12 Questions with Bob Schroeder, Senior Agent, Aria Talent

Rachael: What's your sign?
Bob: Sagittarius.

How did you fall into this wacky business?
A friend from college was interning at Jane Brody Casting. She asked if I would come in and "run the lobby" for an audition, because they were short staffed. I worked the full day and never left.

What is something about your job as an agent that would shock actors?
Agents work very hard. We work to prepare our Actors, promote our Actors, even push our Actors and not everybody gets to audition for every project. Casting Directors make the final schedule for auditions not the agent.

As an agent, what is your biggest pet peeve?
Insecure Talent. You chose this business, own it.

What is one piece of advice you would give an actor right out of college?
Get a job! If the actor has decided to live and work in Chicago... Don't worry about finding an agent right away, you are most likely not ready for one. Do your work and research Chicago Theatre. Audition for small storefront theatre and work your way up. Eventually you will be cast. Chicago agents see theatre and we will find YOU.

What makes for a great day at work?
A great day at work is one when actors are on time, prepared and where they are supposed to be, Casting Directors are happy, clients are happy.

What can make your day suck?
Missing actors, late clients ... I really could go on and on... call me Friday at 4:30pm.

What is your favorite aspect of working with actors?
I LOVE PEOPLE! MOST actors are people.

What are you reading right now?
90 pages left of THE MAGICIAN'S ASSISTANT, Ann Patchett

What's the tackiest thing you own?
I don't believe I own anything tacky. Currently purging old things for the new year.

If you weren't an agent, what would you be?
A therapist...oh wait...

What is your favorite junk food?
Lays Potato Chips; you can't eat just one.