Lola Williams

Organisation: New Wonder Management
Training: BA (hons) in theatre arts; MBA
CV: Worked as radio presenter and journalist in Nigeria; stage and TV actor for 10 years; established New Wonder Management in 2014

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What was your first encounter with theatre?

Going to see Cinderella in Manchester with my parents when I was five. I decided that I wanted to work in the theatre, although I had no idea what jobs might be available to me.

What was your first job in theatre?

The role of Tite in After Mrs Rochester in Leatherhead in 2006.

Did you always want to be an agent?

No, but I always knew I wanted to work in the theatre industry. I really enjoy looking after and managing people so the agency combines the two passions. Every time one of my actors lands a role it gives me much fulfilment.

What is a typical day?

You’re never really off-duty. The first thing I do is check the castings on Spotlight for anything I can put my clients up for. I spend a lot of time talking to actors and casting directors on the phone, emailing and in meetings on Skype. When I’m not at my desk, I’m networking at receptions, launches and award ceremonies – important for an agent. It’s all-consuming but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What is a common misconception about being an agent?

Many people don’t give agents enough credit for the hours and effort they put in, mostly for little return. I have regular catch-ups with all my clients, looking at what they’ve done and setting goals for the future.

What’s the hardest thing about your job?

Seeing actors who are very talented and working hard being neglected by casting director. It’s a fact of life that the bigger, well known agencies are more on their radar, so you have to work twice as hard to break down that barrier. Every good actor deserves a break.

What’s the most rewarding thing about your job?

That’s easy, telling an actor he or she has just landed a role. It makes it all worthwhile.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to become an agent?

You need to be in it for the long haul. Being successful won’t happen overnight. You need a genuine passion for actors and acting, and to want to be part of someone else’s success. Confidence, self-assurance and resilience are key qualities. You also need to understand how the industry works, which comes with experience and learning from others.

Find out more about jobs in theatre

Look for work on The Stage Jobs