Expert: Taylor Sheppard - 10/22/2007

Question
My younger daughter has expressed an interest in child acting.  After hearing an advertisement on the radio recently, I called and they have stated that I could bring her into NYC for an "audition".  After researching the phone number they called me from, I found that it was from John Powers Modeling & talent agency.  Would you be able to tell me if this is a reputable company and if not could you point me in the right direction for one in new jersey or new york?

Thank you for your time.
Shawna

Answer
Hi Shawna,

I would check the listings for talent agencies in the area to locate agents. I would not recommend JRP, from what I have heard of them, they are in it for signing up people and getting paid. Here in Texas we have run out "agencies" that ask for money up front to train or take headshots to be in the agency and be represented. It is illegal to make students "pay for representation".
Usually those outfits ask for money up front and promise to get the student actor a job. They get a job alright, non-paying, usually, and a modeling runway gig at a mall.
That would satisfy their contract.

No real agent asks for money in advance. They represent a talent to get auditions and if the talent books the gig because of their audition, the agent receives the check and takes 10% to 15% and send the talent a check. There is a contract that states what geographical area is included in the agency's contract with the talent and what percentage they will take and what is required of the talent, including continuance of the contract (auto renewal) and termination requirements( one month notice by talent or agent in writing is typical). You can not have two agencies in one area by contract unless agreed upon otherwise, which isn't likely, as the agency spends money to promote a talent and doesn't want to be out of that money if the other agent gets the booking from something they did.
I had 4 agent in Texas at one time, Austin, Houston, Dallas and San Antonio. Because they were far enough apart, it wasn't a problem. However, eventually, San Antonio and Austin became one market for most agents because they were too close to each other with only an hour and a half drive apart.
As I said, check your local directories for talent agents and if you sense something funny, RUN!!!!

Best,

Taylor