In the competitive world of acting, finding the right opportunities and representation can make or break a performer’s career.

South African scriptwriter and Talent Agent, Tumelo Bapela, the founder of Mehlareng Actors and Performers Agency based in Johannesburg, is determined to guide aspiring actors toward the right path. Known for his candid views and no-nonsense approach, Bapela recently shed light on the pitfalls of joining untrustworthy acting agencies and overpriced workshops.

According to Bapela, a professional and reputable acting agency will never charge aspiring actors a joining fee. He explained that genuine agencies operate on a business model that invests in the talents they represent.

“A hardworking professional actor’s agency will never want you to pay a joining fee because they know they are going to make a lot of money with you,” Bapela stated.

This highlights the confidence that established agencies have in their actors’ abilities to land roles. Such agencies focus on nurturing talent, providing resources, and connecting actors with industry opportunities. They only earn a commission once their clients succeed, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship.

On the flip side, Bapela warns against “lazy agents” who demand upfront fees from aspiring actors. These agents, he says, lack the network, resources, or confidence to secure roles for their clients.

“Lazy agents will always want people to pay money to join their agency because they are not sure if they will make money or not,” he emphasized.

These agencies often entice actors with promises of stardom, only to leave them disappointed. Many actors find themselves paying to be listed in a database without ever landing substantial roles. At best, they are cast as extras in shows, a far cry from the lead or supporting roles they aspire to achieve.

On the other note, Bapela also supports recent criticisms of short-term workshops, such as the ones mentioned by a former Uzalo actor. He agrees that many of these workshops are exploitative, offering little value to participants while charging exorbitant fees.

“These 3-day workshops don’t make you a professional actor. They only make you poorer,” Bapela noted. While some workshops may provide basic insights into the industry, they often fail to deliver the in-depth training and mentorship necessary for sustained success. Instead, Bapela encourages actors to invest their time and money in reputable institutions or agencies that provide ongoing support and opportunities.

Through Mehlareng Actors and Performers Agency, Bapela is working to set a higher standard in the acting industry. His agency is built on the principles of transparency, professionalism, and a commitment to nurturing talent. By rejecting joining fees and focusing on meaningful opportunities for actors, Mehlareng aims to reshape the narrative and empower performers.

For aspiring actors, Bapela’s advice is clear: research agencies thoroughly, avoid paying unnecessary fees, and seek out representation that believes in your potential. With the right support, hard work, and dedication, success is attainable in the competitive world of acting.

In an industry filled with pitfalls, Bapela stands as a voice of reason, advocating for fair practices and genuine opportunities for South Africa’s aspiring stars.