New York is one of the two biggest entertainment markets in the country, home to Broadway, major TV and streaming productions, national commercials, and the fashion industry. Actors Models Wanted helps talent of all ages across New York, from first timers to experienced performers. Fill out the form below and our team will reach out about opportunities near you.
Key takeaways
- New York City is a top market for theater, TV, film, commercials, print, and fashion modeling.
- Many New York productions cast through agents and casting offices based in Manhattan.
- Upstate and Long Island also host film shoots, regional theater, and commercial work.
- Legitimate agents and casting calls never charge you to audition or to be represented.
Acting and modeling work in New York
New York offers a film and television production tax credit that keeps a steady flow of series, films, and commercials shooting in the state. New York City is also a global fashion capital, with major modeling agencies, showrooms, and Fashion Week.
- Broadway, Off Broadway, and regional theater
- Network TV, streaming series, and feature films
- National commercials and print advertising
- Fashion, editorial, showroom, and fit modeling
- Voice over, industrials, and background work
Top cities for auditions in New York
- New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens)
- Long Island
- Westchester and the Hudson Valley
- Albany
- Buffalo and Rochester
Where to find legitimate auditions in New York
- Licensed talent agencies: the main route to paid commercial, film, and TV auditions. Talent agencies in New York must be licensed, and many are franchised by SAG-AFTRA for union work.
- Background casting companies: productions shooting in New York hire local extras. Start with our guide on becoming a background actor.
- Theater companies and universities: community and regional theaters hold open auditions, and film students need actors for projects.
- Established casting websites: see where real casting calls are posted in how to find legitimate acting auditions.
- New York film office: the state film office promotes production in New York and is a good place to learn which projects are shooting.
How to get started in New York
- Take a local acting or on camera class to build skills and resume credits. New to all of this? Read how to get into acting with no experience.
- Get a current headshot and build a one page acting resume.
- Set up a simple home studio for self tape auditions.
- Submit to licensed agencies that represent your type. See how to get a talent agent.
- Audition consistently and keep training.
Kids and teens in New York
New York requires child performers to have a child performer permit before working, and earnings rules protect part of a minor’s pay. Check the New York State Department of Labor for current requirements. Parents should also read our parent’s guide to child acting and modeling.
Avoid casting scams in New York
Be wary of anyone who asks for upfront fees, pushes expensive photo packages, or promises guaranteed work. Review the 12 red flags before you sign or pay anything.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to live in New York City to audition?
Not always. Self tapes let you audition from anywhere, but in person callbacks and theater auditions are often in Manhattan.
Are there open calls for Broadway?
Yes. Actors’ Equity and individual productions hold open and chorus calls. Watch official announcements and never pay to attend.
Is New York good for modeling?
Yes. New York is one of the top fashion and commercial modeling markets in the world.
Can Actors Models Wanted help me find auditions in New York?
Yes. Fill out the form on this page or call (234) 525-2251 and our team will reach out at the time you choose.
Looking in another state? Browse acting and modeling auditions by state or sign up free.
Written by the Actors Models Wanted editorial team. Last updated October 2026.