How to get an Acting Agent in 2023
If you're an aspiring actor in the UK, getting an acting agent can be the key to unlocking more opportunities and advancing your career. But with so many agents and agencies out there, it can be tough to know where to start. In this article, we'll give you a step-by-step guide on how to get an acting agent in the UK.
Create a Spotlight or Acting Profile/CV
The first step to getting an acting agent is to create a strong acting profile that showcases your talent and experience. The main acting profile site used by agents and casting directors is Spotlight, but you can also use Mandy. This includes:
Getting a professional headshot
You can read our top 10 headshot photographers blog to help you decide
Creating a showreel
Building a strong acting CV that includes your education, training, and experience
Be sure to highlight your unique strengths and talents, such as skills like accents, sports and languages, in order to diversify your offering.
Research Agents and Agencies
Once you have sorted your Spotlight or Mandy profile, it's time to research different agents and agencies to find the ones that are the best fit for your skills and experience. Look for agents who represent actors who work in the areas you're interested in (theatre, film, TV, radio etc). Check their websites and social media pages, and read reviews and testimonials from actors they represent. The relationship between an agent and actor is key, make sure you understand as much as you can about their management style before approaching them.
You can read a list of all PMA-approved agencies here. The PMA is “The leading professional body for talent agencies in the UK” and ensures that all its members are fit and proper to be agencies.
Submit Your Profile and Materials
Once you have a list of agents and agencies that you're interested in, it's time to submit your acting profile and materials. Follow the submission guidelines carefully and make sure to highlight your unique strengths and talents. Include your Spotlight link, as well as any other relevant materials, such as reviews or press clippings.
Remember to keep the email personable, short and sweet. Agents receive thousands of approaches from actors, so you need to stand out.
Attend Auditions and Networking Events
Even if you haven't yet secured an acting agent, it's important to attend auditions and networking events to build your profile and gain experience. You can begin to build up a rapport with agents through our JAM agent workshops or self-submit for casting opportunities through Spotlight. Try and attend industry events and workshops to meet other actors, agents, and casting directors. This can help you build relationships in the industry and increase your chances of getting noticed by an agent.
The top casting workshop companies include:
Just Add Milk (JAM)
Mixing Networks
Casting-Workshops
Take One Stage and Screen
Stay Persistent and Keep Improving
Getting an acting agent in the UK can be a challenging process, but persistence and hard work can pay off. Keep improving your skills and experience by taking classes, attending workshops, and working on your craft. Keep submitting your profile to different agents and agencies, and stay open to feedback and suggestions. With time and effort, you can find the right agent who can help you achieve your acting goals.
Make sure you continue to read blogs and posts about how to get an acting agent in the UK, including our guide from acting agent Oliver Campbell (BWH).
In summary, getting an acting agent in the UK requires a strong acting profile, research into potential agents and agencies, submission of your materials, attending auditions and networking events, and persistence and hard work. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by an agent and advancing your acting career in the UK.
