Topic: Actor Networking Companies

Actor Networking Companies - 6:45PM on 3/23/2009

Hello Fellow Actors,

I am new to New York and was wondering if there were any actor networking companies that I should look into. A guy I met at an auditon said that I should check out The Network, but I don't know much about them. Does anyone know anything about these actor networking places and if they are worth my time?

Thanks.

RE: Actor Networking Companies - 4:45PM on 5/05/2009

You have to be very careful in this business because there are many people out there who just want to fleece desperate actors. Sadly, many agents and casting directors are in on this racket.

It's unfortunate that the system is setup so that you often have to pay for the opportunity to be seen by agents and CDs in these places, but if you have no representation and few contacts, you don't have much choice. Having been in your shoes, I suggest you make your initial class buys very small. Don't be immediately lured into buying packages at a discount. Go to one seminar/audition and see how you feel about it. It also doesn't hurt to ask people who is worth auditioning for and who is a waste of time because there are agents and CDs who are not looking for talent but will show up at these events merely to collect a paycheck.

I'll also add that classes with an agent or CD that are spread out over multiple weeks are a better alternative because they will really get to know you and what you can do.

People get signed or cast out of these seminars all the time, so if you're really good and you have the right look and luck, it can work for you. Just be smart about your decisions when it comes to shelling out the cash for these.

You should look at both The Actor's Connection and Jennifer Rudolph's The Green Room. There are pluses and minuses to each, but like I said, they are definitely working for some people. Good luck.

RE: Actor Networking Companies - 11:43AM on 6/02/2009

There are a lot of seminars available for actors to hear casting directors talk and meet and greet with them. If you're in the New York area, there's a great meet and greet/talk show with casting directors, producers and agents on Tuesday nights in the west village. If you want more info the link is www.stagebuddy.com/live
Tru is also a good one to check out www.truonline.org

Good luck getting into the scene!

RE: Actor Networking Companies - 5:20PM on 1/21/2010

I've found that by having a targeted game plan, networking comapanies can be a great way to initially get representation and then to expose yourself to casting directors. The danger, I found, in doing these seminars is that it is often one shot. If your auditioning skills are not A+ level, your money would be better spent on learning how to become an excellent auditioner, than by meeting someone for 7 minutes...

RE: Actor Networking Companies - 9:11AM on 1/26/2010

What is said above is absolutely correct. Auditioning and networking are crafts unto themselves, and it's essential that you master these skills before you get in the room.

Also, if you ever get 7 minutes with an agent or CD at one of these networking sessions, consider yourself very lucky!