Tag Archives: kids acting melbourne

Acting, Blog

Common Mistakes When Not Using a Kids Acting Agency

Posted on by Casting Kids
kids acting agency
24
Oct

If your child has a thirst for acting, it’s an exciting time for both of you. Whether your child starts in school plays or wants to get straight into the acting game, it can be difficult to navigate. That’s why so many parents choose to partner with a reputable kids acting agency for guidance. However, those who rush in without the proper support often find themselves in dangerous or less-than-ideal situations. Here are some of the common mistakes people make when pursuing an acting career without an experienced agent

Attending unsafe auditions

The biggest nightmare for any parent would be having their child put in a potentially unsafe situation while acting. Unfortunately, not all casting calls are genuine, and some may expose your child to unscrupulous characters. Without the watchful eye of an agency, you might inadvertently take your child to an unsafe audition. A reputable kids acting agency screens opportunities, ensuring your child’s safety is paramount. Always remember, an audition’s legitimacy isn’t about its allure but its authenticity.

Unpaid or low-paying work

While it’s natural to leap at every opportunity, not all gigs are equal. Many parents, in their excitement, overlook the compensation aspect. But let’s be honest, while passion is great, it doesn’t pay the bills. Many people offer casting calls for inexperienced child actors, citing ‘experience’ as the main benefit, rather than being paid properly. Naturally, these are the types of jobs you want avoid.

Moreover, undervaluing your child’s talent can set a precedent for future jobs. A seasoned kids acting agency knows the industry rates, ensuring that your child receives deserving compensation for their work. After all, talent shouldn’t be short-changed.

Auditions your child isn’t ready for

Every child has a unique talent, and just because they excel in one role doesn’t mean they’re suited for all. Taking your child to every audition can lead to rejections, which, in turn, can dent their confidence. An agency tailors audition selections based on your child’s strengths, ensuring a higher chance of success.

It’s not just about the types of roles either. Your child may be very new to acting, and it can damage their self-esteem if you send them to auditions where every other child is clearly more experienced.

Not considering your child’s long-term career

The glitz and glamour of acting can sometimes overshadow the end game – building a sustainable career. Jumping from one gig to another without a coherent plan might bring immediate success, but what about the long run? An acting agency doesn’t just find opportunities; they build a roadmap for your child’s long-term career. They consider growth, skill development, and brand-building, ensuring your child isn’t just a fleeting star but enjoys a long and prosperous career.

Want a reputable kids acting agency in Melbourne?

Navigating the world of child acting can be smoother with a guide by your side. If you’re seeking the best representation for your budding actor, consider Casting Kids. As a trusted agency in Melbourne, we’re committed to nurturing child actors and models, ensuring they shine while staying safe. Want to give your child the head start they deserve? Contact us today, and find out how we can kick-start your child’s acting career.

Register your Child Now
Acting, Blog

How to Find the Best Child Acting Representation for Your Young Star

Posted on by Craig
child acting representation
09
Aug

Diving into the world of acting can be both thrilling and daunting, especially when it involves your child. One of the first steps on this journey is finding the right child acting representation. It’s not just about talent; it’s also about finding a team that understands your child’s unique abilities and aspirations, guiding them to the right opportunities.

Key features to look for in an agency

When looking for an agency that really delivers strong child acting representation, there are a few things you can’t compromise on. Consider these factors very carefully when choosing an agency for your child.

  • Reputation: A good agency should have a positive track record. Word of mouth in the acting community can be a good indicator.
  • Transparency: They should be upfront about fees, expectations, and the roles they’re recommending for your child.
  • Connections: The more people the agency knows in the industry, the better. It means they can provide a wider range of opportunities.
  • Support: Ensure they provide guidance, workshops, or training opportunities to hone your child’s skills.

Ensuring compatibility with your child’s needs

Every child is different, and the representation should align with their goals. Are they interested in commercials, TV shows, theatre, or movies? Some agencies might specialise in one area more than others. Discuss openly about:

  • The type of roles your child is interested in.
  • Any specific brands or shows they aspire to work with.
  • Their comfort level with travel if opportunities arise outside your home city.

