Actinglikeakid

taking a break

2006-03-11T21:30:00.000-08:00

We officially told my son's agent that he was taking a break. We're in the midst of buyin a house and my workload has increased like crazy. She was very sweet, said call when the situation changes. We're hoping his theatrical agent - at same agency - will keep him on. Anyone have experience with that?

Great audition advice for young actors

2006-02-21T12:27:00.000-08:00

GREAT STUFF -HAD TO PASS IT ON!!!
How to Perform a Perfect Audition, Part 1by Ruth Kulerman
A reader recently asked, "I have a huge audition coming up and I'mterrified about messing it up. What can I do to prepare? I want toknock their socks off!"What lies behind a great, wonderful, fabulous audition is first andforemost hard work. You can't always control the casting people butyou can always control your own journey to an A+ audition. Let's assume you've had excellent acting classes and maybe evensome professional experience. So your acting ability is honed andready. But I emphasize that what follows is for both newcomers andold-timers to the audition world. Auditioning is a technique that can and must be learned--unless youwere born knowing how to walk in and take over an audition room. Afabulous audition begins with preparation of material andpreparation of self and culminates in presentation of material andpresentation of self, plus a graceful exit. Preparation /Presentation / Plus. Simple? Hardly! PREPARATION OF MATERIAL (For both a monologue or sides)Preparation is grub homework research and includes hitting theInternet to learn about the production company, the director, thewriter, reviews of the work you are auditioning for (if available)and reading the entire script if it's available. If possible, placethe setting historically. For example, if the setting is the 1950sthen research the 50s. These searches are essential, even for anold familiar monologue. (Redo your research although you may havedone the monologue 20 times.) Learn as much as you can about the people holding the audition. Ifit's an open call, research the company's season and see what rolesyou're right for. Fit your monologue to their season. One of my students researched a theatre company she was auditioningfor, discovered a picture of their artistic director on theirwebsite and at the audition, as the actor approached the auditiontable she said (charmingly), "You are ABC, the artistic director. Isaw your picture on the website." That comment opened aconversation. It also demonstrated the actor's interest,imagination, and ingenuity. Just knowing your monologue or linesdoes not give you the needed edge. RESEARCH does.About memorizing. Know your monologue so well that your tongue cango on automatic pilot even if your brain crashes. I remember onceauditioning with a Shakespeare monologue I had used several years,taken from a play I had performed several times. I had coached therole and the monologue both in New York and in London. I KNEW IT.IT WAS MINE! At this particular audition I get to the final twolines (a couplet) and poof--they evaporated. Memory glitch. Tonguedies. Brain heads for Jupiter, maybe Pluto. Embarrassment. Totalflop. Graceless exit. A scullery maid, not a duchess. Humiliation.No, I did not get the role. "What! She can't even remember acouplet!!" How to avoid that situation? For a couple of days beforeeach monologue audition, review it as if it were new. Preparationof material! A lesson learned the hard way!However, if you have sides, do not try to memorize them unless itis a very short scene, where you only have a dozen words. You wantyour entire focus on your acting, not on trying to remember thelines or getting flustered because you dropped a phrase. Instead ofmemorizing the sides, work on the sides. Preparation -- a major way to build confidence. Walk in with yourmaterial prepared and the project and people researched.PREPARATION OF SELFOur attitude about ourselves is a performer's never-ending battle.Neither wise guy nor wimp. Neither a cocky know-it-all nor a shy,poor me, shrinking violet. While I personally find pleasantblandness boring, many audition committees prefer it to a hurricaneof personality. It's a tough decision for an actor. The casting people are not only looking for talent, but also forpeople who can and will take direction and who can and willcontribute to a comfortable workplace. Creating a pleasantself-confidence in the personal persona and imaginative, energeticintelligence in the performing persona -- that's probably the bestroute. Exception: If you are one of those truly rare creatures -- a greatactor -- you will find your own way. But do NOT take the word ofyour friends, family, or teachers about how great you are. You willfeel it deep in your being and your audiences filled with strangerswill let you know. But if you are a good (not great) actor then youmust brush up on your audition manners and persona. As you examine your feelings about yourself as an actor, betruthful in your self-analysis. What are your weaknesses--Shorttemper? Fear? Concern about talent? Depression? Nasty attitudetoward others? Defensiveness? Negative comparisons? Each one ofthese could damage an audition. I urge you to address your own weaknesses in an article you writeto yourself. Writing forces you to search for the precise words andthat search forces you to think clearly. Be truthful. Then use yourintelligence to solve those problems. Are you an actor whoseself-image/behavior/impression are keeping you from success? Whoseself-doubt creates doubt in those who hear your audition? Whosearrogance creates annoyance?Talent is important but it's seldom the major consideration incasting a role. Ask people who have acted as readers duringauditions. Ask anyone who has sat behind an audition table. Moreimportant than talent is presence, poise, confidence--not arrogantconfidence, but confidence that quietly exudes "I am professional,I am reliable, I do not require high maintenance, I know my job andI can do it beautifully." We who audition walk a fine line between arrogance and confidence.The first will skunk you. The second will go a long way towardcasting you. Develop an inner quality of quiet self-belief. Nothingis a bigger turnoff than arrogance. Nothing is a bigger turnoffthan "Poor me. I'm such a sweet little shrinking violet. Pleeeasecast me." And the biggest turnoff of all is lack of preparationboth of self and material.Your first and most powerful impression occurs as you open the doorto the audition room. Practice entering the room. It's good if youcan work with another actor. If not, then consider a coachingsession with someone who knows what they're talking about. Thatfirst split second impression is vital. They take in your posture,your face, your clothes, your hair, your energy, the way you walk,your general sense of yourself. It's all there, hitting them consciously or subconsciously. I oncehad a mock audition session with a talented handsome young actorwho had no idea that as he approached the audition table he walkedlike a bowlegged cowboy. In real life he was neither bowlegged nora cowboy. Would you cast a bowlegged cowboy as Hamlet? Teachyourself to smile openly (include the eyes), enunciate your nameclearly, dress appropriately. Remember, an overall impression ismade before you open your mouth. An audition is a sales event and the product you are selling isyour entire performing persona, not merely your talent. Preparationof SELF is as important as preparation of MATERIAL. I have had theopportunity to perform with some "names" and every one of them --yes, every one -- had that inner quality of poise and presence.With one exception they were also gracious, pleasant, professional.Put them in a crowd and merely from their inner energy you can tellthey are stars. Develop that energy. Go to every audition and open call you can in order to practiceyour auditioning techniques. Actors in an open call line often say,"This is a waste of time. Everything's already cast." Maybe so. Butif you learn HOW TO AUDITION from going to these open calls, thenyou will be ready when the "real" opportunities come. PREPARATION OF MATERIAL / PREPARATION OF SELF. These are thefoundations for a fabulous audition. Next week we'll look at PRESENTATION OF MATERIAL and PRESENTATIONOF SELF in the audition arena. Just remember all those P's:Preparation, Presentation, Presence, and Poise. These will carryyou as far or farther than talent alone. (And don't walk like acowboy! Unless that's the role you want.)Curious if you have what it takes to be a successful actor, checkout our new book, "Becoming a Successful Actor," here:http://www.actortips.com/products/acting_book_desc.htm

Gary Austin founder of Groundlings?

2006-02-20T23:32:00.000-08:00

My young actor is very into his music right now, practicing guitar everyday and wanting to be a better singer. He's taking kungfu, preparing to shoot a movie he and his bestfriend are writing but not studying acting right now at all.
A good thing too, those acting classes are pricey and with the guitar and kungfu already, that's about all we can do right now.
He did take a great workshop with Gary Austin a few weeks ago. He said it was amazing. Interesting too because Gary feels the kids can work with the adults and has no problems with that. Some of the material can be a bit sophisticated; you have to know your child.
you can catch Gary's classes in NY and San Francisco, other places too I think. Check him out online at
Garyaustin.net.

We want to see the movie!

2006-02-05T22:25:00.000-08:00

When, oh when will we get to see White Picket Fence?! Russell can hardly wait to see it and of course neither can we. In the meantime he's waiting to get his braces on, had his oral surgery last week where they exposed the second tooth growing horizontally in his upper palate! Had the same thing when i was a kid - it wasn't discovered til I was 20. Didn't my parents ever take me to the dentist? He goes every 6months!!!

Is Your Acting Kid Missing some Coogan Money?

2006-01-17T17:51:00.000-08:00

Check this out from www.bizparentz.com
Searching for a New Years Resolution you can still keep???We've got one for you. Let's resolve to make a HUGE dent in the growing list of child actors who have money at The Actors' Fund - in the Unclaimed Coogan list.There are now over 1,500 names there. Those names represent child actors who had earnings withheld for Coogan, but those earnings were never deposited into their Coogan account. Now those funds have been transferred to The Actors' Fund, who is holding them in trust for the child.You can find a lot of information regarding the laws and a listof names at www.unclaimedcoogan.org. The names are under the beneficiary tab.We've also cut and pasted all of the names into one big long list... which is on the website (www.BizParentz.com).Wouldn't it be nice to watch the list get smaller and know that the money got back to the child actor who earned it?You can help by reviewing the list for your child's name - review it for any familiar names - and talk about it to others you know in the industry. There are so many BizParentz subscribers - surely we can find some of these families!Anne & Paula P.S. And a friendly reminder - tax time is a good time to verify that you've gotten deposits for all of the Coogan withholdings you had last year!.

Upcoming tv shows for pilot season 2006

2006-01-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

INfo from Actorsite:

NOW IS THE TIME TO BE ENCOURAGED TO BE MOTIVATED, because theACTIONS YOU TAKE TODAY DETERMINE YOUR SUCCESS THIS PILOTSEASON.
Here's the list:BECOMING GLEN---FOX
THE BOGEYMAN---NBC
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS---NBC
GAY ROBOT---COMEDY CENTRAL
HEROES---NBC
MO'S HOUSE---ABC
NINE LIVES---ABC
SEX, POWER, LOVE, AND POLITICS---CBS
TRAP TEAM---NBC
UNTITLED BASKETBALL PROJECT---HBO
UNTITLED BUZZ BISSINGER PROJECT---CBS
UNTITLED ZACH HELM PROJECT---FOX
WORST WEEK OF MY LIFE---FOX
AMERICAN CRIME---FOX
THE ASSISTANT---FOX
BUST---FOX
CRISIS---FOX
CORONADO PD: SERIES ALREADY GREENLIT FOR SYNDICATION
HAPPY HOUR---FOX
IN PLAIN SIGHT---NBC
JERICHO---CBS
MIA AND EVERYONE ELSE---CBS
MIDNIGHTERS---WB
NINE LIVES---ABC
PATHS TO FREEDOM---FOX
PEN AND THE SWORD---NBC
PRETTY LITTLE LIARS---WB
REVISION---FOX
SUSPECT BEHAVIOR---CBS
UNTITLED BILL BURR PROJECT---FOX
UNTITLED DAISY MAYER PROJECT---UPN
UNTITLED DANNY COMDEN PROJECT---ABC
UNTITLED LEGAL COMEDY---NBC
UNTITLED LOU BERNEY PROJECT---FOX
UNTITLED MARIN/ROSENSZWEIG PROJECT---CBS
UNTITLED RUTH REICHL PROJECT---HBO
WACKO---FOX
WAREHOUSE 13---SCI FI
UNTITLED MILLER/GOUGH---WB
BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE---ABC FAMILY
THE INITIATION OF SARAH---ABC FAMILY
UNTITLED DAVID ARQUETTE PROJECT---ABC
SPECIAL UNIT---COMEDY CENTRAL
UNTITLED CHRIS KENNEDY PROJECT---FOX
THE STARTER WIFE---NBC (MINI)
HIM AND US---ABC
THE KICK---NBC
GRAND UNION---NBC
THE CLASS--CBS
FIRED---ABC
KILL SWITCH---ABC
OPS---FOX
STUDIO 7 ON THE SUNSET STRIP---NBC
THE ADVENTURES OF BIG HANDSOME GUY AND HIS LITTLE FRIEND-FOX

THERE IT IS...NOW GET BUSY GETTING READY FOR A SUCCESSFULPILOT SEASON!
Actorsite is about the WORK!TO JOIN: http://www.actorsite.com/cgi-bin/ppsignup.plOr, take the tour: http://actorsite.com/tour/===================DROP OFFS WORK!===================THe first DROPS of the year. We hit the PILOT CASTING OFFICESplus the BUSY COMMERCIAL OFFICES!One of our members who hadn't been out in three months had THREE auditions in the week after our last drops! Good for him.How did you do?Next deadline: JANUARY 21, 2006http://www.actorsite.com/freepages/dropoffs.html

Where to live as an actor - from Chad Gracia's site

2005-12-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

2. Where You Need to Live as an Actor"Mr. Gracia: I hate large cities. Is it possible to become aworking actor without moving to New York or Los Angeles? I wouldn'tmind staying as long as needed but I don't want to actually live ina city. - Palin"Palin: If your goal is simply to act, then any city in the worldwith a local theater will do fine. However, if your goal is to earnmoney as an actor, then you'll need to move to a "big" city.However, not all cities are as huge and overwhelming as New York,so you do have some options. Matthew Maher (who has worked extensively in theater and film inNew York and Los Angeles) explains: "An acting career -- aside fromthe art -- is about developing relationships: with casting agents,directors, writers, other actors. You can't really do this over thephone or online. "You you are selling your essence, your personality, your skill --which can only be appreciated in person. True, you could send in avideotape if you were auditioning for some movies, but for moviesyou would need an agent to submit your videotape, and your agentwould need to meet you in person, and have you available for inperson auditions. "You can go on dozens of auditions before getting a single job, andmany of these auditions you would find out about the day before.Maybe you're the best person for the job, but why would they gothrough the trouble when there are hundreds of people who could beas good, but are here. I could go on, but I'll stop and just say:you can't start a NY or LA acting career without being here. No way."But there are many towns, including Minneapolis, Seattle, andespecially Chicago which aren't as hectic and have opportunities,mostly in theater (Chicago is a great theater town, with nearbycountryside to escape to). For a film career, you can't escape NYor LA, but have you been to LA? It doesn't feel like a city in mostparts. There isn't really an urban center like in NY. It's like asprawling suburb, with many beautiful peaceful places to live. Youshould visit it before writing it off." Miami and Orlando also have lots of opportunities for commercialwork. If you enjoyed these tips, you can find hundreds more in our books,videos and CDs. You can see them all here:http://www.actortips.com/acting_supplies.htm----------------------------------------------------------MORE ON ACTING SALARIESI got this from a reader, and thought I'd share it:Chad: I just thought I'd add a bit that wasn't covered in yourarticle. Regional theatre is very important to add to the mixbecause that's where the bulk of working actors are and that'swhere most stage actorsget their start. Regional theatre usually starts at $250 a week but once you'veworked for a couple years you shouldn't settle for less that $350 aweek. A regional actor rarely makes more than that unless they havean equity contract. Equity interns usually make only $85 a week and rarely even getonstage. But they get an equity card from it. I usually adviseagainst that because it's already hard to get work, and nearimpossible if you're Equity these days.I hope you'll include regional theatre in the mix in the future.All acting isn't done in New York, after all.- MichelleNOTE: Regional theater is generally cast in New York and LA, orother big cities. If you need mailing labels for casting directorswho cast for regional theater, or for regional theaters themselves,you can find them here:http://www.actortips.com/products/labels.htm----------------------------------------------------------TEMPORARY JOBS FOR NEW YORK ACTORSHi Chad,I work as a recruiter for a very actor friendly temporary servicecalled Asset Staffing. Some of the positions we staff for areadministrative assistants, receptionists, and back office support.Candidates skilled in Microsoft office and looking for work in thegreater NYC area are encouraged to email or fax their resumes. Hereis Asset Staffing's contact info:Asset Staffing, Inc.14 Wall Street, 16th fl.New York, NY 10005212-430-1061 (fax)jobs@assetstaffing.comRegards,Dawn Schmidt, Recruiter

Check out Musicaltheatreaudition.com

2005-12-27T21:26:00.000-08:00

This is a pretty nice website and blog link someone sent me. Great info for all you actor types and your parents too.

Casting notice from Childreninfilm.com

2005-12-03T16:14:00.000-08:00

Children in Film supports the film industry by passing along important information for parents.Casting Call NoticeLooking for a Latin female, 12-14 years old.
Project:
Feature Film
Audition Date:
SAN DIEGO Tuesday and Wednesday, December 6 and 7, 20052:00 – 6:00 p.m.
To Audition:
Call or email if your child fits the casting description:Iris Hampton, Casting DirectorHampton Shannon Casting(619) 582-4632hamptoncasting@aol.com
Start Date:
January 9, 2006
Location:
Los Angeles/ Philadelphia
Talent Description:
LATIN FEMALE – 12 TO A SMALL 14 YEAR OLD. Anna is at an awkward age and can be a little off physically, weather she is too thin or too heavy. She wears funny clothes that are much too young for her age. This outcast and sufferer of Asperger’s Syndrome finds comfort in small things – her favorite “Beauty and the Beast” sweatshirt, her 80’s/90’s pop music that she shares with her friend Ted, and her solitude. More than anything though, it’s “Beauty and the Beast” that captures her heart and mind. She’s an expert on any and all facts relating to the film and the music in the film. Much to her disappointment, her friend Ted suddenly starts acting very strangely and being mean to her out of the blue. By the end of it all they have reconciled and they band together to create a whole new kind of radio show. Must be a very strong actress with some acting experience. LEAD HUME STEVENS: CAST (VINCE VAUGHN)TUCSON JO: CAST (ELIZABETH BANKS)HIGGY: CAST (LUIS GUZMAN)
We are interested in your feedback on this newsletter. If you have comments to share please email us at Contact@childreninfilm.com

White Picket Fence - coming soon

2005-12-02T23:50:00.000-08:00

We got an email from the director of White Picket Fence today - thanking her talented group of actors (that includes my son) and letting us know there's going to be a cast and crew screening soon - probably january (OH OH - hope it doesn't conflict with my tickets for the Ellen Degeneres show!!!)
ANYWAY Russell is thrilled - he can't wait. And neither can I.

oliver

2005-11-26T00:09:00.000-08:00

Our friend just got the lead role in a church production of Oliver. His mom is thrilled. Lots of rehearsal Every Saturday morning from 9-12 and Sundays from 1-3, and more as the play gets closer. Rehearsals start inJanuary and the play goes on inMay. That's a lot of rehearsal but it shows - the plays are very well produced. It's quite a feather in this boy's hat. I'm a little disappointed because my son didn't even want to be in it! Maybe acitng isn't really in his blood anyway?

More colleges for actors

2005-11-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

For those of you older young actors, thinking about the future, here from Chad Gracia, some more colleges with great programs for actors.
1. University of WashingtonHey Chad, I read your list of undergraduate drama schools and wassurprised to not see the University of Washington listed. the UWSchool of Drama was ranked forth in the nation by U.S. News & WorldReport.Just a few of the faculty credentials include: Robyn Hunt who hasstudied and performed under Shogo Ohta, Kenji Suzuki and workedover a decade Tadashi Suzuki. Steven Pearson: a 10-year student ofTadashi Suzuki. Catherine Madden was a student of, and assistantto, fabled Alexander teacher Marjorie Barstow for nearly twentyyears. Thomas Lynch received his MFA from Yale and has previouslytaught at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts; Lynch's numerous awardsinclude Tony Nominations for The Music Man ('00), and WendyWasserstein's The Heidi Chronicles ('89).Admission to the major comes from completion of certain courses, noaudition is required, except for advanced level acting courses. TheUW Scool of Drama is extremely prestigious and I while Iunderstnad, it is impossible to list all fantastic theater schools,I thought it worth mentioning. -Alicia Crafffk

2. Northern Illinois UniversityChad, I was excited to see the list of the top 10 schools in thecountry you put together; however if you included Rutgers becausethey study abroad at the Globe theatre then you might as well haveincluded the theatre program at Northern Illinois University whichstudies a whole summer abroad in London and is very selective bothin the B.A. and the B.F.A. The BFA studies methods such as meisner and Stanislavski. Last yearJustin Mentell graduated with a BFA there and you can see him nowon Boston Legal as Garrett Wells. So i just wanted to mention that.-Felipe

3. Cornish College of the ArtsChad, Sadly, you didn't list Cornish College of the Arts inSeattle, Washington. Cornish is an extremely rigorous and demandingprogram that, like other top programs, requires a re-audition eachsemester until senior year. I have worked with actors from all overthe country, and the BFA students from Cornish rival theprofessionalism, technique, training, and creativity of both BFAand MFA graduates. Graduates are well prepared to enter the professional working worldor move into MFA programs, and they are schooled thoroughly in thebusiness of being an actor, as well as offering intensive coursesin creating original works, two aspects of the craft overlooked bymany other BFA programs. Seattle is a gorgeous, cosmopolitan,livable city that boasts several large, equity companies, as wellas many excellent professional non-equity houses.Yes, I'm an extremely proud graduate! So is Brendan Fraser. Thanksfor all your work! -Tavia Gilbert

Kid actors with braces

2005-11-19T22:50:00.000-08:00

My young actor has to get braces. He went to the oral surgeon the other day - they have to cut a window in the roof of his mouth to reveal the second tooth that's up there sidewise. They'll pull his baby tooth. Attach a chain to the 2nd tooth and slowly pull it down and into place. That's 6 mos and a thousand dollars before braces at 4800 even get put on!!!!
He needs new headshots because of his hair cut and his agent says to wait until his braces get on - but that won't be for months. On the plus side his agent isn't negative about the fact that he needs braces - some are.
Should we get pix done now or wait another 6 mos?

College forActors

2005-11-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

From Chad Gracia
Acting Tips, Articles, and Supplies
Issue #151

36,000+ subscribers.

