Finding the right talent agent can feel like one of the biggest steps in an actor’s journey. For young performers and their families especially, it can also feel confusing. What should go into a submission? How important are headshots and showreels? What happens during quiet periods? And how can parents know whether something is safe, professional, or the right fit for their child? In this episode of The Drama Coach, Lisa speaks with Nessa from Oscar’s Talent Agency about what it is really like to represent actors, particularly young performers. Their conversation offers a practical, reassuring look at the relationship between actors, families and agents, with clear advice for anyone hoping to build a thoughtful and sustainable path in the industry.
Episode overview
Nessa begins by sharing how she became an agent. Her route into talent representation grew from a mixture of experience, family life and a genuine interest in helping young people find opportunities. Alongside Baz, whom she has known since childhood, she helped develop the agency after first supporting children around her with auditions and jobs. One of the parts of the job Nessa enjoys most is seeing actors offered experiences they would not usually get. She talks about the excitement of auditions coming through and the thrill of opportunities that can be meaningful for young performers. At the same time, she is honest about the challenges. Child licensing, particularly at short notice, can be stressful because the correct paperwork must be in place before a child can work. The workload can also be unpredictable, with quiet days suddenly becoming full of auditions, licences and contracts. The conversation then moves into what actors and parents most want to know: getting signed, submitting to an agency, and understanding what makes an actor stand out. Nessa explains that for her agency, the headshot is often the first thing noticed. A strong headshot matters because casting directors may only see a tiny thumbnail among many others. It needs to invite them to look further. Showreels are also important, but Nessa is clear that quality matters more than quantity. A short, strong piece of material is better than several minutes that do not show the actor at their best. She also explains that, while a full CV is helpful, it is not always the first priority for children. Young performers are not expected to have extensive credits, though as they get older, training and understanding of the work become more important.
Key themes and takeaways
A major theme in the episode is the difference between representing young actors and adults. Nessa explains that there is more paperwork and safeguarding involved with children and under-18s. Licensing may involve the local council, and if a young performer is working abroad, the process can involve the magistrates’ court. This extra work exists for the right reason - to protect young people. For adults, the challenge can be different. Nessa describes the familiar “catch 22” of needing credits to be seen, but needing to be seen to gain credits. She encourages actors to build experience where they can, including student films and independent projects, while recognising that these are not always well paid or easy to fit around other responsibilities. The episode also clears up a common misconception: agents do not decide who gets the job, or even who gets the audition. An agent submits suitable actors and explains why they may fit the brief, but casting teams and production teams make the decisions further down the line. This is useful for actors and parents to understand, especially when a self-tape has gone well but the role does not come through. Nessa’s advice for quiet periods is practical and encouraging. Rather than seeing quiet patches as wasted time, she suggests using them to improve profiles, keep training, practise monologues or duologues, and stay connected to the craft. Lisa and Nessa also discuss observation as a valuable acting tool. Watching real people and noticing behaviour can help actors build truthful performances.
- Do not take rejection personally - it is part of the industry.
- Keep acting as something enjoyable, not the whole of a young person’s identity.
- Parents should ask questions and trust their instincts.
- A good agent relationship should be built on trust, transparency and communication.
- Safety checks matter, especially with unpaid or low-paid opportunities found online.
Advice for young actors and parents
One of the strongest pieces of advice in the conversation is aimed at young actors: be prepared for rejection, but never let it define you. Nessa encourages children to take breaks if the process becomes too much and makes it clear that looking after mental health comes first. For parents, the message is equally grounded. Acting should not become a child’s whole world. Children need other interests, positives and sources of confidence outside the industry. Parents are also reminded that they are their child’s barrier between them and the world. If something does not feel right, it is acceptable to ask questions and expect support from an agent. Lisa and Nessa also discuss when it might be time to change agents. Nessa suggests giving the relationship time to develop, because trust and communication are not built instantly. She also gives an example of a misunderstanding where an actor thought they had not been submitted for work, when in fact the submissions were simply not showing properly on the platform. The lesson is simple: before making assumptions, have the conversation.
“Be prepared for rejection but never take it personally.”
The episode closes with a reminder that questions are valid, even when actors or parents feel new to the industry. A good working relationship should allow space for honest conversations, especially when families are still learning how the business works. For young actors, parents and adult learners, this conversation is a helpful reminder that representation is not only about bookings. It is about preparation, communication, safety, resilience and making sure the actor remains supported as a person as well as a performer. Listen to the episode for a clear, honest and encouraging look at what it really means to work with a talent agent.