You know your child best, and you know what you’re hoping to get out of the venture. So, finding an agency that suits your child’s needs and goals is essential.

Navigating contracts and legalities

A good agency knows Australia’s specific laws and regulations concerning child actors. They’ll guide you through:

  • Work permits and necessary paperwork.
  • Limits on working hours to ensure your child’s welfare.
  • Financial aspects, including how earnings will be managed (e.g., trust accounts).

While smaller jobs like commercials may not take too long, a role on a TV show, for example, is a huge time investment. Make sure you’re comfortable with the support provided for your child’s education while they act.

Benefits of having the right representation

You might wonder why not just go at it alone? But the right representation can make a world of difference:

  • Networking: Agencies have contacts you might not be able to access independently.
  • Expertise: They can provide valuable insights into the industry, helping your child avoid potential pitfalls.
  • Safety: Agencies vet opportunities to ensure the working environment is safe and appropriate for young talents.

Explore opportunities with Casting Kids

When it comes to child acting representation in Australia, Casting Kids stands out. We’re more than just an agency; we’re a supportive community dedicated to helping young talents shine. Our commitment to understanding each child’s unique aspirations ensures they get the best opportunities in line with their goals. Why not let us be a part of your child’s journey to stardom? Contact us today for more information.

Register your Child Now
Acting, Blog

Child Talent Development: Cultivating Your Child’s Acting Skills

Posted on by Casting Kids
child talent development
19
Jun

Child talent development is a fundamental concept for parents who are looking to cultivate their child’s acting skills. This process doesn’t simply involve recognising and nurturing abilities, it goes much further by refining these skills through focused training and exposure to meaningful opportunities. In the context of Australia’s vibrant and competitive entertainment industry, a well-designed talent development strategy can serve as the foundation for successful acting careers. Importantly, each child’s talent development journey is unique, necessitating an approach that is sensitive to their individual strengths, interests, and aspirations.

Importance of professional training in acting

The role of professional training in child talent development cannot be overstated. Registering your child in high-quality acting classes can open doors to numerous opportunities while building their self-assurance and stage presence. These structured courses provide insights into various acting techniques, including script interpretation, body language, voice modulation, and emotive expression. When choosing an acting school, it’s essential to consider several factors such as the institution’s reputation, its curriculum, the qualifications of trainers, and how well it aligns with your child’s personality and future goals.

The benefits of participating in local productions

Aside from formal training, encouraging your child’s involvement in local productions can offer a practical, hands-on experience. This significantly contributes to their talent development. Whether it’s school plays, community theatre, or local television productions, each experience serves as a stepping stone, building resilience and familiarising them with the auditioning process. These practical engagements also provide a platform for your child. They will put their learned skills into practice, fostering a better understanding of the acting industry’s dynamics.

Personal growth: A crucial aspect of child talent development

While developing acting skills is undoubtedly important, personal growth plays an equally vital role in child talent development. Cultivating soft skills such as effective communication, resilience, empathy, and patience can be as valuable as honing performance skills. These essential qualities can provide an additional edge during auditions and enable your child to handle the inevitable highs and lows of an acting career with grace, understanding, and positivity.

Striking the right balance: A key to successful talent development

Balance is a key element in child talent development. It’s crucial to ensure that your child can juggle their school commitments, acting endeavours, and personal time effectively. While this can often be challenging, it’s important to ensure they have time for relaxation, academic pursuits, and social activities along with their acting commitments. This balanced approach helps prevent burnout, maintains enthusiasm for their acting journey, and ensures they continue to enjoy their childhood.

How Casting Kids can facilitate your child’s talent development

Casting Kids, one of Australia’s leading child talent agencies, is committed to fostering and nurturing your child’s acting abilities. We believe in creating a supportive environment that promotes holistic talent development while connecting them with prime acting opportunities. Our mission is to support your child’s acting career every step of the way, making their journey enjoyable and rewarding. Contact Casting Kids today for more information on how we can help your child’s talent development journey.

