The Answer Is Better Than You Might Think!
Seen here with choreo Russell Clark, Julie MacDonald was the first dance agent established in Los Angeles. 1985.I NEED HELP WITH THIS!
Dear Grover,
What kind of money would I be paying out of my pocket to have an agent? Would I have to pay him monthly, weekly, or just whenever I get a "gig?" How do you know who's a trustworthy agent and who's not? Please answer my questions.
"Fancifeet"
Dear Fancifeet,
Financially, dance agents are the best deal going! No upfront charges. They don't make a dime until you book a job. Even then, the money doesn't come out of your pocket. Most contracts call for a producer to pay "scale plus 10%". You get the scale, your agent gets the 10%. Neat, huh?
There are other career-related investments you'll be expected to make, however. When you're signed to an agency, an agent may suggest that you revise or revamp your hairstyle-makeup-wardrobe-etc. In addition, you'll likely be asked to have new photos done as well as resumes. And don't even think about representation unless you're willing to invest in a cellphone or beeper. You need them so you can be contacted 24/7 about short-notice auditions.
Agent representation is the best thing that's happened to dancers in a long, long time. They know their stuff (most have been dancers themselves). When it comes to trust...if you pull your weight, they'll pull theirs.
Grover D.
