Tough Q's & A's for Christian Performers

Q: Do models have to wear revealing clothes?

A: No. Decide your comfort level and rules before signing with an agency. If you are offered a contract, let your agent know your values in a friendly and non-confrontational way. Ex: “I’m so thankful to be a model for Next, and I promise I will always be professional and positive. I would prefer not to model lingerie or extremely sexy clothing. Is that OK?”

To define “revealing”: lingerie, see through clothing, partial nudity, nudity.

What most models will have to wear: Skirts without leggings, two piece swimsuits, fitted clothing. Why? You are modeling different seasons. Teens & adults carry model bags. It is smart to have under garments in good taste. Nude, white & black fitted boyshorts, varied bras and slips. These help keep modesty while not hindering the clothing being modeled.

Agents at the caliber invited to AMTC are respectful of young teens & teens. They will be your advocate to help guide you through the Industry. Once the above things are established- parents need to put trust in their representation.

Q What if I find myself in a situation where a photographer asks me to do something or wear something I’m not comfortable with… and it’s a big job?

A So that you don’t disturb the professionalism of a set or seem to be ‘difficult,’ how you handle a situation like this is important. It’s absolutely OK and accepted to excuse yourself (to the bathroom for instance) and call your agent. Your agent will talk to the client for you, while you remain pleasant, positive, and calm.

Q What if I find myself on a set or in a situation with intoxicated people, drugs, or the wrong kind of partying?

A Call your agent and leave. Better yet, know where you are going and who you will be with before you go. A professional agency will never knowingly put you in such a situation.

Q Is it OK to share my faith with others I meet on set?

A God will tell you when, how and what is appropriate. Remember this: witnessing by love and example is always most appreciated in the world & this industry. Your actions will speak louder than your words. Sometimes, you have to open a relationship by speaking of common interests, like Jesus did with the “woman at the well.”

Q What if I am asked to curse for a script, audition, or job?

A. Talk to God when you are presented with a role that calls for cursing. Jesus said He forgives us—even when we curse Him. That being said, each Christian in the entertainment industry will have his own peace and his own path from God. Some are deeply undercover (like Esther); some are known to be Christians, but don’t talk about it on the job (like Daniel); some are bold (like Paul). Take comfort in knowing that even Jesus was careful to whom He revealed His true identity. All Christ followers who are fully or partially undercover will have a time and place to speak openly of their faith.

Q What if I am asked to kiss someone passionately for a scene?

A See the answer about cursing. However, never compromise your values to win a role. God will surely allow you to be presented with good roles and wrong roles. Pray to Him. Listen to the Holy Spirit. Look for peace.

Special note from Michael McClendon, AMTC’s Head Acting Coach: “Both the question about “kissing passionately” and “leaving my child” definitely apply to non-union shoots. However on union shoots, these issues (and many more) are covered by the Screen Actor’s Guild. SAG requires that an agent notify actors of nudity, excessively rough language, out-of-country travel, scenes of a sexual nature and many, many more circumstances before you even audition! Similarly, SAG has unbending rules about minors (under 16) and the hours they can work and how close their guardian is REQUIRED to remain at all times; also there are rules for legal minors (under 21).

Q What is a parent’s role with a teen or child? Do I have to leave him or her?

A A parent or guardian should always accompany a child or teen on jobs, trips, or sets. The only exception might be for an older teen who is unusually mature, tested, grounded in faith, and well-traveled. That being said, a parent should introduce themselves & then must stay in the background, (for teens) go and get a coffee, stay in the waiting room and never ever offer opinions unless asked. You’re only a few feet and a phone call away. Your role includes transportation, encouragement, and making sure your child is eating well, sleeping well, and showing good choices. Positive families are instrumental to the success of any performer-even adults.

Q What if I, as a parent, do not agree with the way my child is styled (makeup, hair, clothing) on a shoot? What if I know that he or she looks better a different way?

A Say nothing. Your opinion is of no consequence, and you can harm your child or teen’s career by being assertive or appearing pushy. If it is a weird or funky outfit, a mohawk, crazy makeup- anything artistic that you do not understand- you must not provide any opinion.

If (& only if) your child or teen is presented with apparel that is provocative, see the answer above and always call your agent before approaching the client.

Q How can I be sure I or my child remain grounded in faith and not corrupted by a narcissistic world?

A Stay in the Word of God. Seek a good church, wise and faith-filled advisors, and fellowship. Jesus sent us out into the world, but He will never leave us or forsake us. We are meant to be His light in a dark and vast kingdom. Lives are at stake. The entertainment industry is the most influential mission field in the world.

Q What if I or my child is surrounded by differing beliefs, wild people, or prodigals?

A Jesus chose to eat with sinners, tax collectors, and prostitutes. In truth, many became His most fervent disciples. We must enter the entertainment industry not judging, never condemning, and always exampling humility, service, excellence, and compassion. Only then can we present a church that those on the outside would want to join. Only then can we be the best ambassadors of Christ.