Acting, Blog, Modelling

Child Talent Agencies in Australia: Your Ultimate Guide

Posted on by Casting Kids
child talent agencies Australia
05
Jun

Choosing the right child talent agency in Australia is vital in steering your child’s acting or modelling career in the right direction. Agencies act as bridges, connecting promising talents with potential opportunities in the industry. They provide professional representation for your child, negotiate contracts, and nurture talent development, while ensuring the child’s interests are protected. Their primary goal is to enhance your child’s chances of landing lucrative gigs and to facilitate a smooth career progression.

The importance of a child talent agency’s reputation

A reputable agency is crucial for your child’s success. You should always do your research on potential agencies, identify who they’ve represented previously, and observe the kind of jobs their talents have been able to secure. Check if they’re members of any industry associations, which often serve as a sign of credibility. Also, consider seeking feedback from other parents, and take time to read online reviews and ratings. Most importantly, make sure you’re comfortable with the proposed fee structure, because all agencies handle this differently. Some work on commission, while others have a fair annual registration fee that benefits everybody.

Preparing to meet child talent agencies in Australia

Once you’ve identified potential child talent agencies in Australia, you’ll need to prepare thoroughly for agency meetings. These meetings are pivotal in determining your future relationship with the agency. Encourage your child to stay relaxed, avoid overdoing makeup or outfits, and let their natural charm shine through. Agencies generally prefer seeing the child’s personality and potential rather than a rehearsed routine. It’s important to let the child’s genuine talent and persona make the impact. Ideally, your agency will show a real interest in getting to know both you and your child.

Navigating agency contracts and fees

Understanding the contracts provided by child talent agencies is a critical aspect of this journey. These documents outline the obligations and rights of each party involved. Ensure you fully comprehend the stipulations of the agreement before signing – this includes the duration, commission rates or registration fees, exclusivity terms, and conditions for termination. If anything appears unclear, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. The main aim is to protect your child’s interests while ensuring a beneficial partnership with the agency.

Your role as a parent

Remember, in this journey, the process is just as important as the destination. As a parent, your role extends beyond signing contracts and attending auditions. You’ll need to provide consistent emotional support, maintain a sense of normalcy, ensure your child enjoys the journey, and also instil a strong work ethic in them. Building a successful career in acting or modelling won’t happen overnight. It requires time, patience, and perseverance.

Why choose Casting Kids?

Casting Kids, one of the premier child talent agencies in Australia, could be the stepping stone for your child’s career. We specialise in connecting young talents with top-tier opportunities in the acting and modelling world. Our dedicated team is fully committed to supporting talent development, ensuring every step of your child’s journey is as rewarding and successful as possible. If you’re ready to explore this world with your child, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for more information.

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Acting, Blog

Casting for Kids: Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Audition Process

Posted on by Casting Kids
casting for kids
13
May

As a parent of a child interested in modelling, the audition process can be a nerve-wracking experience for both you and your child. It’s important to remember that auditions are a learning experience and an opportunity for your child to showcase their skills. However, there are some common mistakes parents make during the casting for kids audition process that can negatively impact their child’s chances of success. Here are five common mistakes to avoid during the audition process.

Arriving late

Arriving late to an audition not only shows a lack of respect for the casting director’s time but can also throw off your child’s mental state before they even begin. It’s important to arrive on time or even a few minutes early to allow your child to mentally prepare for the audition. If you do arrive late, don’t rush your child. Take a few deep breaths and try to calm them down before they enter the audition room.

Over-preparing your child

While it’s important to practice and prepare for the audition, over-preparing your child can have negative consequences. Over-rehearsing can lead to a robotic performance that lacks authenticity. Encourage your child to be themselves and have fun during the audition. This will give them the best chance of standing out in the crowd.

Failing to read the brief

Reading the brief is crucial before attending any audition. IF you don’t, it can lead to your child showing up in the wrong outfit or with the wrong props. It’s important to follow the brief closely to give your child the best chance of success. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to contact the casting director for clarification.

Not letting your child speak for themselves

You want to support your child during the audition process, but it’s also important to allow them to speak for themselves. Encourage your child to introduce themselves and answer questions asked by the casting director. This shows confidence and independence, two traits that casting directors are looking for in young talent.

