite.com/childrens-and- teenagers-agents-c41.html

My only advise is to look to see who else they represent to get an idea of how successful they are and never pay any up front fees or subscriptions, good agents don't ask for money until the work is there.

Good luck, you'll never know unless you give it a go
Maid

[Fish the Mod]

Hi, I work as a licensed chaperone taking young Actors to tv and film sets ( even I have been an extra on Eastenders and Holby City...go on twist my arm..)
As mentioned above, you need to sign with a good agent, they tend to want your child to take a course with them such an acting if they run a theatre school. To go into thier books which are sent out once a year you are looking at paying a �100 which should include pictures. Once on the books, you need a consent form signed by your Doctor ( who may charge) the headteacher and you. Then you sit back and wait. I know kids who work all year round ( only allowed a certain amount of days anyway) and some who dont get a call at all. Nothing personal, it depends on what look the casting agent is after. I suggest that your son takes a course with an acting school. I as an adult went to college and out of 30 people starting only 10 stayed to finish the course. Acting seems easy. I took exams with LAMDA and your son could do the same, they tour the country and do examinations in major cities. If you can afford it then try an agent that are not just after the money. There is nothing stopping anyone taking a �100 and sending pictures to agents. In London ,Bodens, stagecoach, young adults and chicken shed are good to name a few. If I can be of anymore help then look at my web site and give me a e mail. Lamda and the others have good websites. Check also with the council that they dont want a Doctors certifcate each time. There is no reason why your son ( if he is willing to work hard, can take rejection and have fun) shouldnt make it. www. stephenbyrne.co.uk