In This Issue
1. Coupon Code AT151 - redeem it here http://www.actortips.com
2. Acting Article: Top Graduate Acting Programs in the US
3. Get More Auditions with Clear Headshot Envelopes
4. Parting Quote
5. Subscription / Copyright Information

----------------------------------------------------------
Personalized Actor Website - Free for 6 Weeks
If you don't have a website, you're missing out on one of the most
effective ways to market yourself as an actor. Click to discover
how you can get your own site live in minutes:
http://www.actortips.com/actor_login.php
----------------------------------------------------------
2. Top Graduate Acting Programs in the US
If you're serious about becoming a working actor, one path you may
want to take is graduate study. Many theater professionals have
perfected their skills in MFA drama programs. I've selected -- with
the help of my acting coaches -- some of the best in the United
States.
1. New York University
Each year, 18 actors (out of 900 auditions) are invited to join the
graduate acting program at NYU. The training is intensive, with
classes daily from 10am to 6pm, focusing on acting; voice, speech,
and text; and movement. Located in the heart of New York City, it
is the perfect place to make theater connections. And as Sean
Lewis, one of our coaches, pointed out, they have just added the
excellent Richard Feldman of Juilliard fame to their staff. Alumni
include Marcia Gay Harden (Mystic River) and Frank Wood (Tony
winner).
2. Yale - Connecticut
The graduate drama program at Yale focuses on preparing students
for the stage, although they have also turned out leading actors
and directors in film and television. Yale is one of the most
respected universities in the country, and actors who study here
have a huge head start when trying to get work.
3. Rutgers - New Jersey
The graduate drama program at Rutger's is one of the best. It is
headed by Israel Hicks (a current Tony nominee and "the man who
built Purchase and Temple's programs"). Many have also pointed out
that the school's Deborah Hedwall is one of the best acting
teachers around. Each year, the school showcases its students at
events in Los Angeles and New York.
4. USD/Old Globe - San Diego
The University of San Diego offers an MFA in Dramatic Arts in
collaboration with the world renown Old Globe theater. This
partnership makes one of the finest acting programs anywhere. Only
seven students are chosen each year, and they are given full
scholarships and stipends (worth more than $50,000/year). But most
important, students are given the chance to perform at the Old
Globe, one of America's finest regional theaters. Guest directors
have included Jack O'Brien, Daniel Sullivan, Nicholas Martin, John
Rando and Matthew August.
5. UC-San Diego
The University of California at San Diego offers a three-year
graduate acting program. Founded in 1974, the department has a
partnership with the famed La Jolla Playhouse (Tony Outstanding
Regional Theater,1993) where students are guaranteed a professional
residency. They also offer a PhD program in Theatre and Drama. Past
adjunct and visiting faculty include: Anne Bogart, Joesph Chaiken,
Robert Egan, Richard Forman, Andrei Serban, and Robert Woodruf.

From Actorsite

2005-10-30T17:08:00.000-08:00

=============================Assistants RUN this town!============================="I'm not going to see him, he's just an assistant."---overheard at an acting class.It's well known among the Hollywood Elite that you don'tever disrespect someone's assistant. That assistant is theeyes and ears of the POWER in Hollywood, and not only arethey the gatekeepers for that POWER, but they also are in theprocess of developing their own powerful careers.In the film "Swimming With Sharks" it's illustrated thatthe assistant to the President of Production at a studio soonbecomes the Vice President of Production at a new studio...it's atraining ground, and, unless you have a personal relationship with that assistant's boss, it's where the true power lies.Several of our Actorsite guests are agents at big A-Level agencies (To me, big is when they have 50 agents or more in their office) andwhen they come to visit, they know the names of our casting director guestswho many times are assistants and associates, and they have strongrelationships with them. They always want to say hi to our castingdirector guests, especially the assistants who have helped thembuild their careers. (Do a favor, get a favor)That personal knowledge of how to get their clients seen is wherethey generate their strong personal relationships that made themthe power brokers they are today. When they made the calls as anassistant, it was an "assistant to assistant" call and they woulddevelop those relationships one at a time.Remember, those agents were previously "assistant" agents and inthat capacity, they had to get their clients seen by dealing withthe casting assistants to get a new client seen. Assistant casting directors ALSO are moving up toAssociate and many can have their own projects within a few years,so the agent knows this and builds their own career by developinglong term relationships. As an actor, you can too!Since they develop those relationships, they KNOW where the poweris and use it to move up in the world.As an ambitious actor, YOU can also use that knowledge to developrelationships with the assistants and associates that are busybuilding their own careers. Since I've been around for a couple ofyears, I've watched interns move up to assistant, then associate,then VP of TALENT at major studios, all in a few years.If you aren't sharp enough to figure that out, you may find yourcareer is stalled because you are waiting to get seen by thehead of the office, who, in 90% of all cases, relies on theirassistant and associate for casting suggestions.Use this information to your advantage...All the best,

Words of wisdom for actors, young and old

2005-10-21T15:05:00.000-07:00

I love to pass on these missives from Chad Gracia's Actors Tips. Here, Ruth Kellerman's final words in her series.
Words of Being and GoodbyeAlthough not specifically listed as "tips" in this, our lastjourney together, let me just pour out "words" I powerfully believeconcern the art of acting and those who occasionally get a glimpsethat the drive to act is more than a drive for 15 minutes in the sun. WORD ONESince it is impossible to determine which is THE word to describethe core of acting, let's just throw the dart at a lexicographyboard laden with POSSIBILITIES.And--well--that's word number one... POSSIBILITIESUnited with the word "imagination," POSSIBILITIES is the foundationof much that makes good acting great.Because of imagination, the actor sees numerous possibilities ofmeaning and delivery in the line, the phrase, the word itself. Infact today, in a coaching session I nearly gave up trying to getsomeone to understand, to hear, that he, the actor, was banging onthe initial SP in the word "spring," thus throwing the line out ofnatural spoken rhythm. Sometimes possibilities of delivery lie notmerely in the word but in something as tiny as the initial (orfinal) consonants.Possibilities: A screaming tantrum-throwing scene or monologue canbe more powerful the quieter and more ominous it becomesPossibilities: Words. And more words. Words, our lifelines to greatacting. Seeing a variety of possible ways to say a word. Take thesentence "In a group I'd just faint." Ach, that lovely "faint."Possibility/Imagination. Humor? Tragedy? Raise the pitch? Whisperit in shame? Mock one's younger self? Dead pan? High pitch? Alllovely lovely possibilities other than rattling off the word.Playfulness, toying with a word or sound, Imagination. Possibility.Remember the word "possibilities." Break loose from the fetters ofdulldom! Shatter the kingdom of Yawn! Search for the grail ofPOSSIBILITIES. NEXT WORDA student dissolved into tears on learning she wasn't going to becalled in for an audition. Thus we have the word PERSPECTIVE. Digyour heels in to improve, do more self-promotion, get over yourdisappointment. On to the NEXT. Perspective. The road of acting ispocked with potholes. You will be an emotional wreck withoutperspective. YET ANOTHER (Actually two, this time)There used to be a phrase that seems to have disappeared: WORKETHIC. Simply put, it means doing a job the best it can be done.Memorizing lines (actually OVER-memorizing). Doing everything youcan to push for excellence. That "everything" includes selfpromotion, polishing, experimenting, being on time, paying yourway. Work. Be where you are supposed to be, when you are supposedto be there and be prepared with whatever you were supposed toprepare. Reliability? Responsibility? Some people like the word"Professionalism." It is much too grand and much too general forme. I really prefer to identify all the little leaves on the branchcalled "professionalism." Name those leaves specifically. Thebrightest biggest leaf on my "professional" branch is called "work."Acting is not fun. It is work. The profession is not fun. It isawful and it is also work. You work years and years for those fewmoments in front of the camera or for that hour on stage. Youbetter love acting passionately. Or the work that it takes to be agreat actor will trickle away and the product will be just anotheractor like a thousand others. Determination alone is not enough.Determination must be joined to work.Google "work ethic" and see what comes up. One of the early hits issomething about the anxiety caused by that old-fashioned notion ofthe Puritan Work Ethic. Hey, acting is full of anxiety. It's almostour duty to feel anxiety! Seems to me anxiety about work ethicmight be a good thing! I have seldom met anyone paralyzed fromworking hard and then working harder to perfect a line, a speech.There are very few fatalities from working hard and then harder toover-memorize.From searching for hours and then more hours for the perfectmonologue. I have often wished actors would work as diligently attheir craft as they do at their gym or jogging. Let's restore "workethic" to the dictionary. That so-called work ethic anxiety mightjust turn to elation as the result of working hard--then harder. CONTROL vs. ALLOWControl? Speaking so softly that you force people to ask you torepeat and repeat and repeat. Control? Speaking so fast that allthe words blend into one and some words just drop out. Not doingwhat you are supposed to do (memorize your role) or being where youare supposed to be (on time to rehearsals). Being on time. Period.What a great way to control others--being late and making themwait. Rethink the word "control." It might be a revelation torecognize the varieties of "control" that we wrongly wield.ALLOWAllow means giving yourself permission to let go, to dare, to pushto the edge, to imagine, to experiment, to give 110%, to go not theextra mile but the extra ten miles. Allow yourself to be the bestactor you can be, which means parking inhibitions, self-doubts,shyness, whatever limits you (mostly the limiting thing is youyourself)--parking them outside the audition room. They'll wait.You can pick them up when you are finished. Allow yourself to read,to think, to look, to listen, to watch, to learn, to read, to read,to read. Allow yourself to be. Allow yourself to become. THE LAST WORD: STARLet me say in conclusion, I have worked many hours on each article,selecting and electing words and phrases, always searching for theprecise word to express ideas about what is inherently an impreciseart: acting. This is the same way I play with, elect, dismiss,experiment with the words in a role. And I have loved every minuteof it! I know one person who has learned and grown from thatstruggle for language in these chats with you--the author. I am deeply grateful for your notes, for your questions. I amgrateful to Chad for the freedom he has given me, freedom toexplore and raise into language many blurred feelings andintuitions about acting. The struggle with language for thesearticles parallels our struggle with language as actors.Language--to me--is right up there with fire and the wheel. To me,the word, whether spoken as an actor, written as a guide, or readas one who wants to KNOW -- words, each of them deserves ourhomage. Spend a silent moment imagining a world without words. I invite you to look to the night sky, look at endless space, andwhen you are very much alone, stretch your arms to the stars. Andwhen you step on stage or before the camera remember that silentmoment one night when you reached to the stars and know that youtouch one -- know that you are one -- every time you step on stage. All of Ruth Kulerman's articles can be found in our membershipsection, here:http://www.actortips.com/membership.htm----------------------------------------------------------3. Featured Product: New Clear Headshot Envelopes Availablehttp://www.actortips.com/products/headshot_envelopes.htm(Use coupon code AT149 for 10% discount.) "Hi Chad! I bought some envelopes from you last week. I just wantedto say WOW! I sent out my headshots on Monday and got a callWednesday from an agency about coming in for a interview. They saidthey just got my envelope and looked at it and called me up on mycell phone. I was so surprised. So I'm going to LA today for myfirst interview with an LA agent. I can't tell you how amazed I am! -Kris Palm, California" Stand out with these clear front headshot envelopes * Impress busy casting directors * Shipping costs less * Make a professional impression * Add note, get noticed instantly * Avoid ugly, bulky alternatives * Get special treatment! http://www.actortips.com/products/headshot_envelopes.htm Now you can buy these envelopes with no logo printed on the outside! http://www.actortips.com/products/headshot_envelopes.htm ----------------------------------------------------------4. Parting Quote "The end crowneth the work."Elizabeth I (1533-1603), British monarch, Queen of England(1558-1603)----------------------------------------------------------5. Subscription and Copyright Information To subscribe, please visit: www.actortips.com This newsletter, including the articles it contains, may bere-published in whole or part as long as the following informationis included: "Actor Tips" is copyright 2005 by Chad Gracia and ActorTips.com,Inc. All rights reserved. For more articles on acting, as well asfree monologues and play scripts, subscribe to the newsletter byvisiting http://www.actortips.comActorTips / The Gracia Group360 West 43rd Street, Suite N9DNew York, NY 10036

New from L.A. Casting

2005-10-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

Have you been receiving casting notices from L.A. Casting recently? So convenient! All you have to do is sign up and you'll get notices that fit you - or your child actor - so you don't have to wade through that huge pile of notices they get. Check it out at LACasting.com

Spotlight on Young Performers

2005-10-13T13:30:00.000-07:00

Just passing this information for parents of young actors on:
Just a quick note to highly recommend this weeks Spotlight on Young Performers (October 13 -19, 2005) issue of BackStage West. Much of the content is available online, but the entire issue has a great deal of really useful information. If possible, you might want to buy the printed version.There are a couple of articles that are a great overview of the recent safety issues. Also, this is a reminder of the October 25th meeting at SAG which is directly on the child actor safety topic.www.sagfoundation.org = Liferaft seminar - to RSVPPlease do everything you can to educate yourself about these concerns. It's just not the type of thing that good people usually think about or realize exist in our world, yet our lack of understanding poses a great risk to our children.Paula & Anne

Workshop Info for young actors in LA area

2005-10-12T18:35:00.000-07:00

SATURDAY'S GUEST! OCTOBER 15!Check in 9:45 am!A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR YOUNG ACTORS!!!Kendra Castleberry from Rosenstein/Lang Casting.Kendra is SUPER positive and ALREADY has bookeda BUNCH of Actorsiters on GHOST WHISPERER. plus they will be casting PILOTS, so this is a good timeto see her!This office casts GHOST WHISPERER andLife With Fran.Plus, office casts pilots, so this is a greattime to see Kendra, as we won't have her in againbefore Pilot Season.Kendra will work individually with each participantin a "mock" audition situation, followed by Q and Awith Parents and Kids.COST: $35 if paid in advance. $45 the day of the event.OR: Two TIX for those who have workshop TIX.To sign up in advance, go here:http://actorsite.com/freepages/youth/youth.html

Acting Intensive for Teens during Pilot Season!

2005-10-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

This sounds like a great program for teen actors from out of town:
TVI Actors Studio is bringing back its Pilot Season Intensive for kids and teens. The last one was a complete success with many actors signingwith agencies and booking work. (enrollment is not a guarantee ofemployment).Only serious actors will be admitted to this program as we don't havemany available spots. Many of the actors are joining us back from thelast one.Your young actor will spend one week in Los Angeles (during winterbreak) working with and auditioning for casting directors, agents,managers, producers and directors during the busiest time of the year:PILOT SEASON (this is the time in LA when all the new TV shows are castand shot).For more information on how TVI's Pilot Season Intensive can help yourchild's career call 818-784-6500 or 800-884-2772 ext 1 or log on:http://www.tvistudios.com/youngactors/camp2.aspA qualification process is needed to be accepted into this program.Also, the $250 early registration discount is about to expire.tvi actors studiowww.tvistudios.com

Important SAG meeting for parents of child actors

2005-10-08T12:54:00.000-07:00

BizParentz will be on the panel of this jointly hosted meeting Tuesday October 25th at 7:00p.m. We urge each of you in the Los Angeles area to attend. (see link below, or visit www.sagfoundation.org)This is in light of some of the earlier information we sent out and has become a subject very near and dear to our heart. Please note the age requirements for the meeting - no children under age 14 (due to subject matter).This is not the standard "watch who your children talk to on the internet" - but rather very specific information and guidelines for child performers and those who seek to exploit them via the internet.
If you have any questions, feel free to write. Hope to see you there!
http://sagfoundation.org/cgi-bin/event.cgi?site_category=liferaft&date=20051025e
Anne & Paula

Free Lecture for Actors at TVI

2005-10-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

As an on going commitment to give back to the LA acting community, TVIActors Studio is bringing back its successful TVI Talks: a FREE Lecturefrom top industry pros."How to Produce and Star In Your Own Movie Or Theatre Production"Take control of your own career and learn how to produce projects withyou as the actor. Taught by Randy Becker: Producer and FormerAccomplished Actor. He has appeared on Broadway, TV, and Film.Currently producing "The Great Buck Howard" with Tom Hanks. Justfinished executive producing "Touched" with Jenna Elfman.
This lecture is FREE
DATE:Wednesday, October 19th at 7:30pm.
RSVP by replying to this email
LOCATION:TVI Actors Studio14429 Ventura Blvd #118Sherman Oaks, CA 91423at the NE corner of Van Nuys Blvdin the same shopping center as "El Torito" Restaurant & "New YorkBagels" entrance to the building is next to "Healthy Discounts"
This lecture is FREEIf you want to bring a friend they must register ahead of time. I would need their:NameAddressPhoneEmail___________________
At TVI Actors Studio you can count on a clean and safe online experience.
Email:tvi@tvistudios.com

About your headshot

2005-09-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

Have You Seen Faye Dunaway At The Checkout Stand?
By Bob Fraser (09-21-2005) Click for Bio
Opinion by Bob Fraser. After forty-plus successful years in show business as actor, writer, director and producer, Bob has decided it's time to talk about what it takes to make it in tinsel town!I was at the supermarket the other day picking up some necessities (beer, diabetic cookies, patio furniture and a DVD of Pauly Shore Is Dead - The Collector’s Edition) and while I was in the checkout line – I glanced to my left. I looked left because that's where The National Enquirer, The Star, The Globe, People, etc. are displayed. C’mon, we all do it. We must look. How else are we expected to keep up-to-date on the relative hotness or notness of our favorite celebs?
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If the lines at your market are anything like mine, you know that what could be an intolerable wait can become an educational opportunity – a time to find out who’s heading for splitsville, who’s the world’s sexiest maladroit, and who is proudly displaying recent plastic enhancements. Anyway, I casually turned to my left. Staring back at me was an amazingly unattractive woman, sans make-up – who, the caption screamed, was Faye Dunaway. (By the way, as a point of information, if you happen to have a couple of ‘sample’ grapes in your mouth and you do a spit take onto a tabloid … they are going to insist that you buy it.)The whole ugly incident reminded me of something rather important about our acting careers. If you are pursuing a career as an actor, I urge you to give the tabloids a closer look and discover a crucial reality about getting your picture taken.Let me explain how the tabloid game works: The tabs offer gobs of money to photographers who can capture a photo of a star looking like something the cat dragged in – and if she (or he) is in an ugly dress, so much the better. Why? Because the folks that publish these rags know that their readers are curious. Enquiring minds want to know what the stars REALLY look like.Now, the stars are aware that the paparazzi are out there. And while the photographer’s goal is to get an unflattering shot of Paris, Pam or Jennifer (Apparently this goes for anyone, of any renown – if they have time to pick on poor Faye Dunaway.), the star’s goal is to look like the star they are – in every picture that's snapped. So that's the game. The photogs snap - and stars pose. Watch any awards ceremony and you'll see the game being played out… hundreds of people with cameras, trying to score a “red carpet disaster” and scores of stars – doing their best to look like they are supposed to look.What’s the lesson? It's just this: No matter who the photographer is, it's the actor's job to make sure that the photos turn out well … for the actor.This is critical information when you are paying a photographer to take your headshots. The idea that a certain photographer is going to produce a great headshot FOR YOU, without your involvement ... is just not the reality.No matter which photographer you employ, (and remember there are hundreds, of varying skills, at every red carpet event) it's your responsibility to look like yourself in your pictures. A pro’s responsibility is to snap the “money shot.” The photographers that specialize in actors’ headshots know precisely when to click that shutter – IF you are doing your part.Getting a great headshot is all a matter of knowing the skills you need when you are in front of the camera – being prepared – being in the game – connecting with the camera – and staying concentrated on the job at hand. Stars get to be stars because they know this is the case – and they work at mastering those skills.Most of us discover the hard way that spending a boatload of cash to get new headshots doesn't guarantee success. For some actors it takes years of frustration and disappointment (and sometimes thousands of clams) before they finally get a headshot that gets them called in. Why? Because a lot of us try to learn these skills through an iffy educational process called ,i>"figuring it out on my own." This is a costly approach, guaranteed to cause career doldrums. Because until we get a headshot that works – a headshot that gets us called in – our career is likely to remain moribund. (Which means: If you're not getting called in, it's not you – it's probably your headshot.)Getting in the door is almost all about your headshots. And observable reality is this: Nothing can happen in your career until … YOU GET IN THE DOOR.I urge all actors to watch the red carpet - and see what the actors who've succeeded are doing. Also, be sure to look to the left while you're in line with your groceries - and see what happens when stars are not "in the game" and doing their part.If you’d like to know more about the skills an actor needs – to achieve better headshots – I hear there’s a study-at-home computer-based course out there, called Headshot Secrets Revealed … written by some guy named Bob Fraser.Yeah, that’s right, I just plugged my new book. And I don’t even look embarrassed.Go ahead – take my picture. Make my day.Bob is the author of “You Must Act! A step by step guide to acting success.” You can find out more by going to youmustact.com. be sure to download the freebees!!You can also contact Bob at bobfraser@youmustact.com.
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Box Office (09/18)
1.
Just Like Heaven
2.
The Exorcism of Emily Rose
3.
Lord of War
4.
The 40-Year-Old Virgin
5.
Cry Wolf
View Complete List
Nielsen (09/18)
1.
NFL MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
2.
EMMY AWARDS(S)
3.
SURVIVOR: GUATEMALA SPC(S)
4.
HOUSE
5.
NFL MONDAY SHOWCASE
View Complete List

Child Actors in the NYC Area

2005-09-08T19:50:00.000-07:00

Check it out!Back Stage® Presents 14th Annual Actorfest® New York, an Actors' Tradeshow
New York, NY (PRWEB) September 8, 2005 -- Actorfest® New York 2005 is an opportunity for actors to proactively improve their career. Actorfest®, "a trade fair for actors and actresses" (New York Times) is the country's most significant conference dedicated to bringing together the business' most influential agents, casting directors, managers, producers and directors with actors. Actorfest® is an opportunity for actors, from across the country, to learn from experts, essential career planning in regards to film, TV, theatre and other performing arts disciplines. Career Seminars, moderated by an entertainment industry professional, include Auditioning for Film & Television: Warming Up to Cold Readings; Switch Hitters: Actors Who Work Both Stage and Screen; Pursuing the Indie Film Scene: The Actor's Angle. Attendees can interact with agents, casting directors, managers and niche professionals in Focus Sessions such as Be a Smart Actor; Getting an Agent: You Have a Say in the Matter; Stage & Screen Auditions: Insights & Tips; The How's, Why's, and When's of Joining the Unions; Making It in Voice-Overs; How to Prepare for a Sitcom Audition; Breaking Into Daytime Drama; How to Make a Positive Impression with a Casting Director. The Free Exhibit Hall, a place for actors to mingle and network, consists of over 90 booths of industry professionals from all aspects of the business from acting services and coaches to web development. A portion of the proceeds from Actorfest® go to Adopt-a-School, a joint program with Inside Broadway™, Broadway's Not-for-Profit Educational Organization. This program was initiated, by Actorfest®, four years ago to support New York City's public school children by promoting arts in education and building relationships between individuals, groups, corporations and their local communities. Actorfest® (www.backstage.com/actorfestny) When: Saturday, October 29 from 9am - 5pm Where: New York Marriott Marquis (Times Square, 1535 Broadway, 5th floor).Cost: The Exhibit Hall is free and open to anyone. A package of classes is $45 and includes one Career Seminar and one Focus Session. Registration and Information: www.backstage.com/actorfestny, 646.654.5706.Back Stage, the industry's foremost informational business resource for the aspiring and established actor, is proud to present this unique event, which provides career resources and encourages career development for individuals pursuing the performing arts. Sponsors: Focus Features, National Sponsor; Jetblue Airways®, Gold Sponsor; Procter & Gamble Productions, producers of As The World Turns and Guiding Light, Silver Sponsor; Inside Broadway™, Benefit Sponsor. For More Information: Please Visit Our Website At www.backstage.com/actorfestny. Actorfest® New York is produced by actor/producer Jeff Riebe, the Career Seminars and Focus Sessions are produced by Back Stage Editor-in-Chief Sherry Eaker. They can be reached at 646.654.5706. Press contact is Katie Rosin, Kampfire Films Marketing and Public Relations, 917-562-5670.

