WannabeTV stars- help is here...!

I think one of the most common questions I get asked by fans and friends alike is, "How can one get on TV?" So I thought why not blog and an official answer and see how many people it may just help. What can I say? I aim to please.

Not everyone can be discovered by an agent while throwing a tantrum at the bank ( like how it is rumoured to have happened for Charlize Theron), nor can we all be lucky enough to be spotted by a world famous photographer while buying fruits in a market (like it happens for so many supermodels). Some people will just have to be happy with taking the bull by the horns and doing the neccesary research themselves.

Step 1: This is not an exact science, it may work out for you and it may not. I always say the best and probably the easiest way is to leave to the professionals what should be left to the professionals, in other words, join an agency. An agent has contacts in the industry that you will not have starting out. They also know where and when auditions are taking place. Furthermore, a good agent will only send you for jobs that you are suited for. The briefs are sometimes very specific, for example: (looking for a beautiful, african girl, preferably with natural hair: a true african beauty.) <---- in this case, if you have blonde hair and a weave up to your butt, you know you don't fit the brief, so don't go- it will be a waste of your time.

Different agencies work in different ways, some will not ask for payment up front, but I have heard of some that do. Others will ask you to pay for professional photos before they can start sending you for castings and some take the photos themselves. Here are some good agencies for you to google and find out about:

- Gaenor Artiste Management (I am here!)

- Artiste Connexion

- Contractors

- MLA (Terry Pheto's agent)

- Characters

- Stark Raving Management

- Jaffit Management

- Thespians

-Full Circle Models

There really are so many, and not all of them work for everyone. You could also google acting agencies in S.A and see which speak to you. Please becareful of fly-by-night agencies that will demand large sums of money to get you on their books, this is not really a normal practice in the industry. You need to also keep in mind that joining an agency is not a guarantee that TV work will follow.

Step 2: Do your research!  Some people who are currently on TV didn't need to study anything TV-related to get there (like myself), but that is not to say that it wouldn't be beneficial to get some practical and theoretical knowledge to help you along. It is not always a prerequisite, but some agencies only take those who have experience or who have studied drama or taken other TV courses. So do your research. some sites to check out are: www.cityvarsity.co.za. or look up AFDA (It is a little pricey but it is a good school). There is also the National School of Arts to consider (If you are still of a school-going age) www.artschool.co.za.

There are also veteran actors and performers such as Zia Garfield and Fiona Ramsey who give classes privately. 

Step 3: Photos. A good head shot may be all it takes to get you into the door, so organise to have some really nice pictures taken of you.This will be your excuse to feel like a model for a day. Have 2 or three different photos, pretty-fy yourself and have a change of clothes.This will give the person looking at your photos, more to work with. Make sure you present yourself in your best possible way. People usually forget a name, but they do not readily forget a face.

Hope this helps. Good luck and hope to see you on tv soon. You can all thank me in your Oscar speeches! *wink*