17 Best Casting Agencies in Chicago
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Casting agencies are specialist companies that have the experience and reputation to find the right artists, musicians, dancers, actors, comedians, and voiceover artists for different commercial and personal projects in the entertainment industry.
Being one of the most popular places for live theatrical entertainment, Chicago has plenty of casting agencies that represent highly trained, qualified professional artists, actors, models, and dancers. These agencies are part of the union and non-union industries, developing the careers of professionals by casting them in the best commercials, advertisements, movies, documentaries, and theatrical projects.
Find a list of the top casting agencies in Chicago to choose the right agency for finding professional talents for different projects at cost-effective prices.
A casting agency specializes in finding and selecting actors, models, and talent for various media productions, such as films, television shows, commercials, and photo shoots. They work with production companies, directors, and advertising agencies to provide the right talent for specific roles and projects, ensuring a seamless casting process.
A casting agency provides a range of services to match talent with the right roles in various media productions. Here are the key activities they undertake:
- Talent Sourcing:
- Identify and recruit actors, models, and other talent through auditions, open calls, and scouting.
- Casting Calls and Auditions:
- Organize and manage casting calls and auditions, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for both talent and clients.
- Talent Database Management:
- Maintain a comprehensive database of talent, including detailed profiles, headshots, and demo reels.
- Role Matching:
- Match talent with suitable roles based on the requirements of the production, such as age, look, skills, and experience.
- Contract Negotiation:
- Negotiate contracts and fees between the talent and the production companies, ensuring fair terms for both parties.
- Coordination and Scheduling:
- Coordinate schedules between talent and production teams to ensure availability and smooth collaboration.
- Client Consultation:
- Work closely with production companies, directors, and advertising agencies to understand their needs and provide tailored casting solutions.
- Talent Development:
- Provide guidance and coaching to talent to enhance their skills and marketability.
- Marketing and Promotion:
- Promote talent to potential clients through various channels, including online platforms and industry events.
By offering these services, a casting agency helps streamline the casting process, ensuring that the right talent is selected efficiently and effectively for each project.
Casting agencies play a crucial role in the entertainment industry, helping actors, musicians, models, and other performers find work. They help secure auditions, negotiate contracts, and manage careers. But how much do they charge for their services? Let’s break it down.
Commission-Based Fees
Casting agencies typically charge a commission on the work they secure for their clients. This commission usually ranges from 10% to 20% of the client’s earnings. For example, if an actor lands a role that pays $10,000, and their casting agent charges a 15% commission, the agent would earn $1,500. Importantly, casting agents can't charge upfront fees, so they only get paid when they find work for their clients. This ensures they’re motivated to secure gigs.
Additional Costs
Some casting agencies might charge a small marketing fee to cover the cost of creating and distributing promotional materials for their clients, like headshots and demo reels. This is usually a one-time charge and is significantly lower than the commission. Always check the terms and conditions of these fees to ensure they provide good value.
Factors That Influence Costs
Several factors can influence how much a casting agency charges:
- Scope of Services: The more services an agency offers, like talent scouting and contract negotiation, the higher the cost might be.
- Talent Level: High-profile or specialized talent might command higher commissions.
- Project Budget: Bigger projects with larger budgets often result in higher commissions due to increased complexity and workload.
Hiring a casting agency can be a game-changer for anyone in the entertainment industry. Here’s why partnering with a casting agency is a smart move:
Expertise and Network: Casting agencies have extensive networks and industry connections. They know the right people and have access to opportunities that might not be available to the general public. This means you’ll have a better chance of landing auditions and roles that fit your talent and career goals.
Time-Saving: The process of finding auditions, submitting applications, and managing schedules can be incredibly time-consuming. A casting agency handles all of this for you, freeing up your time to focus on honing your craft. They do the legwork, so you don’t have to.
Professional Guidance: Casting agents offer valuable advice and guidance. They can help you improve your resume, provide feedback on your performances, and suggest ways to enhance your marketability. Their insights are based on industry standards and trends, ensuring you’re always a step ahead.
Negotiation Skills: Negotiating contracts can be tricky, especially if you’re new to the industry. Casting agents are skilled negotiators who ensure you get fair compensation and favorable terms. They look out for your best interests and help you navigate the complexities of contracts.
