Expert: Kitty Kavey - 6/1/2007

Question
QUESTION: So is it a scam or is it real.I got invited to go to some thing and i don't know what to do.I really don't have a way to see all the agencies in the big cities.I live in springfield,mo. I swear im the next brad pitt.
So can you help the future star out?

ANSWER: Whether you attend a convention, or mail in your information to agencies, that still leaves a problem.  Conventions like ProScout have representatives from agencies in NYC or LA, etc.  Even if you are the next hot talent, if selected by an agency for representation, they are booking you for work where they are located, not where you live.  Clients from Springfield aren't going to call a New York agency to find local talent.  So that leaves just a few options for you to consider.  You can either move to New York (modeling) or Los Angeles (acting).  Or you can see what's in your area as far as local work, and build up some experience before you move to a larger market.  Some people vacation first in LA or NYC, and either attend open calls, or mail in their information first to agencies before they go, and set up appointments while they are in the area.  As we've all heard the story, Brad Pitt who also hails from Springfield, left college to move here to LA, and worked in various jobs to support his early career including wearing a giant chicken suit to promote el Pollo Loco.  I'd suggest mapping out a bit more of a plan than that - but keep in mind that while you can work locally, and even train with an acting coach or teacher where you are now, at some point you will need to consider the advantages of relocating to a larger market.  In the meantime, check your local library, bookstore or online for books on the specific types of acting and/or modeling that appeal to you.  Brad Pitt did musicals in high school, and fraternity shows in college as well as posing for a campus calendar, so he already had some experience before he got here.  He also studied for years under famed acting coach Roy London.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the advice, but i must ask one more thing.Do you think matthew richardson is a name i can get big on?
It's my real name but i dont know if it will work for the future.
What do you suggest?

Answer
You can certainly ask your agent what they think - as they are there to help advise you as to what name you use in film/television credits, on your headshot, etc.  The final word is from the Screen Actors Guild, though.  When you join the union, they will not let you register a name that already exists in their database.  There are two Matthew Richardsons listed on IMDB.com, and three Matt Richardsons, although I believe only two of them are actors.  You may end up using a middle initial, or perhaps your middle name in order to distinguish yourself from the other actors who share your name.  Of course that really only becomes an issue if you're working in the same area as the other actors, or are joining the SAG or AFTRA unions.  But again, that's something that you can discuss with your agent or manager as you plan out the direction of your career.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty