How do I get into the business?
Start by sending in pictures and a resume to our info@RitterTalentAgency.com email. We receive many applications each week so don’t be disappointed if we don't get back to you immediately. As a rule, we don’t accept applicants who are similar to talent we are currently representing.
How much does it cost to join?
There is no fee to join the roster, but you will be required to sign up for the services we use to submit you to projects. (Actors Access, Casting Workbook and Casting Networks)
Are professional photos required?
For adults (over 18 years old) professional headshots are required and we generally recommend a number of different photographers who we have experience with and know how to do great actors shots.
Children do not require professional photos, but we expect parents to update their shots whenever a growth spurt or major change (hair cuts, missing teeth, braces, etc) happens to their child.
Do I have to sign a contract?
We do have a contract for you to review so you know your responsibilities to the agency and our responsibilities to you, but we also believe in handshake agreements.
Do I need to enroll in courses?
For children, we usually don't feel it's necessary until they start to do bigger roles and/or are asking for coaching help on a major role.
For Adults, we recommend keeping fresh at all times with coaching, courses, improv, etc. Everything helps you to grow as an actor.
How do I get paid once I'm booked for a project?
After the project is complete, we will either invoice the client or wait for the cheque to come in from ACTRA. Most productions pay within 60-90 days. Once we receive the payment, we create a statement for you showing your income, less our commission and then write a cheque and mail it with your statement to you.
I don’t live in Toronto - is that an issue?
As long as you are available and can come into Toronto for auditions it's not an issue. Keep in mind traffic in Toronto can be really busy so giving yourself lots of extra time to get in is always a must!
When are auditions and bookings usually happening?
Auditions for adults usually take place during the day, and bookings happen at all time of the day (and sometimes the night)!
For children, most castings are done after school Monday-Friday. Once you book a job, the job itself can happen at any time during the week and/or weekends.
Where do most castings and bookings take place?
Most castings are located in downtown Toronto, and bookings are usually within the GTA and are accessible via public transit.
What if we have to say no to an audition?
We understand that not every audition is going to work for you. Sometimes schedules don’t work out or unexpected illness happens. In this event we are able to send a “regret” to the client and inform them that you are not available. However, casting companies and clients do not appreciate regrets and sending too many looks bad for you AND the agency. If we have to send regrets more than three times, we generally stop submitting and take you off the roster.
If I have religious and/or dietary restrictions - can clients work around this?
Yes they can and often don't mind a bit! Agents usually remember what restrictions there are and won't put you out for a project that will make it an issue for you.
What is ACTRA? Do I need to join?
ACTRA stands for the Alliance of Canadian Cinema Television and Radio Artists. It is the national union of performers working in English language in Canada.
Our agency has actors who are both Union and Non-Union and we actively support joining the Union when it's time and the actor has a resume with recognizable work on it. Once you join the union you can no longer do any non-union work, so we always have a discussion with each individual to decide when is the right time to become a member.