The Big Break/Central District/Thurs Dec 16/2 pm: In early November, a 17-year-old girl came across a flyer at her school (Rainier Beach High School) for a modeling and dance audition by a "nationally recognized" entertainment agency. All she needed was $20, a bathing suit, and some talent, and she'd be on her way to dancing in a Hype Williams music video. With stars in her eyes and a pounding in her heart, the girl went with her cousin to the audition on November 6, which was held at Yesler Terrace Community Center. Five other girls showed up for the audition, and after performing a short dance routine -- which was videotaped -- and being photographed, the 17-year-old signed a contract that she didn't read or request a copy of.
In late November, the girl received a call from the "talent agent," and was informed that "she was highly rated by the judges." The agent then asked the girl if she was "comfortable with her body," stating that he worked with nude magazines sold in penitentiaries. He wanted her fine body to be on the cover of the very next issue. (This offer did not impress the girl as her "big break.") He then mentioned -- noting her disinterest in being the dream girl for thousands of hardened criminals across America -- that he "dated women for money." (This still did not impress her.) Finally he asked if she was interested in a job that required her to wear negligées. The 17-year-old girl said that she was not interested in any of his shady offers. She wanted to dance in a music video -- that's all!
On December 16, the girl received the call she had been waiting for: The "talent agent" said there was a part for her in a music video that would "air on MTV, VH1, and BET!" But when asked for the name of the artist behind this major music video, the talent scout became vague. (He's a busy man... can't keep track of all of the names in this business... do you want the job or not?) At this point the girl's mother stepped in: She was suspicious of this "talent agent" who couldn't name the artist, and so informed the police of his dubious practices.
