Casting agencies are a great way to find out about opportunities in the acting and modelling industry. However, there can be instances where fake agencies scam people, or endanger their safety. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help keep yourself safe.
Do’s:
- Research the company online and see if they have credits in the industry, reviews and any other information
- Check if they are a member of the Casting Directors Guild or the Casting Directors Association
- Bring a friend/family member with you to physical auditions or give them the details of where you are going
- Ensure the audition is taking place in a reputable workspace and NOT a hotel or private home
- Ensure the full details of the audition and potential role are disclosed in advance
Don’ts
- Don’t be fooled by stories of success or celebrity name-dropping, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
- Don’t pay money upfront
- Don’t agree to undress (even if nudity will be included in the role) unless a mutually agreed observer is present and this has been agreed beforehand
- Be left alone with only one other person in the room
- Don’t stay silent – report any abuse to the police and you can report suspicious casting agencies to the Casting Directors Guild at reportingcastingabuse@thecdg.co.uk
Creative Graduate 