Agent Spotlight: Industry Insight With Nora
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Enjoy an industry insight Q&A with our Nora Manz!
Q: Succeeding in TV & Film is often a major motivation for actors in our industry. What is a piece of advice you can offer for someone who has yet to “get in the room”?
A: Establishing connections takes time, and Casting Directors review hundreds (if not thousands, depending on the project) of submissions each day. Keep working on your craft and perfecting your self-tape set up; it really is just a matter of time for casting to call you in for that perfect role. Although you might not be seeing a flood of auditions, there is progress being made behind the scenes (no pun intended). Track down some scenes from your favorite TV shows/movies and put yourself on tape as practice! Another thing that will always set you apart is having up-to-date headshots with a variety of looks. Check out our Resources tab on the website for photographer recommendations!
Q: What is something you look for on a resume when considering a talent submission?
A: I'm always looking for actors with a range of experience, skills, and training. I've found that well-rounded actors tend to succeed in the on-camera world. Dedication to your craft is appealing to agents and casting directors alike; we want to know that you are driven and excited to learn and grow. If you're not sure where to start, look into some on-camera training classes at local studios/training centers! Check out our Resources tab for recommendations.
Q: COVID-19 had a huge impact on the TV & Film industry. What are some of the adjustments you’ve seen since productions have picked back up?
A: There's no denying the immense impact COVID-19 has had on the entertainment industry as a whole. One of the biggest adjustments in the Chicago industry has been the switch to self-tapes and virtual auditions instead of casting seeing folks in person. It’s been a big adjustment for people recording at home, and heaving to forfeit in in-room adjustments they were used to receiving. But it has also made opportunities more accessible for more people since there are less factors to navigate (commuting, etc), and has allowed casting to cast a wider net and see more folks per role.
Q: What is an industry term that you think every aspiring/working actor should know?
A: I'd say every actor, especially those interested in TV/Film, should know the difference between and progression of SAG status terms - i.e. Taft Hartley, OK-30, SAG-Eligible, Must-Join, etc. Becoming a member of SAG-AFTRA is a goal of many On-Camera actors, and a great one! But you should strategize this step of your career, and know the ins and outs. If you are unsure of what your SAG status is, or the parameters of each tier, the quickest & easiest way is to contact the Chicago SAG office, or peruse the SAG website. The more informed you are, the better!
Q: What has been your proudest moment as Shirley’s TV & Film agent so far?
A: The corny part of me inside is screaming "every audition I get!" If I could choose all of them, honestly, I would. One moment that really stands out for me was booking one of our wonderful actors on their first TV appearance on CHICAGO MED, and now that role has been recurring throughout the past season! I feel proud everyday whether it's getting an audition, a callback, a first refusal, a booking - even the "smallest" victories for our actors are some of my proudest moments!
AUTHOR: LARA FREEMAN-ERBIN & NORA MANZ