Dear Jack:
Where can I find information on agents in Los Angeles and Orange County who deal primarily with seniors?
Jeannette C.
Via the Internet
Dear Jeanette:
Your best bet would be to pick up one of the comprehensive agency guides like The Agencies (Acting World Books, $10) at Samuel French or at your local actors bookstore. A good agency guide should be up to date and detailed. It is best to look for one that is published locally, and be sure the information is as pertinent as possible. The Agencies is updated monthly and includes a breakdown of NATR, ATA, and SAG-franchised agencies. It also boasts a section detailing the specific actor types that agencies are currently looking for. And a recent edition of the guide listed 17 different agencies actively seeking submissions from senior citizens.
As a senior, there are certain programs of which you can avail yourself that are off-limits to some of your younger counterparts. SAG, AFTRA, and AEA have committees dedicated to enhancing and furthering the careers of their senior members. And actors can take advantage of these programs sooner than they might think. SAG defines seniors as actors over 40. Kind of scary, isn't it?
SAG's Seniors Committee meets regularly to discuss group initiatives and actions seniors can take to further their careers. Recent offerings included a film screening and panel discussion with the talent and crew of 4 Faces (written, produced by, and starring Peter Mark Richman and directed by Ted Post), a film in which all the on-screen talent and behind-the-scenes crew were seniors. Just a few weeks ago SAG and AFTRA co-hosted a Senior Performer Career Expo with participants Doris Roberts, Robert Guillaume, and Marvin Kaplan, among others. There were panel discussions, meetings, and networking events with producers, writers, casting directors, agents, and other industry leaders, all focusing on the unique talents and objectives of senior performers.
Additionally some senior SAG and AFTRA members are eligible for a financial break. After age 70, senior performers can qualify to have their dues waived if they have been a dues-paying member for 20 or more years and have previous-year earnings of $5,000 or less for SAG and $2,000 or less (excluding residuals and replay fees) for AFTRA. You must qualify for this waiver each year (dependent on your earnings). Call SAG or AFTRA for more details.