Get your work permits - your kid needs 'em

2005-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

From childreninfilm.com. For more info go to their website!
Keeping entertainment industry professionals informed!
SCHOOL’S BACK……Ah the crisp sound of leaves breaking under foot. The soft touch of new clothes to show off on the first day. The carpool lane in front of the school that’s miles long. It’s that time again, when kids head back to school. And if you’re in show business, you now have a few extra things to remember.
CALIFORNIA WORK PERMITSFirst is the California Entertainment Work Permit. If you received one during the summer months, you may need to renew it right away. Most summer permits are only good until the start of school. With school back in session, the proper authority there can sign the application stating that the child is in good academic standing. The permit will then be good for six months.
SCHOOL ON SETThe new school year also means that children who miss their regular school in order to work must have three hours of school on the set. Remember to have them bring books and get assignments for the missed day.NOTE: The California Education Code limits the number of excused absences for a child holding an entertainment work permit to five absences per school year, each of which may consist of up to five days in sequence.WORKING HOURSSchool back-in-session brings a reduction in a child’s time allowed in front of the camera, except on weekends or school holidays.
Here’s an example:A six to eight year old is allowed to be on a set for 8 1/2 hours total. During a non-school day, he or she can work on camera for six hours, with two hours of rest and recreation and 1/2 hour lunch. On a school day, a child must have three hours of school on the set. This leaves four hours of on-camera work, plus one hour of rest and recreation and 1/2 hour lunch.If a child attends his or her regular school (for a minimum of four hours), six hours of the child’s work day is deducted from the maximum time allowed, leaving only 2 1/2 hours on the set.

8 1/2EMANCIPATION – LONG WORD, WHAT DOES IT MEAN?Merriam Webster’s Dictionary defines emancipation as “the act to free from restraint, control, or the power of another”. In the film industry, “emancipated” – rare though it is – usually refers to the status of a minor who has the right to enter into a binding contract, manage his or her own financial affairs, and sign his or her own entertainment work permit application. The minor must be at least 14 years old, and have petitioned (and been granted) emancipation by the Superior Court in the county where he or she lives.Emancipation does not exempt the child from attending school or working under child labor laws and regulations unless specifically exempted from Title 8 in the emancipation order. If the child has graduated, however, he or she can work as an adult.
We are interested in your feedback on this newsletter. If you have comments to share please email us at Contact@childreninfilm.com

Actorsite helps Katrina victims

2005-09-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

Actorsite pledges to help KATRINA VICTIMS!
Thank you all for the excellent ideas on how Actorsitemembers can help KATRINA Victims.I've gathered information, and I've weighed and now I'vedecide we will do TWO EVENTS!And Actorsite will MATCH FUNDS for BOTH EVENTS!
FIRST: A HUGE SHOW!, NO, MAKE THAT A "NO" SHOW!We've mulled lots of "Show" ideas and this one isthe one that ALLOWS YOU to be GENEROUS and HELPFUL anddonate on YOUR OWN TIME! A simple idea that wasgiven me by KATHY LAMKIN.All week, if you want to drop off a check from $5 to$25 in value and made outto the RED CROSS, with KATRINA in the memo area, ACTORSITEwill count up the checks and DOUBLE your donationwith MATCHING funds. MAKE JACK PAY!!!You can also mail it in by sending to THE ACTORSITE,5656 Cahuenga, North Hollywood, CA91601.
SECOND: THIS TIME IT'S A REAL SHOW!!!We'll have music, we'll have food, we'll have a BLAST...THANKS TO JOANY BLAIR FOR THIS GREAT IDEA!!!!THIS SATURDAY EVENING beginning at 5 pm til ????This is a SHOW for ALL ACTORSITERS, FRIENDS, and other recruits. Bring EVERYONE YOU CAN to helpbuild our DONATIONS!YOu can perform ANY of the following:IMPROVMONOLOGUESCENESTAND UPKARAOKEINTERPRETIVE DANCEOR --- ?????On our STUDIO C Stage... We'll go as late as we haveperformances...THis is a GREAT WAY to allow our performancesto pay off by raising money for the refugees!Bring snacks and drinks to share...Actorsite will providePIZZA...It will be a blast!!!!COST: You can donate from $5 to $25...WHAT A BLAST...Remember, if a HUNDRED of you show up...YOU MAKE JACK PAY BIG!!!All the best,

What to Look for in an Agent or Manager

2005-09-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN AGENT OR MANAGERRuth Kulerman 1. If a manager, check to see if they are a member of the NationalConference of Personal Managers. That is the legitimizingorganization for managers in the US. 2. If an agent, be sure to know what area they work in. In the Rossreport many agents are registered with all three unions (SAG, AEA,AFTRA) and state that they handle stage, film, TV, commercials,print, when actually they only handle commercials. How can you tell which agents handle what? Ask around. Other actorsare your best source. TIPS: Grading the agents There are A agents (if you are a newcomer, you will probably getlost in that agency, unless you hit it big the first three or fourtimes they send you out for a legit job--"legit" here refers tostage, film, or TV). And there are agents who just aren't worthyour time. They really are too low on the totem pole to get theirsubmission envelopes opened by the casting offices. There areagents at every level in between. With a manager, you the artist receive the check and then pay themanager the agreed upon percentage. With an agent, the agentreceives the check, deposits it, takes his 10% and then mails you acheck. This is why you must be very careful to work only withreputable agents, especially print agents. I once had a print agentcheat me out of $400. What do you need in an agent or a manager?1. Their enthusiastic willingness to work for you. 2. Someone who knows the business well.3. Someone who has a good reputation. (Honesty and availability) Just know this: Most agents are not willing, nor can they affordeither time or money, to help you build a career. They want someonewho already has a bit of success or someone who has just beengraduated from a prestigious university or drama school. Do notdepend on an agent or a manager to "make" your career. That is yourjob. That is why you must continue to work diligently atself-promotion, even if you are signed with an agency. HANDLING AN AGENT/MANAGERDo not constantly call or pressure your agent or manager. If theyare not working for you, take them out to lunch and talk business.Too many actors say, "My agent isn't getting me any auditions."That may be true, but it does not necessarily means that they arenot submitting you. Before you get an audition you have to be submitted. The realquestion is why you are not being called in for auditions. You maylack resume credentials or your picture may just not be working.Actors do not realize the amount of money and time that goes intosubmissions. If you are not being called in after 20 or 30submissions, look to see if other of their clients are being calledin. But also look to see what you can do to improve your chancesfor getting an audition when submitted. That's where self-promotionplays the major role.

How Kids can help Katrina victims

2005-09-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

A lot of kids want to help the victims just as much as their parents do. Here's a simple idea my son and his friend came up with. They call it A Buck A Kid. Kids can ask if they can bring a collection jar to school and request kids (not their parents) bring in a buck for the hurricane victims. On little dollar out of their allowance or spending money. At his middle school that would be $800. At our local high school it would be $1000.00. At the middle school we moved away from it would be $2300. And so on.
It adds up. And it's so easy. Can you imagine how many hundreds of thousands of dollars kids could contribute this way? I love the idea. Pass it on.

Casting Call

2005-08-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

Forwarding this from noted acting teacher and coach,Kimberly Crandall
CASTING CALL
A friend sent me the following information on a casting:New show looking for real kids who are really funny.We're auditioning kids (ages ten to thirteen - boys & girls) for an upcoming show on an action sports network. If you're a funny, fun, energetic and fearless kids who love the world of skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, BMX biking and also is comfortable kidding around with people. Please send a one - two minute video (max) telling us why you're fearlessly funny. We will also accept reels. NO STUNTS PLEASE. Please send tapes to:Jeff TullyHead WriterFUEL TV / The Daily Habit1440 S. Sepulveda Blvd.Los Angeles, CA 90025310.444.8389
Kimberly says "Be sure to add a little note or post-it sticker letting Jeff know that I sent you (he's a friend of mine...)."

The last days of summer

2005-08-30T00:53:00.000-07:00

Where have we been?! Mainly milking the last days of summer out of as much fun as possible. My young actor had a freind visiting and we hit Hurricane Harbor as well as joining some old freinds for a mega lazer tag game in Sherman Oaks. We've also been buying clothes and school supplies like the rest of the world. 2 more day until D day! I hate back to school - because that's my work schedule as well - and would be delirious to carryon on like this with late nights and warm days forever.
He had another great audition yesterday - they kept him for almost half an hour so keep good thoughts!
Anyone following the dialogue at Professional Actors Resource forum on Scouts disappearance and safe return home? Lots of interesting pov's for those interested.http://people.delphiforums.com/showtalk/

Missing actress, Scout Taylor Compton, found

2005-08-25T22:08:00.000-07:00

They say in the body of the report that the case had been treated as a runaway. And you can't help but wonder what she was running from. Details, I'm sure, plus tons of gossip will be forthcoming. In the meantime, thank god, she's not another horrible statistic of a violent crime.

Missing Teen Actress Found
By Marcus Errico Thu Aug 25, 6:18 PM ET
A day after her parents went public, teen actress Scout Taylor-Compton has been found, safe and sound.
The 16-year-old was reunited with her family Thursday, officials said, two weeks after vanishing from the family's home in Apple Valley, California.
"On behalf of her family, we are very grateful to everyone for their concern and support in helping to find Scout," reads a statement from the girl's publicity firm. "We appreciate everyone's courtesy as the family recovers."
Details are scant on Taylor-Compton's whereabouts for the past two weeks, but a spokeswoman for the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department said that school friends had seen reports Wednesday that Taylor-Compton was AWOL and alerted school officials, who in turn contacted the Apple Valley Police Department. Deputies tracked down Taylor-Compton at a local residence and returned her to her family.
Authorities say the actress appeared healthy, and there was no sign of criminal activity. The sheriff's department said Wednesday they were treating the case as a runaway.
Taylor-Compton finished shooting the independent film Tomorrow Is Today in June. Her previous credits include the 2004 teen comedy Sleepover and a recurring role as Dean's sister, Clara, on Gilmore Girls. She also has a leading part in Bravo's new
Howie Mandel' name=c1> SEARCHNews News Photos Images Web' name=c3> Howie Mandel series, Hidden Howie

Child stars II: Growing up Hollywood

2005-08-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

Inside with Child Stars
Childhood is hard enough, but imagine experiencing it under the glaring lights of Tinseltown while the eyes of the world are fixated upon you. Yet, that's exactly what life is like for today's young actors.
On Friday, August 26 at 8 p.m. ET, A&E premieres "Biography Special: Child Stars II: Growing Up Hollywood," a two-hour look at the fame, fortune and pressures that come with working as a young actor in the entertainment industry. The program examines the careers of several famous faces, some who've made the successful transition to adulthood -- both in front and behind the camera -- while others struggled with self-destructive problems, only to become examples of what not to do for the new crop of young stars.
Among those profiled include KURT RUSSELL, RON HOWARD, LEONARDO DiCAPRIO and JODIE FOSTER -- all gifted child actors who became accomplished adults thanks to a solid upbringing. Foster, for example, credits her mom for keeping the Oscar winner grounded.
"I never thought I would be an actor when I grew up," Foster says during the special. "I thought that I would grow up and do something else because I think my mother prepared me for the disaster of it ... and the good news about that is I still pursued an education, I looked at the world in a different way and I was interested in other things, and I think I've been able to bring that to my work."
Unfortunately, for every Jodie Foster, there's a long list of child actors who find themselves battling demons like substance abuse and, as a result, "people have a lot of stereotypes and ideas about child actors, mostly that they're all drug addicts, they all end up in jail, they end up getting arrested and acting out," psychotherapist DR. JENN BERMAN points out.
Despite the stereotypes, though, Hollywood Boulevard is nonetheless littered with the souls of those who lived fast and died young, and actors like JONATHAN LIPNICKI, best known for playing RENÉE ZELLWEGER's bespectacled son in 1996's 'Jerry Maguire,' has learned from the pitfalls of others.
"I would like to stay hundreds of yards away from anything that could change me in any way. I would never endanger my life with drugs," says the now 14-year-old Lipnicki. "I really want to keep a healthy body. I want to be the same person that I've always been."
Adds 19-year-old RAVEN, who got her start on "The Cosby Show" and eventually landed her own series, "That's So Raven": "The lessons I learned from the child actors prior to me would definitely be to love yourself and understand that it's just a job and always keep your family the number one priority."
For more, be sure to watch "Biography Special: Child Stars II: Growing Up Hollywood" on A&E this Friday, August 26 as well as tonight's "Insider"!

Actress Scout Taylor-Compton listed as missing

2005-08-22T09:22:00.000-07:00

Please pass this on - the more people that are aware the better the chance she is found.
Actress Scout Taylor-Compton listed as missing
IMDB message board MySpace.com profile the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children poster
From the website:DOB: Feb 21, 1989Missing: Aug 12, 2005Age Now: 16Sex: FemaleRace: WhiteHair: RedEyes: HazelHeight: 5'3" (160 cm)Weight: 110 lbs (50 kg)Missing From:APPLE VALLEYCAUnited StatesANYONE HAVING INFORMATION SHOULD CONTACTNational Center for Missing & Exploited Children1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST)Please pray for her. She's a good friend of mine.This comes by way of Bonnie Gillespie. She has a statement released by Scout's mom.
First of all, let us just say that we are overwhelmed with the response from the acting community concerning Scout's disappearance. So many people have offered to help in any way that they can, and it's truly appreciated.At this time all we can say is that the authorities are investigating the issue. The classification of Endangered Runaway was given to get her into the system immediately. As soon as they have all of the information needed, the classification will be upgraded.Those of you who know Scout, who know our family, know deep in your hearts what to believe. It saddens us that such horrible rumors could be generated and spread at a time like this.I can tell you, that this is the hardest thing we have ever been through. As a friend stated to me this morning... the worst thing in the entire world must be not having your child around. Unfortunately we can tell you first hand that this is true. Hug your children.If anyone has any information regarding Scout, please call the National Center for Missing Children at 1-800-THE-LOST, or the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department at 760-245-4211.You can email Scout's mom at Scout_Taylor_Compton@yahoo.com

In the Reel World

2005-08-18T09:38:00.000-07:00

The director from the long audition - the one who was nice enough to send note saying they had cast someone else - is back in touch. I guess the boy who got the part isn't quite ready to commit to the project. It sounds like he wants to do the project but wants to be free to go on other auditions. So the director wanted to know if my son would be interested in being an alternate. I guess she meant whether he would rehearse etc so that if the other guy backed out, he would step in. When I asked her what she meant by being an alternate, she told me of the other boy's situation but she was thinking about giving the part to my son instead because she needed 100% committment. Which my son would give the project. At this point she hasn't made a decision and sounds like she's waiting for the other actor to give her a definite yes or no. Would I rather my son was the one first offered the job? Of course, but at the same time I know this stuff happens all the time. Even in the real, not reel world. I got an amazing job once, that lasted 5 years and was incredibly fulfilling creatively and financially, because the company's first choice came back to them saying she wanted more money than was originally offered. I was thrilled to be second choice. And I never felt I was second best. If the director goes with my son it will be a great experience for him and a fantastic addition to his reel and that's that. Que sera, sera but keep good thoughts for him!

The Long Audition

2005-08-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

Did I blog about taking my young actor to an audition a couple of weeks ago. It was for a short film featuring just two characters. While it didn't pay, it was a great script and would have been super for him. The director kept him for almost half an hour so I figured she really liked him. She emailed me this morning that she has cast the role. He didn't get it. Another disappointment. Another day to say okay, let's move on. But take it from me it's hard! I feel terrible for him and I'm conflicted - do I tell him or just let it go and not mention it unless he asks. Maybe he's forgotten. And usually, in Hollywood, they don't call to tell you you didn't get it. So you just go on figuring if you don't hear, you didn't get it.
I guess that's what I'll do.

A Place for Young Actors in the OC

2005-08-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

Passing on this press release on a school worth looking into if you live down in Orange County: The Performer's Academy Awarded School of the Year
(PRWEB) August 14, 2005 -- This year, The Performer’s Academy walked away with the coveted “School of The Year” trophy at WMTC Talent Convention. In addition, students from the academy walked away with five of the top nine honors.“I am immensely proud of all students who attended. They worked very hard for months preparing for this event and their hard work paid off.” Because of their dedication and the coaching by film director Jeff Celentano, our talent went in there prepared and confident. Suzy Lee, our talent coordinator but in hundreds of hours working with the parents and students getting them ready for this event” says Costa. Winners were Irvine’s Audrey Hewko, taking top honors for Model of the Year and Most Callbacks totalling 63 in all. Audrey is a statuesque young woman that has a very bright future in high fashion modeling. In addition, Audrey is a wonderfully talented actress. Her acting coach, Jeff Celentano says of Audrey, “she’s not afraid to throw herself in a role. She takes it, takes direction and runs with it. It’s very refreshing working with someone like Audrey.” In one of Audrey’s competitions she did a scene from a “Friend’s” episode. Immediately afterwards, producers were approaching her and her mother expressing interest in setting up meetings for Audrey.”Many top modeling agencies from all over the world are scouting Audrey. Her mom, Leticia Hewko says, “It's overwhelming and wonderful at the same time. So many people are looking to represent Audrey; we’re just taking this one step at a time.” Laguna Niguel’s Tyler Guerrero won Pre-Teen Talent of the Year with a coveted 30 callbacks. Tyler is represented by Commercial Talent Agency and has a lead roll in a Disney feature lined up. “Tyler is one amazing actor” says Jeff CelentanoLaguna Niguel’s Gabby Gerstley won Talent of the Year. “Gabby is a very versitile and talented actor” says Celentano. I can give her a monologue, beef it up with a Russian accent and dialogue, and she just goes for it.” Corrinne Moloo of Coto de Caza carried off the Talent of the Year award. Corrinne is a fabulous dancer who competes on a regular basis. She’s also a terrific actress. In addition Corrinne was asked to dance at the award’s banquet.Kristie Bylund from Laguna Niguel received a record number of callbacks and is signing with an agent this week.The Performer's Academy offers classes and workshops for children, teens, and adults and all programs are affordable.Owner, Natalie Costa is appearing this month on Cox 3's hit show The Mix. It's an informative segment talking about children in the entertainment industry.If you are interested in workshops, check out the website or call the office.All classes are taught by film directors and working actors.###Press Contact: Natalie Costa Company Name: THE PERFORMERS ACADEMY Email: performersacademy@sbcglobal.net Phone: 949-609-1600 Website: www.performersacademy.net

The Agent Emails

2005-08-12T23:36:00.000-07:00

We got home today from a swim party and I went online to check my email - I can't bear to be disconnected for more than an hour! - and there was an audition notice for today at 5pm. And I was reading it today at 5pm!!! Oh, no, what a drag I thought. And then I saw there was another email with a corrected time of next Tuesday at 4pm. Which is terrific because he can do it on the way to King Tut. How lovely! An audition for a nice part in a nice tv show. For a bully! At this point he's had quite a bit of practice playing a bully which is really funny because he's so not. He is kind and sweet and if anything would muster up his courage to protect someone from a bully - not that it would be easy, he'd be scared, he doesn't go around picking fights...but he'd do his best to stand up to him, that's for sure. Buthe'll be able to access that bully inside pretty easily. I always wonder why.
Anyway, when you least expect it, your agent emails and the lazy, hazy days of summer get a bit more hectic.

Fall Classes at Young Actors Space

2005-08-11T23:19:00.000-07:00

We just got our brochure from Young Actors Space for the fall session. It's sad but Diane Hardin, the renowned founder of this highly respected acting school for children, is retiring. Her partner, Nora Eckstein, now has full ownership. My son studied with Nora for a couple of years and loved her but was definitely ready to move on to the older class. If your kids are 12 and under, Nora is especially terrific. He'd been looking forward to the day when Diane might have invited him to join her advanced "by invitation only" class but alas, now that's not to be.
We'll resign up for Patrick Day's classes there, for the 11 to 13 year old set but it's unclear from the brochure if he's teaching that class or not. If you're interested check out Young Actors Space at youngactorsspace.com.
They boast the likes of Leonardo Di Caprio, Toby Maguire and Elijah Wood as alumni. Their prices are decent - $575 for 12 weeks, average class length is about 2 1/2 hours for a little under $50 per. Well, reasonable if your kid is serious and wants to be a pro - otherwise if it's acting for fun there are plenty of terrific and less expensive programs offered through your child's school and local rec centers to name a couple.

