A Wonderfulcow's Diary

"My Hero, My Brother" Staged Reading (NY)

2012-02-02T15:35:00.002-05:00

Yangtze Repertory Theatre of America in Collaboration with the Asian American Film Lab presents the Staged Reading of “My Brother, My Hero”

Ancient China, time and again an ambitious, young legislator advance his own career at the expense of his tribe until his brother galvanizes the tribe to a doomed rebellion against the empire.

Written by: Jisen John Ho
Directed by: Wayne Chang
Cast: (in apathetically order)
J.B. Alexander, Andy Baldeschwiler, Amy Chang, Lisa Dennett, Alexandra Hellquist, Victoria Lee , Carl Li, Jan Mizushima, Stephen Thornton, and Roger Yeh.

Date: Saturday, February 4th, 2012
Doors Open: 4:40pm
Performance Starts Promptly at: 5:00pm
Location:
Richmond Shepard Theatre
309 East 26th Street (Between 2nd and 1st Street)
New York, NY 10010

Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/events/226742027414781/

Suggested donation: $5.00

How Hard is it to have a TV/Film Career in NYC?

2011-09-02T11:37:00.002-04:00

This question came from a reader (sorry - it took me THIS long to respond)

<--- this is solely my personal perspective --->

My answer is: VERY HARD. Considering New York is known to be the Theater World, and LA is the http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifTV/Film Land. So, already, there are less TV shows that is being shot in New York, so the opportunities of getting a TV/Film audition is already less compare if you are in Los Angeles.

But it's not the End of the World. Seriously - there are many working Actors in New York, mostly Theatre Actors - but they do work on TV/Film projects from time to time. An audition is an audition - no one really limits their career in just "Theatre" or "TV/Film" only. If that's the case, then having a career as a Working Actor can be very tough in New York.

My friend Timothy is a good example. When I first met him on set (of a short film), I was aware of that he was starring in an Off-Broadway show. In additions to the show, he also bar-tended part time to maintain his living expenses. Plus vocal training, scene study & audition technique classes, GYM, and headshot/resume /postcard - all cost money. Eventually, he started to shift his focus tohttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifTV and FILM - and have gotten reoccurring roles on Day Time Soap, as well as Guest Star roles on TV shows, plus a number of commercials.

Sounds good, right? For an Actor to do both Theatre/TV/Film/Commercial - But guess what? he ended up moving to Los Angeles, because he wants to focus on TV/Film works.

Just a couple month ago, on Twitter, I asked another Actor friend of mine Russ Russo:

Me: So, now that you are in LA - do you feel there's more opportunities in the West Coast?

Him: for TV and film. Yes. Theatre. Not as much

It's as simple as that. In order to not have a survival job (full time or part time), and still making a living doing solely Acting, getting income on a regular basis - it's hard to come by in New York. Especially there are more Film "Stars" who started to work on TV series... All the 'known' TV actors get bumped down to Guest Stars roles, and the usual "Guest Star" actors got bumped down to Co-Star, and then so and so forth. If you are not a Name talent - how can you possibly beat the competition?

The brutal truth is - the best actor does not always get the role.

Have real acting chops will help an actor prolong his/her career - but in order to get through the door, there are many factors involved. Especially....

NAME

Who are you? Do people know you? Can you draw an audience?

In the world of Show Business - it's all about the business at the end of the day. How much money can the production company make from having you in the cast?

So usually, for a bigger budget production (or commercially marketed film), the producers would like to have a recognizable name. (Honestly, would you go watch a movie with a bunch people you don't know? Or you rather spend your money on a film starring Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Emma Stone, Johnny Depp, Zoe Saldana, Mila Kunis, and Ryan Gosling?)

That is when a Casting Office is hired to handle the casting. Getting the right names and talents to fill the puzzle.

Getting the Audition

Talent Agents and Managers can pitch their talents to the Casting Office - in order to get their clients audition appointments. (Bigger Name talents, are usually offer only)

If the Casting Office is not familiar with the Actor's work - the question is usually "What has he/she done?"

Then the talent representative will have to list all the recognizable projects that the actor has done... and see if that is name-worthy enough to get the appointment. (other factors that may help an Agent/Manager to pitch their client is pedigree (graduated from well known school), relatives of someone famous, and trained by a prestigious acting teacher, etc.)

Something that will guarantee this Actor will not waste the Producer, Director, and the Casting Director's time.

Once the appointment is granted - it's up to the Actors to ace the Audition and the Call Back.

Getting the right Representation

For bigger legit projects, the Actors need the right representation to help them move up the Acting Career Ladder.

