Watch out for acting school scams
I am compelled to whip together this editorial about acting school scams.
I have received no less than a half dozen phone calls just recently, and dozens this spring, regarding the aggressive marketing by several acting schools/casting agencies on radio and television.
While I spend specific time at our "The Biz Marketing Seminars" going into great detail on the pitfalls of organizations whose sole purpose is to exploit you and your child's dreams, I want to give readers a few pointers that will help them avoid a financial blunder.
I will not name names unless readers wish to speak with me personally, however, these are some of the tactics used by schools/casting "agencies"/talent scouts. Run from these folks and don't take their bait, or thousands of dollars later you will feel very foolish and your child, if you have one, will be broken hearted. One such organization is promoting on The Family Channel/Disney/CBS. Another advertises on KISS-FM. Perhaps you've already been "taken" and felt it worthwhile. Well, time to move forward.
Despite their claims, these places are not very selective in the individuals they allow into their program. Taking the course does not mean they will promote you when you graduate.
They use phony talent scouts and high pressure sales tactics on young actors, models and their parents.
The controversy surrounding some scams centers on the fact that the model and acting school's participants are being charged steep prices for promises of professional talent modeling and acting careers, with no follow through.
There are some big name, very successful companies that use these tactics.
Be cautious of predators at all times. Do not be gullible. If you're a teen, don't do this alone. Call our studio or have your parents give us a jingle with any questions. Parents, never allow your child to go on a "go see" alone. Do not drop them off alone at an audition unless you know the agent. If they want your child alone or "uninhibited", run, run, run!
Acting and modeling schools can teach you many good things. Poise, makeup tips, walking the ramp, posing, confidence. These are things you'll find useful in other areas of life. There are wonderful beginning to professional training organizations in northern Cook and Lake counties. Their reputation should be widely known or ask for references from your acting school of choice.
But please be aware of the "cattle calls" at major convention centers, hotels and other "neutral" sites. Be aware that legitimate casting directors and non-union/union franchised agents will be listed in (talent) industry publications and will not charge you anything other than the commission they are due when you get the job.
David Stuart
Founder,
Improv Playhouse,
Libertyville