Four Essential Acting Questions Answered

2005-08-08T09:25:00.000-07:00

Passing on some more words of wisdom for actors of all ages:
Four Essential Acting Questions Answered by Ruth Kulerman
Numerous questions have been sent in during the past several monthswhich, although answered privately, certainly affect many of us.However, those answers did not warrant a full article each, so herethey are now.
1. WHAT ARE SIDES? "Sides" are segments taken from a script. A few lines, one page, ora whole scene, in lieu of a monologue when you audition. This iswhat casting people mean when they say "There are sides." Sometimesyou do not see the sides until you go to the audition. In this casethen, you will be doing a "cold reading." ("Cold reading" isauditioning with material that you have not seen in advance.) However, in the case of TV, feature films, or many regionaltheaters, the sides are posted on Sides Express (a division of theBreakdown Services). These sides are obtained by your agent ormanager, sometimes one day in advance, sometimes a week in advance.Your agent/manager downloads the sides and you pick them up or theycan be faxed to you.
TIPS on SIDES:Unless you have several days and the sides are relatively short(one or two short speeches) do NOT spend time memorizing them.Instead, spend the time working on the sides themselves. Your aimfirst is to try and make sense of the story. That is, try todiscover by inference what is going on in the plot and what yourparticular character is doing in the plot. If it is a play, Google the play itself to read reviews. If it is a new play, Google theplaywright. If there is no information, you are on your own--youand the text (page) in hand. 2. HOW CAN I CONNECT WITH THE READER AT AN AUDITION? TIPS on CONNECTING
I shudder internally when someone says after an audition "I had areally good connection with the reader." Please do not screamheresy, but "connection" is highly overrated. Remember, you willhave a reader only if you are doing "sides," a passage from thescript. You probably will have had the sides in advance and havedecided on your delivery. Your line delivery at an audition is in your control. Do what youhave prepared. If your reader does not feed you what you need orexpect, go ahead with your prepared interpretation anyway--unlessthe reader's delivery elicits a bolder, more interesting responsethan the one you had prepared (a most unlikely scenario!). Theaudition committee is much more interested in you and your actingthan in your connection with their reader. Connection does notdetermine the degree of talent. Remember that whatever connectionis necessary is determined by the listener. Hopefully in a auditionwith sides you will be speaking more than you are listening! As in actual performance, at an audition you should be a sponge towhat the reader (or the other actor) is saying. This "sponge" ideawill make you a better listener. However, someone very savvy (whosename I probably never knew) said: "Actors are the only people onearth who stare into each other's eyes when they are talking toeach other." So making eye connection--or even making a "greatconnection" with a reader probably does not even carry a vote whenit comes to electing whom to cast. Remember: The listener looks.The speaker thinks.
3. WHAT IS THE BEST PREPARATION FOR AN ACTING CAREER?
Instant spontaneous response? See a shrink. Next response: Go to Tibet and then see a shrink. Last response: A daily dose of arsenic after seeing a shrink daily. The truth about preparing for a career in acting isn't exotic ormysterious--two three-word sentences.(1) Learn to read. (2) Learnto hear. ("Hear," not "listen." Hear is what you do to learn how toact realistically. Listen is what you do in a scene.)
TIP 1 The Most Important Preparation for an Actor: Learn to ReadLearn to read. Chances are the text has all the information youneed to do a role. I believe an undergrad major heavy in EnglishLit is the best way to learn how to act. Acting depends on what youdo with the words. Vast and varied reading--that is, learning howto read is the way to learn what words are doing. Embrace coursesin poetry, even if they are merely survey courses in, for instance,19th Century British poets or 20th Century American poets. Read19th Century British and 20th Century American novels. And read andstudy carefully an essay (now on the Internet) called "Politics andthe English Language" by George Orwell. That essay will open a doorto language. Its thrust is not so much politics as it is the use oflanguage. In my philosophy, Horatio, the invention of language faroutstrips the wheel.Language, words, are the tools of an actor. Learn how to read themfor meaning, both obvious and subtle.
TIP: Preparation # 2. Learn to HearTrain your ears. If you are going to learn how to hear, you mightas well hear the best. To learn how to listen, so that you willknow how to deliver a line, study British acting, even if your onlysource of British acting is a video of the great British TV comicseries (Fawlty Towers, Yes, Prime Minister, As Time Goes By, AreYou Being Served?). Study them carefully. Listen to the vocalnuances--even in the broadest comedy.I recommend three or four films to watch over and over and over.Listen carefully to the delivery. Watch their faces, eyes,stillness. Start with anything with Margaret Rutherford in it. Thebest may be "The Best Days of Your Life." Also study "Careful, HeMight Hear You." There are a few French films that can teach youalmost everything you want to know about acting. However, a Britishfilm, "A Year in Provence," combines the best English and Frenchacting. The French actors in that film are so good you are positivethey are not actors. Listen and learn. Your ears will teach you thedifference between monotone and variety, between fake and real.
4. WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT THING ABOUT ACTING? TIP: Acting's Biggest Hurdle
No, the most difficult part is not getting a role. The mostdifficult part is not having to audition. The most difficult partis not trying to get auditions. The most difficult part is not therejection. The most difficult part is not getting an agent orfinding a great teacher. These are what so many actors finddifficult. I do not agree. Of course they are all difficult. Butnot nigh on to impossible. Everything listed so far can beovercome, survived, solved. I am not sure the most difficult thingabout acting can always be overcome. So what is it? To me, having listened both as an actor on stage and in film and asan audience member who has studied hundreds and hundreds of actorsover the years, the most difficult thing an actor has to do is to SOUND REAL WITH VARIETY IN THE VOICE. I weep when someone with agreat look starts to act and instantly becomes laid back,monotonous, pulled in, fake, boring, actory, every sentence endingwith a parachute drop fall. Actors spend thousands of dollarsdelving into the self, soul-searching, analyzing motivation andfeelings, etc., etc., etc. when all that is needed is for someoneto say to them, "Get real, and have variety in the voice." The restwill come. But first sound "real" and "real" does not mean boring. Learning how to sound real with variety cannot be taught by readinga book. It is almost impossible to write about sounding real withvariety. It is something that must be heard and listened to. But I promise, absolutely promise, that if you will learn to sound realand at the same time have variety in your pitch, your rhythm andyour volume, I absolutely guarantee you will start to book. So that's it--several questions asked over the past several monthswhich were answered privately and briefly, but which really affectus all.
A quick P.S. After reading the article on over-memorizing, a really helpful reader wrote that he tapes the first run through and plays it over and over. This helps him learn even the longest and most difficult role. Thank you for the tip.
Please remember they have always been just one person's opinion,not tablets brought from Sinai. But do remember: Thou shalt sound real with variety. Thou shalt honor the words above all things.Thou shalt not wave thine arms or wag thy head. Thou shalt find energy. Thou shalt not bore thine audience. Thou shalt discover presence, find pride, focus on thyself and not on the audition committee. And drink lots of orange juice. If these "thou shalts" sound insane, dip back into the articlesover the past year. You can find them here:http://www.actortips.com/membership.htm

Disturbing!

2005-08-07T10:28:00.000-07:00

I just took a look at what Bizparentz warned about and it is very disturbing. All those sweet young boys were really taken advantage of. I felt sleazy myself just looking at them to see if if my own son was in there or if someone I know was. Like Bizparentz advises - don't ever let anyone take pictures of your sons without their shirts or with shirts open over bare chests.
Honestly though, I can't imagine what the parents of those boys were thinking. I mean why would you pose a 10 - 12 year old boy without a shirt for a headshot session? Who - except wierdos - would want to see a boy like that in order to cast him for a part. No, the pix, being passed off under the cover of "collectibles" are thinly veiled kiddie porn. Shame on this guy, Jamieson, who apparently is behind Teenstars. Unless it turns out it's someone who stole his negatives? Trying to give the guy the benefit of the doubt but it is very upsetting and I'm glad they're conducting an investigation.
The big lesson: don't put your son in this position.

Passing on an urgent message from Bizparentz@aol.com

2005-08-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!First, allow us to apologize for the lack of new content on the BizParentz website. We have a HUGE backlog of new and exciting stuff, but we have been having web design issues. We promise to get it together soon! By the way, if any of you have connections to an inexpensive but experienced web designer, we'd love to have their name and number! :-)Our primary reason for writing today is a VERY serious one, so I hope you will take a few minutes and really read this email carefully. There is a seller on Ebay called "Teenstars" that is now selling candid photos of shirtless young actors (along with a few zeds and headshots). This seller has sold photos totalling over $5,000 in the last few weeks. A couple of photos (unknown, novice actors, but shirtless) sold for $355 each in PRIVATE auctions.Of course, we feel this is exploitation...both as children (they are suggestive) and as actors (who trusted photographers, managers, and acting schools to be on their side). Some of the families involved have told us that the photos were taken by Robert "Bob" Jamieson, of NOBLE MEDIA INC. Bob is a publicist/webmaster/manager who works with children. Although he lives out of state, he manages children in Los Angeles. The boys involved are from all over the country. He regularly attends IMTA and other talent conventions and he is active in the Young Artist Awards. He owns the website domains for many kid actors. This is not just a matter of selling headshots..this is a more serious than that. We are currently working with several national organizations and investigations have begun. WE NEED YOUR HELP IN FOUR WAYS:1. Help us contact/identify victims. Please go to www.ebay.com Search for Item Number 4751167935This will take you to one of the items for sale. The photo itself may be gone by now since the seller has removed most of them in the last couple of days. Look over to your right and click on "view seller's other items". You can also do a search for Completed Auctions in order to see recent sales. If you find someone you know, please contact us at Bizparentz@aol.com OR contact the parent. We will be happy to have families remain anonymous. So far, none of the parents were aware, and they did not give their permission for these sales. 2. If you have had any dealings with Bob Jamieson or his associates, we would like to hear your story. Just email us. We have a legal meeting on Monday morning, so we would love to have information before that time if at all possible. 3. Spread the word...talk to other parents, mention it to your agent or manager. The more eyes and ears out there, the better.4. Keep your Child Safe: Be vigilant about the photos that are taken of your child. This includes roles they play on film (screen captures are not a problem for creeps). We can all learn from this incident. Little boys need to be especially careful--no swimsuit pictures (especially speedos), no open shirts, no bare feet, no bare shoulders. Another tip: buy your childs web domain name TODAY. Thank you for your help in this very important investigation. We are forever grateful for all the BizParentz---there is such power in numbers!! Hug your very talented kids today....and keep them safe,Paula and Anne

Now what?

2005-08-03T21:27:00.000-07:00

There's a bit of a letdown now that Theatricum is over for the summer. It's sweet though how they all send their instant messages telling each other who they liked etc.
Poor kid though, he spent his first non camp days going from one dental office to another. First to the regular dentist where he had 2 fillings (the first 2 cavities he's ever had thanks to sealants!) and two new sealants applied. From there home for a bite then off to the Radiograph place for orthodonture exrays. He told me they took him from one room to another - four in all - before he was done.
We left there, grabbed a cold drink at the Union 76 and check in with the orthodontist. We walked in and I searched the counter for the usual sign in sheet (kind of like a casting director's!) until I remembered they have a computer in the waiting room. My young actor got to find his name, highlight it, press a button or two in order to check in. Kind of cool. The doc is soooo nice which makes me really glad I got a second opinion. Today was the mould day - unlike when I got braces and the flavor was something along the lines of codfish, he got to choose 2 flavors out of a dozen or so. Ended up with chocolate and strawberry which he claimed weren't bad - but weren't good either.
As a treat we let him and a friend go to the movies alone. They caught a 7:30 showing of Must Love Dogs which I would call a chick flick but he loves John Cusack from Grosse Point Blank. He said it was okay.
Today he had an audition for another "ridiculous short" that doesn't pay. It's a 2 person piece though and would be awesome if he got it. The director kept him for 20 minutes talking, doing improv and a couple of scenes so I guess she likes him somewhat. After a 20 minute audition I was hoping she'd come out and book him but what can you do?
And, Andres, thanks for your thoughts.

He was Lucentio in Taming of the Shrew at Theatricum Botanicum

2005-07-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

I've been so weary of returning to this blog but I've decided to carry on. And please know, I do read, appreciate and indeed take action based on your comments. I will definitely be more mindful of what I write and who it affects.
My young actor finished his Theatricum Botanicum summer experience yesterday with the final performance of Taming of the Shrew and like every year, while the performance is important, it's those relationships he makes that really makes it all worthwhile. The kids have been instant messaging each other back and forth for the last few weeks and they're already looking forward to next year and next year's play. Again, for young actors in the L.A. area, the Theatricum Botanicum offers an amazing summer program. They also have classes throughout the year which we really don't do but their site is worth looking at www.theatricum.com

An apology to Jimmy's mom

2005-07-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we blog away pretty much forgetting that while this forum feels like a diary - anybody can get the key, open it up and take a look.
Recently someone read a blog entry I posted ages and ages ago about a couple of young actors. It was actually more about their parents than the actors (two talented kids).
Well, this person was furious. They said I should stick to writing about my own son's acting career - or lack of. OW! Mentioned how he was working for free on a ridiculous short. OUCH! And called me a bitter stage mom to boot. DOUBLE OUCH!
So, stage moms and dads of the world, take note. Didn't know you were reading. Didn't know you cared. If, by some bizarre chance, the actual parents of the actual actors involved in my entry read my piece, I am sorry if what I wrote hurt you. I truly am. But was what I wrote wrong? I'm pretty sure that I posted it as a rumor. Please correct it if the information is incorrect. I do not want to perpetuate myths. I don't appreciate the person who wrote to me spitting their vitriole any more than you would like me to write things that are less than golden about your child or your behavior.

Harry Potter and the Chocolate Factory

2005-07-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

Today's a big day in this young actor's house. The release of the 6th Harry Potter book coincides with the release of Johnny Depp's (yeay, Johnny Depp!!!) Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Our iternary for the big night is as follows:
Go to the Westlake Promenade at six. Meet up with the young actor's friends. Stop by Barnes and Noble for our Harry Potter wristbands. The bands are numbered, later when they start selling the books at midnight, they'll give them out by armband numer order. Go three doors down to the Manns Theatre where we already have tickets for the 7pm Charlie and the Chocolate Factory show.
Se the movie. Hopefully we'll all love it. After the show, have a Stone Cold Creamery ice cream, maybe some Starbucks coffee and go the pre-Potter release party at the bookstore. The boys are going to be wearing crazy costumes for the evening. They are getting together early to create their wild wardrobes.
After midnight get the books and probably the young actor will be up late late late reading.
Tomorrow he has an audition at 2:15 in West Hollywood so the timing should work perfectly.

The Actors Creative Workshop presents:

2005-07-14T00:15:00.000-07:00

I am not recommending this workshop - I'm simply passing on an email I received. Please check yourself before signing up for anything.

The Actors Creative Workshop presents:

SPECIAL FREE WORKSHOP with Top Kid’s Coach Cindy Hogan

Cindy Hogan has been working extensively with Nickelodeon and individual child stars on shows ranging from “America’s Most Talented Kid” and “Malcolm in the Middle” to “CSI” and numerous feature films.
ON CAMERA.

TUESDAY, JULY 19th, 10:00am-11:30am

FOR KID’S 16 & under (and their parents!)

Don’t miss your chance to work with one of the most respected kid’s coaches in Los Angeles.

WHEN: Tuesday, July 19th: 10:00am-11:30am

WHERE: Actors Creative Workshop, 10523 Burbank Blvd. Ste 206, North Hollywood, CA 91601 (two story, white office building on Burbank Blvd., just east of Cahuenga Blvd., near the NoHo Arts District.)

HOW TO REGISTER:
There will be a limited amount of space, so please follow the subsequent instructions carefully to secure your reservation.

Go to www.trulyacting.com

Click on the “FREE WORKSHOP” link.

Fill out the form.

You will be contacted shortly via email with confirmation of your reservation.

CONTACT: Website: www.trulyacting.com, Phone: 818-752-1922, Email: info@actorscreativeworkshop.com

Can’t make it on the 19th? Cindy’s Workshop will extend to a 6-week course at the Actors Creative Workshop. Contact us at 818-752-1922 or email info@actorscreativeworkshop.com with any questions.
Visit us on the web: www.trulyacting.com
Email: info@actorscreativeworkshop.comPhone: 818-752-1922

Nintendo commercial is a no - go.

2005-07-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

Actor son has an audition for a Nintendo commercial tomorrow. Except he won't go. Don't you want to be in a Nintendo commercial?, I ask. Yeah, of course I do, but I've got a committment to Theatricum, Mom! I can't go. Grrrh. Oh well, I suggested late afternoon versus 11am or going in with the callbacks. We'll see. It's not like he's had this hot commercial record. Still I think things could be changing. We shall see, shan't we. I'll keep you posted.

Playing the part of the handsome lover boy!

2005-07-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

His lordship, the young actor, is preparing to play the role of Lucentio, "the handsome young lover" (tee hee) in Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew. It's summer at Theatricum Botanicum again. Regular readers of this blog know that I think it's THE place for young actors in Los Angeles in the summer. It's not about casting agents and head shots and auditions - it's about the cameraderie that happens when you put on a show. The kids have an absolute blast and learn Shakespeare to boot.
I scored big time with some nice costume elements from Salvation Army and can't wait to see him all done up in his costume including a dark blue velvet cape.
Bravo!

Call me back about the callback!

2005-07-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

My son's commercial agent called the other day - actually the agent's assistant - and said "You know that Sprint commercial he's going on today-"
I interrupted "Do you mean the Sprint audition he had the day before yesterday?
"Hmmm" he countered "Was that a straight to producer's session."
"No - it was just the cd, I think."
"Hmmm. Hold on a minute".
It was much, much longer than a minute before he came back on line to say "Um, never mind"
Oh brother, I thought. "So did you call me for no reason?" I asked.
"Yeah, I guess so. They didn't know they'd already seen him"
Talk about making an impression. And here I thought he was getting a callback!
"So I guess he didn't get the callback?" I asked.
"Well, we don't know yet. They haven't said who did."
Okay. Well thanks for calling and not making my day. Especially because now I'm thinking - if they're not sure they saw him why don't you send him back in and he can do something different. There must be something about his headshot they liked and if he went in and ... oh never mind, here I am playing the Hollywood second guessing, let's pick it to pieces, talk it to death game. If he gets it, he gets it. If not. C'est la vie.

White Picket Fence

2005-06-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

The shoot was great! The director, Caitlin Dahl, (check out her website at Caitlindahl.com) was such a doll and so sweet to my relative newbie. The other people in the cast of her short, White Picket Fence, were working pros. Lee Purcell (the hot mom in Valley Girl) is still one hot mama and played the mom to my son and Hanna Hall (Forrest Gump, Virgin Suicides) and Kyle Farris,
a cute little 8 year old. The father was played by hard working Stewart Skelton.
Caitlin's twin sister Melinda shot the stills and provided confusion.
We shot in Ojai, stayed in the less expensive Ventura. They wined and dined us nicely as there was no pay. THe producer, Josh Meyerson, was also a doll and sooooooo sweet to my son. The thrill of finally being cast was huge as was the fun of being filmed in the back seat of an old Country Squire on top of a tow flat bed with the camera crew in front.
I'm so excited for him and can hardly wait to see the film - which we'll have to wait at least all summer for! Oh well, great way to start the season.

My Child Actor BOOKS!!

2005-06-14T22:17:00.000-07:00

Hooray Hooray! It's been a long time coming but he's hung in there. My child actor just booked a SAG - deferred experimental short! At the audition they asked for his availability but it wasn't a definite. Today they called and he's got it. It's a three day shoot, a nice supporting role, a special little film for the festival circuit. And the director LOVED him. Yes, I'm bragging. We're so excited! Will reveal more after the weekend of shooting is over. Thursday night he has a table read and rehearsal. Friday we travel to our location in Ventura County. They're putting us up all three nights. He was so happy. And I'm so proud of him for sticking with it even when it seemed like he'd never get anywhere. And for being such a solid young actor. If you're a young actor and you're not booking - stick with it if it's what you love. It can happen to you.