So what attracts the Agents and Manager's attention (aside from the obvious physical appearance)?

It's what you have done, and what can you do.

What have you done - Projects that will attract people's attention. A popular Theatre/TV/Film that you recently starred. If you are currently starring in a popular show, or gotten good reviews in the paper, Agents/Managers/Casting Directors will pay attention.

What can you do - When auditioning or invited Agents/Managers to your show - make sure you make them your fan! Show them what you can and share the passion for the craft. People will need to believe in you in order for them to help you.

Once you got yourself a representation, you still have go go out on your own to create more work, and continue to work on your craft. When you book something, let your agent/manager know, so they can use that to pitch you to the Casting Office.

How to get into a Popular Show?

Work your way up.

From off-off-off Broadway, to Off-Off Broadway, to Off-Broadway, and then Broadway.

From student films, to Independent Films, to Low-budget Films, and then Hollywood Films.

From ensembles/background, to day players/co-stars, to Guest Stars, Principal, Supporting and Leading Roles.

I'm a strong believer of Work brings more Work. (And you need to be in the center of where "WORK" is, to get more "Work, right?)

If you are truly passionate about Acting as a career - and this is something you want to do for the rest of your life. Eventually, your passion will help to guide you to the right direction.

It's the combination of perseverance, talent, skill, and dedication.

Metal Gear Office

2011-06-30T15:27:00.001-04:00

I recently cast a Web Short for the guys at Blue Core Studios - Check it out!!

CBS CASTING TO CONDUCT WORKSHOPS IN NEW YORK

2011-06-09T23:14:00.002-04:00

CBS CASTING VICE PRESIDENT WORKING ONE-ON-ONE WITH ACTORS

Eye on Diversity at CBS is pleased to announce that Fern Orenstein, CBS Casting Vice President, is coming from Hollywood to present her acclaimed workshop two times only on Wednesday, June 22nd (3 to 6 p.m.) and Thursday, June 23rd (3 to 6 p.m.).

This workshop is an intensive experience designed to help actors land roles. Ms. Orenstein will share her extensive knowledge of the casting process and give actors her professional assessment of their headshots offering specific critiques on how best to market themselves. Ms. Orenstein will do one-on-one conversations with actors to help them identify the kinds of roles best suited to them.

This is an interactive and intensive experience and ENROLLMENT IS LIMITED.

Workshops will be held at CBS Headquarters, 51 West 52nd Street, NYC.

Submission Deadline is Monday 6/13/11.

SUBMIT YOUR HEADSHOT AND RESUME TO:

CBS CASTING NY WORKSHOP
260 Madison Ave., 7th Floor
New York, NY 10016

The Empress of China

2011-05-24T11:22:00.003-04:00

Yangtze Repertory Theatre of America Presents:

The Empress of China

New Bilingual drama by Yangtze Rep's Artistic Director Joanna Chan, commissioned by Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, had its world premiere in Hong Kong January 15-30, 2011.
American premiere in New York will be
June 3 to 26, 2011
at Theater for the New City.

SCHEDULE AND TICKETING INFO:
June 3 to 26
Thursdays-Saturdays at 7:30 PM, Sundays at 3 PM.
Additional performance Wednesday, June 22 at 7:30 PM
Theatre for the New City, 155 First Avenue
(between 9th and 10th Streets), Manhattan (East Village)

Tickets $30/TDF; Students & Seniors: $25;
groups of 10 or more receive a 10% discount.
Special "pay what you can" performance
Wednesday, June 22 at 7:30 PM

Tickets are available at www.theaterforthenewcity.net or 347-759-2937 or email: office@yangtze-rep-theatre.org.

"The Empress of China" is based on the arrival of the first American trading vessel in Canton in 1784. Aboard The Empress of China was the historical figure Samuel Shaw, a Revolutionary War officer, businessman and diplomat. Chan creates a relationship between Shaw and Purple Lotus, a fictional character of great beauty and charm, who captures the American’s heart. Through their relationship the play explores the profound differences in the way the central characters and their two societies viewed the world and their places in it. All this takes place as the Americans, fresh from their own revolution, are desperately trying to establish trade with China. The play offers historical insights into the Chinese ways and American efforts to establish the new country’s place in the world.

The cast is led by Andrei Drooz and Annie Q. as the romantic leads and also features a large multi-ethnic cast that includes William Allgood, Sergio Mauritz Ang, Jason DeShen Cao, Harris Diano, Teresa Du, Bill Engst, Stephan Goldbach, Kwan ShuMei, Arthur Lai, Lin Ying, Joanne Liu, Mike J. McNulty, Katelynn Mory, B J Peterson, Craig Kelton Peterson, Wilson Pok, Gary Sugai, Lantie Tom, Dennis Tsiu and Alan Lei Zhou.

Set design provided by Lauren Rockman; lighting by Joyce Liao and costumes by Xu HaoJian/Edmond Wong. Other creative personnel include: James Gitsham (fencing master), David ChienHui Shen (Martial arts/dance choreography), Yuen Cheuk-Wa (original score), Su Sheng (Musical Consultant), Lin Ying (Production Assistant) and Sheena L. Young (Stage Manager).

ABC Television Diversity Talent Showcase

2011-05-24T11:14:00.003-04:00

ABC TELEVISION NETWORK IS ACCEPTING
SUBMISSIONS FOR NEW YORK DIVERSITY TALENT SHOWCASE
Upcoming Pilots and Casting Projects

Deadline for Submissions is June 3

As part of its ongoing effort to discover and develop culturally and ethnically diverse talent and actors with disabilities, the Disney ABC Television Group's Casting Project will hold auditions for consideration for the ABC Talent Showcase. This opportunity also affords the majority of participants the chance to audition for a variety of ABC (and other networks') pilots and ongoing programming. ABC has a long-standing commitment to promoting diversity in the entertainment industry through a variety of projects administered by its Talent Development & Casting departments. The Casting Project offers an excellent opportunity for talent that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Administered by its Talent Development & Casting departments, ABC’s Casting Project has established an industry standard in creating opportunities for talent that might otherwise go unnoticed, with the majority of participants being given the chance to audition for a variety of ABC (and other networks’) pilots and ongoing programming. All are welcome to submit.

WHERE: New York City
WHO: Participants must be at least 18 years old. Previous acting experience/training is required of all, but professional representation is not necessary.
HOW: ABC will contact selected actors to schedule an audition.

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SUBMITTING:

SUBMIT ONE PICTURE AND RESUME; NO COVER LETTER OR VIDEOS.
DO NOT DOUBLE SUBMIT IF ALREADY SUBMITTED THROUGH ANOTHER UNION OR OTHER ENTITIES.

NO PHONE CALLS TO ABC.

PLEASE NOTE DEADLINE. NO SUBMISSION WILL BE ACCEPTED PAST CUT-OFF DATE.

Submit your PHOTO and RESUME to:

ABC CASTING PROJECT - NY
260 Madison Avenue, 7th Floor
New York, NY 10016

Please submit to only one of these options, as extra submissions will be discarded.

IF SELECTED, you must be available for the following periods:

Auditions: June 9 – June 24
Callbacks and Scene Selection Process: July through August

Rehearsals: Sept. 9 – Sept. 19

ABC TALENT SHOWCASE: Sept. 20

David Shen Dance Group Premiere of 'Lady White Snake' Fundraiser

2011-05-18T22:28:00.002-04:00

David Shen Dance Group Premiere of 'Lady White Snake' Fundraiser

Sunday, May 22 · 1:30pm - 3:30pm

Location:
Studio at 35-21 Farrington Street, Last stop off 7 train (Flushing/Main Street) , Basement next to realtor.
Flushing, New York

Link to Map

Please come support this collaborative effort co-created by David Shen and Lin Ying Sarah, and choreographed by David Shen featuring April Aubert, Aki Goto, Carl Li, Ashley Liang, Kristina Lopez-Robison, Mayo Kinoshita, and Stephanie Willing.

Light reception afterwards.

General Admission: $12

FUNDRAISER ADMISSION:$15 (Please consider this suggested amount to help further support us.)

Donations will be accepted and appreciated for the support and continuation of the David Shen Dance Group.

Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=195066963862406

Notes from the Other Side: Part 7

2011-03-24T11:15:00.003-04:00

Remember, Audition is not only about your reading. How you Enter and Exit the room reflects your professionalism.

Last weekend, I ran a two days session to tape the rest of the Day Player roles for the film Dream Brother. Since the production is already in progress, we are given very little time to cast the rest of the roles.

Those of you who knows me - I do marathon sessions. I hardly ever schedule lunch break for myself. An additional hour meant the actors have more opportunity to audition for the project. So I usually schedule my session back-to-back.

The sessions were pretty smooth last weekend - no one had to wait longer than 5 minutes. I was on-time, no delays, and even had a little time to chat with the talents, to learn more about them.

For day player roles, I personally would ask the talents do their reading at least 3 times differently, so I will get enough idea on the talent's range and ability to take directions. First read is usually based on their instinct, and then from there, I will suggest 2 other approaches.

