Are you producing a short independent film, and looking for a known actor to draw in a reliable fan base? Maybe you’re directing an off-off Broadway play and are looking for an esteemed stage actor to boost the caliber of the play. No matter what type of performance you are planning, there are a few easy steps that you can take to hire a known actor to take part.
Have a Concrete Production Plan
You don’t want to reach out to a professional actor with a vague idea and a wistful dream of their participation. To have the best chance of collaborating with an esteemed actor, you need to have a concrete production plan in place in order to pitch it to the actor and their agent. In the case of an independent film, for example, this would mean having a finalized script draft, detailed budget, shot list, and several more documents that signal to the actor that you are a professional embarking on a creative venture with ethics and experience.
Write a List of Possibilities
You might have your heart set on a particular actor, but the wisest thing to do is to have a backup plan in the event that your goals can’t be met. Who are some other high-profile or mid-profile actors who you could consider for the role? You should never put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. You always want a safety net so that your production doesn’t fall apart after a declined offer.
Contact Them Through Their Agent or Agency
Digging around on the internet for an actor’s contact information can do one of two things: it can result in a profound waste of time due to the naivety of thinking a high-profile person would make there whereabouts accessible to the general public, or signal you as a strange, unprofessional stalker type who doesn’t know how to handle things professionally. It is worth seeing if the actor is on any websites that list actors for hire, but this may only apply to those who appear in media with a nostalgia-sensibility, or popular newbies. You always want to contact an actor’s agent or agency if they are of a particular caliber. The agent will be able to vet you, and then discussion can begin. Usually they will see if the actor is interested first.
Be Realistic
If you’re looking to hire seasoned actor like Eric Roberts or Lance Henrikson, both of whom have appeared in countless pictures big and small, you probably have a good chance if you approach the production and casting inquiries in a professional manner. If you’re looking to cast Brad Pitt, however, you’re probably not going to be able to accomplish that goal unless you’re already a big deal in the film industry (sorry!). Don’t be discouraged, though. Staying realistic and limiting your reach can be a great tool for developing your professional taste and style. Everyone has to start somewhere.