Signing with an unsupportive acting agency

One of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent of a child interested in modelling is choosing an agency. It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable agency that has your child’s best interests at heart. Beware of agencies that make unrealistic promises. A reputable agency such as Casting Kids has a strong track record of success in the industry.

Looking for help with casting for kids?

Casting Kids is a modelling agency that represents talented young models in Australia. Our team of industry experts is dedicated to providing the best possible opportunities for our young talent. We are committed to ensuring that our models and their families are treated with respect and professionalism. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child achieve their modelling dreams.

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Acting, Blog

The Importance of Networking at Acting Auditions in Melbourne

Posted on by Casting Kids
acting auditions melbourne
25
Apr

If your child is interested in acting, it won’t be long until you start attending auditions with them. Acting auditions in Melbourne are an exciting time, but it’s also a time to conduct some business. Networking during auditions is crucial for actors, and in the case of child actors, for their parents too. Here’s why networking at acting auditions in Melbourne is so important.

What is networking?

Networking is the process of building relationships with people who can help you in your career. It’s about providing value to others and getting what you want in return. You won’t find networking in many school curriculums, so it’s a skill you need to learn for yourself. In the acting industry, networking is a great way to build contacts and set your child up for future success.

Why is networking essential for actors?

Networking is an essential part of being an actor, but it can be difficult to know how to go about it. Here are a few reasons why networking is so important:

  • It helps you connect with other people in the industry and build relationships with those who have experience working in it. This includes directors, casting agents and producers as well as actors themselves. You never know when they may be able to help in the future.
  • Networking allows you to find out about auditions before they even happen. This means you don’t need to rush, and you can help your child be better prepared.  
  • Building up your reputation through networking means that you’ll be recognised at future auditions. It might be a small thing, but some familiarity goes a long way in the acting industry.

How do you network as an actor?

When you’re networking as an actor, it’s important to remember that you’re not just there to promote yourself. You’re also there to learn about others and help them out in any way that you can.

Make sure that when people speak with you at the event, they feel comfortable sharing their experiences with acting and their stories from auditions or on set. Networking is a two-way street, so make sure you show interest in others. It’s not just about how someone can help you, but how your relationship can be mutually beneficial. Ultimately, networking is just talking to people, being friendly and making sure you’re remembered.

Networking at acting auditions in Melbourne also builds a support network

Networking isn’t just about getting the job. In fact, most networking won’t benefit you immediately. But it does help to build a support network around yourself. Whether it’s casting directors you’ll see regularly, or even just parents with more experience. Plus, in the acting world, you will be working with many different people and having to collaborate on projects. Networking allows you to get to know these people better so that when it comes time to work together on a project, there is already an established trust between all parties involved.

If you’d like to get more auditions and build a stronger network around you, the best place to start is a kid’s acting agency. Casting Kids is here to support your child’s acting journey, so contact us today.

Acting, Blog

Preparing for Acting Auditions: A Guide

Posted on by Casting Kids
acting auditions
01
Dec

If your child is starting a career in acting, one certainty is the need to attend auditions. Casting directors typically hold auditions for all types of acting jobs, because they need to see how potential actors take direction, how their personality radiates on screen and much more. Assuming your child is enthusiastic about acting, they’re probably no stranger to performing in front of people. But singing and dancing for family and friends is a lot different than attending acting auditions.

This guide will give you some tips on how to help your child prepare for auditions.

Different ages

Before we dive in, it’s important to note that the requirements for acting auditions will naturally vary depending on the child’s age. For babies and toddlers, they naturally won’t be speaking lines or even following any complex directions. However, as children get older, the expectations are a little higher.

For the purpose of the tips below, we’re going to assume your child is above the age of 6, and therefore should be able to take some direction and speak in front of people with confidence.

Getting the look

As much as we’re told that appearance isn’t everything, in the acting world there are certain standards to be met. For child actors it’s not always about facial features or beauty, but rather about having a look that suits a certain role.

Generally, you’ll be given some information before the audition, specifically about the role and what the directors are looking for. All auditions are different, of course, but if you do get some valuable ‘character’ information, it’s best to use it.

