FAQ's - Becoming an Actor / Actress
Q. How can I become a part of Angie’s Talent?
A. Your first step is to come in and audition on one of the Open Call dates that are normally posted on our “What’s New Page".
Q. What happens at the Open Call audition?
A. You will introduce yourself, read a commercial script. If we are looking for your type we will give you a “call back” appointment to discuss the opportunities and the commitment you will need to make.
Q. What type are you looking for?
A. We are looking for great faces, with good teeth, great skin and hair. One must also have a great personality, charisma, energy and a passion for the industry. There’s a lot of work for beautiful people, character faces, kids, teens, adults. Height, weight is not important. You just need to have a marketable look.
Q. Do I require any training in becoming an actor?
A. This is an exciting, wonderful industry, but like in any field there are unscrupulous people who give the good ones a bad name. A Talent agency represents individuals interested in a career in acting. One of the first signs of a questionable agency is one that is willing to represent someone who has no experience or training. If it was your dream to play in the National Hockey League the first thing you should do is learn how to play hockey. It takes a lot of practice before you can play professionally. Well, it’s the same with becoming an actor. If you want to be a professional actor/actress, then you need to practice commercials as well as get involved in local theatre groups.
You need to start working on having a few different monologue pieces - dramatic and comedic one minute in length. Training is a very important part of becoming a good performer. It is as important as showing up on time and knowing your lines. No matter how accomplished a professional performer becomes one needs to keep up with their training. There are different methods and a variety of workshops one can look into to keep their skills sharp. The Meisner technique is one that you can look into. Workshops are offered in Toronto and Montreal.
Q. Improvisation is it important?
A. Whether your goal is the stage, the big screen, TV or commercials, improvisation is an essential component to your education and your technique. How well do you handle getting little or no direction? Do you have trouble thinking on your feet when asked to “do it again…differently?” When you audition for an improv-based spot, does your technique fall apart? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then On Camera/Improvisation workshops can help.
Q. People keep telling me “you should be in commercials". Where can I start?
A. You must audition for Angie’s. Angie’s has a fourteen-week workshop. (By invitation only). It was created as an introduction to acting through commercials. Designed for those with little or no acting training. The On Camera workshops explore varied acting and improvisation skills. Each week will involve feedback and critique of class work. Participants should bring a VHS tape to record class work for home viewing.
Q. Where are the auditions for TV Commercials/Film, etc?
A. Most of the auditions are in Toronto/Montreal. Therefore when we look for talent we look for talent that are available to travel on a day’s notice to Toronto/Montreal.
Q. I am a Parent of a minor do I need to accompany my child/teen to auditions?
A. Yes a Parent must always accompany their child to the audition. Or if you have a busy schedule you can appoint a Guardian (Grandparent, Aunt/Uncle Older Sibling).
Q. Can they ask my child to do something dangerous?
A. Absolutely not! They are never allowed to put a child in a situation that places them in clear and present danger to life or limb.
Q. How long is my child allowed to work on a set?
A. The basic work day for film and television is 8 hours plus 1 hour unpaid meal break. Therefore no more than 9 hours on a set.
Q. Do I need Headshots?
A. Yes you do it is very important. You must carry your actor’s cards with you at all times. It is your responsibility to make sure that the agency has a supply of your cards and resumes in order to promote you properly. Your actors’ cards are your business cards. If the Agency informs you that your supply is low it’s a good idea to get an updated card. This is how your agent can submit you on various breakdowns-TV/Film, Music Video, Commercials, Print, etc.
Q. How about transportation?
A. It is your responsibility to get to your auditions/castings and bookings. Whether you drive, take the bus or train you should always have a detailed map of the city.
Q. How about grooming?
A. Nails & toes always must be clean. No polish. Hair natural hair colour. No two tone hair. Fresh and simple! Kids should never ever wear make up!
