Sask Synergy in Action: The Triangle of Talents, Instructors, and Acting Agencies

The views from behind the scenes of the shooting of the music video for *Let's Go Outside Remix* (2023), with Layla Bautista behind the camera and produced and directed by Marzia Kamyabi-Chambers.
Funded by Creative Saskatchewan

Why are acting instructors often not taken seriously? Who should be responsible for verifying their backgrounds, professional resumes, and, ideally, a certificate or degree? An unqualified instructor can be detrimental to a student’s confidence and well-being.

An old theatre classmate of mine in Vancouver confessed that she was traumatized by watching rape being acted out during a class over 10 years ago. In another incident, a student sued her instructor for unprofessionally instructing a physical act that resulted in a permanent knee injury. I also remember an incident where a grieving classmate was challenged on the loss of her grandmother. Even today, I can’t forget her sobbing face and sadly, our underestimation of the instructor’s qualifications.

Acting entangles both your physical body and emotions. It often touches on sensitive subjects that not everybody would feel comfortable or safe addressing. The instructor should be knowledgeable of the methods and be skilled at implementing them on different personalities. Unfortunately, the misconception is that the hurtful experience is part of the learning, but that’s not necessarily the case. Acting class is a delicate environment that demands far more qualifications than a referral.

It goes without saying that the teamwork between talents, instructors, and acting agencies is highly significant for an industry to maintain success. However, how can actors find the roles and connect to the productions?

Acting agencies play a pivotal role in connecting actors with potential opportunities by representing them to the industry professionals, usually through the auditions. To test their luck, actors remain loyal to their agents for months on end, but the majority of the time they do not hear about the auditions. A slowly growing industry with limited budget productions doesn’t have extra money to offer to the agencies. Consequently, actors remain unaware of potential roles available to them and, sadly, it’s not a surprise if they don’t get a chance for the slightest acting experience.

It’s not a surprise to hear from local creators, and personal experiences, that talents represented by certain agencies feel devastated when their agents have declined audition opportunities for roles they have independently discovered. Not only do some agencies with a monopolizing approach harm the industry they are working in, but they also do take away life-long opportunities from local talents waiting for a role to audition for.

Vidya, Ammanda, Jason, and Jared are young Saskatchewan actors who recently shared their insights in an interview about their experiences in acting. Let's take a closer look!

Vidya is an experienced performer who knows that, while Saskatchewan’s art scene may not compare on a global scene, it is still a thriving and interesting community if you’re willing to take the time to look.
Photo supplied by Marzia Kamyabi-Chambers

Could you provide a brief introduction of yourself and the number of years you've been professionally acting in Saskatchewan?

Vidya: I'm an experienced performer from Saskatchewan. I've had the good fortune to get fully immersed in Saskatchewan's rich artistic communities. I've had the honour of working with gifted local artists along my trip, interacting with various groups, and adding to our province's rich cultural tapestry. It was a motivating experience that helped me advance as a performer and person.
Ammanda: My name is Ammanda Zelinski and I have been professionally acting in Saskatchewan since 2017.
Jason: My name is Jason Yuen and I’ve started working (or at least trying to find more work) as an actor since approximately Autumn of 2022.
Jared: My name is Jared Wilson, and I've been acting for as long as I can remember. I've always loved being in front of a crowd, and growing up I'd do whatever I could to get on stage, which mostly came in the form of school musicals. As for acting professionally, I would say late 2019 was when I began actively seeking roles, and booking a few commercials and student films.

Jason Yuen has been acting in Saskatchewan since 2022 and would like to see the film industry be supported more seriously to allow it to truly grow.
Photo supplied by Marzia Kamyabi-Chambers

2. Could you explain the significance of being an actor in Saskatchewan?

Vidya: Being an actor in Saskatchewan has special meaning in the context of the region's cultural and creative scene. Even though Saskatchewan may not be as well-known as some of the more prominent entertainment centers like Hollywood, New York, or even Vancouver, it still has a thriving arts and culture environment, which gives being an actor a distinct relevance.

Saskatchewan has a thriving local arts scene encompassing theatre, film, music, literature, and more. Embracing the pioneering spirit of the province, being an actor in Saskatchewan can mean being part of a lineage of artists who have pushed boundaries and created new avenues for artistic expression.

Ammanda: Being a Saskatchewan actor means a lot to me because it has given me an outlet in my upbringing as an autistic individual. Getting the chance to showcase my abilities in my chosen career. And I am just one of many in what people consider a flyover province. After all, Vancouver and Toronto aren't the only places in Canada that have talented working actors.
Jason: Here are my two cents: acting as a career in Saskatchewan is like when your parents think that it’s just a phase you’ll eventually grow out of or the family fun activity to do for the experience (and not paid) on a weekend or when your friends ask if you’re going to meet Jackie Chan when you said you just made an audition self-tape submission to a role that seems very far-reaching and definitely not going to be local here in Saskatchewan.

We are probably most commonly well-known for Corner Gas, and Deadpool’s one-line reference. In some Marvel film/tv series, you can see credits to B.C., Ontario, and even Alberta and Manitoba but what about Saskatchewan?

In the end, what is the significance of being an actor in Saskatchewan? I suppose there must be more than playing fifth fiddle for A-list actors from B.C. or some place that is not Saskatchewan. For example, acting in training scenarios for first responders opened my eyes to see that we can still contribute to our society and that actors do have more utility than just simply being entertainment.

Jared: Saskatchewan isn't a province that's known for its performing arts industry. With tax incentives being minimal compared to other provinces, the opportunities are fairly slim. I've found that this breeds a special kind of fervour and resilience, so I would say the significance of being an actor in Saskatchewan is being able to maintain that love and passion for the craft, especially when there are not a lot of opportunities.

Ammanda Zelinski and Jason Yuen behind the scenes on set.
Photo supplied by Marzia Kamyabi-Chambers

3. Do you find satisfaction in this line of work? If so, what aspects contribute to your contentment?

Vidya: Yes, I find great satisfaction in this line of work as an actor. The ability to step into diverse roles and bring characters to life is incredibly fulfilling. It allows me to explore my creativity and connect with different facets of the human experience. Working closely with fellow actors, directors, and the production team creates camaraderie. The collaborative process enhances the outcome and makes each project a collective achievement. Embodying different characters requires me to step outside my comfort zone and explore various perspectives. This ongoing journey of personal growth is incredibly enriching.

Ammanda: I find utmost satisfaction in this line of work. I have met such amazing people that I consider a second family. You find connections in ways you never thought possible, and I think that is just amazing.
Jason: Yes. I especially find the process of crafting the art – coming up with the character and executing the portrayal – incredibly satisfying. Learning about and interacting with the technical aspects (as an amateur techie) comes in a close second as well.
Jared: Absolutely! For me, just being able to audition and put myself out there is always a pleasure, and booking the role is just the icing on the cake. The community in Saskatchewan is one of collaboration and a genuine love for what we do and what we create. Being fairly small, everyone is only a few degrees of separation away from each other, but don't let that intimidate you. It's the kind of community where you get back what you put in, so if you come with positivity and passion, it'll be reciprocated in kind. With a community like this, it's easy to be content.

Ammanda Zelinski has been an actor in Saskatchewan since 2017 and has enjoyed the opportunities she’s received from making connections and attending casting calls, but does have an interest in signing on with an acting agency.
Photo supplied by Marzia Kamyabi-Chambers

4. Have you collaborated with casting agencies, either briefly or over an extended period? Could you share your experiences in this regard?

Vidya: Yes, I've had the privilege of collaborating with casting agencies briefly and over extended periods. These collaborations have been pivotal in shaping my acting career. Casting agencies have provided me with a range of audition opportunities. From theatre dramas, modelling events, and fashion shows to independent films, each audition has been a chance to showcase my skills and immerse myself in diverse roles. Casting agencies often organize workshops, seminars, and networking events. Participating in these gatherings has allowed me to connect with fellow actors, directors, and industry experts, expanding my horizons and knowledge base. Certain casting agencies provide workshops and training sessions to improve actors' skills. Engaging in these programs has enabled me to refine my craft and stay current with industry trends.
Ammanda: I have been trying to get in contact with joining an agency, but I haven't officially joined one as of yet. I am happy with the opportunities that I have received without being connected to an agency.
Jason: No, I have never collaborated with any casting agency as there aren’t exactly many agencies here in Regina/Saskatchewan that I know of. The only one people have talked about is primarily a modelling agency, so they don’t really have much going for acting. This makes finding work rather difficult. My partner and I (we are both actors) usually have to rely on word-of-mouth, certain social media, as well as personal connections to find out about casting calls.
Jared: Yes, I've been with an agent since late 2019, when I began to really pursue acting. I started with Wayne Slinn and his agency but later moved to Lisa Schwartz, who runs Edge Agency, sometime in 2021. My experiences with both of them have been fantastic, they have been extraordinarily helpful in getting auditions and booking jobs.

5. Is it a straightforward process to secure acting opportunities through agencies? How about establishing connections with directors?

Vidya: The procedure for obtaining acting jobs through agencies can vary. Agencies facilitate the audition process by acting as a link between actors and casting directors. However, the ease of finding jobs might vary depending on the agency's reputation, your level of expertise, and the parts being cast. Maintaining a professional and up-to-date portfolio, including headshots, resumes, and demo reels, is essential, as is building a solid rapport with the agency. A proficient instructor should offer a range of acting techniques, catering to different styles and needs. This demonstrates their depth of knowledge and adaptability and can provide a smoother process of securing acting opportunities.

Networking events, industry workshops, film festivals, and local theatre productions offer opportunities to meet directors and other industry professionals. Engaging in these events allows for organic connections and conversations leading to collaborations. Social media platforms also play a role in building connections. Following and engaging with directors whose work you admire can create opportunities for interaction. Attending Q&A sessions, film screenings, or participating in online discussions related to filmmaking can further showcase your genuine interest and knowledge.

Ammanda: I can't really say it's a straightforward process, seeing as I don't have much hands-on knowledge when it comes to casting agencies. Whether it's a professional gig or a passion project for a friend, the connections I have made with the directors have been very positive experiences for me.
Jared: Absolutely. The usual process is that my agent will send me a text with a script, information about the shoot, and instructions on where to send the audition. If they like what I send them, they reach out to my agent and iron out the details. As for establishing connections with directors, that's mostly done by responding to a casting call or on the set itself. Directors are very busy people, so I personally wouldn't contact them directly unless they specifically requested actors to do so. If you wanted to get a job at a certain company, you'd look for openings, you wouldn't just shoot an email to the CEO, and it's the same principle here.

Jared Wilson has had an agent since 2019 and has appreciated the extra help they’ve provided with finding auditions and handling details on his behalf.
Photo supplied by Marzia Kamyabi-Chambers

6. Is finding competent acting instructors a straightforward task? How do you determine the credibility of an instructor to enhance your skills?

Vidya: I often research local acting schools, workshops, and instructors online. Word-of-mouth referrals from fellow actors or industry professionals can provide valuable insights into reputable instructors. Understanding the instructor's teaching philosophy is crucial. A competent instructor will have a clear and practical approach to teaching acting techniques, which should align with my learning style and goals. I look for a combination of experience, teaching philosophy, feedback, and a genuine commitment to helping me grow as an actor.
Ammanda: Finding competent acting instructors has been pretty straightforward for me, because theatre and acting were a crucial part of my degree, studying from 2013 to 2018. Most of my professors were (and are) professional actors, so I definitely felt like I was learning from the best.
Jason: I think finding acting instructors would be straightforward enough since they are often advertised in our circles but another hurdle to consider is an economic one. Yes, having competent acting instructors would be beneficial to enhance my skills but, akin to on-the-job training in a more traditional workplace, there needs to be enough jobs first before one can afford them. This could be where agencies really come into play.
Jared: While I haven't really gone out of my way to look for acting instructors in Saskatchewan, what you want is a class and instructor that allows you to collaborate and work with other actors. Acting is all about listening, but it's not the kind of thing you can learn just by taking notes. As to the credibility of instructors, transparency is key. You'd want to see that your instructor has a proven track record of working in the industry and is willing to share their credits and projects. Overall, the best way to improve your acting is to keep acting!
7. Is there a culture of friendly and supportive collaboration between acting agencies and actors in Saskatchewan, or do you have any concerns about potential shortcomings on the part of agencies due to financial factors?
Vidya: Saskatchewan generally has a culture of friendly and supportive collaboration between acting agencies and actors. Many agencies and professionals in the industry prioritize building positive relationships and working together to achieve mutual success. However, like any industry, there can be potential concerns related to financial factors that may impact the dynamics between agencies and actors.

In a smaller market like Saskatchewan, there might be limited resources, budgets, and opportunities for large-scale productions.

Open communication, setting expectations, and maintaining a professional approach are all essential in navigating the relationship between acting agencies and actors. In Saskatchewan, while concerns related to financial factors may exist, most agencies and actors work together to create a supportive and vibrant artistic community.

Ammanda: In regard to friendly collaboration between Saskatchewan actors and acting agencies, I'm glad we have a supportive environment and understanding, but that shouldn't stop us from continuing to do so. Of course, my opinion is just one of many. Even though Saskatchewan is without its film tax credit, the grants definitely help. Here is hoping that everyone on screen and behind the screen can and will be paid what they are owed.
Jared: As I mentioned previously, I have nothing but positive things to say about the Saskatchewan acting agencies that I've worked with, and how they go about their work has absolutely fostered a welcoming culture of collaboration that I'm glad to be a part of. As for financial concerns, I can't say I have any, as the success of an agency is a direct result of the success of its clients, and I know that both the agencies I've signed with have worked hard on my behalf.

Ammanda Zelinski and Jason Yuen caught on camera during a shoot.
Photo supplied by Marzia Kamyabi-Chambers

8. Do you have any suggestions or advice for content creators or agencies based on your experiences?

Vidya: Understand your target audience's preferences, interests, and needs. Tailor your content or services to resonate with them effectively. Prioritize producing high-quality content or services rather than focusing solely on quantity. A well-crafted piece has a more lasting impact. Collaborations with other creators or agencies can bring fresh perspectives and widen your reach. Choose collaborations that align with your values and goals. Listen to feedback from your audience. It's a valuable source of insights for improvement and innovation. Don't be afraid to take calculated risks, whether exploring new content formats or venturing into uncharted territory.Remember that each journey is unique, so tailor these suggestions to your circumstances. The road to success involves a combination of creativity, determination, and a genuine passion for what you're creating or offering.

Ammanda: A suggestion I can give is to listen to disabled voices. And if you already listen to disabled voices, please continue to do so. I am super glad that there's much more representation in the media than in years past when it comes to showing physical disabilities as well as neurodivergence. What better way to spread awareness and acceptance than on the stage and/or your TV screen?
Jared: Saskatchewan's arts industry is only growing, and that's thanks to everyone with the drive and the passion to make their vision a reality. There's a lot of talent in this province, and it deserves to be recognized, so keep on creating awesome content, and feeding that passion for the arts, because that desire is worth far more than any tax credit.