Agence Claire Boivin Agency Inc. represents Ottawa’s finest actors in film, television, theatre and multimedia.  Our actors are trained and experienced professionals.  Although a new Talent Agency in Ottawa, at the helm is Claire Boivin who brings with her 10 years of experience gained at aka artists management ltd., 5 years managing local ACTRA members and active involvement in local theatre companies.

Are you an actor seeking representation?

If yes, please read all of the information below and review the submission package requirements carefully.  Please note that submissions for representation sent by fax, e-mail and/or via our Web site will not be considered, nor do we accept any drop-in submissions.

Although we are not currently looking to expand our roster, we make every effort to go over submissions weekly.  If you are a potential talent that we may be interested in adding to our roster, we will call you to set up an appointment within 10 business days.  Due to the number of submissions we receive, it is not possible to contact everyone.  If you do not hear from us, we are unable to offer you an opportunity at this time and we wish you the best in your efforts to seek representation and gain additional experience. 

Acting is not a glamorous business where you can make a lot of money with minimal effort and experience.  This is a challenging profession that requires flexibility, discipline, continuous training, lots of hard work and most importantly, commitment.

Become an actor because it brings you satisfaction and enjoyment.  Of the many people who work as actors, few earn livings at it and even fewer get to be “rich and famous.”  If one day you get paid exceptionally well for your efforts, great.  If this is not the case for you, then a t least you spent your time doing something that you enjoy.  Remember, you will benefit from having a “Plan B” career path to fall back on when roles are not available.

 

Experience:

 

Many actors first gain experience in their High Schools and in drama programs offered by the public and private sectors.  Do not overlook these opportunities to gain valuable experience when you are starting out.  Experience is very important, the more you have, the more likely you will be considered for roles.  You can also gain experience by accepting acting roles with amateur theatre groups. 

 

Skills:

 

Actors require a variety of skills.  Languages, accents, singing, dancing, playing an instrument, knowing a martial art, sports and many other skills are useful.  Basic technical skills such as auditioning, learning stage direction and proper use of your voice are vital to your success.  ACTRA has a list of helpful workshops and suggestions for training in many of these basic technical skill areas.  While you do not require a Diploma or Degree in the Performing Arts to be a professional actor, the path to obtaining one can certainly help you develop your talent.

Actors live with a lot of rejection.  You will be rejected for many more parts than you get.  You have to accept that you just may not have the right “look” for a part.  You have to be prepared to move on to the next challenge with as much passion and excitement as you did before.

As an actor, you will compete against your fellow actors for every role.  There is no such thing as a guaranteed part.  Most have years of experience and have trained at top theatre and acting schools.  Their work experience can include everything from plays and television series to commercials and feature films.

Bringing a character to life on the screen can give you great joy and personal satisfaction, but it also entails personal sacrifices.  You will succeed only if you are serious about being an actor and are dedicated to your profession.

"First of all, I choose the great [roles], and if none of these come, I choose the mediocre ones, and if they don't come, I choose the ones that pay the rent"

Michael Caine

As a professional actor, one of the most important relationships you will have is with your agent.  At its heart, the actor-agent relationship is a partnership where both sides have distinct responsibilities.  You devote your life to being a professional actor and maintaining a good reputation.  We research upcoming roles and maintain close contact with casting directors to arrange auditions, schedule availability and most importantly, negotiate your fees.  Agence Claire Boivin Agency Inc. is particularly proud of its reputation and its strong relationships with casting directors in Montreal.

At Agence Claire Boivin Agency Inc, the actor-agent relationship is based on honesty, trust and integrity.

 

Presenting yourself as a professional who is serious about your craft is the best way to obtain representation.  We devote a significant amount of time and resources to marketing our actors.  We expect our actors to continue to gain training, experience and to network and promote themselves in the Industry at every opportunity.

If you are interested in being represented by Agence Claire Boivin Agency Inc. you must possess the experience, skills and qualities mentioned above. 

 

Before agreeing to represent an actor, we will look for evidence of this experience, these skills and qualities, such as, commitment and dedication.  For example, an actor based in Ottawa must be prepared to go to Montreal on a day’s notice for an audition if roles in major motion pictures are your goal.  You will likely make many trips before you land a part.

Submission Package Requirements:

 

If you are seeking agent representation, you must send us a submission package that includes the following:

·       a professional resume;

Your resume should list your work experience and training as an actor.

·       a demo CD for voice work, demo DVD for film, television and live performances, or an audition tape (VHS or DVD), with a minimum of three scenes showing a diversity of roles;

·       a recent Headshot (8x10 black and white);

·       a letter of reference from your acting coach, instructor or industry professional, press clippings related to your work; and

·       a personally addressed cover letter.

 

Do not send originals.  We do not accept responsibility for any material submitted and we will not hold or return any material.

Send your submission package to:

Agence Claire Boivin Agency Inc.

P.O. Box 24184 RPO Hazeldean

Ottawa, Ontario

K2M 2C3

 

Thank you for your interest in Agence Claire Boivin Agency Inc.