The platform aims to cut out fees to intermediaries which exist between talent and their managers and the end client who is engaging the talent.
The acta app has been founded by Harris Meitanis, also the owner and managing director of A.P.E Events & Entertainment.
“The Australian events and entertainment industry is worth $4.4 billion, and unfortunately that attracts a lot of people wanting to make a quick buck without adding any real value,” said Meitanis.
“If you search for LeBron James or Bruno Mars’ representatives online, you’ll encounter hundreds of people claiming to be their agent or manager, but none of them are.
“Their real agents appear on the 7th and 11th pages of a Google search!
“The same issue arises when trying to book Australian talent like Jimmy Barnes, Samantha Jade, Hamish & Andy, David Campbell or Julia Morris.
“This confusion not only wastes time, but it also results in costs blowing out for talent bookers, and reduced fees for talent.”
“These intermediaries also add a complicated layer that often leads to mistakes arising from miscommunication.
“These intermediaries are more focused on securing their fees rather than ensuring a smooth talent performance execution – of which, they are never a part of.”
The platform, which has been in beta mode since 2022, has support from the likes of Paul Dainty AM and Brad Drummond, major promotor TEG Dainty’s president and head of comedy and speakers respectively, Shaun Levin, chair of Profile Talent Management, Seb and Adrian Bohm of promoter Bohm Presents and Rob Frank of Verve Creative and Cheeky Food Group.
More than 2,500 entertainers and talent are currently available via the platform, including 650 unrepresented Australian talent.
Talent that can be booked via the platform includes Kate Ceberano, Casey Donovan, Vanessa Amarosi, Jamie Durie, Paul McDermott and Manu Fidel.
