Hi everyone,

I'm relatively new to acting, so forgive me if my questions seem a little naive. Any advice or input anyone has would be greatly appreciated.

So yeah...I have just received my first offer for representation, which is exciting. The name of the agency is Steinberg's Agency (Barbara LeBaron is the agent).

They have asked me to sign an exclusive one-year contract for representation in all areas. Now I have heard from some people that I shouldn't be signing any contracts with agents until there work is on the table, whereas other people tell me (for new actors) it's pretty standard to sign a one-year contract.

I have also heard some negative things about this agency...not aggressive, unresponsive, clients don't get alot of auditions/work, etc.

So my questions are...a.) is having ANY agent really better than having NO agent...especially for a newbie like me, b.) should I sign this one-year contract...is it indeed standard and normal, and c.) if I do sign the contract, how hard are they to break later if I need or want to?

Again, sorry if these are naive questions, but I just have no idea. Thanks for taking the time to read all this!

Let me see if I can help.

First, the people who told you that you shouldn't sign with an agent until there's an offer on the table are idiots. Every single client on my list is under contract. It's called a GSA Agreement and it's usually good for one year with an option to renew for up to three additional years.

You need to read the GSA carefully and make sure it has an out. The out can usually be exercised after four months if you don't book any work. That means you can break the contract after four months and leave the agency if you haven't booked anything. So it's not like you're trapped for a year.

Keep in mind that some agencies are still franchised with SAG. (Not many - we're not - but some of the smaller companies are.) If that's the case, they will give you a standard SAG contract that also has an out and protects you in every way possible.

Finally, I've never heard of this company which may or may not be a bad thing. Some of the tiny starter agencies are off my radar so you'll have to do some snooping around.

I hope this info helps. Good luck and congrats!

quote:

Originally posted by Secret Agent Man:
First, the people who told you that you shouldn't sign with an agent until there's an offer on the table are idiots.

Haha...but tell me Secret Agent Man...how do you REALLY feel

Seriously though...thank you so much for the advice. It's reassuring to hear this contract stuff is in fact standard. Thank you too for advising me about the cutoff clause, I will make sure to look for that. Any other things I should look for or pay particular attention to?

As for them being small and off the radar, so am I...and everyone's gotta start somewhere, right?

Thanks again!

Dude, you've got the right attitude. You're going to be fine. Just read the contract carefully and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Spacemonkey,

I signed with Steinberg's and it's been fine for the first year. I've gotten auditions and paying work. Good first agency, just don't expect too much. Hope this helps.