FAQs - CATHERINE POULTON MANAGEMENT

• CPM represents actors in the fields of theatre, music theatre, film, TV, commercial work, voice overs, public appearances, etc. We do this by maintaining good ties and honest relationships with casting directors, production houses etc, so that our recommendations are trusted and our actors are valued in the industry. 
• We ensure that we have a diverse, talented client list and that we understand our performers' unique talents and abilities, so we can represent them most effectively.
• We produce, update and distribute publicity materials on our performers throughout the industry, being sure to publicise all relevant achievements.
• We negotiate performers’ contracts, terms and working conditions on their behalf
• We keep up to date with industry trends and developments.
• We offer our performers’ career guidance

How do I know if an agency is reputable?

• Check how long the agency has been established. 
• Look on the MEAA website www.alliance.org.au as they have a list of recommended agents.
• Ask what rates of commission are charged, as there are industry standards.
• Ask how many people the agency represents? The less they rep, the more personalised level of service they will be able to offer.
• Ask who they currently represent that you might know from film, theatre or television?
• Ask if the agency is affiliated with any organisations. Eg; VCAA (Victorian Childrens Agents Association) or the ADAA (Australian Dramatic Agents Association).
• Ask industry professionals, such as Casting or Production Houses, who they deal with regularly and trust. The bigger Casting Houses in Melbourne include Mullinars, Maura Fay, Nick Hamon and Chameleon.

What commission does the agency take?

• 11% (incl GST) on all TV Drama, theatre and feature film work.
• 16.5% (incl GST) on all commercial and/or print work
• $2.20 (incl GST) booking fee applies for bit parts and extra roles.

How many people do you represent?

• Approximately 200 people.

In what productions has CPM placed actors?

• In recent years we have had main cast or guest performers in numerous productions including: Television – Neighbours, Blue Heelers, Last Man Standing, The Secret Life of Us, McLeod’s Daughters, Wicked Science, Holly’s Heroes, Blue Water High, H2O, The Lost Treasure of Fiji, Scooter - Secret Agent, The Wedge, Bastard Boys, The King, Tripping Over; Film: Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, Jindabyne, Charlotte’s Web, December Boys, Noise, Macbeth, Three Dollars, Tom White, Irresistible, The Home Song Stories; Theatre: The Lion King, Oliver!, The Sapphires, Hotel Sorrento, Cats, Dusty, The Wizard of Oz, Festen, All My Sons and Cats; plus countless Commercials and Voiceovers. 

What Age does CPM represent?

• CPM represents both children and adults ranging from 5 years old to adults.

What fees/charges apply if I was offered representation?

• There is an annual charge for publicity materials. This fee includes a professional photographic session for your headshot, with a make-up artist in attendance. This photo will be used by the agency for publicity and be included on the password-protected CPM database website. The fee is reduced if a professional 10x8 Black and White headshot is supplied and is approved as industry standard. It is also reduced for talent whose earnings with CPM exceed a set amount in a 12 month period.
• There are also optional publicity tools such as casting websites (www.showcast.com.au and www.at2.com.au) which we recommend, as well as other avenues you may wish to pursue such as getting a showreel or voice demo produced. The Publicity payment must be made in full prior to the photographic session.

Do I get a guarantee I will get work?

• It is our number one priority to have you working. No agent wants someone to sit on the books for 12 months and not receive a phone call! The Australian Entertainment industry goes through boom periods and quiet times. Unfortunately, we are to an extent at the mercy of what is currently in production and this is why we go to great lengths to ensure a diverse, but limited client base. No guarantees can be made, however. 

What experience/pre-requisites does one need to apply? 

• For children under the age of 15, training and experience are not necessary, although helpful. For those over the age of 15, some training is preferable. We expect adult applicants to have undergraduate degrees in the Performing Arts, or extensive industry training/experience. 

What sort of commitment is needed to become an actor with CPM?

• Castings are often at very short notice and held in the Melb Metro area. Shoots also tend to be during normal business hours, making the balance between acting and school/uni a challenge for many young performers. Auditions can be hard to come by so despite the lack of time offered, we expect our actors to make every effort to get to their auditions and be prepared. This also requires much dedication from parents of performers under 18 years, so it is best not to seek representation if you are not prepared to be dedicated to the task. 

What do the actors get paid?

• Fees vary significantly depending on the role and the nature of the job. All our performers’ are booked in accordance with union regulations. See the MEAA at www.alliance.org.au for a listing of various Performers’ awards that apply.

How do I join CPM?

Please see AGENCY APPLICATION