As Las Vegas’ popularity as a filming location has mushroomed, so have the various facilities here that cater to filmmakers’ needs. These include talent agencies representing artists from the full spectrum of entertainment, including models, dancers, singers, look-alikes, impersonators, circus acts, comedians, magicians, stunt performers, voice-over artists, animal handlers, and of course actors, both union and non-union, plus extras.
For a current list of agencies and casting directors, click here to visit the Talent Agencies page in the online production database of the Nevada Film Office, where you’ll find contact details for all the principal agents in Las Vegas (and Reno and Tahoe). They also operate a hotline where a lot of the major agencies will advertise when they have upcoming roles for extras and other talent. The number to call is 702/486-2727.
We contacted a couple of the larger and more established agents to ask what they require from people wishing to get on their books for parts as extras and here’s what they told us.
Jaki Baskow, CEO of Baskow Associates, gave the following helpful feedback: "I’m open for everyone over the age of five to come in and pick up registration forms for extra work. No appointment necessary -- we see new people weekly. You must bring two passport pictures with you and although we cannot recommend a photographer, we can give you cards and show you examples of past pictures, good and bad. We also have a hotline that tells what jobs are going on each week for models, actors, and extras. Just call 702/391-9309." For more information visit their Web site at Baskow & Associates.
Here's the advice from Julie Goldman of Goldman Associates: "Simply register yourself with any casting company in town that’s taking on new talent. Many people would be surprised by how small the talent pool really is: Not everyone wants to be in front of the camera. You can never be too young, too old, or not have the perfect smile and body. The entertainment industry needs all types to make a project successful.
"As for G&A's requirements, we need fun, enthusiastic, reliable people to make us a success. All anyone needs to do to be a part of our talent pool is register online with us at www.GACasting.com. (This site is strictly a database for talent to keep their information current with us). There, they will be asked pertinent information such as height, weight, area of interest (modeling, acting, convention host, etc.), and to upload a recent snapshot or professional headshot & resume. We will then contact them for an interview or an audition for projects that they may be suited for."
And, finally, a wise cautionary word from the Nevada Film Office, who advised that if anyone asks you for any kind of money up-front to help find you work, you should avoid them like the plague. A reputable agent will never ask for payment aside from their rightful commission if and when they find you employment, and will not offer you opportunities and success in exchange for cash.