Career Management: A casting agency doesn’t just find you gigs; they help manage your entire career. They offer long-term planning and strategy, helping you make decisions that align with your career goals. This holistic approach ensures sustained growth and success.
Increased Opportunities: With a casting agency, you’re more likely to get a steady stream of opportunities. They actively seek out roles that match your profile and submit you for consideration, increasing your chances of getting noticed by casting directors and producers.
Select the best casting agency by following these steps:
- Identify Your Goals:
- Determine the types of roles you're aiming for (film, television, theater, commercials).
- Research and Shortlist Agencies:
- Look for agencies with a solid reputation and a proven track record. Check online reviews, industry forums, and ask for recommendations.
- Evaluate Their Network:
- Ensure the agency has strong connections with casting directors, producers, and industry professionals relevant to your goals.
- Review Their Client Roster:
- Look at the talent they currently represent. Successful clients in your desired field indicate a good fit.
- Meet with Agents:
- Schedule meetings to assess their professionalism, communication style, and understanding of your aspirations. Ensure you feel comfortable and confident in their ability to represent you.
- Ask About Fees and Contracts:
- Understand the agency’s fee structure and contract terms. Reputable agencies work on a commission basis, typically taking 10% to 20% of your earnings. Avoid agencies that ask for upfront fees.
- Assess Their Support Services:
- Consider what additional services the agency offers, such as career guidance, audition preparation, and professional development resources.
- Trust Your Instincts:
- Choose an agency that not only meets your professional needs but also feels right on a personal level. Your agent should be someone you trust and feel comfortable working with.
By following these steps, you can choose a casting agency that will effectively support and enhance your career, helping you achieve your professional goals.
Relevant Background
- Do you have experience working in my specific industry (film, television, theater, commercials)?
- Can you provide case studies or examples of similar projects you’ve completed?
Company Services and Processes
- What specific services do you offer beyond casting, such as contract negotiation or career management?
- How do you develop and execute your casting strategies?
- What is your process for talent scouting and auditions?
- Which tools and platforms do you use, and can I have access to them?
- How do you stay updated with industry trends and changes?
The Project
- How will you tailor your approach to fit my career goals and needs?
- What do you believe will be the most effective strategies for my career, and why?
- How long do you typically take to secure roles for your clients?
- Who will be working on my account, and what are their qualifications?
- How do you handle project management and ensure deadlines are met?
- What will my involvement in the process be, and how often will we communicate?
- How often will I receive updates on the progress of my casting opportunities?
- What kind of reports will you provide, and what information will they include?
Budget and Pricing
- Can you provide a detailed breakdown of your pricing structure?
- Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Long-Term Relationship
- What ongoing support do you offer after securing a role?
- How do you handle revisions or changes to the casting strategy?
- Can you help with other aspects of my career growth, such as marketing or public relations?
These questions will help you understand the agency’s capabilities, their approach to casting, and how well they align with your career needs and goals, aiding you in making an informed decision.
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Our Rating Guidelines
Ranked: The Best Casting Agencies In Chicago
We've shortlisted the best ones for you and made it easy to only contact AAA or AA-rated agencies.
However, before you decide to go with anyone I recommend 2 things:
Either use our agency finder above. Use our expertise and let us help you find the ideal agency for you, from our worldwide contact database.
Or, if you are sure you'd like a local agency, set up meetings with the highly-rated agencies on this list, and test them for clear expectations from you/clear customer qualifications, clear onboarding process, clear long-term focused objectives, and clear communication.
And most important, don't fall for short-term hacks some poor quality agencies try to sell you on.
Look for long-term strategy, protecting your brand and clear timelines.
1. O'Connor Casting
Founded Year: 2003
Website: oconnorcasting.tv
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: O'Connor Casting is a top casting agency in Chicago with over 30 years of experience in casting the best talents for commercials, advertisements, movies, documentaries, independent films, and television projects.
They can meet their clients' demands by choosing the best artists, models, and professionals for different roles in the production, fashion, and entertainment industries.
