Our Impact Musical Theater camps aren’t just for children, they benefit their parents too. At our winter camp Senior agent Sam Samuelson of Stewart Talent shared some tips for all stage moms and dads. Samuelson, who began his career as an actor, has been a Chicago agent for 21 years.
- “Even if you don’t end up becoming an actor, I think the arts teaches you to be a good human being and how to work without ego.”
- “The benefit of having an agent is film and TV is that in those mediums you cannot self-submit. When it comes to theater, you can go direct, so we’re most helpful in the film and TV world. Last year there were 16 TV shows filmed in Chicago, plus seasonal work. In the mid-west there is more regional theater pushed together in a small area.”
- “Don’t worry about your son’s voice breaking. If they’re singing a lot, there is less of a dramatic change.”
- “With children it’s all about the balance of work and being a kid. If you have an agent you can discuss it with them. We’re always looking for well-rounded kids. The more well-rounded they are the easier it is for them to land parts. You don’t have to say yes to every audition.”
- “We try to keep kids in Chicago non-union for as long as possible because it keeps them more competitive. You can do three TV roles before you’d have to join SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild). You can stay non-union in the theater.”
- “Be wary of putting out your children’s performances on the web. For agents, talking to someone about your child is more powerful than showing them something.”
