Agents Give the Inside Scoop at Film Fest

From left, Xochitl Cerda, SAG-AFTRA’s senior manager, professional representatives; Casting Director Jo Edna Boldin; talent agents Carissa Mitchell, Jody Black and Lynette O’Connor; National Board member and Local 1st Vice President Mel MacKaron; and member Frances McCain. 

In late October, the New Mexico Film office hosted the Film & Media Industry 2015 Conference. This three-day event provided a great opportunity for local filmmakers, producers, vendors, crew and actors to learn more about the resources available to them in the market. A variety of presentations and networking events covered all aspects of the industry. One of the highlights from the conference was the SAG-AFTRA New Mexico Franchised Talent Agencies panel. Casting Director Jo Edna Boldin led the discussion with the three local SAG-AFTRA-franchised agencies and Xochitl Cerda, SAG-AFTRA’s senior manager, professional representatives. Topics included the role of talent agents in the casting process, what it means to be SAG-AFTRA-franchised and what the appropriate protocol is for actors during the casting process.