I think it really comes down to a bit of a blend between getting an agent and job hunting. You are not seeking an agent in the conventional sense but are seeking to be represented by these agents. You could (as an option) make a few enquiries at local schools directly rather than going through an agent, or even through the governing body (Govt / Private).

I am not personally familiar witht the range of agencies on offer down your way, but no doubt there will be atleast one or two groups similar to our Class Act theatre you specialise in theatre for schools. I am not too sure how you would go about locating such agencies, but againt if you consult with local schools or official governing bodies to see who they use...

Just some ideas to toss around.

Absit invidia (and DFT )

Jeff Watkins

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"You could (as an option) make a few enquiries at local schools directly rather than going through an agent, or even through the governing body (Gavt / Private)."

Well, duh!

Yeah, I'm going to do that too - but I thought perhaps it would be easier to go through an agent, simply because I don't have the time or inclination do so much legwork. I have my hands full just doing what I'm doing currently. I have some ideas on approaching a few local schools to get me started (my parents both work at my high school and know some teachers at other schools who might be interested), but I thought to really get out there an agent would help.

Again, I have no problem locating such agents, as there are quite a number I know of that do represent puppeteers. I'm more interested in figuring out how to best contact them and present myself for representation.

Turtle shadow puppet for sale at
Puppets in Melbourne

Thanks Jeff, will do!

Turtle shadow puppet for sale at
Puppets in Melbourne

I'm not sure how it works over in melbourne, but over here there aren't so much 'agent's that book school shows, as there are Theatre Companies who tour to schools. Generally schools know very little about the theatre world and will respond in kind to an agent, a well known theatre company or your granny giving you a bit of help with cold calling.

I've found it's best to mail a colourful promotional to the schools--a long way in advance, then follow it up closer to the tour, with another mailout, emails to the deputy principals, registrars or english/art teachers, and if you are feeling really adverturous cold calling. The last only really works with small schools or country areas.

Now if you can employ someone as a part of your own business to do this, great. If you can obtain work with an established theatre company who are already in schools even better. But Labrug is right, it is much more like obtaining a job than finding an agent. (However Melbourne may operate differently to WA).

Also, if you can obtain a healthways grant, or gain access into arts in education magazines, even make your way to a curriculum meeting then your really cooking with gas.

In the end it is all promotional work and can be done by anyway with reverse marketing experience.

I hope that was helpful and not confusing at all.

As I said, I'm not sure if it is different in Melbourne. To my knowledge no such agents are in operation in WA, but if there are agents who specifically book school shows in perth then I'd say they would do all the promo I described.