”How To Get Agency Representation"

by Marty Dew

A lot of times people ask me for advice on how to pursue their careers in dance. Of course it is different from case to case, but there are a couple of things you should absolutely dew first.

Do your research of the city you are aspiring to go to. Your number one tool in the bizness will be your agency representation. They will be your directory to all auditions. Almost ALL agencies (east & west coast) hold auditions frequently in search of new talent. A big number of these auditions will be posted on the internet via www.answers4dancers.com. If you have never been to a city you think you want to possibly move to, plan a trip based on what you find for agency auditions. I would suggest taking classes in or around the area to familiarize yourself with the styles of dance and the overall vibe. You want to prepare yourself as much as possible before the big day when you get the chance in front of an agent. It''''s just like a test in school. Wouldn''''t you want to study before you are graded? YES!

Become comfortable with your dancing and when it comes audition time, try to separate yourself from everyone. Something as simple as wearing a piece of clothing that wouldn''''t. The goal here is to make yourself stand out. If the first time you get cut or you don''''t get selected by the agency, try again! Be positive and look at it as first-hand experience. Next time around you will know exactly what to expect and what you are getting yourself into! There are many, many reasons for people not making cuts in all auditions. More than likely, you will never know those reasons so do NOT take it personally. You might have been 2 inches too tall! You might have been two inches too short, who knows?! Take everything as a learning lesson and apply that for the next time so you are more prepared. Now start doing your research, and get out there!!

...things to remember....

• dew your research....know where you are going and what kind of work is there. (i.e. - NY is more Broadway-based and LA is more film industry-based)
• have some sort pictures and contact information so they can remember and contact you!!
• never take anything personally. It''''s the bizness, not you!!
• there should NEVER be any sort of fee to join a talent agency!!

- Now start dancing!!

- md