While there are many books that attempt to teach people how to act, there are few that show aspiring actors what it takes to succeed as a working professional.
The Professional Actor’s Handbook: From Casting Call to Curtain Call provides struggling artists—stage and screen actors, dancers, singers—with strategies that will help them successfully negotiate every stage of their careers. This second edition provides vital updates to reflect the current industry:
Post-pandemic shifts in the industry
Inclusive language
Additional resources specific to various affinity groups
Video auditions and self-tapes, including strategies for online auditions
Julio Agustin and Kathleen Potts address a myriad of topics such as resumes, headshots, rep books, audition nerves, and marketing plans. Other strategies address how to network, how to finance your early career, and even how to organize a home studio.
Featuring sample resumes, insights from industry experts, and a new chapter by audition coach Casey Miko on how to “Generate an Extraordinary Video Submission,” this book offers invaluable industry guidance. Along with audition manuals and repertoire binders, The Professional Actor’s Handbook is a vital reference that belongs on every actor’s bookshelf, from recent college graduates to seasoned professionals.
Julio Agustin is an assistant professor of theatre and dance at James Madison University. He has performed in six Broadway shows--including Chicago and Fosse--and runs a monthly audition studio in New York City, The Transition Workshop.
Kathleen Potts is an academic, dramaturge, and award-winning playwright on faculty at The City College of New York, CUNY.
Foreword by Elizabeth Parkinson
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Part I: Branding Strategies for the Professional Actor
Success Strategy 1: Define Your Unique Selling Points
Success Strategy 2: Build Your Brand by Following the Stars
Part II: Success Strategies for the Stage & Screen
Success Strategy 3: Create a Captivating Resume
Success Strategy 4: Take That “Perfect” Headshot
Success Strategy 5: Write a Standout Cover Letter
Success Strategy 6: Compile a Complete Rep Book
Success Strategy 7: Practice Preparation
Success Strategy 8: Conquer Audition Nerves
Part III: Marketing & Networking Strategies for the Successful Performer
Success Strategy 9: Execute a Marketing Plan
Success Strategy 10: Establish Your Team
Success Strategy 11: Cultivate a Mentor
Success Strategy 12: Get “Them” to Trust You
Success Strategy 13: Network!
Success Strategy 14: Follow Up for Superior Results
Part IV: Offstage and Professionalization Strategies
Success Strategy 15: Organize Your Home Studio
Success Strategy 16: Finance Your Developing Career
Success Strategy 17: Negotiate a Profitable Contract
Bonus Chapter
Epilogue
Resources
Index
About the Authors
Breaks down the business of being a working professional into small, doable steps to help early-career professionals transition from struggling artist to working professional
Provides information on post-COVID shifts in the industry and tools to navigate those shifts, including a brand new chapter on video / online auditions and self tapes
Written by a working actor-director-coach, someone who is in the room and has first-hand knowledge of what it takes to be a working professional
The books has been revised to use inclusive language.
“This is the best actor preparation text I have ever come across. The authors make this business manageable, do-able, clear, concise, and take the mystery out of how to launch and how to succeed. My students appreciated each chapter.” — Jill Womack, assistant professor, Stephens College, executive artistic director, TRYPS Institute
“Julio Agustin is professional and dedicated to his beliefs. I love his desire and need to assist gifted artists to not let fear and rejection stop them from fulfilling their dreams and capabilities. His book does just that.” — Chita Rivera, Tony–Award winning actress
"Read this book. Julio shares his insightful knowledge that hes acquired personally and professionally, so that everyone can have a better shot at being at their best in any situation." — Chris Gattelli, Tony–Award winning choreographer, Newsies
"This is the business handbook for every young actor. It is a must read to transition from artistic academia to the real world of acting." — Elsie Stark, New York casting director, Stark Naked Productions
