KIDS NEWS FROM AT2

Tips from a children's casting director

Lilly Dawson has cast children in everything from Target commercials to Bossini catalogues. Here, she gives her tips on children in the business.

What are you looking for when you're casting a child in a role?

Confidence and a particular sparkle. A bit of humor never goes astray as long as it's not too silly.

What are the best things to do to get work in this industry?

I think it's a great idea to have your child enrol in a couple of courses first - to guage whether the child truly enjoys acting or performing, as often its the parents dream and not necessarily the childs. If that goes well, seek out an agent - an agent that you feel comfortable with and who you feel is looking after your childs best interests.

Do you search for children online?

Yes, I often use AT2 and agents' websites to cast online. I look for visuals and skills, all depending what job I am doing at the time and the particular models or actors that rea required.

How does the agent fit in to the casting process?

An agent is your link to Casting Directors and the industry in general. They will put you up for various jobs according to the brief from the Casting Company. The agent acts on your behalf in the negotiation process and coordinating a confirmed job with the Casting Company. For this agents take a commission from your fee - usually between 10 - 20%. You should never feel like you are bothering your agent by calling often and checking what work is around or coming up - your agent should be working for you not visa versa.

What factors go into deciding who the best child is for each of the roles that you are casting?

Confidence, experience (although this depends on what type of role it is - I often look for confident children that have never worked before), a particular look required for the campaign I am casting, a co-operative attitude and a willingness to take direction.

Page 2