How do I send unsolicited scripts to literary agents?
Most agencies are similar to literary managers in that they will consider unsolicited work. Unlike literary managers, agents generally do not have the help of a pool of readers and have to read work when they have time off. In addition, clients' work always has to take priority and therefore entirely unsolicited scripts are always the lowest priority.
An agency can receive 200 - 1000 unsolicited scripts a year. Only a very small proportion of writers are immediately signed up in this way. One agent has done this about 5 times in last 25 years. However, it is not always pointless to send your work unsolicited to an agent, but do not expect immediate results.
If they read something and like it they may write and invite the writer to come and meet them, they may ask them to send their next play or to be invited to any performance. Some agents operate a kind of provisional client system, i.e.. they will keep in contact with the writer, give advice, in some cases negotiate a contract as a one-off before making a firm commitment.
Most agents say they carry on reading work unsolicited in the faith that something wonderful will one day just come through the post - but it is also one of the simplest ways of keeping up-to-date with what material is around.
Guidelines for sending unsolicited script to an agent:
Do:
1. Ensure that you're sending material in the right form. Very few agents will consider just "ideas" or scenarios, particularly for stage plays. Screen treatments may be acceptable but always confirm this. In any case it may be better to write with a CV first. See the Information on Agents page to find specifics.
2. Ensure that the script is properly bound, double-spaced and typed on one side of numbered pages.
3. Enclose a covering letter giving a brief synopsis of the piece, and details of its style and aims. Give information of any previous professional productions of this or any other of your work.
4. Enclose an SASE, plus a stamped, self-addressed postcard to confirm receipt of the script.
5. If you have received no reply after 3 months, write again or call for any news of the script's progress.
Do not:
1. Send a circular letter. You should always have a reason why you want that particular agent to represent your work.
2. Attempt to talk-up the play in the letter: "a hilarious, side-splitting comedy which I know you will love etc..."
3. Attempt to see the agent personally. "Pitching" is after all the agent's job and is not appreciated coming from a writer. However, the agent may want to see you - the personality of the writer is often seen as an important way of deciding whether to accept him or her as a client.
4. Badger the agent constantly for a reply. If they consider the work of interest they will contact you ...eventually.
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