Case Studies: Pending submission
2. Paskal Rudnicke Casting
Founded Year: 1993
Website: prcasting.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Paskal Rudnicke Casting is a leading casting agency in Chicago with over 25 years of experience in casting the best actors and models for the Chicago film and theater industry.
The company has a team of experienced casting directors who can conduct different auditions to choose the right candidates for different roles in award-winning feature films, documentaries, theatricals, movies, and commercials.
Case Studies: Pending submission
3. Simon Casting
Founded Year: 1996
Website: simoncasting.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Simon Casting is a trusted casting agency in Chicago with great attention to detail and experience in choosing professional artists, actors, and models for commercials, movies, TV shows, new films, and theater projects.
They have a team of talented casting directors who can suggest auditions and interviews for finding the right talent for production companies and the movie industry.
Case Studies: Pending submission
4. Paonessa Talent Agency
Founded Year: 2010
Website: paonessatalent.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Paonessa Talent Agency is a skilled casting agency in Chicago specializing in guiding the careers of actors at the national level through their experience with a team of casting directors and producers.
They work to meet the demands of the movie and production industries all over the country by choosing candidates based on their individual talents and training them perfectly for the roles.
Case Studies: Pending submission
5. Stewart Talent
Founded Year: 2015
Website: stewarttalent.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Stewart Talent is a unique casting agency in Chicago, representing talent in the television, film, theater, voice-over, commercial, print, industrial, theatrical, and fashion industries.
They have decades of experience adapting to emerging trends in the entertainment industry and choosing professionals according to the requirements of film producers and directors.
Case Studies: Pending submission
6. Lilys Talent
Founded Year: 2010
Website: lilystalent.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Lilys Talent is a dynamic casting agency in Chicago that represents talent for print, on-camera, film, theater, voice-over, and makeup artists. They meet the requirements of the film directors and producers with professionalism and a personalized approach.
The company has a comprehensive network of professionals who are available round the clock, with a talent database and casting space for choosing the right talent through auditions.
Case Studies: Pending submission
7. SCE Agency
Founded Year: 2018
Website: sceagency.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: SCE Agency is a professional casting agency in Chicago that provides models and actors suitable for commercial, industrial, print, fashion, beauty, catalog, sport, fitness, and lifestyle projects.
They have a team of professionals who can cast the best male, female, non-binary sports, and classic actors and models by scouting them from all parts of the USA.
Case Studies: Pending submission
8. Gray Talent Group
Founded Year: 2008
Website: graytalentgroup.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Gray Talent Group is a popular casting agency in Chicago, representing professional actors in television, film, theater, commercials, and voiceover projects.
They choose actors to help take them to the next level of their careers. The company has professionals to find the best talent to meet the needs of production and casting directors.
Case Studies: Pending submission
9. Shirley Hamilton Talent
Founded Year: 1962
Website: shirleyhamiltontalent.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Shirley Hamilton Talent is a distinguished casting agency in Chicago that casts experienced actors and models for TV, film, print, commercials, theater, voiceovers, industrials, and live events.
The company has long-lasting relationships with producers, casting directors, advertising agencies, and photographers. They conduct auditions and interviews to choose the best professional actors for different projects.
Case Studies: Pending submission
10. Hayes Talent Agency
Founded Year: 2014
Website: hayestalent.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Hayes Talent Agency is a dependable casting agency in Chicago experienced in placing American African actors in top commercials, films, documentaries, and entertainment projects.
The company has great relationships with the casting directors and their talents, making them represent the best projects in the country. They help in developing the careers of plenty of celebrities and actors by casting them according to their individual skills and talents.
Case Studies: Pending submission
11. Actors Talent Group
Founded Year: 1932
Website: actorstalentgroup.com
Reputation Score: AA
About the agency: Actors Talent Group is a reputed casting agency in Chicago specializing in developing the careers of their actors and models by casting them in the best television shows, films, commercials, advertisements, voiceovers, and print media projects.
The company has a team of trained professionals who choose the right models, musicians, dancers, and actors according to the demands of film directors and producers.
Case Studies: Pending submission
12. Promote Talent Agency
Founded Year: 2018
Website: promotetalentagency.com
Reputation Score: A
About the agency: Promote Talent Agency is a reliable casting agency in Chicago, representing hundreds of thehighest-quality union and non-union actors and other creative professionals.
They have a team of passionate casting directors and producers who can successfully increase the reputation and careers of the actors. The company specializes in casting actors, models, influencers, musicians, dancers, voice-over artists, and comedians.
Case Studies: Pending submission
13. DeSanti Talent Agency
Founded Year: 2006
Website: desantitalents.com
Reputation Score: A
About the agency: DeSanti Talents Agency is a credible casting agency in Chicago, specializing in casting actors, models, and professional artists for television commercials, documentaries, movies, and voiceover projects.
This is a multicultural company that represents actors of different ethnicities and plays a crucial role in developing their acting careers. They collaborate with the best directors and producers in different industries and maintain good relationships with their talents.
Case Studies: Pending submission
14. Talent Group
Founded Year: 1987
Website: mytalentgroup.com
About the agency: Talent Group is an innovative casting agency in Chicago that represents professional actors, models, spokespersons, voiceover artists, and live performers.
They are a non-union casting agency that provides high-quality professional artists at affordable prices for movies, commercials, television shows, documentaries, and commercials.
Case Studies: Pending submission
15. Dream Team Talent
Founded Year: 2018
Website: dreamteamtalent.com
Reputation Score: A
About the agency: Dream Team Talent is an experienced casting agency in Chicago, representing children, adults, actors, models, and family artists.
The company can cast professionals of all ages for different projects by choosing them through auditions and interviews to meet the requirements of different film producers and directors.
Case Studies: Pending submission
16. Talent X Alexander
Founded Year: 2021
Website: talentxalexander.com
Reputation Score: A
About the agency: TalentX Alexander is an established casting agency in Chicago, representing both union and non-union talent of all ages for TV, film, industrials, voice, and lifestyle print projects.
The company has a dynamic team of creative casting directors and producers who help develop the careers of professional artists. They have an extensive network of clients all around the country and cast the best talents according to the requirements of the industry.
Case Studies: Pending submission
17. BMG
Founded Year: 2006
Website: bmgmodels.com
Reputation Score: A
About the agency: BMG is an excellent casting agency in Chicago, casting men, women, children, and non-binary professionals for different projects across the entertainment industry.
The company selects the best talent based on the interests and needs of the film producers and directors. They have cultivated the best relationships with their clients and professional artists for many years.
Case Studies: Pending submission
Conclusion
Casting agencies have a team of professionals who have experience in casting the best balance for the different roles of the top companies in the entertainment industry.
They can meet the requirements of movie directors and producers by choosing the right talents through auditions and interviews.
Hiring a casting agency can help in finding the right actors, musicians, voiceover artists, and fitness models for different commercials, movies, documentaries, and critical projects in Chicago.
Choose a reputed casting agency from our list to build good relationships with clients all over the country and find the perfect professional actors for your projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a casting agency?
A casting agency is an individual organization that can have associations with the union and non-union of the entertainment industry. They can choose the right professional artist and play a major role in the development of their acting careers.
Why hire a casting agency?
Hiring a casting agency can be a worthy investment if you are in the entertainment industry and look to work with professional artists, musicians, dancers, voice-over artists, makeup artists, and models.
They help professional talents find the best projects in the entertainment industry by building good relationships with clients all over the country.
What will the casting agency do for an artist?
A casting agency can be one of the best professional guides for improving the careers of budding and emerging artists in the entertainment industry.
They will have a team of experienced casting directors and producers who can train the actors according to the requirements of the film producers and directors.
What are the benefits of working with the casting agency?
There are plenty of benefits to working with a casting agency, which include having the expertise to choose the right talent for different projects at affordable prices.
They can conduct auditions and screening interviews to filter the right talents according to the requirements of entertainment industry professionals. These agencies play a role in boosting your professional career by developing good relationships.
How do casting agencies get paid?
A casting agency will only get paid when an artist gets paid for appearing in a particular role in any commercial movie, documentary, or voiceover project.
They will also get paid through movie directors, producers, and other entertainment companies when they choose the right talents according to their project requirements.