In the same week, The Stage ran an article entitled “Is Your Agent An Arsehole?” which denounced agents as having “too much control”, “too much leverage”. However, the reality is that an actor without an agent is significantly disadvantaged. Students go to drama school not solely for artistic reasons but for commercial ones as well. The third-year showcase is the launchpad for most students’ careers. It’s where agents can be made aware of new talent and getting the right agent is crucial. Talent does not trump all; without the right representation, it’s highly likely that it will go unnoticed. From getting you auditions to negotiating contracts, agents are influential and helpful in both your artistic decisions and financial situation. Actors who don’t have agents will find it incredibly hard to be seen by casting directors as open auditions are rare and professional contacts are crucial.

Drama school gives you the best opportunity to be taken on by an agency that is highly respected in the industry. Many agents featured in Spotlight specify “No new applicants. Existing clients only.” Although new talent is always being sought, it is worth remembering that it is already an overly-crowded profession. Talent without the backup of vocational training over the course of 3 years is frequently not enough. Training at an accredited drama school is a sign to prospective agents that you have achieved a certain level of professional affirmation and you have the creative, as well as technical, abilities to sustain an acting career.