Bonnie’s Recommended Resources for Actors

Here are some excellent resources for actors. This list will get you off to the right start with a basic set of trusted sites, people, and products. Check back regularly for additions and updates.

Of course, sometimes there is nothing better than talking with someone who has been there, and who can offer personal advice as well as information. You can always schedule a consultation with me!

Agents

The ATA, or Association of Talent Agents:
https://www.agentassociation.com/

You can find a list of all licensed talent agents currently operating HERE. Don’t even consider working with an agent who is not licensed.

Agents and Managers—choosing the right one!

This link takes you to the SAG-AFTRA union’s excellent info on agents and managers, as well as their advice on finding a good one:
https://www.sagaftra.org/content/agents-and-managers

Audition Boards

Maintain an online actors profile by posting a resume, headshot, reel and special skills etc. on these sites; view breakdowns from casting directors and submit to them. No need to subscribe to more than two.

• Actors Access
• Backstage
• Casting Frontier
• Casting Networks

Audition App

Scenebot is a free or nearly free (Pro version is $19.95/year) way to audition for potential agents, managers, and casting directors. It’s great practice for self-tapes, and may get you signed with a rep or cast in a project!

CHSPE Test (California High School Proficiency Exam)

https://www.chspe.net/
Dates, preparation, registration, general info

       What is the CHSPE and Should My Kid Take It?

CHSPE Preparation Guides

Best in Class free resource guide

CHSPE Secrets Study Guide

CHSPE Preparation Book

Barron’s CHSPE

Coogan/Blocked Trust Accounts

https://www.sagaftra.org/content/coogan-law
Again, SAG-AFTRA is a great source of solid information. Includes a list of financial institutions that offer Coogan account services.

Disney Auditions

The only legitimate source for open-call auditions (available to all actors, even those without an agent): https://partners.disney.com/disney-channel-casting

Harmony Helper Singing App

This app provides singers with the convenience and control of a 24/7 digital rehearsal room anytime, anywhere, regardless of skill level. https://harmonyhelper.com/

IMDb Pro

In a league of its own for solid gold information about anyone in the film and TV industry: actors, agents, managers, directors, producers, writers, and much more. Incredible resource for reality-checks on potential agents, managers, and projects. First month is free. IMDb Pro

Legal 18 Questions

The very useful Emancipation Grid from BizParentz.org spells out the differences between a child who is under age but a “legal 18,” vs. one who is emancipated. Click the icon on the top right of the link below.

The BizParentz Foundation is an excellent resource in general.
https://www.bizparentz.org/thebizness/emancipation.html

Karaoke tracks for auditions

https://www.karaoke-version.com

Makeup Tutorials (useful for actors)

• Eyeliner Makeup Tips for Beginners

Monologue Books

• Contemporary Monologues for Young Actors by Douglas M. Parker
• Magnificent Monologues for Kids by Chambers Stevens
• Magnificent Monologues for Kids 2 by Chambers Stevens
• Magnificent Monologues for Teens by Chambers Stevens
• The Ultimate Audition Book for Teens Volume 4 by Debbie Lamedman

Online Classes & Camps:

Ballet Together: https://ballettogether.com/

Outschool https://outschool.com/

Sheet Music Resources

• https://www.musicnotes.com
• https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/

Voice Teacher (Singing)

Claire Hosterman https://www.clairehostermanvoice.com/
Works via Skype or in her Los Angeles studio by appointment

Vocal Coach (Voiceovers)

Tish Hicks at The V.O. Dojo https://theVOdojo.com/

Dialect Coaches

Jerome Butler https://www.dialectcoachescorner.com/

Eliza Jane Schneider https://competitiveedgevoicetraining.com/

Work Permits for Minors in the Entertainment Industry

Laws, performer regulations, general info
California-specific:
https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/DLSE-CL.htm
National:
https://www.sagaftra.org/content/state-statutes

Do you know of other excellent resources for actors that should be added to my list? Drop me a line at bonnie@hometowntohollywood.com and let me know!