Those looking to work the "biz" in LA should be aware of the difficulties involved! Because of the huge amount of people who now compete for work, and union
control of the industry, union membership is now
required for the professional talent success.
Typically a newcomer may begin with application and
payment to AFTRA (American Federation of TV & Radio
Artists) initially costing $1,000 membership fee.
They must then have at least one principle role in
an AFTRA production to be eligible for SAG (Screen
Actors Guild) membership with similar fees to pay.
Nonunion wanna be's may audition for union work
if determination is strong, however, SAG membership
has the advantage, that is...a casting director must
justify hiring a nonunion talent over union members
through a Taft Hartley Waiver. Such rare talent could
then join on with SAG. Most of the newcomers enrich
their knowedge and experiences through school, work,
practice workshops and support groups. A good quality
photo and resume will be needed for a union signatory
agent. Check out the links below to see listings of
Nonunion wanna be's may audition for union work
if determination is strong, however, SAG membership
has the advantage, that is...a casting director must
justify hiring a nonunion talent over union members
through a Taft Hartley Waiver. Such rare talent could
then join on with SAG. Most of the newcomers enrich
their knowedge and experiences through school, work,
practice workshops and support groups. A good quality
photo and resume will be needed for a union signatory
agent. Check out the links below to see more inside
info to the "biz".
Links to other sites on the Web
Production Information
LAscene Locations
Industry Biz--Buzz
Voiceover Support
AFTRA Agencies
SAG Agencies
