Acting?

[_Poizon_]

Hey, I am thinking of going into acting, I am not sure if this is the right place to post this but if not it will be moved, But does anybody know of any ''extras'' books (UK would be best, but others greatly appreciated), where you put down your name age sizes picture etc... and when people want extras for thier films they choose from the ''extras'' book as I know that many famous actresses started off like that.

I am 14 and quite small, but would like to do extras work until I decide whether I want to be a Model, Actress or Fashion Designer in older life. I know they sound very stereotypical but, not to gloat, I have been told by my sisters photographer that I have model potential for the future, EVERYBODY thinks I would be a great and original Fashion Designer, and acting is my passion which I got good grades, praise and extra curriculars in.

Any help would be useful, even if it is for Fashion Designing at a young age or modelling for the future or whatever!

Thanks SO MUCH!

x Poizon x

[miss_chase]

Talk to your careers advisor at school. Try not to worry about the future and make sure you do things you enjoy at the moment, do carry on with drama and art (I am biased - I am a drama teacher). You will have the opportunity to try lots of different jobs in the future and there are always opportunities to retrain and change career.

There are lots of extras and modelling agencies about, but I think some of them can be a bit dodgy! You can find details of agencies and auditions in The Stage Newspaper (www.thestage.co.uk) - it's the newspaper for actors and performing arts workers (The Spice Girls met through a Stage audition - remember them?!). However, do not pay any money upfront, the reputable (non-dodgy) agencies will take a commission (this means they will take some of the money you earn through work). And always take a responsible adult with you to ensure your safety.

I believe www.thestage.co.uk also has some information on working in the industry and agencies.

Hope that helps!

[clairus99]

First and foremost, it will be unlikely that an extras' agency will take you on until you are 16.  That's first.

There are children affiliated with these agencies but that is usually with a parent.  Under 16 requires you to have a chaperone, and the working hours are different to an "adult".

As far as becoming famous, you will not do it through extra work.  I agree that it is a good way to get a feel for filming and a good experience (mainly through watching principal actors).

Additionally, it is not a full-time job - unless you register with absolutely everyone (which would cost a fortune) it is unlikely you will get more than a couple of days work a month - and that's if you are lucky.  Look upon it as a little bit of extra spending money - definitely don't rely on it.

Your agent(s) will advise you on modelling, and should be able to advise.

If I were you I would focus on going to art college and do a bit of extra work when you are able.  That way you are focussing on a career.  Join some drama clubs, there will be plenty for someone your age.  You could also try Sylvia Young's I know several people who went to that school - they also have a kids agency and are good with the advice too.

[221b]

I wouldn't look in The Stage if I were you; it used to be a quality publication, but seems to have gone right down to the level of pole dancers; dressing up as a vegetable for a day for a sales job and dubious cruise ship contracts.

Never pay an agent up front, whatever they say.

Check out PCR (Performance Casting Report) weekly bulletin of latest quality auditions for stage and screen) You'd be well off registering with 'The Spotlight' as a child actor (www.spotlightcd.com). All actors worth their salt are in this annual publication. The Spotlight offer an advisory service to actors like myself who are looking to avoid charletans in the profession.

Good luck! And talk oit over with your parents; get them involved as there are lots of decisions to make from many choices...

Maybe we'll work together one day...

Helen