I've read a couple of negative things about pay to play venues from other actors. I just wanted to chime in on the positive side.

Personally, I love the whole concept. Everyone knows how tough it can be to get in front of legitimate agents and CDs. For 30 bucks you can get some face time with top agents and CDs from ABC and feature films and the like. I went to an agent who was so into me. "I'm going to send you to IMTA." she told me (a scouting event that's held twice a year in LA and NYC). WOW!!! IMTA!!! Wait... how much? SIX THOUSAND DOLLARS??? And for that, you get to meet with the agent's gofer. What a bargain!!

Let's do the math. $30 for an agent... $6000 for a bunch of peons. Hmmm...

Someone called the seminars speed dating with agents. Well, there's a Q&A portion and then three to five minutes one on one where you perform your monologue. Frankly, I think if you can't work three minutes you are in the wrong business. My philosophy is sell it, sell it, sell it.

Someone else said the agents only do it for the money. Well, let's see. If you are a senior agent at Gersh or Paradigm, and you are seeing 25 actors who paid $35 a piece (those guys are a little extra) and you are getting a cut and not the whole thing, that might cover a pair of your shoes.

Research the agent or CD you sign up for, know your product and who you are trying to target. If you want more face time and a chance to build a relationship, spring for a 3-4 week class. It's just one more option to consider.

Check out actorsconnection.com.

For the record, agents who do showcases like TVI and AIA don't get a percentage. They get a flat fee which is less than you would expect.

When (and if) I agree to attend a paid showcase, I do it because I really am looking for some specific types.

To be honest, if I'm not looking for new clients, these companies don't pay enough to get me to show up. I'd rather stay at home with Secret Agent Woman and a good bottle of red.

quote:

Secret Agent Woman and a good bottle of red.

I like the 10 under 10 specials of astor wines. on lafayette.