For example, if the job calls for a child to be playing on the beach, you’ll want your child to dress in beach-appropriate clothes. It’s more about overall appearance than just physical characteristics.

Learning lines

It really depends on the type of acting role as to whether your child will be required to perform lines. However, even if it’s a commercial with no speaking role, the directors may still want to see your child perform a line or two. This helps them assess suitability and of course, the ability to take direction.


So, if you’re given any lines before the audition, make sure your child practices them. In these cases, it’s best to make the practice a lot of fun. Help your child learn the lines, but also let their own personality shine through. This is what directors are usually looking for.

Practice acting auditions

Like anything in life, preparation for acting auditions is crucial. It may seem like overkill, especially when children are concerned, but why not make the entire process fun by holding a mock audition at home? You can play the role of casting director and your child can perform as instructed. It’s a bit of fun for them, but it also helps with any nerves they might experience when the real audition comes along.

Looking for acting auditions for kids?

If you’d like to discuss the first steps in your child’s acting career, Casting Kids is here to help. We represent children from ages 0 to 16, and we’re a fully inclusive casting agency. Contact us today to find out more.

Acting, Modelling

Types of Auditions for Kids in Melbourne

Posted on by Casting Kids
auditions for kids melbourne
20
Nov

Has your child been bitten by the acting or modelling bug? Kids often love performing, and it’s often a great sign that they would enjoy acting, modelling or the performing arts. However, trying to find auditions for kids in Melbourne can be difficult if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

The best way to access more acting and modelling auditions is with representation. A children’s talent agency will help you and your child navigate the tricky entertainment industry. But what sorts of auditions are actually available? Let’s look at some common ones.

Commercials

TV commercials often feature children. However, advertisements today aren’t just for TV. Thanks to the digital revolution, commercials are everywhere online. Roles for kids in advertising campaigns certainly aren’t limited to children’s products. You’ll probably recognise plenty of popular advertising campaigns for cars, holidays, food products and a whole lot more featuring kids in prominent roles.

The type of audition will vary depending on the age requirement. For example, if it were a commercial for nappies, the casting director typically wants a baby. Usually, they’ll just be looking for a certain temperament because obviously babies haven’t quite developed their acting chops yet.

Roles for older kids or teens require a more intense audition process. They may be required to dress a certain way or deliver some lines, so it’s all about preparation.

Modelling

Children’s modelling takes many different forms. Think about the enormous range of advertising in the modern world, such as magazines, catalogues, newspapers, websites, social media and more. Because there is so much variety in advertising, that means there’s a huge variety of modelling roles for kids.

When attending a modelling audition, children need to show a good temperament. But older kids will also need to take some direction in terms of their movement and posing. This gets easier with experience, but it never hurts to help your child practice before an audition. Best of all, the practice isn’t hard, because most children love playing dress-ups!

TV and movies

Many TV shows and movies require child actors. Whether it’s a significant role or not, these spots are always pretty hotly contested. It’s a great way to get children into the industry and give them more experience.

When you attend these auditions for kids in Melbourne, there will likely be some quite experienced performers there. So, again, preparation is the key. Roles for older children will almost certainly require some speaking too, so you’ll need to help your youngsters practice their lines.

Want more auditions for kids in Melbourne?

If you’re looking for high-quality acting and modelling representation for your child, look no further than Casting Kids. We represent children from 0-16, and we’re a fully inclusive agency. This means we represent children of all abilities. With a packed client list including some of Australia’s biggest retailers, we offer plenty of opportunities for our kids to strut their stuff in front of casting directors. Whether it’s acting or modelling, we’re here to support your child’s career. Contact us today to find out more.

Register your Child Now
Acting, Blog, Modelling

How Do Children’s Agents Find Work for Your Child?

Posted on by Casting Kids
children's agents
21
Oct

If you’ve got a youngster who loves performing, then you’ve probably considered getting them an agent. This makes sense because the entertainment industry can be difficult to navigate if you’ve never been involved before. You’ll have more success finding acting and modelling jobs with the help of children’s agents. But how exactly does an agent help your child? Let’s look further into what you should know before hiring an agent.

