You want to sell your production. An impresario agency or a theatre bureau has contacts with programmers, and can help you with the budgets, contracts, etc. It works as an intermediairy between you and the theatres. An agency wants you if they believe that you are potentially a successful theatre maker.

Good agencies are regularly asked to represent (dance) companies; most of those who ask will not be taken on. So it’s not much use sending in unsolicited material, and don’t expect any miracles from an unannounced phone call. Make sure your work or company 'fits in' with the agency you contact.

Which agency?
Every agency has its own atmosphere and speciality. One agency may specialize in children’s theatre, another in dance, cabaret or productions for small venues. It can be to your advantage if an agency represents the kind of companies you feel akin to. Ask your more experienced colleagues and look at the websites of various agencies.

How do you get in?
Use your network: personal contacts and ‘references’ from people with artistic standing in the circuit. For instance, ask an enthusiastic theatre programmer or director for advice or for an introduction. You can also try and call to make an appointment.

Presenting yourself
Make sure you supply clear, neat and complete information. Send it with a clear sort letter and ask for an appointment. If you are appearing in a production, send an invitation along.
A video from a successful performance and positive reviews also help. Include information about previous productions and plans for the future: what productions are you going to make, with whom, where do you want to be programmed and what still has to be done to complete the projects?

And finally
Impresario agencies can do all kinds of jobs for you. You agree together on which tasks, and for what price.
Inclusion in an agency’s ‘flock’ doesn’t only come from successes already achieved or good presentation. It also has to click on a personal level. Mutual trust and enthusiasm are essential for successful collaboration.