Getting Started in the Industry

First and foremost:

Do not forget all the things you learned in the first 9 steps.

• Step One: In Step One you assessed your child’s ability, talent, looks, and DESIRE. Revisit these points periodically and be prepared to confidently walk away if this business just isn’t right for your child or you.
• Step Two: In Step Two you became organized. Now that you have found employment, the list of items you’ll need to stay on top of will continue to multiply. Organization will keep you on top of the game.
• Step Three: In Step Three you learned how to get professional looking photos and how to make a resume. Keep them current!  Get new photos as your child grows and changes and update your resume with every new class or credit.
• Step Four: In Step Four you learned about acting classes and coaches. Keep building on your child’s abilities by adding new ones. Learn to dance, sing, fence, a dialect… stretch yourself.
• Step Five: In Step Five you learned about representation. If your agent isn’t getting you out, it might be time to look for a new one. Check in with your agent periodically, preferably after 2:30 PM, after they have gone through all their “breakdowns.” Keep the conversation short and sweet, don’t waste their time. Remember, your agent/manager works for you… not the other way around.
• Step Six: In Step Six, you learned all about the casting process.  Remember, only representation by an agent or manager will open the door to bigger opportunities.  Don’t spend all your time on ‘self-submissions’.  Instead, assemble a team of professionals to represent your child.
• Step Seven: In Step Seven, you learned how to follow through. Send thank you notes to employers, casting directors, your agent, and anyone else who makes your job easier. Teach your kid manners and decorum. Stay on top of finances, trust account deposits, and anything else that may need your attention. Follow through!
• Step Eight: In Step Eight you learned to stay in constant communication with your child’s school and how to handle school on set. Your child’s education is your #1 priority. Keep on top of their academic needs and keep appropriate supplemental materials available for last minute situations.
• Step Nine: In Step Nine you learned about the auditioning process and about being Polite, Prepared and Prompt. Use these “three P’s” every day on set and you will gain a reputation as a consummate professional.

Before the Job:

Keep all things you need while working packed and ready to go. Schedules will get hectic and call times often come in at the last minute, so it’s important to be prepared!  Production will normally e-mail or fax you a call sheet and a map the night before the job. The call sheet lists the time each person is “called” to the set as well as a shot list describing what scenes will be filming the day of the shoot.

Get a copy of the script and MEMORIZE YOUR LINES! If you have been cast in a series or soap, make sure you are familiar with that show and any regulars who perform on it.  It’s also good to know the staff  (Producers, Writers and Directors) and research their body of work on IMDB.

Double check:

• Job date
• Name of the project or product (i.e. “Superman”, “Coke”)
• Call time (this is the time YOU are to report to location – DO NOT BE LATE!)
• Location address (dress accordingly for outdoor filming, layers are best)
• Emergency contact phone number (in case you are lost or late)
• Directions (invest in a map book or use a mapping program to plan your route)
• Contact name(s) (the casting director’s name and/or the person you’ll be asking for upon arrival)
• Type of clothing to wear (inquire with production about special wardrobe requests)

Bring Along:

• Entertainment Work Permit (if applicable)
• School books and assignments (on school days)
• Parking money (Just in case)
• Snacks (Just in case – not all jobs have catering)
• Travel-type games or workbooks and other items to keep your child busy during downtime (see also Education)
• Extra clothes
• Extra photo/resumes
• Passport or birth certificate
• Social security card
• Agent’s address and phone number
• Statement of Trustee(s) evidencing existence of minors blocked trust account

Once you are FINALLY called to the set, take a deep breath and enjoy the experience. THIS is what it is all about.

See you on the big screen!