Is it ok to send an email to a casting director?

Question

My talent agency does not work very well for me which leaves me to do a lot of foot work myself has far as promoting and networking. I have found several casting directors in my area and have been considering sending them my head shot and resume in an email form along with information on a current play I am involved in. Is this considered "ok" to do, or not....

Answer 1

You agent should be getting you auditions as they become available, but the truth is sometimes you are not chosen by the agent to read if you are not night for the part. You always have to network yourself, that is what acting lessons are for. I think emailing casting directors is not a good idea. Get a copy of Acting as a Business and follow Brian O'Neil's advice.

Answer 2

OK, the thing to do here is get postcards.  One side has your headshot or composite shots and the other is where you can write what's going on with you, invite them to your show, etc.  I don't think they would appreciate being e-mailed with promo stuff.  Check out VistaPrint.com

Next, what exactly is your agent not doing?  You do know that agents don't send out promo stuff for you, right?  That would be your job.  Also, things are slow right now especially with the SAG negotiations at a stalemate.  No one knows what is going to happen so work is kind of in limbo in some areas.  You should always promote yourself, but never think your agent isn't doing their job.  Always assume they've submitted you on everything you breakdown for and you just haven't been called in for one reason or another.  The best thing to do is make an appointment to talk to your agent and ask if you need to get new headshots that will grab more attention from CDs or what you can do to help get more interviews.  Ask if they've gotten any good or negative feedback that may help you improve your interviews and callback situation... If your meeting does not go well then consider looking for new representation.  

Also, do not forget about ActorsAccess.com  You should be self-submitting.  Just don't forget to give the agent their cut and have them negotiate the contract regardless of who found the work.  This is a partnership.  You should be working together to build your career.  

Best of luck!

Marianne