Top 10 Acting Scams

2005-06-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

This is interesting stuff for all of us - parents of child actors and you grown up actors too. ACTOR BEWARE!
Top 10 Acting Scams and How to Spot Them
by Ruth Kulerman
Each of the following stories has been told to me or I havepersonally experienced the incident. The purpose here is not todepress but to inform so that you can avoid the potholes all toomany of us have stumbled into and broken our ankles (or hearts), aswe travel the road to our dreams. A reminder: my home base, like the home base of ActorTips, is NewYork, which automatically makes us open target for every scam evercreated. However, several of these stories have come from othertowns, other states. So don't think you are safe just becauseyou're in Utah or the UK. Would that New York had a monopoly! Thenso many trusting would-be actors would have more money in theirwallets today. EXAMPLE 1: OH WE WOULD LOVE TO WORK WITH YOU.Scene: An agent's office. Actress Betty has just been interviewedby Agent Harry. "Yes, indeed we certainly can find things that arejust right for you. However, you need new headshots (This may betrue!) Here's a photographer we work with all the time and he'sjust about the best. Maybe a little pricey, but you get what youpay for." Betty is thrilled. An agent at last! Betty books the shoot. Goes to the appointment for the shoot. Thephotographer introduces her to the makeup artist. "Oh yes, everyoneneeds a professional makeup artist. All those little blemishes, youknow. And it's only a hundred dollars plus twenty-five more if hestays through the entire shoot." PROBLEM: Two potential scams: (Scam 1) Without looking at otherphotographers' work and reviewing their prices and what theyprovide, many actors simply take the agent's advice. Surely anagent would know the best photographers! Besides, you don't want tooffend an agent by saying you prefer to shop around a bit beforedeciding on a photographer. Oh dear. Moral: Do not go to aphotographer just because s/he is recommended by an agent. You are undoubtedly familiar with "reference rewards/incentives" (apolitically correct phrase meaning "kickback). This means thephotographer forks back a portion -- maybe twenty-five dollars foreach person the agent recommends. You do the math. The agent canmake nice pocket change if three or four would-be, wide-eyedinnocents use that photographer every month. Scam 2. You have had a makeup artist thrust on you without yourapproval. In New York I have found two superb photographers. Bothof them told me to do my own makeup. Why? Because I am the one whohas to do the makeup day after day for each audition and I need tolook like my headshot. Of course, I am not the glamorous type, butunless you know how to apply glamorous makeup -- that is, unlessyou can personally duplicate your makeup expert, you will notappear at that soap opera audition looking like your headshot. Another problem: I have seen just plain awful makeup done by"experts," including makeup on men (young and old) that made theactor look like a coffin candidate. SOLUTION: Beware agents bearing photographers and beware photographersbearing make up artists! "Beware" means run for the exit fast.Shop. Compare. Meet them. Ask other actors. EXAMPLE 2: VARIATION ON EXAMPLE 1'Yes we would be happy to work with you. Let's get you into ourbook." Unless this is a totally reputable modeling or print agency,run fast from "going into their book." It only costs $150 (aconservative figure) -- for which you do indeed go into a book andthe book sits there on their counter or desk or floor. And sitsthere. And sits there. A variation of "book" is "Internet site."Same story. You sit there and sit there and sit there. SOLUTION:Run fast for the nearest exit, holding tight to your wallet.----------------------------------------------------------HEAR HOW ONE ACTRESS LOST $5000 IN A COMMON ACTING SCAM"Chad: Got the video and watched it twice! I can't get the scenewith the girl who lost thousands of dollars out of my mind. I feellike that could have been me... Scary! - Cindy Jacobson, Miami"Learn more here:http://clicks.aweber.com/z/ct/?vImnN9qVGsOJFZl2SdVVgA---------------------------------------------------------- EXAMPLE 3: GETTING PAID FOR WORK DONEI personally booked a great national print job, internationalcorporation, a four-hour, one afternoon job that was to pay me $900(this was a few years ago). Did the job. It went into the magazine(a national). Four months later I still had no check. Called theagent. He said he hadn't received the check. Called the productioncompany. Yes, they had sent the check to the agent two weeks afterthe job was completed. Nine months later I was still trying to getthe money from the agent. When he finally sent the check it was for$500. I then went to see the agent. Scary experience. He screamed,yelled, threatened to throw me out of his office (we were alone). Ibeat it. Fast! Called the Better Business Bureau. They had numeroussimilar complaints about this print agent. Not quite end of story. The agent disappears, out of business for about five years. Thenone day an ad for a print job comes across my computer screen. Theaddress rings a bell. I check my calendar from several yearsbefore. Yes. Same address. Different name. This gentleman had goneunderground with one name and resurfaced with another! For a coupleof years his ads appeared two or three times a week. Then again, hedisappeared, I assume to find yet another name and arise from thedead yet a third time. SOLUTIONSo how do you avoid this? Ask for references from the agent andfollow up with them. Check the Better Business Bureau beforeaccepting a job with an unknown print agent. This kind ofdishonesty seems more prevalent in print and modeling jobs, partlybecause they have no union control. My own solution is to deal onlywith major name print agencies. How do you find out who is major?Ask other actors. Reputations of dishonesty -- and honesty -- getaround. EXAMPLE 4: COME STUDY WITH METhere are ads all over the Internet and e-zines for "I am the best.Study with me." This is not restricted to "no name" coaches orclasses. They include nationally known studios. I had a call this week from someone who had studied at one of themajor name drama schools on the East Coast. She spent one entireterm running around the room flapping her arms in her basic actingcourse. It was an exercise designed to "loosen up the body and getrid of self-consciousness." What do you call this "Rooster" escapade? Is it a scam? Notlegally, no. But it robs you of money and turns out arm flappingyoung would-be actors. Not my idea of how to get actors to soundreal and interesting. A profound loss of money. In a similar waste of time and money, a major school here inManhattan has the class spend weeks sitting in front of the otherstudents learning to cry. That too was the basic course in acting.Scam? Well, it was a waste of money. My solution is an onion forfilm and fighting not to cry (learn how to quiver the lower lip)for stage. Still another near scam with coaches: Someone daily proclaims viathe internet s/he is a coach and career advisor whose vastexperience and success qualify her/him to teach others how toachieve similar success. Some Googling reveals a bit of a differentstory about the significance of the coach's resume. But innocentactors who aren't skilled enough to read between the lines of aresume, plunk down money for lessons in the business of thebusiness and learn what could have been discovered in several basicthe-business-of-acting books for a lot less money.Learn how to read the resume of a wanna be coach. Where are theirreviews? Watch out for extra work hiding under the guise of "girlat bar" or "truck driver at toll booth." That's usually extra work!And you don't have to pay someone to teach you how to do extrawork. Just mail your headshot to the agents who specialize in extraactors. Extras are always in demand. SOLUTION:This is a toughie. Major schools with major name teachers comewrapped in a mystique that is daunting, a mystique that seems toautomatically turn off our critical brains. But if the first day ofclass finds you flapping your arms--run. Don't flap. Run. Rememberthis is not only a waste of money and time but can be destructiveto your growth. Money can be replaced but a bad teacher withhis/her mediocre teaching can be permanently destructive. As for the Internet gurus who lure the innocent in with claims oftheir own success: insist on seeing their resume and do your ownchecking. These coaches and advisors must - repeat - must showverifiable resumes and have a decent (verifiable) list of reviews.Just being charming as a person, or persuasive as a guru does notmean they can teach you how to act better or give you much helpfulinformation about the business end of show biz. EXAMPLE 5 "COME-ON" AUDITION ADS"Meet at XYZ bar, dressed for a night out." This theoretically is achance to meet and mingle and audition and hand in your headshotand and and. What it is is free extras for a scene taking place ina bar. Most of the ads in Backstage are pretty legit. But have ahundred red flags by your computer when you surf the auditionsites. While you may not lose money, some of the "auditions" areeither sleazy or false. SOLUTIONDo not let your drive to audition do a hit and run over your commonsense. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If theaudition is in a bar or a diner, it just isn't legit. EXAMPLE 6: COME TO OUR BIG SEMINAR and MEET AGENTSThis is probably strictly up to you. However, there are a fewcaveats. (1) Several of these come-on's to meet casting directorsor agents are really geared primarily to selling courses given bythe sponsor. (2) Be sure that the agents they promise you will meetare affiliated with an agency that has enough business to make itworth your while to pay to meet them. (3) Be very aware that thisis often an exercise in tedium for the agents and castingdirectors, who often attend these seminars because of the nice feethey receive. There are horror stories about people paying $200dollars (or more) for a seminar promising to give each actor a fewminutes with each casting office or agency but the gullible actorends up merely handing over a P/R which immediately hits thegarbage. Are the seminars ever worthwhile? Sometimes. But ask other actorsbefore dropping your money for seminars. I remember going to onesuch seminar sponsored by SAG (free), meeting the agent I hadrequested and having her tell me up front, "From your reviews I amsure you are an excellent actress, but we have at least 10 signedclients in your age group." I am so grateful I hadn't paid for thatinterview. At least she told the truth! SOLUTIONSo attend if you wish. But make your choices wisely and know thatyou probably could get the same results merely by mailing in yourP/R to the casting offices or the agency directly. EXAMPLE 7: COME JOIN OUR THEATRE GROUPDues: $20 a month plus 2 hours a week service. (I read an ad todayfor a $60 a month theatre company. Watch out. Part of thetwo-hours-a-week service includes cleaning toilets and otherwholesome activities. All of which are OK so long as you do indeedget cast and get to perform in their productions. If you want to be a no-pay gofer there are many casting offices andagents who say up front that they need assistants (no pay). Atleast in a casting office for no money you can do some networkingand learn the behind-scenes of this business. SOLUTIONIf more than a couple of months pass by after you have joined thisdues-paying acting company and you see no role in the near future,get out. Cut your losses and exit. Don't waste your time hoping. EXAMPLE 8: OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL VOICE YOU HAVEA last word about teachers: Watch out for unconditional praise. Nottoo long ago I attended the audition of someone trying out for arole in a musical. An occasional reader has objected to my stancethat someone may or may not have a future in singing. In this particular instance the singer changed keys three times in16 bars. Unfortunately, the song itself remained in one key. Whenasked about training, the singer answered, "My teacher says I havea beautiful voice." "How long have you studied with this teacher?""Three years." "How much do the lessons cost?" "Sixty-five dollarsan hour." Is this a scam? Yes and no. There were indeed classes given for themoney paid. But the teacher is absolutely tone deaf or is stringingthis gullible student along just to make money. Is it unethical?That depends on your ethics. But that's a lot of money every weekto be patted on the back and praised for a talent that simply isnot there. This is not a case of one man's idea of a beautifulvoice versus another man's idea of tin ears. The actor could notcarry a tune -- a universal requirement for a musical theatrecareer. No, I am not endorsing those teachers who belittle students. Find ateacher who praises where praise is due and makes strongsuggestions where they are due. Give your teachers six months andthen check to see how much progress you have made. Remember thereare two people involved here: teacher and student. It is difficult to evaluate our own ability so take the talent outto the auditioning pool. It will tell you in a few months whetheryour gift is marketable. If, on the other hand the teacher ispraising and flattering someone who cannot stay in the same key for16 bars then look to the teacher. If not a scam artist, he/she isat least dishonest. So again, just be sure your money going for lessons or classes isbeing spent wisely. That auditioning pool is a good test. EXAMPLE 9 AND FOR ONLY $50There was an audition ad in one of the local papers or on one ofthe Internet sites. I submitted my P/R. Back came a note howpleased they were I wanted to audition for them and how impressivemy resume and and and. And by the way, in order to cover the costof renting the auditioning space and processing my applicationthere would be a $25 application fee. SOLUTION:There are indeed fees for some legit general auditions. But theseplaces are well-known and they do indeed hold auditions. Yes,people do get hired from these group auditions. Tracking down thelegitimacy of such auditions is up to you. And merely having awebsite does not make an audition scam more legitimate. It justmeans the scammers are better at their scamming. CONCLUSIONOne of the things I so admire about ActorTips is that Chad haschosen to make it free. Almost daily I come across the firstparagraph of a fascinating article on acting, follow the link toread the rest of the article, only to discover you have to pay inorder to access the rest of the article. ActorTips is a rarity inthis business: a true FREE worthwhile site with no strings. Such agift is rare in any business, but especially show business. Any time something costs money, look at it carefully, regardless ofthe charm or reputation of the seller.

Young Actors learn from Nickelodeon Casting Director

2005-05-31T19:57:00.000-07:00

This sounds like a great opportunity. A chance to learn from and get up close to an honest to goodness, top casting director for Nickelodeon. I'm thinking of signing my young actor up myself!
2 SPOTS left in Sharon Lieblein's1-Day On-CameraCold Reading/Auditioning Technique IntensiveSharon is the HEAD OF CASTING AT NICKELODEONThis class will cover:Learn how to turn your cold reading into a hot reading and to present astrong image during an audition. Matt will share strategies forremaining poised while under pressure and guidance on how to connectwith the director, casting director or producer, as well as the otheractor who you are reading with. He will provide valuable guidance andpreparation for auditions, screen tests and working on the set. He willhelp pinpoint your weaknesses and offer exercises that will help youstrengthen your performance. As a result, you will know how to performwith confidence in front of a camera through the use of cold readingscenes. This class is designed for actors 17 and under.Call TVI today at 818-784-6500 for more information.http://www.tvistudios.com/youngactors/Default.asp

Cure Stage fright by memorizing your lines?!

2005-05-26T23:48:00.000-07:00

That seems to be the point of this tip for actors young and old from Chad Gracia (you know, the guy who sells those clear head shot envelopes.)
The Amazing Power of Over-Memorization
I started coaching a few months ago and saw actors go up on lines,forget the words of music at auditions, and just generally performpoorly. We worked on a monologue for three sessions. They began tounderstand the technique they were learning and started toincorporate variety and energy into their voices. I gave them threeweeks of working with me on a monologue and then they had to do amock audition, using the worked-on monologue. Splat. They fell topieces. Why were lines forgotten in front of me and Pepper, my divacat? Stage fright? Then in the middle of someone's session last night I understood,and thought: "Oh Zeus, I've found the cause of stage fright, oftight, unimaginative performances, ho hum acting, fear, dead pauses-- the entire gamut of mediocrity -- they all have one commoncause." THE ACTORS DID NOT KNOW THEIR LINES! At least not well enough. Why? Because under stress, mere ordinarymemorization just simply isn't enough. In our articles here the word "preparation" probably comes secondonly to "energy" in number of times used. But it never occurred tome to explore the very foundation, the absolute cement basementfloor of preparation. Who would have guessed that the Alpha andOmega of being able to give everything in a performance, the answerto solving stage fright is indeed the most basic of allpreparation: KNOW YOUR LINES. It's just that simple:over-memorization. THE CURE TO STAGE FRIGHTYou have to over-memorize, literally "over." Over and over andover. Say each line aloud. Slowly. Use as many differentinterpretations as possible as you repeat the same line. Feel thewords on your tongue. See a parade of sequential pictures evoked byeach word and phrase. Hear the sound of the word with your innerear or somewhere in the back of your head. But be sure you alwayspractice aloud, because aloud is how we act. TEN SUGGESTIONS FOR OVER-MEMORIZING1. Cover the script with another sheet of paper, leaving visiblethe one line you are saying. Glance down at that line and pick upas much as the eye allows you. Look up and say the line aloud,slowly, trying to force the sound into the wall. Try to make thewall understand every word you say. Repeat this pattern through theentire page. Then repeat the entire page, always pounding the senseinto the wall. Repeat and repeat until the wall really knows thelines. 2. Pick out the most important words in a sentence. See therelationship between those words. Is there a relationship inmeaning? In the way the words are formed? (ending in "ed," or"ing," for example.) Do the words rhyme? Is the same letterrepeated at the beginning of the word, or maybe the same parts ofspeech (verbs or nouns usually)? Look for patterns in the way the sentences are put together. Whatkinds of words are used (short, long, three syllables, all onesyllable)? What is the link in logic from one important word to thenext important word or from one sentence to the next sentence? Thisexamination of words is the most basic of all ways to help youunderstand the textual meaning and to help you memorize. If youdevote an hour a page examining the words, especially where youhave heavy dialogue, then you will have memorized the pageautomatically. 3. Move from examining individual words and phrases into seeing thepictures these words are creating. If they are not creating visualpictures, see if they are creating emotional patterns. Look forpatterns. 4. Get up on your feet, as soon as you have been blocked. Itsomehow drills the words into us if we know what line is said inwhat spot on the stage. Oh here I am at the coffee table; thereforeI must say XYZ. 5. Some people write their lines. I haven't found that usefulpersonally but a variation has helped considerably. I had acommercial that I simply could not memorize. I remembered learningto read via flash cards. So I made flash cards for the commercial,one card per word, and spread them in the right order on top of thepiano. In front of the camera I simply "read" the lines off thepiano in my mind's eye. 6. Another tool that helps in memory is the computer. Retype thescenes you are in, putting them in larger print and using coloredink for the major words. Actually that trick works wonderfully foraudition sides also. First, it makes the words easier to read andsecond, while typing them you are also learning them.7. One of the best hints for memorizing is "association." Since Ilove words, my own association trick is verbal. Some people workbetter with visual memorization -- that is, creating your own minimotion picture and seeing in your mind's eye the words writtenunder the picture (like a foreign film). 8. If you have a friend, spouse, or Pepper the diva cat, it isalways good to run lines over and over with someone else. Watch outthough. The temptation is to play and have fun. Remember the aim isto memorize. 9. Some people tape the other lines, leaving space for you to readyour lines. Or do the entire scene on tape. 10. Last is something a bit weird but it works. Suppose you need tolearn the line, "Oh no, it wasn't awful at all. It was reallyrather like old times." In this final hint for memorizing, youcreate silly memory pictures. For example, "Oh no" not only rhymesbut you can visualize an O with the word "no" in the middle."Awful" picture something really awful (the simpler the better) orpicture the word "Awe" being full of something awful. "At all"becomes someone very tall (a-tall). String the weird picturestogether and there's your sentence. The important thing, regardless of how you accomplish it, is toOVER MEMORIZE. This has not been an article on how to memorize. It has been aboutthe fact that over memorization will kick the stage fright jittersinto next year. I am firmly convinced that many, if not most, ofour acting problems find their origin in our incomplete, ho-hum,lackadaisical memorization. Winging it simply won't do. Memorization is the beginning ofeverything. It's rather difficult to walk in and take over anaudition room if you aren't sure of the words of your song or thelines of your sides of monologue. Memorization has to come at thetop of the list of preparation--and at the middle of the list ofpreparation--and at the end of the list. Knowing the lines insideout--that's the key. Eureka! Fifteen years into my acting career, I still sit in dressing roomsnight after night going over scenes, script propped up against myorange juice carton. (See an earlier article on the value of orangejuice.) My cast mates assume I'm suffering from early senility. Butactually, I'm over-memorizing.

Somethings coming...something good?

2005-05-24T16:31:00.000-07:00

We were going to go on a PSA audition - one I'd submitted our child actor for - but a school project came up so we're passing. It's okay because it wasn't from the agent and I did call the CD but still... he asked a girl to go to the movies with him today and she said no. Just no. Actually, first she told him to hurry up and ask her what he wanted to ask her because she had to go. I feel like he needs something good to happen for him and soon. Or am I just projecting my own childhood fears and anxieties on him? Hmmmm. I know I could never put myself out there the way he does. I'm proud of him.

Another little heartbreak

2005-05-23T23:11:00.000-07:00

My child actor doesn't know it but the cd called today to say he didn't get the part in the short he auditioned for yesterday. He said he took direction very well but still didn't get the part. THe CD has worked with my husband before so our son got to go in and read for the director. That's why it's doubly hard that it didn't work out.
Right now I'm completely demoralized - things are not happening for him - at least on a visible level and they're not happening for my husband and I either. He's not working so all my dreams of owning our own home and /or going to Hawaii have to be put on hold. And I'm so tired of putting things on hold. I'm past 50. I just want my little house. And for my son to feel happy doing something he loves.
I want to feel like a winner. Right now, I don't.

Auditions on Sunday

2005-05-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Sunday auditions seem to be the norm for shorts and student films. My young actor had one today. The casting director told his father he took direction very well which is a good sign. It's a small part - but a nice little chunk.
So bizarre to see so many films coming out that he auditioned for:
Kicking and Screaming with Will Ferrell- he read for the lead part of the son.
Shark Boy & Lava Girl - he read for the lead at Betty Mae in Venice.
Wait, I forget the others but there are more. I'l make a list and publish it later.
I have to go and check out a scientology website now. I'm intrigued because of Tom Cruise and John Travolta,my husband is seriously annoyed at me because I'm curious. He says I'm going over to the dark side (Isn't this Star Wars great?!)
Anyway he's sending me to a website where I can find the answers I want - like do you really have to pay to advance within the church? And what's that about anyway?

Casting for kids projects - Where the Wild Things Are

2005-05-20T23:56:00.000-07:00

Exciting. Looks like they're making a movie of Where the Wild Things Are at Universal- great little short, I would have thought. If they're basing it on the children's picture book it doesn't seem like it would flesh out into a full scale film but you never know. Anyway the cd for the project is at Actor Site this weekend. Their location is 5656 Cahuenga in North Hollywood. Here's what's going on in their neck of the woods.

PLENTY OF ROOM, ARRIVE EARLY ON STANDBY! CATE ENGEL @ DAVIS/BADDELEY -- 9:45am Check in
Cate is currently casting an Inde called LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE and will be casting a studio filmfor Universal called WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE.

PLENTY OF ROOM, ARRIVE EARLY ON STANDBY! DAWN SHINDELE -- 12:15pm Check in
Dawn casts BIG studio and inde projects.They are currently casting the films:ZOOM (for Revolution)POPULATION 436ALWAYS FUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA

PLENTY OF ROOM, ARRIVE EARLY ON STANDBY!MICHELLE ADAMS @ HARDIN/BUTLER -- 2:45pm Check inMichelle is the full Associate in this office workingwith Kimberly Hardin and Leah Daniel Butler casting thefeaturesJELLY BEANS for WBand an Inde called BLACK SNAKE MOAN

Parents of Child Actors: Remember to say thank you.

2005-05-19T23:14:00.000-07:00

Here's some advice on the experts about using postcards to say thanks for the audition, courtesy of Chad Gracia and Ruth Kulerman:
In this issue Ruth Kulerman writes about one of the biggest
mistakes I've seen actors make - not using postcards to keep in
constant contact with the people who could provide them with work.
I know dozens of talented actors who never do postcard mailings,
and they often wonder why they aren't working. The answer is simple
- the people who do the hiring don't know they exist! They think
that just because they saw them in a show a year ago or met them
once, that they'll remember them when it comes time to cast. Not so!
Read on to learn more about why and how to use postcards, as well
as a really amazing tip that I've myself seen lead to a role on
Broadway.
Best of luck in your acting pursuits,

Chad Gracia
President, ActorTips.com

2. USE POSTCARDS TO GET MORE ACTING WORK
by Ruth Kulerman
This past week a student of mine had an audition for a Broadway
show -- her first.
"Thrilled" barely hints at her feelings. We rehearsed everything,
from her two-sentence self-introduction to what she would wear and
sing and how to sing it, and more. She was capital R ready.
From our postmortem analysis a few days later it sounded like a
killer audition. Then I asked what she had written on her
post-audition postcard. She gave me a blank look.
She didn't send one!
Okay, here's an essential tip if you want a successful career:
Postcards must be sent after every audition - and you must send
them to casting offices every month. And to agents until you sign
with one. Postcards truly are your lifeline to continuous auditions.

WHY POSTCARDS?
For one, it's just good business manners to thank someone for an
audition, whether it's an open call or an "invited" audition.

The second, and more important, reason is that it gets your face in
front of casting directors. Remember "Outa sight, outa mind"?
Believe me the opposite is even more true: "In sight, in mind."
Casting people and directors need to be reminded constantly that
you exist and the best reminder is that monthly postcard.

Postcards are much more effective than letters (unless you are
self-submitting, of course) because they take less time to open and
considerably less time to read. Time is a casting office's (or an
agent's) most cherished commodity. Respect that.

And last, postcard postage is cheaper than a letter. If you are
sending out a hundred postcards vs. a hundred letters every month,
the savings is nearly $170 a year.

And don't send anything "cutesy-poo." No pencils with your name and
cell number, no little heart candies tied with a ribbon. Just your
postcard.

Child Actors : NBC Announces its new fall season

2005-05-17T22:12:00.000-07:00

According to ActorSite NBC announced their FALL SEASON lineup today, here's a link to the FUTONCRITIC page with the announcement.
http://www.thefutoncritic.com/cgi/pr.cgi?id=20050516nbc01
AND here's what it means to young (and old) actors.
1. Members should be sure to TARGET THE NEW SHOWS! Why?Because when a show is NEW is when they are open to newactors to play supporting and recurring roles. As a show gets to it's second or third season, if it's a "hit' then NAME actors will work it for scale just towork the show. Plus the producers get it into their headthat because they have a "hot" show they can make "wish lists"that include the stars they've always wanted to work with.If you noticed, we had so many of our members book MEDICALINVESTIGATION, NUMB3RS, HOUSE, and BLIND JUSTICE, because theywere casting the first season and were more open to castingunknowns at the GUEST STAR level, as well as at the co-starlevel.2. THE ACTORSITE will try to target the casting offices thatcast these new shows and bring them in so that YOU can workshopwith BUSY CASTING DIRECTORS to increase your KNOWLEDGE andSKILLS!!!3. It's EQUALLY important to WORK ON SKILLS NOW, becauseREPLACEMENT PILOT SEASON begins at the end of this weekand lasts until JULY 15...SO BE SURE TO GET YOUR SKILLSSHARP!!!4. We'll have UPDATED information on the Casting officesbeginning this week, so that you KNOW who is likely to castwhat!!!

Auditions are not pouring in

2005-05-15T21:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a pretty slow week. I had to laugh when I saw one of the entry titles "THE AUDITIONS ARE POURING IN". Jeesh! What an idiot I am. My child actor did have one audition for a non union horror movie in the middle of the week but we haven't heard anything as yet.
I did email his teacher asking for advice - he wondered how he acts when he meets a new CD - I wonder too. I've said this before but he is so shy!
In fact i told him for this last audition his main goal was to make eye contact with the person who takes him in and the CD who reads him. I happened to be right there so could see him meet both people and he totally made eye contact - no smile to speak of - just very intense eye contact. It's a start!
I didn't even ask him about the audition - just told him I saw the eye contact and what a great job he did at it.
Baby steps!
If his acting teacher stops teaching this class maybe I'll hve him try Improv in the fall. I would think that would help a kid feel free and comfortable.
Break Legs!
Caio for now
Oh, BTW, if you haven't signed up for NOW casting, check out the $10/month professional membership which allows you to submit electronically. He's had several calls from it. Definitely worth the $s.

Child Actor news

2005-05-10T23:14:00.000-07:00

Important info from Bizparentz re Incorporation & Emancipation, Aftra elections, internet safety and a COOGAN site where you might find unclaimed cash!Click on title to go to Bizparentz.com

Several things we wanted to update everyone on.* INCORPORATION? We will be co-hosting a SAG Foundation seminar regarding Incorporation and Emancipation on June 7th. Watch the website for the registration link to SAG Foundation coming soon! Scott Feinstein will be co-hosting the seminar with us.* AFTRA ELECTIONS - as we did in the most recent SAG elections, we will be offering candidates an opportunity to say what they intend to do for Child Actors. The AFTRA ballot is much smaller, and we don't know what to expect in terms of response, but wanted it to be an opportunity for them to think about the child actors. Watch the site for any candidate responses if your child received a ballot to vote.* INTERNET SAFETY FOR CHILD ACTORS- We are beginning a very comprehensive look into internet safety for child actors, and will be partnering with some internet safety professionals, including the Los Angeles District Attorney's office. If anyone has had what they consider to be a negative experience, either with message boards, fan sites, inappropriate contact, finding their child on an inappropriate board, PLEASE contact us and tell us your story, who you were dealing with, etc. You will remain anonymous, but we need everyone's input to make this as thorough as possible. There are several of us working on an article that will suggest appropriate boundaries that parents might wish to follow in dealing with their child actors internet identity. * COOGAN - Remember to check unclaimedcoogan.org for updates. We will be posting the current list on the site, soon. Many of the names that are now off the list we recognize as being friends of people here! So, bit by bit we will all make a difference in getting that money back where it belongs! Also remember, if you are having a difficult time with anything Coogan related, perhaps we can help. We like to hear success stories, too! :-)We will be adding lots of new content to the website this week! Please remember if you are looking for something and don't find an answer there, write and ask. We often see the questions that someone 'searched' for, and wish we could contact them to help. If we don't know the answer, we will find someone who does.Our best, Paula & Anne

Make it bigger!

2005-05-04T23:35:00.000-07:00

My child actor was moaning today - he didn't want to study his scene. But the reason was because he's tired of his acting teacher say "Make it bigger." While I haven't see my child actor in class I'm sure he is too restrained. He seems to be getting shyer and shyer. You would think the acting lessons would help with that - but I wonder if he becomes more uptight as he compares himself to other, free-er actors?
That's why he doesn't want to do this scene - because it requires him to move out of his comfort zone and "make it bigger".
In my opininion, making it bigger isn't really the right way to say it. The actor really has to put himself in the situation - as the character - and IF YOU ARE FREE AND OPEN ENOUGH - the scene should take you there.
Make it bigger is a tool I suppose but it seems a bit like - "Give me a sad scene where I get to cry"
A character may be immensely sad and NEVER CRY... it's all in the scene, the character and the work.

Inspiring words for all actors from ACTORSITE

2005-05-03T18:32:00.000-07:00

What's going on out there in the world of theproactive actor? There is so much going on out therethat there is no reason to stop the momentum now. This is the time to WORKSHOP with the CD's who are working and normally too busy to get out. This is the time to make appointments with agents. This is the time to raise your skills tothe next level. This is the time to get around town todrop off your pics & postcards. You never know whenyour break will land in your lap. Get ready now. If your not being proactive with your career, what isup? If you fall under this category, unfortunately,all the most direct motivating words in the world willnot do it for you. You have to make the choice to bethe agent, secretary or personal assistant you alwayswanted. Shift the way you think, and you may get justwhat you want. Have a GREAT week!"On the mountains of truth you can never climb invain: either you will reach a point higher up today,or you will be training your powers so that you willbe able to climb higher tomorrow."Friedrich Nietzsche "Most of the important things in the world have beenaccomplished by people who have kept on trying whenthere seemed to be no help at all." -Dale Carnegie "“It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficulttask which, more than anything else, will affect it’ssuccessful outcome.”–William James“To be a great champion you must believe you are thebest. If you’re not, pretend you are.”––Muhammad AliNow get busy!JOE

Audition burn-out?

2005-05-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

What a week! Two auditions stand out. The reason? Because we were there... and yet we weren't.
I think my child actor was among dozens of young teenish boys called to audition for the Secret of the Cave on Wednesday. We got to his audition about a half an hour early and there were already 25 to 30 boys lining the walls waiting to go in. The sides were about six pages so each audition was going to take awhile. We were on a tight time budget due to school and the fact that it takes almost 2 hours to get to auditions from where we live.
We looked at each other, I went to the restroom and we left. It was a heartwrenching decision but given how long we'd have to wait we just couldn't do it. The movie films in Ireland in July. Boo hoo.
Then Friday he had an audition in the heart of Hollywood for some martial arts thing. I take a wrong turn - get stuck in Westwood which is a nightmare because it's hard to get around UCLA- and make it to the neighborhood about 1 hour late. Then I can't find the address. I can't find my book with the info written. The agent isn't answering the phone. Not even the after hours line. We're sunk. I actually cried! My son was upset and I tried to let him know my mini melt down was not his fault - that even grownups get overwhelmed sometimes. What I didn't say was that not showing up for auditions may be some sort of self-sabotage behavior on my part. Maybe I'm so disappointed with him not booking that despite being supportive on the surface I don't know what to do or think. It hasn't been working for us. He's been out and not even getting callbacks in so long. It's true that the parts he's had have been given to him by acting teachers, friends or directors who didn't ask him to audition because the part wasn't big enough to worry about. And maybe that's why I' ve not been posting too. Arrrgh.
He has one today even though it's a Sunday. one I submitted him for. Wish him broken legs. He needs the luck.

Jesse James

2005-04-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

My child actor son shot his scene last night. After all the phone calls about wardrobe, they had great old western boots, pants, raggedy shirt, suspenders and hat. he looked great as the young Jesse James. It's for a highly respected cable channel and while his role was brief -and speechless - it was pivotal. Jesse and brother, Frank, watch their home being burned. The implication is that's what sets him off on the road to being one of the baddest cowboys around. I'll keep you posted as to air date!

shooting a documentary about an infamous cowboy

2005-04-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

God, I just reread yesterday's post about my child actor. I was insufferable! Sorry about that - a little too much boasting there. Hateful!
Funny calls today though. It was bad enough the production wanted him to bring pants - wardrobe called today again asking if he had shoes that might work! Right. I've got some Nikes that I bought in 2005 that would like perfect in a small western town of 1849! Geesh!
Oh well we're sending him with black loafers that might blend in.
My husband is bringing his digital so hopefully I'll be able to see. Keeping my fingers crossed that all goes well.
They want to use him later than planned tonight so they need him to take tomorrow off and they'll school him then. Pay him for the day as well. Kind of insane though - he doesn't like missing school, so we'll see.

Auditions are Pouring In

2005-04-20T22:56:00.000-07:00

Wow! My child actor had an audition yesterday and again today for something on HBO. Small but prestigous. He has an audition on Friday. The lead in a major film. There are two other student films that want him to audition - one is an AFI project. He has class Saturday. Surely with all this buzz, something's gotta give, right?
And he's working tomorrow. It was fun to get calls from wardrobe for sizes and from an associate producer with call time and location. Although it's a period piece and the wardrobe person asked if he had a couple of pairs of pants he could bring! I was shocked - I didn't think it was that low budget. Will his part be so minor it doesn't matter what he's wearing?
Details after the shoot!
Interesting to note that half the activity is from my submitting him - the rest of it is coming from his agent. So now I feel badly that I was putting out a feeler and doubting his agent.
Sit tight, sit tight/Perhaps we just had to wait 'til the time was right?

Casting A Secret Horror Movie

2005-04-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

My child actor had another Nowcasting.com audition today. It was for an untitled Horror film. Funny, when we signed in, just like my child actor, most of the other kids there had well-known representation. I don't know how they got the word but even though my son's agent is listed on Nowcasting.com, the casting director called me directly!
The funny thing was weren't given sides until we got there and he also had to sign a confidentiality agreement. Top secret!
The whole thing had a nice feeling to it - we pulled up 5 minutes early, in the heart of Hollywood there was a parking space open right out in front AND I HAD QUARTERS! How cool is that? I think it's meant to be.
Wish him a great big broken leg.

Hannah Montana starring ?

2005-04-18T13:16:00.000-07:00

In the world of child actors this upcoming pilot has been THE hottest buzz in town. The casting directors (London/Stroud) started seeing kids back in 2004 then everything just stopped. It started back up in late February and they must have seen every girl in town. Word is they must have found her because they've finally turned their attention to the other cast members - including the boys. And yes, my child actor is a male. So even though his agent has submitted him, even though I've sent his oversized headshot postcard when I saw the notice on NowCasting.com I submitted him immediately. Ya never know!

Auditions come and go

2005-04-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

I have no idea what happened to the "short" audition. She owed me a call back from last night and didn't hear. Then since the audition was supposed to be today I called to clarify but got someone else on the phone who said she was way out back. I said I just wanted to confirm since she didn't return my latest call that they were no longer interested. "What?! You're breaking up. I can't hear you. I'll tell her to call back when she comes in." Which, she never did! Her phone was an Oregon number and the film said "NYFA". Anyway he was at the older end of the age range and probably wouldn't be enthralled about being a little boy who loves to listen to his grandfather tell astronaut stories. The bright side - it wasn't a big movie!
i just submitted him for a student film which calls for a British accent. He can do it but if we get the call to audition he's going to have to practice.

First NowCasting.com audition

2005-04-14T18:31:00.000-07:00

Got our first nowcasting.com call from a cd today looking to cast my child actor in a short. We've been missing each other abut hopefully we can make it happen and get to that audition and book that job!
Time frame for him is tight - between 4 and 6. No earlier because of school and time to get there. No later cuz he's goin' to a dance!
My little romeo!
Do you tell your agent you've got the audition - or only tell them when you've booked a job??
Anybody know?

Take the Actor Site tour

2005-04-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

Every once in awhile I like to check out what's happening at Actor Site. I know this weekend they're doing free headshots for members. Apparently lots of people use the freebie opportunity to practice their headshot skills so when they get in front of the photographer they want to use for their real headshots they won't waste the first fifty or so getting warmed up. Great idea!Here's the Actor Site link (click on the title) to learn more.

A Word about Feature Film casting

2005-04-11T22:46:00.000-07:00

If you came out to LA for pilot season ... or you were here all along hearing how busy it was but it wasn't for you ... take heart, there's always something new coming just around the corner. Pilot season fizzled? Get ready for feature season!
Words of wisdom from Jack at Actorsite's :
There are a TON of FEATURE FILMS being cast right now
April, MAY, JUNE are the HUGE FEATURE FILM CASTING MONTHS!FEATURE FILM SEASON: We listed 28 new feature films to postcardon FRIDAY, plus there are about 30 or more coming out perWEEK during this time of year.Why are there SO MANY FEATURES being cast?
There are several reasons.
1. Feature budgets are set in January and it takes a few months to get the budget money out so that the projects canbegin casting...so APRIL is a GREAT MONTH for featurestart ups. That's why so many of you are being called infor films starring the big stars like Brad Pitt, CateBlanchett, Tom Cruise, Tom Hanks and others...it's a great time of year for FEATURE AUDITIONS!
2. Television actors are available following Episodic season to STAR in FEATURE FILMS. Remember all those years when eachof the "FRIENDS" would star in a film in the off season? Wellso many TV STARS do that each year, so that means that an extra 100 or so films can get stars to help them getmade. It all means more work for YOU, since they need supporting and principal cast. These films have to wrapby the end of July, so the work is NOW through JULY!
3. TV MOVIES are being shot in Los Angeles now...For years they were ALWAYS shot in Canada because therewas a Canadian investment fund to help fund them. Now thatfund has been dissolved(thanks to our government negotiations), so fewer TV MOVIES and MINI-SERIES are shot in Canada. Thatmeans more TV MOVIES and MINI-SERIES are shot here, inLA. It means more work for YOU! These are many times castby FEATURE FILM OFFICES and are many times headlined bymovie stars...that means more work for YOU for the supportingroles.
4. Smaller INDIE films that need outdoor locations can shoot outdoors...It's SUMMER and the sun is shining! Alsomany of these smaller indie films rely on TV STARS tostar in their films...that means more work for YOUin SUPPORTING ROLES!!!So we definitely recommend that you STAY ENGAGED this timeof the year...
FINALLY: If you think this is the time to piddle yourtime away...think again. Our members who have found successthis last year are the ones who ALWAYS are pushing forward...
Yes, you should take a week or two and GET OUT OF TOWNduring the next 12 weeks, but WHILE YOU ARE HERE, you shouldKEEP YOUR INTENSITY LEVELS UP!
Remember, if you don'tstay sharp, someone else will. The stakes are HIGH in LA, and if you want to slide forward to a career, it'sgoing to take more than patience...If you are failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail!All the best,Jack

Reese Witherspoon at Age 16

2005-04-10T23:31:00.000-07:00

I just saw Reese Witherspoon in "Man on the Moon", a poignant coming of age film in which she plays a 14 year old girl in love with a 17 year old boy. She was actually 16 when she shot it. Very sweet and looking just like Reese with that slightly off trademark smile. I checked IMDB and it was her first part and she's worked steadily year in year out since then. I know the boy's face - he's still acting too but I cant' put the grown up actor's name to it! If anybody knows who he is - please tell me!

Thanks to my child actor's agent for not returning my call!

2005-04-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

Get an email from the commercial agent for a Saturday audition for T-Mobile for my child actor. I email back - no can do - the time doesn't work for us. I suggest options and ask for a reschedule if possbible.
I hear NOTHING! I call at end of day to say what the hey? End of day is 5:30 BTW , not 7 or 8, or even 6pm. But they weren't there!!!
Okay fine. We decide we'll stop by in the am hoping to be seen. We don't get there until 1pm. They've just left for lunch. After much negotiating(I tell my child actor I will get him to his 2:30 event on time) we sign in and stay till 2 when they'll be back. He'll be first in, if we hurry, hurry, hurry (please God) we won't be late.
2pm comes, the cd is on time. Yippee!
They call his name. Hurray!
"Your category isn't being seen until 3:30pm" Boo hoo!
No they can't see him earlier, he's being hooked up as part of a Swedish set. No we can't come back later.
So, c'est la vie. That's a callback I won't have to worry about not getting. But you'd think the agent could have called or emailed me to let me know that. Woodenya?!
The Tmobil spot was shooting in Canada. I know their national anthem by heart. Coulda been cool.
Oh well, at least I got him to his 2:30 pm on time.

A West Texas Childrens' Story

2005-04-08T15:51:00.000-07:00

I saw on PARF (Professional Actors Resource Forum) that a young actress named Ana Sophia Robb had booked the part of Cassie in a West Texas Children's Story but they weren't sure what boy got the part or if it was still open. Which reminded me that my child actor's agent had sent us the sides and was getting us an audition and then it disappeared. I must have been superbusy becasue I just let it go without asking what happened. So I did yesterday. My child actor's agent said the director liked somebody early on and that was pretty much it. Anybody know who booked the part?
here's the link to parf -click on the title to go there. It's kind of fun to eavesdrop on the stage moms and dads or you can sign up. It's free. I just don't have the emotional energy to get into it. Most of them are parents of very busy working actors and my child actor isn't there yet.
Still, even with the no show yesterday, he has an audition tomorrow...if we can squeeze it in. God forbid he should miss his acting class - he LOVES it!!

Skipped a Commercial Audition

2005-04-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

My child actor's agent's assistant (say that ten times as an acting exercise) called today on my cell while I was at work. Of course I thought she was calling to say he had a callback. But no, it was for an audition for today. It was one commercial but he was being considered for 2 parts in a "cellular" commercial. I said okay but later as the day was so warm and his dad wanted to go for a swim with him I decided it was okay to blow off the commercial audition. not something I normally do and something I feel pretty guilty about but there it is! OH well, that's one callback I don't have to worry about him getting!!!!!!!!!!!

Audition for Yours, Mine and Ours

2005-04-06T16:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my young actor had two nice auditions both, in Santa Monica. One for Mary Vernieu at BettyMae in Venice. That was for an "older kid" who bullies the twins in "Yours, Mine and Ours". I don't know if those kids have been booked yet. I do know that Dennis Quaid and Renee Russo are the adult leads. They obviously like him there because even though he hasn't booked, they keep calling him in. He was there, what, last week for the younger brother is the Billy Bob Thornton movie, Mr. Woodcott. (or something like that)
We love going to Betty Mae because it entails a glorious drive down the PCH and then the casting office itself is situated in a funky house behind a restaurant and next door to a nursery. We spent a fun 15 or 20 minutes wandering the nursery - with a pond and cool pathway- waiting for him to go in. I think Mary Vernieu maybe owns the property becasue they were doing some work on the restaurant and the contractor was talking with Mary about it. They had a lot of kid "bully" types there, girls, fat kids, mean glowering types. Mine was the only gorgeous one but he plays a mean "mean kid" or so his old acting teacher always said.
Next we zoomed over to Mackey/Sandrich for an audition for a 14 year old boy named Mullet Fingers in a Marshall/Kennedy film called HOOT. My actor is a sweet looking 12 but you never know. At least he's a blonde which is what the script calls for although I notice our agent sent a much older looking, dyed black hair boy over for the same role. While we were there I could hear her on the phone talking to an agent. She was asking for tape on a kid who lived in Florida which is where the story takes place so I guess they're planning on shooting in Florida. Would love my child actor to get that part - have always wanted to spend time in the keys.

Rocket Science Open Calls for Young Actors

2005-04-05T23:26:00.000-07:00

There's a new movie called Rocket Science that's holding an open call this Saturday in Burbank. You can click on the title to go to their website. If you - or your child actor - is between 14 and 18, here's what they're looking for:
Open Auditions
Looking for: Male and Female High School students for all roles between the ages of 14 & 18 years old.
Date: Saturday, April 9th 2005.
Time: 10am Sharp (sign-in). Your audition order will be determined by your order in-line. Please be prepared to stay until 6pm.
Place: Screenland Studios – 10501 Burbank Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91607. Street parking is available.
What to bring: Water and a packed lunch, just in case you are there for a long time.
What to Prepare: A one-minute monologue of your choosing. You will be cut off after one minute.
If you are asked to stay you will then be asked to prepare a short scene from the film that we will give you.
This film shoots in Baltimore, Md starting on June 20 th for 6 weeks.

Acting Classes for Kids from Judy Belshe-Toernblom

2005-04-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

I pulled this off the Showfax/Actors Access website. This casting director has a good rep so the classes might be a good bet for those of you in the Long Beach, CA area.
Please feel free to pass this on to anyone that you think might be interested. This will be that last set of classes until August. Classes starting Monday, April 11th! 29 years casting * 3 awards for Writing, *Published Photographer. Acting Classes by Casting Director: Judy Belshe-Toernblom, author of “It's a Freeway Out There! The Parent's Guide to the Film and Commercial Industry”. Come and join in the fun and learn about the "BIZ." In December of 2004 we open an office here in Long Beach called The Great Balboa. Our office is a salute to the once great film production company, Balboa Films, that was here in Long Beach. One visit to our company and you will be enriched with film History. History that started before Hollywood! Come and be a BALBOAN!! Monday, April 11th ALL CLASSES ON CAMERA Ages: 4-7 * Commercial Classes Time: 2:30-3:30 PM ONE parent or guardian must attend this class with your child. We work with scripts, improv, music and on-camera. There is NO FOOD or DRINK other then water allowed in the building. Please remember this one rule. Ages: 8-15 year olds. Commercial & Theatricals. Time: 4:00-6 PM This is a combination class. 1 hour for commercials and 1 hour for theatrical. All classes are 4 weeks for $150 Call or Email for instructions on how to reserve your space: 562-621-0121 GreatBalboa@aol.com I'm also available for coaching for an audition or for the video taping of yourself or your child for important auditions the require tape.

Talent Scout at LA Casting

2005-04-04T14:31:00.000-07:00

Parents of Child Actors - LA Casting enables you to submit your kids even without an agent but did you know they also have a "Talent Scout" programs which gives you a way to submit online to all the agencies that use LA Casting. (which is most of them, these days!) And they do it once a month, EVERY MONTH, until you find representation. I'm glad we had a friend who recommended us to their agent but if you don't have a friend in the biz, this seems like an awfully good tool! Read all about it here and go to LACasting.com for more info and to sign up. Click on the title !
In the past two years, we've helped 1 out of 3 Talent Scout members find agency representation.
When you become a Talent Scout member, your profile will be submitted once a month to all of the agencies using Casting Networks. (Click here to see a list of the agencies receiving your submission.) We don't stop submitting until you find representation!Register before 4/11/2005 to be considered for our next submission on 4/13/2005.
You give us your headshot.
We send your picture to over 300 Talent Agencies.
The agents browse through our list of non-represented talent.
Your photo sparks their interest, so they decide to take a closer look.
They want to see you!
Agents are logged on to Casting Networks as part of their daily work routine. Finding all their talent in one place helps simplify the process. Consider this:
Stamps
$180
Headshot Reproductions
$100
Envelopes
$30
Printer Ink/Toner
$25
Resume and Cover Letter Paper
$3
Staples
$2
Mailing Labels
(Free on LA Casting)
Total
$340.00!!!
And remember, even after you've spent all of that money, you'll be extremely lucky to have even one agent call you in for a meeting. Agencies receive hundreds of submissions in the mail each day. They just don' t have time to open up every envelope that comes across their desk.
Speaking of time, how much time has it taken you to cut all of those resumes? And to stuff all of those envelopes? And attach postage? How much is your time worth?
Casting Networks has a better way. With our "Talent Scout" program, your pictures and resumes are sent to over 300 agents every month until you find representation! Agents like it because it's a quick, easy way to look through a lot of submissions. Actors like it because it works!

About Theatricum Botanicum - A Summer Place for Young Actors

2005-04-01T21:47:00.001-08:00

This is an essay about the Summer Youth Drama Camp at Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga, CA. It's a long post but I hope you enjoy reading about this great experience for young actors."Registration for drama camp?" a young, black guy asks with a smile.
I nod.
"Over the bridge to the main stage."
Over the bridge is a handwritten sign taped to an old post. Camp Registration is scrawled
quite imperfectly with a felt tip marker. An arrow leads past another old bridge to a clearing,
surrounded by trees and slightly dilapidated railings. Wrought iron, wooden and cement benches
are placed about; dusty walkways promise to lead one and all astray.
"This place is totally cool" Russell says, a trace of awe in his voice.
The gardens are a bit overrun. A flagstone is missing here and there; the lawn chairs are
Mismatched, rustic sign leads to Will's Shakespeare Garden where a bust, not of Shakespeare
but of Will Geer, sits beyond the neglected arbor. I smile and tell my ten year old son 1'm glad he
likes it. I don't tell him I think the place has magic - he would think I was way too corny - and
I wonder if he'll find that magic for himself.
After climbing the meandering path we join the line leading to the main stage. It's Day
One of the Theatricum Botanicum summer drama camp in Topanga and at nine am it's still chilly
under the canopy of trees. I make a mental note to force Russell to wear a sweatshirt that he can
stuff in his backpack when it gets hot.
Russell's group, the Pucks, are doing an adaptation of A Midsummer Night's Dream. I've
already rented the Kevin Klein/Michelle Pfeiffer version but he complained it was so boring, I
turned it off after forty five minutes.
After check in I join up with my friend Laura in the theatre. The sun is beginning to do
that dappling thing through leaves. Magic, I think to myself, more and more magic. Our boys sit
a couple of rows down as some guy in a baseball cap takes a handful of returning campers on
stage. The kids create a robotic teacher; one boy wags his finger up and down continuously.
"Too much noise, too much noise" he creaks. A girl joins in, hands on hips, shaking her head side
to side. "Two plus two is four. Two plus two is four." The other kids fall in with their own zany antics.
We all laugh and applaud.
I can see the curve of my son's cheek and I know he's laughing too.
"Are there any first timers?" Ian asks. Laura's son Hunter pushes Russell's arm high in the air.
"Hey, thanks for volunteering" he says. Everybody laughs. "C'mon up."
He has Russell and two other kids take turns walking around the stage. It's just an ice-
breaking exercise but Russell glows clear to the top of the theatre.
Afterwards the camp director goes over details, there's even a Potter warning.
"If I have to wait until three in the afternoon to read it, so do you. No Potter at camp!
Besides" Mary-Carol adds with a grin, "while you may think J.K. Rowling is the world's greatest
author, I happen to know JK. Rowling thinks that Shakespeare is."
Another staff member brings a big paper bag on stage and takes out a series of
"inappropriate" shoes.
"Bad shoe!" she admonishes a blue beach thong harshly.
"No! You can't come to camp," she shouts at a nice leather sandal with a heel. "You're
the one that made me twist my ankle. You're staying home. Do you hear me? HOME!!!!"
"You too, parents" she announces. "Go home!"
We file out rather pathetically, calling out last minute instructions.
"Don't forget to put on more sunscreen."
"You have your hat, right?"
"Wait! You left your script on the bench."
"See you later."
"See you at three."
"See you," we call longingly.
But the kids aren't listening; they've already left us behind as they group up in two's and
three's, parents mere blurs in the background.
"Bye" I try one more time.
"Bye," Russell nods his head almost imperceptibly in my direction.
When I return, throngs of noisy boys and girls are scattered about.
A string of kids with grimy faces skips by an older crowd; a girl with Angel
emblazoned on her butt, some boys in
huge shirts and ankle length shorts. I scan the area like a VIP looking for my limo driver at the
airport until I find Hunter holding the bright green Pucks sign. Gathered in a small bower by the
creek, several Pucks are singing a chant as they rummage through a big plastic tub for
backpacks and lunch boxes.
"We're the Pu-ucks. Oh we are the Pucks. We're the Pu-ucks." I'm waiting for someone
to let its four letter sound-alike slip but no one does.
As I sign Russell out a boy calls "See ya Russell," another joins in "So long."
"How was it?" I want to know, once we're settled in the car and the airs on full blast.
"Did you have a good time?"
"Yeah."
"Are the counselors nice?"
"Uh huh."
"How about the kids? Are they nice 'too?"
"Yeah."
"So you had fun?"
"Yep.
Hmmmm.
"How about if we finish watching A Midsummer Nights Dream tonight? Dad can get
pizza. "
"N ah. "
I take a deep breath and pay attention to the road. I wonder if I'll remember to turn in the
video before it's overdue? And if we're not having pizza, what should we have for dinner?
The next day I make him wear his 'sweatshirt because the morning air is so cold.
"We can not be late, Mom. They said whatever you do, don't just drive up at the last minute."
"Who said?"
"Some lady. The camp mom, I think."
"Okay, okay. I'm doing my best. It's only eight twenty." The traffic on PCH is jammed
but the sun is already glinting on the water and there's a swarm of surfers in the sea and the tall
palms with their mop tops are lined up along the crest of the cliff and I'm driving right through
this particular postcard, getting a rush out of rush hour. Russell makes it to camp with five
minutes to spare.
He's still wearing his sweatshirt when I pick him up six hours later and it's 94° out. His
blond hair, dark with sweat, is matted to his forehead. His face is flushed.
"Aren't you dying?" I moan. "It's so. hot!"
"Yeah. "
"Why didn't you take it off?"
"Dunno." He shrugs. "Too much hassle."
I pull it off him as while we walk. Tomorrow he'll have to spend the first hour being cold.
"Nice work today, buddy" the young, black guy calls. He stops traffic so we can cross Topanga.
This is Eric, the Puck counselor, but Russell has no idea why he said "Nice work"
To my "Well what did you do?" he answers "you know. . . stuff"
"Stuff" is improv, Elizabethan dance, theatrical make-up. Willow works with them on
Voice. Nick teaches them fencing and stage combat.
"Mom, it's so cool. You put your hand on top of the other person's head like you're
dragging them along by their hair but it's all staged. It's so funny when they're screaming "Help,
ouch, ouch!""
He shows me how to fake slap and punch. He practices his fencing moves and asks if I
know why the hand not holding the sword is up in the air.
"For balance?" I suggest weakly.
"Nope." He loves it when I'm wrong. "Back in the old days, so many people were dying
from sword fights they made it illegal so if you challenged someone to a duel you had to sneak
out at night."
"And... ?"
"And it was dark so you had to hold your lantern in your other hand!"
He lunges with his imaginary sword victoriously. Touche'!
They put their top three choices for the parts they want on a slip of paper. Russell wants
desperately to be Demetrius. He likes the idea of fighting with Lysander and leaving the stage
together "cheek and jowl."
He thinks he has a chance too because practically everybody else - all the boys anyway
- wants to be Puck.
"I think I'm the only one who wants the part."
I look at his sweet face, dimple in chin, blonde hair falling over his forehead.
"Break a leg" I offer as he pushes open the car door.
"It's not the play yet, Mom," he laughs, shaking his head at my superstitious nature.
Too superstitious to simply say good luck. I hope you get the part you want.
"Oh Mom," he asks one day as I sign him out, "can Luke and I have a play-date?"
"Probably. Who's Luke?"
"He's my friend. Well, one of them. We all eat on the bridge. It's cool."
"The bridge?"
"The wooden one. It kind of curves over the path? We took it over as our lunchtime spot
except we let the Shrews eat there too." The Shrews are the next oldest group.
"So can I? Have a play-date with Luke?"
"Where does he live?"
"Woodland Hills."
"Woodland Hills! " We live in Mar Vista.
"So can we?"
I stare at him.
"At our house?"
At our house. Oh! "Sure," I tell him expansively. "Why not?" So long as I don't have to
drive all the way over there.
Poor Luke's mom looks stricken. "Maybe my husband can drop him off on his way to
work?" she suggests.
"Absolutely" I tell her. Whatever works. Except me driving to Woodland Hills.
Today they'll get their parts. He thinks he'll get Demetrius because
the director had him do it at a read-through.
"The boy who was supposed to read Demetrius' part wasn't there so I got to do it."
I think the other boy will get the part.
"Maybe he'll have the other boy do it when he comes back." I suggest. I don't want him
to get his hopes up.
"Maybe. But I think I did a good job."
"Break a leg," I tell him again. He rolls his eyes.
When I pick him up there's a secret bubble behind his smile.
I lean in and whisper under my breath, "Did you. . . ?"
He grins, tries not to gloat. "I got Demetrius" he mutters between his teeth.
He even lets me give him a hug. Back home he wants to watch A Midsummer Night's Dream.
"I thought you said it was boring. I took it back."
"Already? !"
"It was due."
"Can we get it again?"
I sigh. I can't help it. "Are you sure? You didn't seem too interested last time."
"Yeah. I really want to watch it. Luke said Demetrius rides in on a turtle."
We rent it again but it's Puck not Demetrius who rides in on a turtle. At least we finish
the movie this time; Russell allows it's not too bad.
Laura offers me a pair of her old black velvet leggings so all he needs for his costume is a
large shirt; I find a long-sleeved creamy silk shirt at Goodwill.
"These aren't ladies' pants, are they?" Russell asks, rolling Laura's leggings up just below the knee.
“Don’t be ridiculous,” I tell him. He’d die if he knew both the tunic and the pants are womens’ clothing.
Seeing him in the shirt, the rather regal looking pants, brown suede belt slung on his hips,
I see what the director saw. I see Demetrius. After supper, he plows through a pile of DVD’s.
“What are you looking for, honey?”
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
I find it in the stack and try to hide my pleasure. It’s like choosing healthy cereal over Lucky Charms.
Three days a week, for five weeks we've been driving up and down, up and down until
I'm careening the curves with all the chutzpah of a local. We've passed surfing and volleyball
camps on the beach. The Cali-camp buses drive Topanga in our wake. He could have gone to
science or tennis or even private eye camp but for Russell this was the perfect summer place.
From the age of two when he got his first Superman cape he's loved to pretend, to be someone
else just for the fun of it. And now it's performance day - the day all the other days were working
toward. An opening, and a closing, at the same time.
Before the play, they demonstrate fencing. Russell and Luke present a duel they
choreographed themselves and when Russell collapses in the dirt, dead; the applause, to my ears,
is thunderous.
Finally the entire cast comes onstage singing "Oaken leaves in the merry woods so wild,
When will you grow green-ah. " They walk casually, almost carelessly like it's just another day of
doing Shakespeare in the canyon.
But of course, the play's the thing. Is that my son holding that pretty girl's hand, pleading
"0 Helen, goddess, nymph, perfect, divine!"
Afterward Russell runs up breathlessly requesting a pen and disappears. When we track
him down he has Luke's email address printed neatly on the palm of his hand.
"You were wonderful." My husband, my mother and I all gush.
"Thanks" he says with the tiniest trace of surprise. "But when we get home, can I go on-
line? I want to email Luke."
I realize then, the play's the thing but it's the people that make the magic.

Should My Child Actor get a New Agent?

2005-03-29T10:15:00.000-08:00

I was talking with the mother of a very successful teen actress yesterday. When I told her that my son had only one audition during this pilot season she said I needed a new agent. She said the agent had cooled since my young child actor hadn't been booking. "It's like a real estate agent" she said. "If the agent isn't bringing buyers to your home, you get a new one. It's a business."
She recommended an agency that she said had a great reputation for boys. "If they want a boy, they call them" she told me.
I admitted I was concerned that since my son hadn't been booking, we were lucky to have an agent at all.
"It's a business," she told me. "You need to see if someone else can do a better job for you. Remember, the agent works for you."
At the same time I was conflicted because he's a good looking kid and is a good actor. But I think he gets sent on the auditions where they see everyone in the world and that his agent doesn't have a good sense of what parts he would be really right for. I don't know. In any case, I'm going to see what the other agent has to say.
Wish me luck or should I say, broken legs!

Read all about it - child stars!

2005-03-28T18:46:00.000-08:00

since we're on the subject of the media ... here's a great article from the NY Daily news.

Twinkle, twinkle, little stars...
It's the rare child actor whose careerblossoms in adulthood
BY NANCY MILLS
HOLLYWOOD - Although you're going to be seeing some of today's child actors for years to come, nobody knows which ones. No matter how talented a child actor is, the path through adolescence is full of hazards. Drugs, changes in appearance, inflated egos, family disintegration, bad luck and poor decision-making can all make careers implode.
"The failure rate is as high as ever," says Leonard Maltin, film historian and critic with "Entertainment Tonight."

click on the link to read the entire story!

Show Biz Kids - Access Hollywood

2005-03-27T22:49:00.000-08:00

Did you see the special on Showbiz Kids on Access Hollywood? Unbelievable that according to the Osbrink agency 95% of kids who start as babies are washed up before they turn five! And that story about the mom who gave her baby cough syrup to make her sleepy because the commercial called for a sleepy baby - CREEPY!
I'm jsut glad I stopped taking my Child Actor out on auditions when he was about three becasue he was becoming too aware of the whole rejection thing. Now he's much older and doing it becasue he wants to ... and he understand how it works and the odds and he's happy getting out there.
Happy Easter to all the good stage moms and dads who are just trying to help their kids' dreams come true.
Stage moms and dads like you.
Break legs!

David Duchovny - not a child actor!

2005-03-26T10:34:00.000-08:00

It's true, David Duchovny is not a child actor but when I happened on to his blog I couldn't help it... had to read it and wanted to share it. Maybe it's because someone very close to me worked with him on XFiles. Anyway I hear he is the nicest guy and he's got this movie coming out called the House of D which he directed. It's coming out in mid April and I haven't even seen any hype for it yet. Although of course the blog is a media hype vehicle of a whole new color.
In the blog he talks about this one scene where he uses extras in a school dance scene and where the kids, especially the boys, were supposed to look shy and uncomfortable about dancing (the way they did in 1973) and these kids didn't... they looked very hip and 2005.
Well, my 12 year old just went to a school dance and all I can say is David should have shot in LA and used my son - I'm sure he would have gotten the awkward innocence he was going for.
Check out the link to read David's blog (or is it Lions Gate's blog?)http://lionsgatedirectors.com/duchovny/index_flash.html

Betty Mae casting for Mr Woodcock

2005-03-23T20:43:00.000-08:00

We met a really nice kid at Betty Mae casting in Venice the other night. He'd been out here for pilot season with his mother for the past two weeks and it was his very first audition. He was reading for the part of the young John Farley in Mr. Woodcock starring Billy Bob Thornton and Sean Scott Williams. He was slightly miffed that the CD had requested the actor look like a young Sean Scott Williams but chubby. It had taken them an hour and a half to get from Burbank to Venice. Not bad, considering it was a rainy day and traffic was crawling wherever you went, whatever route you took.
He had a little bit of a twang - they lived on an island about 3hrs north of Wilmington, N.C. His mom said his manager said he needed to lose the accent which she had no idea how he was going to do. Well, I commiserated with her, try telling that to Matthew McConaghey (sp!) The boy didn't know who that was but we assured him that his southern drawl didn't hurt him any.He was going to read last, most of the other boys were there to read for the part of Nedderman's brother - a hunting expedition really, since Nedderman hadn't been cast yet and they were going to want a young actor to match.
Anyway he was a nice kid, enthusiastic but not over the top, friendly, curious. Nice. When we left, my son and I both said it was nice meeting you and Good Luck. He was a nice kid and his mom was a nice lady. We meant it.

Gordon Hunt on Auditions

2005-03-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

I pilfered this from the NowCasting newsletter because it was just so interesting!
Last week Gordon Hunt talked about the specific things he looks for in auditions and in actors when casting for television, stage or animation. And so, the conversation continues...

NOW CASTING: Sitting in on television auditions, how much of a casting voice do you have?

GORDON HUNT: The producers have the final say. I—and a lot of television directors—just go in and take whatever cast is handed to them. But if I’m directing television, I want to make sure I’m in every casting session because there may be a gem in there. Because of my experience as a director and a teacher, and so on, I might spot a little spark of something that could be an interesting spin on a character. So I really make sure I’m there for all the casting sessions.

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NC: Have you ever had any experiences of going to bat for someone, having a battle to get them in?

GH: I have. I remember losing a battle. I was trying to go to bat for someone who was going to have an arc on a sitcom of probably seven or eight episodes. The executive producers wanted one guy and I really wanted another. I pitched as hard as I could and I lost. So I move on and make it the best I can make it. Actors don’t often know that we go through these struggles. They don’t know that we’re all struggling back there just as much as they’re struggling to get a job.

NC: I imagine you’ve had the experience of being in the room not only with the producers but also the writers. I’ve often wondered what those conversations were like after I’ve walked out of a room.

GH: They can range anywhere from “No, way possible!” to “Well, I really like her because she’s got good legs.” And another guy will say, “Well, I really like the other girl because she’s got an intelligent face.” And, you know, you get eight people and you can get eight opinions. So, part of the director’s job is to come up with good reasons to hire your first choice and to be able to articulate those reasons.

NC: I know you discern actors based on training, what about whether an actor has representation or not?

GH: I think you’d be ignoring the realities if you didn’t think a respected agent or manager representing somebody didn’t have an effect on your opinion. It’s like somebody is validating your opinion before you give an opinion. So it does have an effect. That doesn’t mean you don’t find gold in places that are very unexpected. I’ve done that so many times with agents who are not of the quality of some others but send me talent that’s just bursting to be recognized.

NC: What are the most important things an actor should know or do before walking into an audition?

GH: Actors should make every effort to get the material beforehand. They should certainly know what it is they’re going for, a comedy, a drama, or whatever. And if it’s a show that’s been on the air, or a play that’s been published, they must spend every effort they can to see it, touch it, taste it, whatever. I think they should try to find out anything they can about the people who might be in the room. Go to IMD ascetic b or wherever and check the bios and see what you can find out about them because you might know somebody in common or maybe there’s a talking point about something they’ve done that could be helpful to you. Actors should fully prepare what they’re going to do and then be ready to just go in and fly with what’s going on in the room. They should exercise their body and mind to be as sharp as possible and they should find a way to make an audition fun. Make it a game.

Don’t pay any attention to the gossip in the waiting room. Don’t play the comparison game while you’re waiting to go in either: “All these guys are six-four and I’m only five-seven.” You don’t know what people behind the door are looking for and, a lot of times, neither do we.

Another thing, before they go in, they should plan something fun to do after the audition so that the audition isn’t the be all and the end all of the day.

NC: What are the important things an actor should or should not do during the audition?

GH: Like I said, I think you should find a way, either with the material or whatever, to really make it fun to yourself to go in and play for that. And I think you also need to make the stakes doing the best you can at the audition, not getting the job. The job is out of your control. But making a joyful experience for yourself—and for the people in the room—is what your job is. And so I think your focus needs to be on that. Having done all the preparation and everything.

NC: Do you find, at any point, if actors come in and chat you up, do you find that annoying or do you find that okay?

GH: It depends on the chat. (Laughs) If I feel somebody’s coming on strong in terms of who they are or what they’ve done, or if they’re a little hostile because they feel they shouldn’t have to come in and be interviewed, or if they have an attitude of some kind then, of course, I don’t. But if somebody with an open, warm, friendly personality is in the room wanting to engage in a little conversation so we can get to know each other better, and it is a mutual process, then I’m fine with that.

NC: I would imagine, when and actor comes in the room, you can tell who commands the room and who doesn’t. What would you say are the distinctions of that?

GH: There’s an openness, presence, and vulnerability that I look for. What I try to do, while I’m sitting in auditions, is put my face and myself in neutral. And if somebody’s doing something—and I don’t care if it’s serious Shakespeare or a song or whatever—if I feel the corners of my mouth go up and start to smile involuntarily, I’ll know I’m being affected. It’s just a thing that I do. I try to let myself be the receptor. If somebody tunes in on my wavelength with something they do, I try to receive it and get the message.

NC: You’ve probably given the most important answer to this next question, but I’m going to ask it anyway: what are some of the most important things an actor should or should not do after an audition?

GH: Immediately after, a “Thank you very much” and “Goodbye” rather than staying around to stoke up conversation is certainly an appropriate thing to do. As I said earlier, I think having planned a fun event for yourself afterwards is also important so you have something else to look forward to. Also, in most cases, a note dropped in the mail thanking someone for the audition is certainly appropriate and serves as a reminder that you were there.

NC: Do you find that many actors stay in touch with you? I know we hear about keeping in touch with casting directors. Directors feel a little bit more shadowy in terms of where you send the mail.

GH: Yes, that is tougher. I have a manager that’s listed in the Director Guild’s book, so if anybody gets their hands on that—I get mail every once in a while through the manager—which is fine. That’s okay by me. But I know casting directors get flooded with it.

NC: Would you describe one of the best auditions you’ve ever seen?

GH: There are two. One is an acting audition early on during my days at the Taper. This actor—a young, thin, ascetic kind of person—came into the room, very nice but very professional. He just got off the plane in the last five days or so from New York to come to LA and he did a Shakespeare—but an oddball Shakespeare, not one of the usual monologues—that was just filled with passion and interest, plus being very well crafted. He did another piece that I can’t remember now but I do remember there was a dynamic, exciting, oddball presence to this guy. I immediately went in to Robert Greenwald, who is now a documentary filmmaker, but who then was running the Taper Lab. He was casting this Sam Shepard musical—a weird rock n’ roll thing—and I told him, “You’ve got to see this guy.” He saw him and we ended up casting him. Then we cast him again in the lead in another show at the Taper. Boom. And then one day he came in and handed us a play that he’d written. It was The Shadowbox and, of course, he’s Michael Cristofer. I have never forgotten that first audition he did.

Another auditioner, a really spectacular one, is a Broadway singer named Karen Morrow. She just comes in and gives this whopping—she’s got great pipes anyway—audition with this big voice and her sense of fun and play. She finishes the song and says, “So that’s it. If you want anything else, I got it. If not, thank you very much I’ll see you later. Have a great time.” And she leaves. Or I’ll say, “No, no, don’t go. Stay and do something else!” And I asked her one day because she really has a great time doing this, and I asked her, “How do you do this?” And she said, “I used to be so terrified at auditions until one day I realized, that the only thing I really love is singing. So every time I get a call to go to a singing audition, I go ‘Oh boy, for five minutes I get to go do something I love to do!” Nothing attached to the outcome. Nothing attached to the possibility of being cast. It’s just the fun and the thrill of the event.

That’s a great thing to recommend to actors!

2005-03-21T21:12:00.000-08:00

Do You Have What it Takes To Be An Actor? By Ruth Kulerman
I stole this from Chad Gracia's site. I wonder how many of those clear envelopes he sells? And I'm not sure but I think the price at Actors Access is a little better. Have to check into that. Anyway, his column from Ruth Kulerman is always interesting.
Many readers have e-mailed variations of "How can I tell if I havewhat it takes?"
First, a warning: be very clear not to confuse this question with"How do I know if I will be a success?"
"Have what it takes" refersto ability to act. Ability may or may not lead to success.
A story before we dive into "what it takes" vs. "success." A young child raised in the rural south dreamed of singing opera.Life just didn't quite work out that way. But the dream persistedand the self yearned to sing its song. Then, years later all alonein a spotlight on a darkened Off-Broadway stage, sitting on a"boulder" night after night, she sang an exquisite song about thebirds in Ireland. The dream was filled. The self was filled. No,not Casta Diva or Lucia's Mad Scene. But her song. The idea of"success" was not compromised. It was just allowed to change. Letthe self dictate the meaning of success. Not money and fame but thejoy of the action.

The simple truth is you can't tell if you have the ability. To repeat what has been said in these articles a dozen times: talent is not the sole element that determines success. You may have enough talent to be an actor, but even great talent can not guarantee success. Success is a fickle mistress. There are many working or even wealthy actors who really cannot act. There are many brilliant actors who never get work. The most anyone can say is that thereare basics that are usually required in order to be an actor.

If this sounds like hedging, you are absolutely right. Why? Most of us are not going to make the Fortune 500 list by acting.Statistically the odds are stacked against anyone becoming a star,or even making a good living in this profession. Yes, we all know inspiring success-against-all-odds stories. But we know those stories precisely because they are the exceptions. Wisdom dictates that if there is anything else in the world that interests you, then do that instead of acting. If on the otherhand, acting is a passion, something you must do, then you almost have no choice. Let the joy of acting be the payment, if you never sign a million dollar film contract. Money almost doesn't matter ifthe passion for the art is a volcano. After all that tip-toeing, let's now look at what I personallythink it takes to be an actor. (Remember, this is just one person's opinion.)

1. A GOOD EAR Yes, to me this is the most important requirement. In order to make a sentence that someone else wrote sound real, an actor must beable to hear what people sound like when they talk naturally. A good ear will eventually pull you up and whisper, "Hey, thatsounds actory. This line needs to be said in a different way." Yes,yes we all know about dipping inside oneself to search foremotions. But some of the best "dippers" do not sound real. Sounding real demands a good ear and the good sense to know whenwhat you have said doesn't sound "right." The minute a student saysto me, "That didn't sound right," then I know there is hope thatthat person has the ability to become a good actor.

2. THE ABILITY TO READ, AND AN ACTIVE IMAGINATIONNo, no, no--not read "Pat the Fat Cat" or "War and Peace." The reading referred to here consists of seeing implications when youread, of seeing what a character is really like--based on evidencefrom the script, text, book. Learn to read! Become dedicated to reading the words, phrases, the text and miningthem for the gold that is there. Too many times we bump into anunknown word in the script and do not bother looking it up. Toomany titles or even the names of characters are not Googled. Subtleties are lost because a reader/actor without a knowledge of plays, poems, myth, novels, satire, allusions, themes, imagery,language connotations cannot deliver a line with all theundercurrents in his voice. Something as basic as parallels and opposites are missed, leading to misdelivery of a line. The inability to read/understand a line inevitably leads to asuperficial line reading. Every day you hear on TV, on film, in rehearsals, in performances, an emphasis on the wrong word, the direct result of not knowing what is being stated in the text.Learn to read. Learn to research. The very best undergrad training for an actor is to major in English and minor in drama. Your advanced courses in literature will both teach you about people and about feelings AND teach youhow to read the undercurrents of what is not being written. Poetry will heighten your sense of language and rhythm, two essentials foran actor. The imagination, loosened by lots of reading, then helps you to see new possibilities in the meaning and delivery of a linein a script. Reading for implications, reading beneath the surface,stretches the imagination.

3. THE ABILITY TO HANDLE REJECTION
Depression, rejection, and insecurity reign in this profession. Wedo not get up every morning and have a secure job to go to. Somepeople thrive on that freedom and luxuriate in that insecurity.Most of us don't. So we need to have or to be taught to find a still, solid, totalbelief in self. Ego. Confidence. Self-assurance. Presence. Call itwhat you wish. But to survive we must have some shield to protect us from the constant rejection. The difficulty is to stay in touchwith the inner self while protecting that inner self from attack inthe form of rejection. We have written many times of the need for energy, joy,vitality--all these find their roots in a solid ego. That ego, thatbelief in self, is the third element in the triad which determinesif one has what it takes to be an actor.

GRAB BAG REQUIREMENTS:These are almost self-explanatory, but deserve mentioning.
Be reliable (on time for appointments, interviews, auditions,rehearsals).
Be responsible (memorize your lines).
Learn to control your temper. In other words, be pleasant in spiteof...Don't be "high maintenance."
Take care of your health. Eat and sleep properly. Get out of relationships that drain and destroy. If your parentsare sore spots, get over it. If there are physical things about yourself which you don't like,fix them or learn to live with them gracefully.
Get in touch withyour intuition and learn to trust it.
Get good training and if the class or teacher makes you feel awful, get out of it!
Surround yourself with people who have hope and happiness.
Develop the traits mentioned above and you increase the possibilities of being a success because you have what it takes.
Well, as the great American philosopher Porky Pig said, "That'sall, folks!" Now who would have thought a stuttering pig wouldbecome a star????
PS: To repeat: You can have none of these requirements and besuccessful (not likely, though, but possible). You can have all of them and never be a star.
The question should not be, "Do I havewhat it takes?" It should be, "How powerful is my drive tosucceed?" And that answer comes from the face in your mirror.

NowCasting.com: Should Your Child Actor Join?

2005-03-19T22:37:00.000-08:00

I heard some buzz about NowCasting.com so I checked them out. I was able to sign up for free and create a profile and resume for my son,even submit his picture which is now online, all for free. The only thing I can't do for free is use the damn thing! To actually be able to submit him for something I would have to join for a weekly fee. The least expensive "membership" is only $10/month...but shouldn't my child actor's agent be submitting where applicable? NOW if you don't have an agent or if you do but you can spare the moolah, it seems to me joining would be a good thing. While Actors Access seems to list the breakdowns mostly for student films along with some non union features; a look at the current NowCasting.com listings shows they do offer the actor a broader look at projects that are, as the name implies, Now Casting!
Check out the link for all the details and as always...break a buncha legs.
TV/Episodic
THE SHIELD - Additional Roles - Episode 408 - Untitled
SAG - 1 Hour Episodic / Fiorentino-Mangieri Casting 3/18
20 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU'RE 30 - (Re-Release Of Natalie)
SAG - Pilot / Bacharach - ONeill 3/18
Discovery Health Show Seeking Pregnant Women
OTHER - Episodic / Tina Seiler Casting 3/18
Diary of an Affair - 6
Non-Union - Episodic / E! Entertainment 3/18
THE 4400 - Episode 10
SAG - 1 Hour Episodic / Powell / Melcher Cstg. 3/17
THE GEORGE LOPEZ SHOW - Episode - #177823
SAG - 1/2 Hour Sitcom / Zane/Pillsbury Cstg. 3/17
BLUE SKIES
SAG - Pilot / Valko-Miller 3/17
THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE
OTHER - Pilot / Metaphor Entertainment, Inc. 3/17
NOTORIOUS - Revised Touca
SAG - Pilot / GREENSTEIN / DANIEL CASTING 3/16
TWO AND A HALF MEN - Toxic
SAG - 1/2 Hour Sitcom / Valko-Miller 3/16
untitled david william watts project - episode #3
SAG - Episodic / David Watts & Split 3 Wayz Pictures 3/16
CHARMED - Season 7, Episode 155 - Death Becomes Them
SAG - 1 Hour Episodic / Leslee Dennis 3/15
AMERICAN CRIME
SAG - Pilot / Fiorentino-Mangieri Casting 3/15
THE SHIELD - Episode 408 - Untitled
SAG - 1 Hour Episodic / Fiorentino-Mangieri Casting 3/15
The Flight that Fought Back
Non-Union - Special / Michael Donovan Cstg. 3/15
UNTITLED CHRIS KATTAN PILOT - Re-Release Mona
SAG - Pilot / JaM Casting 3/14
THE 4400 - Episode 9 - Voices Carry
SAG - 1 Hour Episodic / Powell / Melcher Cstg. 3/14
CSI: New York - Episode #122
SAG - 1 Hour Episodic / Risa Bramon Garcia & Brennan du Fresne 3/14
T or D - Prophets
Non-Union - Pilot / Collaborauteur Productions 3/14

PS - A Tale of Two Jimmys

2005-03-17T22:43:00.000-08:00

There was a question as to whether I verified the story with Jimmy Pinchak's mom or did I just get the Jimmy B version. The story came to me from a member of the film's crew not either of the boy's parents. I posted it as "rumor" although the crew member who told me certainly was in a position to know and also had no reason to make up a story about these actors. I don't know either of the boys or their parents personally and the only reason I passed it on was as a mini - wake up call to stay professional and focused. So much of what happens in this business is beyond our control... it seems prudent to stay on top of those things we do have a say in. Like getting to auditions on time whenever possible. Good luck to all the pilot seekers out there.

More on Method Fest

2005-03-17T22:23:00.000-08:00

THis doesn't apply to our under 18 kids but for those of you who might be interested here's a bit of info I found on Showfax about the Method Fest acting competition.

METHODFEST FILM FESTIVAL IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE JOANNE BARON D.W. BROWN STUDIO ACTING WILL HOLD IT'S ANNUAL ACTING COMPETITION ! PRELIMINARY AUDITION ARE ON-SATURDAY MARCH 19TH 2005 10-00A.M. - 1-00 P.M. AT THE COUNTRY INN AND SUITES - 23627 CALABASIS ROAD CALABASIS CALIFORNIA 91302 ACTORS MUST PREPARE A ONE TO ONE AND A HALF MINUTE MONOLOGUE FROM A CONTEMPORARY THEATRICALLY RELEASED FILM- ACTORS MUST BE 18- 35 YEARS OF AGE AND NEVER PERFORMED A LEAD IN A SAG FEATURE FILM. ACTORS WILL BE FILMED AND MUST SIGN A VIDEO RELEASE IN ORDER TO COMPETE. THE AWARD WILL BE GIVEN AT THE METHODFEST AWRD CEREMONY ON APRIL 8TH 2005. A CASH PRIZE, A PRIVATE COACHING SESSION WITH JOANNE BARON, PHOTOS WITH TOP PHOTOGRAHER, AND MORE! GO TO METHODFEST WEBSITE AT- WWW. METHODFEST.COM FOR MORE RULES REGULATIONS AND INFO- PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE METHODFEST OFFICE-

Inspiring words for ALL actors from Jack at Actorsite

2005-03-17T13:48:00.000-08:00

I just love how Jack at Actorsite in North Hollywood doesn't just pitch his classes. He always sends goodies like the following inspirational message for all actors, young and old alike. The location is too far my child actor but I always read those messages. And I love how they post the pilot names. True, to get details you have to be a member but that seems only fair. Besides if you're resourceful, once you know the pilot name there's ways to uncover the rest of the info.
Anyway today's blog is courtesy of Jack at Actorsite with a big St. Patty's day thanks.

Each and every day we have to stretch and loosenup our COURAGE muscle. Each and every day, we haveto take those challenges that we have been avoiding,those challenges that could move us a little closerto our goal, and we have to face them with anopen heart to allow ourselves to find the truth inour creative lives and to confront our own darkinstincts of self defeat. So take your courage and loosen it up and practiceit in little ways. Find those things that you dread doing because of fear of failure, and confront them andtake a small step to challenge your courage muscle andface down your fears.Do it in small ways and that way, as you approach thoselarger fears, you know that you are gaining strength andgrowing and you have STRONG COURAGE.Remember, your fears are there to protect you fromdanger, but in the modern world many times your fear becomes FALSE EVIDENCE APPEARING REAL (Thanksto Tom Lowe)...and if you just move yourself intothe arena that you fear, you can confront those fearsand find the courage to continue....Later in this message: The INTENSE LONLINESS caused by moving to a big dirtycity to follow your dreams.Read on,
Jack-
Cleaning up the clutter
Wow, did this post hit me like a piano..."The next time you feel down or low or sad tackle your junk drawer or your closet and get rid of anything you don't use or really, really love. Be ruthless, you probably won't miss it if you throw it out - how important can it be if its been in the back of your closet for two years? You'll be amazed how much better you feel and how much lighter the space you live in becomes."---mk---------------------------GAS SAVER SATURDAY!!!---------------------------
They have THREE Casting Director guests on Saturday,PLUS, Saturday is FREE HEADSHOT day for paid up members.
To join, go here: http://actorsite.com/2join.html
SATURDAY GUESTS:Linda Phillips Palo, from Linda Phillips Palo Casting.
FEATUREFILMS, both INDIE and STUDIO, plus PILOTS and EPISODIC...
http://hollywoodipages.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php/topic/8/1635.html
Michelle LEvy, from DAVA WAITE Casting...TWO SITCOM PILOTS...
http://hollywoodipages.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php/topic/8/1636.html
Deborah George, from Junie Lowry-Johnson Casting!!!http://hollywoodipages.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php/topic/8/1637.html
Attend all three and get FREE headshots too!!!
A GREAT GAS SAVER SATURDAY, plus, we'll provide pizza at mid day, so youSAVE EVEN MORE!!!

MethodFest for Child Actors and Film Makers too!

2005-03-15T16:47:00.000-08:00

Come out to Calabasas (April 1 thru 8) for the MethodFest - an indie film festival which honors the actor. They had a youth competition as well where kids could submit screenplays and/or short films. They're planning on screeing those during the festival plus they're scheduling a variety of clinics for filmmaking, writing and acting. It should be a blast for anyone who loves movies! For all the details, click on the link to go to the MethodFest site.
The young people's clinic schedule is as follows:
Saturday, April 2
10:30 a.m.-noon - Acting for Children Ages 6 to 11.Led by: George Lindsey, Jr.
12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. - Acting for Middle School.Led by: Marlon Hoffman.
2:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. - Acting for High School.Led by: Marlon Hoffman.
Sunday, April 3
Noon-1:30 - Storytelling and Writing Stories. Two sessions: Middle Schol and High School.
Led by: Rich Martini, Geoff Pepos and others.
2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. - Lighting and Shooting a Scene (High School). Led by: Geoff Pepos and Mark David.
Contact Feel free to contact us with questions or comments via email at youth@methodfest.com Also, be sure to visit us online for more information at www.methodfest.com.
Educators & Industry If you wish to involve yourself with the Youth Program or would like an industry professional/educator to visit your classroom, please email our Youth Outreach Coordinator, Geoffrey Pepos at mailto:geoff@methodfest.com

Jimmy Bennett vs Jimmy Jax Pinchak in HOSTAGE

2005-03-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

This is a tale of two "Jimmy's". Both terrific young actors. Both who read for the lead part of Tommy in Hostage. One Jimmy got the part. One didn't. Talent? Looks? Luck? Or something else. This, as far as I can tell from my reliable source, is a true story but just so you don't email me complaining, we'll label it a rumor. It's a story though with a lesson for all stage parents.
It was Jimmy Pinchak, not Jimmy Bennett who was the producers and director's top pick for the role. Why then did this little cutie get killed off in the opening minutes of the film while Jimmy Bennett goes on to CO-STAR opposite Bruce Willis?
Jimmy P's mom was told to bring her son in to read with Kevin Pollack - who would be playing the father along with some of the other actors. Jimmy P's mom either misunderstood the directions from the production office - or foolishly played some bizarre hard-to-get game and wasn't at the production office when she should have been. Claimed she was told to wait for a call. Regardless, SHE (and therefore JIMMY P) WASN'T THERE!
Meanwile, Jimmy B. was there and was spotted by someone on the staff who'd worked with him on Daddy Day Care. This person praised Jimmy B. to the producer for being an easy-to-work with, young actor with chops and the producer, just like that, threw the idea of using Jimmy P out the window!!!!
He said he didn't need the aggravation. If they're not there for casting, how do I know they'll be there for shooting? They did throw him a bone and cast him as the kid who gets killed off right off the bat.
Is this story true? Like I said, I've heard it on very good authority. What does it mean to you and me?

Double check your instructions. You want to see my child actor at Sony, Bldgwhatever, Room# at precisely1pm. Please call me if anything changes but I'll call you in the morning and confirm.
Have your destination mapped out, giving yourself ample time for traffic snafus and even changes from the production office. (I know I said you should be here at 3pm but something came up and the director has to leave early. You need to get here asap.)

And like any good boy scout ...or stage mom ... always BE PREPARED!

PS Click the link to take you to IMDB.com where, as many of you know, you can see Jimmy Bennett's career sky-rocketing.

PSS No, I don't even know Jimmy Bennett but I sure do know his story!

Summer Camp for Young Actors

2005-03-14T15:41:00.000-08:00

As much as I hate the idea of the TVI Summer Camp which sounds like an overdose of show biz pressure to me, that's how much I love the Theatricum Botanicum summer camp in Topanga Canyon. My child actor loves it and is going back again this year. The focus is Shakespeare and the kids learn a little fencing, stage combat, Elizabethan songs and dance, make-up and of course, they put on a show. Romeo and Juliet, MacBeth, Midsummers' Nights Dream. A show. Yep. 8 year olds reciting Shakespeare. And it's not like Beyonce singing in Italian... they understand every little word of it!
The nicest part? They do it all outside in the exquisitely natural setting of Will Geer's (remember Granpa on the Waltons?) Theatricum. So when you pick the kids up at three, they're sweaty and tired and thrilled because they've been busy doing what they love all day for the pure joy of it. Remember, the reason that got you into the crazy runaround?
They get a tshirt with the price of the camp, a pretty crummy video for about $25.00 and some nice shots taken by Miriam Greer which you can order separetely.
They also get the thrill of performing at the beatiful outdoor theatre in front of a sizeable crowd.
Last year Ed Harris daughter was in my child actor's group. It was fun seeing Ed Harris watching with the same kind of misty parental pride we all get. Anyway, I highly recommend the place. Click on the link to go to www.theatricum.com and you'll find your way to the youth summer camp program.
P.S. speaking of parental pride, what do you think of Bruce Willis' daughter small part in his new film, Hostage. A movie, btw, that should have opened much stronger than it did. Too violent for many? Yes. But a real edge of your seat thriller from the opening credits to the last nanosecond.
More on Hostage and a story about its youngest star tomorrow.

Sunkist commercial

2005-03-13T23:17:00.000-08:00

Back to the Westside Casting office mob scene again. Tons of young, long and shaggy haired actors with guitars. Girls with navels bared. My child actor said, "Can we just turn around and go home? "
He knows from experience that it's never in and out at Westside.
" Not after sitting in traffic on PCH for an hour we can't!"
Little did we know it would be worse going home.
It was one of those commercial auditions where they don't do any acting or say any lines but are expected to show their personality by answering questions.
They asked "your favorite trait ?"
He answered "I'm shy"
I looked INCREDULOUS when he told me!
"I'd rather be shy than obnoxious" he said.
Shy. Sigh. I guess he is. Don't know if he's cut out for this biz but he says he wants to do it. He's not a baby. I give him kudos. He IS shy and yet keeps putting himself out there. Keeps doing it.
You know what they say ... fake it 'til you make it. And I think he's going to make it one of these days.

Work, work, work - it's a young actor's life

2005-03-10T18:45:00.000-08:00

Here's something from TVI about summer camp.
It certainly seems like an intense experience. And I don't know about you, but our kids work so hard. Keeping up with auditions and school work. Going to acting classes and workshops. Always making sure they're on their game. I have a very old-fashioned idea about summer. It should be fun. I know this is their dream but I say slow down in the summer. Do the modern day equivalent of summer stock if you will but a workshop where they're busy auditioning for cds, and managers and agents and producers and directors!!!!!!!!!!Enough already. For you diehards though, I'm an equal opportunity poster and here's the info from TVI.

FYI: We are closing admissions to our Summer Camp 2005 on 3/31/05 as weonly have a handful of spaces left. After the Pilot Season Intensivewrapped up a couple of weeks ago, many of the participants decided toregister for the Summer Camp as well.Young actors ages 8-17 will spend 1 week in Los Angeles or New Yorkworking with and auditioning for casting directors, agents, managers,producers and directors.For more information on TVI's Summer Camp and to find out if your childqualifies, please call 818-784-6500 or 800-884-2772 ext 1 or log on:http://www.tvistudios.com/yaa/yaaintensive.asp

Target commercial

2005-03-08T23:19:00.000-08:00

Did anybody go out for that Target commercial Monday? It was being cast at Westside by Marie Claire Sweeter. Oh, my son! First, the email from the agent had the Casting Director's request that kids come in their Martial Arts uniforms prepared to kick and punch.
Of course I can't find my son's pants and since he stopped taking class six months ago I had no idea the jacket's arms were a tad too short. They were. He didn't want to wear it anyway but I took it in the car. Once he saw all the other kids had theirs on he put it on but not the belt. (Arrrgh) "It's only a purple mom. That's not very high." (No, but it's higher than orange or yellow)
Okay, so it's the usual Westside Casting mob scene but it moved pretty well. One of the mom's said they were turning away kids who didn't have their uniforms on. They must have lowered their standards because my son went in with two cute girls who were wearing white stretch pants and tops with black belts. Not martial arts uniforms at all. They still went in.
They took them in four at a time and the kids took turns slating, doing their kicks, then all together pretending to kick and punch. She also asked them how long they'd been doing martial arts. Could have killed him. The other kids were newbies, he told her "a couple of years, on and off". It's fours years, mostly on! "Well mom" he said."I just didn't want to be all braggy!"
All braggy, indeed. My son the big-headed child star wannabe!!!!!!!!!