How much does an agent cost?

Before we get too far into things, you should consider the cost of an agent. However, a low cost (or even no cost) is not always the best way to go. Most children’s agents charge some kind of fee. For example, at Casting Kids, we charge a $450 annual registration fee. This covers professional photography, a profile on Casting Networks and of course, 12 months of representation from your agent.

We choose to operate with an annual fee because it motivates us to work hard for ALL of our kids, not just the ones who get the most work. Some agencies might charge no upfront fees but take a percentage of earnings. This works in some cases, but it does mean the agent is likely to invest more time into the most successful children.

How do children’s agents find work?

Typically, the most common way for you to find work through an agent is by attending auditions. Your agent will let you know that there’s an audition coming up, and they can refer your child if they’re deemed suitable. This is the usual way that people find work through an agent.

In terms of where these auditions come from, it’s usually through regular clients. So, your children’s agency will have a list of regular clients they work with. Those clients contact the agent to advise they’re shooting a commercial or running auditions for a TV show (or whatever the job might be). It’s then up to the agent to determine which children on their roster are suited to attend an audition.

For this reason, you’ll want to choose an agent with a strong client list. Here at Casting Kids, our clients include quality brands and companies such as Bonds, Target, Myer, Cotton On, Village Cinemas, Country Road and many, many more. This is how we provide regular opportunities for the children we represent.

Do children’s agents guarantee work?

Unfortunately, there is never a guarantee of work. It’s our commitment to represent all children fairly and equally. But the final call on acting and modelling jobs is made by the client. More specifically, the casting director who runs the auditions. So, while we provide plenty of audition opportunities, we can’t guarantee your child will be successful.

Looking for an agency to help your child’s career?

Here at Casting Kids, we represent children from ages 0-16, and we’re a fully inclusive agency. That means representing children of all abilities and promoting diversity within the entertainment industry. We treat all of our children and their families with honesty and respect. If you’re ready to start your child’s acting or modelling journey, contact us today.

Acting, Modelling

How Safe is an Acting Job for Kids?

Posted on by Casting Kids
acting job for kids
25
Sep

As parents, it’s natural to have concerns for the safety of your child in anything they do. Whether it’s sporting events, school camps or other extracurricular activities, you want to know that they’re protected at all times. An acting job for kids is no different. Even though it is a form of paid employment, parents still want absolute certainty that their children are in a safe environment.

So, how safe is the acting world for young people?

Working with children checks

Perhaps the most common way to protect the safety of children is through working with children checks. These are background checks ensuring that anybody working with a child in Australia is considered responsible and safe. The laws vary across Australia, but this is a great way for parents to gain some peace of mind.

You’re well within your rights to ask about an employer’s protocols around this. For example, does the company require that all people working on the acting or modelling shoot hold a working with children check? If not, you may not wish to proceed with the job.

Employment laws

Every state and territory has its own laws regarding the employment of children in general. Every industry must follow these laws. They do serve the purpose of ensuring children aren’t financially exploited.

All companies hiring children for acting or modelling roles are subject to these laws, and there may be certain exemptions that apply. This is because usually, children under a certain age aren’t permitted to hold employment at all.

Protecting against indecency

You must be involved in your child’s acting as a parent. Again, state and territory laws are slightly different when it comes to protecting children from indecent or sexualised depictions. But overall, if you’re uncomfortable with the direction of a television ad, TV show or modelling shoot, you always have the right to remove your child. If you’re not comfortable with the situation, it’s best to get out straight away.

The child’s role isn’t everything here. It’s also the other activity on set. Let’s say you’re filming a movie that includes child actors. If the movie includes adult scenes, children must be kept away.

Use a reputable child talent agency

The best protection against your children coming to harm is always yourself. You’re in charge of making the right decisions for them. That’s why many parents choose to use reputable talent agencies instead of going it alone. When you apply for acting or modelling jobs from unverified sources, you never know what the environment will be like.

Use a reputable agency like Casting Kids. You’ll feel safe that all auditions and jobs are through legitimate clients. If you’d like to know about how Casting Kids can find you the best acting job for kids, contact us today!