So Your Kid Wants To Be A Star
With the success of such films as "Harry Potter," "Spy Kids" and
the "Chronicles of Narnia," more and more youngsters are turning
to their parents and asking if they can make movies like the
kids they see on the screen. Becoming a child actor or actress
is not something to be taken lightly, and there is a lot for the
children - and their parents - to learn.
As a parent, your first duty is to make sure your child is happy
and well-adjusted. You have probably heard the horror stories of
over-zealous stage parents hoarding all of their child's money,
or even the stereotypical "child star" terrorizing the set.
While some parents and children fail to handle success very
well, the parents who are informed and never stop learning about
the profession very often do succeed.
If your child is serious about becoming an actor or actress,
there are several steps you can take to get them started right
their in your home town.
First, sit down with your child and make sure they know that
becoming an actor or actress is a commitment that will take
months and probably years before they see any real results.
There are a lot of actors, but very few "stars" in the
entertainment industry.
Once it is clear your child understands their commitment, go
ahead and contact the local community theatre to find out what
shows are coming up and when the auditions are. Community
theatres are great opportunities to get young people started in
acting. You should also contact your state film office to find
out where the nearest acting workshops are located and schedule
a time to audit one or more of the classes.
Your child should build up some theatre credits before trying to
get their first professional talent agent. Once you think your
child is ready, do your homework and find the agencies near you.
Search the Internet for what people say about the agency. When
you approach an agency, you will need to send a picture and
resume along with a short letter explaining your child is
seeking representation. The photo you provide at this point in
your child's career does not have to be professional - but it
does have to actually look like your child. The agent may or may
not contact you to arrange an interview.
Becoming a young performer like your child sees on TV and in
movies is a long process filled with pitfalls, scams, and yes
even some very satisfying moments. Take the time to read books
on child actors and other books in the field so you can be as
prepared as you can when presented with the challenges facing
parents of young performers.