Expert: Kitty Kavey - 7/26/2007

Question

I am a non-union actress,  trying to break  into the acting business, and I'm seeking a agent for representation. My question is

Can a union-franchised agency represent an actor who is non-union?

Does a non-union Extra receive residuals (royalties) for  national commercials and union recognized films?


Is it possible to break into acting,(the big break) in other places besides Los Angeles such as Chicago or is it a MUST for the talent to relocate to L.A. or NYC?  

Answer
Yes, they can.  When I was non-union I was represented by a SAG-affiliated agency.  Neither union nor non-union extras receive residuals.  Only principal performers do.
And yes, it is possible to get your big break in places other than LA or NYC.  Although once you do, it is quite likely that you would end up living in one of those areas, simply because TV shows and auditions are more likely to be shot/happen there.  But of course there are many other venues and paths of opportunity outside of those two areas, so while most actors do eventually end up here, there are more and more shows and films being shot in other places.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty