What You Need to Submit to Musical Theatre Agents
🎭 Submitting to Agents? Start Here
If you’re navigating the world of theatrical representation, you might feel a mix of excitement, nerves, and complete overwhelm. Whether you’re fresh out of a BFA program or a seasoned pro ready for new opportunities, one thing is clear:
You need to show up prepared.
Getting an agent isn't just about talent—it's about packaging that talent in a way that feels polished, professional, and aligned with your goals.
This guide breaks down the essential items every musical theatre performer should have when preparing to submit to agents—along with mindset shifts that can make all the difference.
📸 Your Headshot: Your First Impression
Your headshot is your visual handshake. It’s often the first thing agents and casting directors see—and it needs to do more than just look pretty.
Ask yourself:
Does this reflect who I am right now?
Does it tell the story of the roles I’m right for?
Is it aligned with my current market (NYC vs. LA, etc.)?
A strong headshot will feel intentional, not generic. It’s one of your most important marketing tools—so make sure it reflects the image you want to put out into the industry.
🎭 Your Resume: Keep It Clean and Current
Your resume isn’t about length—it’s about clarity.
Keep it:
Focused on relevant credits
Clean and easy to read
Updated with current training and skills
If you’re pivoting or growing into a new category (from ensemble to leading roles, stage to screen, etc.), your resume should reflect that. And don’t forget to proofread—this one piece of paper says a lot about your professionalism.
💻 Your Digital Presence: Actors Access & Reels
Representation today is heavily influenced by your online presence. Actors Access is often the first place an agent will look to see what you offer.
To optimize your profile:
Upload high-quality headshots
Keep your resume current
Add polished video clips (including performance reels + audition cuts)
Make sure your slate or introduction video feels grounded and confident
Your demo reel doesn’t need to be flashy—it needs to be clear, well-edited, and castable. Show your range, your energy, and your storytelling ability.
Here’s a full tutorial on Actors Access for musical theatre performers.
💬 Your Why: Articulate Your Intention
One of the most overlooked parts of agent submissions? Knowing why you want an agent—and being able to express it.
Before reaching out, reflect on:
What you're hoping to build with representation
How an agent fits into your career strategy
What makes you a dream client (consistency, clarity, craft)
When you lead with intention, you attract the right kind of partnership—one that’s based on alignment, not desperation.
🧭 Know Where You Fit in the Industry
Understanding your niche helps an agent understand how to pitch you.
Ask yourself:
What types of roles am I right for now?
What stories do I love telling—and excel at?
How do my skills match current trends in musical theatre?
Defining your lane doesn’t box you in, it gives people a clear starting point to imagine where you belong.
🚀 Want Help Crafting Your Submission Strategy?
If you’re preparing submissions and feeling unsure about your headshots, rep, or digital materials—I can help.
In my 1:1 coaching sessions, we’ll:
Review your current materials
Clarify your personal brand and casting niche
Map out your submission strategy with confidence
🎭 Book a private coaching session here
🎁 Free Resource to Get Organized
Before you submit, make sure your audition book is up to date.
Grab my free Audition Book Blueprint—a step-by-step tool to organize your rep so you're always ready to submit or audition with ease.
🎶 Download the Audition Book Blueprint here
💬 Final Thought
Getting an agent isn’t about being “discovered.” It’s about showing up prepared, intentional, and self-aware.
The more clearly you understand your value, the more likely you are to attract the kind of representation that sees it too.
You’re not just a performer—you’re the CEO of your own career. So let’s make sure the world sees what you’re really capable of.
Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers thrive onstage and off. She brings over two decades of experience and a unique perspective from her bi-coastal lifestyle as a working artist. A former college professor, she now splits her time between performing, coaching, and creating digital resources to support other artists. Follow her on Instagram or check out the Musical Theatre Mentor YouTube channel for weekly career advice.
