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The Convention Controversy
Addressing one of the most debated topics in a child actor's career
Like the comedy and drama masks of theater, the subject of talent conventions has always been double sided. For those who have participated in conventions, the response is often positive especially if representation was gained through the experience. However, for all of the positive feedback, there is still negative commentary surrounding the events. Many believe that conventions are overpriced scams that result in little to no success for the aspiring actors who participate.
At Children In Film, our job is to provide you with the resources to help you develop your own opinions and ultimately make a decision that is right for you and your child. Our goal is to clear away the hearsay, dispel the rumors and focus on the facts.
So what is a talent convention?
Talent conventions are events designed to help actors, models and singers showcase their talent to professionals within the industry such as agents, managers, casting directors and choreographers. Participants compete and audition, receiving the opportunity to be recognized at the event itself and the possibility to gain representation.
"Every performer experiences the realities of the entertainment and fashion industries," explained iPOP! Vice President, Tiffany Rochel. "The iPOP! convention is safe yet challenging, competitive yet nurturing, constructive and instructive."
Who puts on these events?
Conventions like iPOP, iPAC, and IMTA are produced by privately held companies. Usually those in charge have held positions within the industry for many years and/or have backgrounds as performers or models (for example, iPOP! Executive Director Joseph Beauchamp is a former model and actor). Many of the top conventions find a lot of their attendees through their associated schools like John Robert Powers, Barbizon and John Casablancas which is why these names often pop up in association with talent conventions.
Who attends these events?
Industry professionals like agents and managers attend these events to participate in the selection of new talent within the industry. It is not a secret that these pros are often paid, given a stipend, and/or provided with room and board.
"At our event we take care of all accommodations for the agents and provide a small per diem for food and meals," explained Rochel.
Much of the cost associated with convention registration fees goes towards providing the "red carpet" treatment needed to attract industry pros.
Do agents/managers actually sign talent at conventions?
It is a common rumor that industry pros don't actually sign new talent from conventions, but rather that the pro's names and status are used to lure attendees. But CIF has heard from many of its reputable industry pro members that they do attend. Many rely on talent conventions to help locate new clients with star potential.
"I'm always looking for fresh faces to add to my roster," explained agent Jeremy Apody of Abrams Artists Agency. "With kids growing up and moving into different age brackets or booking jobs that take them out of certain markets, you are always left with gaps in certain categories that you need to fill and conventions are a great way to find that talent."
Debbie Palmer-Beal of Lewis & Beal Talent said, "I have been attending conventions for fifteen years. The true reality is that I have excellent talent who have come from conventions, currently on my roster."
How much do talent conventions cost?
Talent conventions range in price from 2k-6k which usually includes peparation training, hotel stay and entrance fees. Some packages may even include airfare, parental passes, and photography. Performers will usually participate in a variety of events and competitions, attend one-on-one meetings with industry pros, enjoy meals and banquets, and gain access to seminars for both parents and talent.
"Was the trip a major investment? asked Helen Reas, mom to Emily Reas. "Absolutely! Did I pay too much? It's really hard to put a price on an invaluable life/learning experience."
"I was led to believe that my child would be seen by many agents," explained parent Jennifer Szego. "but this was not the case. I felt like we were just a number."
Do you have to be invited to attend a convention?
Talent usually find out about conventions through the acting school they are working with in their home town. It is important to understand that you are never required to attend a convention. It is also important to note that attending a convention, or any class for that matter, is never a guarantee that you will be represented.
Children In Film has been collecting information about Talent Conventions for years. Log in to view results from our ongoing research:
- Read in-depth information about the convention controversy
- Hear from pros and parents who have participated
- Find answers to frequently asked questions
- Decode common phrases and buzz words associated with conventions
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