In the afternoon, I had this one actress who came it to do a 2-lines day player role.

She arrived the location a bit early, so I asked her to wait outside and let the talent who signed in before her to read first.

*Snap*

Then it was her turn. she came in, gave me a headshot & resume, jump in front of the camera. After I gave her a brief info regarding the film, and the scene. She went ahead and did her reading. And of course, we did two additional reads for coverage. As soon as I said "Okay. You're done." She turned her body, dash out of the room, and slammed the door closed.

*Boom*

I stood there and blinked my eyes.

My assistant Kristen looked back at me, with a "WTF just happened?" expression on her face.

I asked: "Did I say something wrong?"

Kristen: "Nope."

I looked at my watch, and it was 2:23pm. Then I checked my appointment sheet, she was scheduled at 2:20pm.

Wayne: "And I'm on time as well."

Kristen: "Yep."

Wayne: "If she came super early, and felt she had to waited a long time... It was her choice after all."

Kristen: "Exactly."

Wayne: "Okie Dokie"

And I moved along and call the next talent in.

----------------

So last night I was on the phone with Kristen, she was just checking to see if I have done editing all the audition videos. (Which, nope, but I finished all the bigger parts and forwarded the link to the Director & Producer) She brought up the scenario and wondered if I would do anything differently, or at least, confront the talent.

I replied: "No. Our goal is to keep the session running so one one has to wait. I deal with the issues afterward."

Kristen: "How?"

Wayne: "Remember, our job is not only to find the more suitable talents for the role; we are also looking for team players. People who are professional, and will not cause any trouble on the set."

Kristen: "So are you going to show her video?"

Wayne: "Would you?"

Kristen: "Nope. She was very rude."

Wayne: "Exactly. Her footage is in the recycle bin."

************
Actors, doesn't matter if you have an urgent matter to attend, or had a horrible day. We don't know what is happening with your life, and we don't need to know. Your audition start at the moment you step into the room. Aside from your ability to interpreted the material, we are also trying to get an idea how you are as a person, your interaction with us, and behavior in a professional environment.

Leave the drama outside of the room. We have excellent "DIVA-Detector."

"The Empress of China" Yangtze Repertory Theatre of America Open Call (NY)

2011-03-22T10:14:00.002-04:00

Yangtze Repertory Theatre of America is currently casting the American Premiere of "The Empress of China", following the popular and critically acclaimed world premiere commissioned and produced by Hong Kong Repertory Theatre in Hong Kong in January 2011. Show opens on June 3rd, 2011 and runs through June 26th, 2011 with 16 performances total at Theatre for the New City.

"The Empress of China" is set in the year of 1784 during the 49th year of the reign of the Qing Emperor. It tells the legend of the first trading ship from the US to China. Blending significant historical figures and fictional characters, it examines the initial encounter for two peoples of drastically diverse experience and exceedingly different ways of looking at themselves and at the world. In the forbidden encounter between the dashing Supercargo of The Empress of China, Samuel Shaw, and the young beautiful Purple Lotus, daughter of a rich Chinese merchant, a common language was found in their belief in trust, honor, and integrity.

Open Audition at: April 3,4, 6, & 7 2011 from 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Callbacks on Sunday, April 10th, 2011.

First Reading & Rehearsal on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 5:45pm - 9:45pm starting April 11th, 2011 in Chinatown area.

Show opening on Friday, June 3rd and runs for 16 performances (Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) with an additional performance on June 22nd, 2011.

Last performance on June 26th, 2011.

Performance Location: Theater for the New City.

Compensation: $300 stipend at the end of the entire production, and 4 complimentary tickets to any of the shows.

Seeking Non-Equity Actors only. Please only come to the audition if you are available and comfortable with the production schedule.

Open Call Location:
Transfiguration Church lunchroom (right next to the auditorium) at 29 Mott Street in the heart of Chinatown, entering from the side door on Mosco Street. (The first door on your right when you walk down the gentle slope of Mosco Street. Over the door, you will see the sign that says: "Transfiguration Church.")

For the audition, please prepare a short monologue. Please also bring a hardcopy of headshot & resume.

Actors auditioning for the role of "Father Pierre" and any of the Chinese characters, we will conduct a short interview in either Mandarin Chinese or Cantonese.

CAUCASIAN MALE ACTORS with one who must be able to speak Mandarin or Cantonese:

* Samuel Shaw - Caucasian Male. early 20s - 30s. A former officer of the Continental Army and the principal Supercargo (businessman afloat) of The Empress of China. Fencing/Stage Combat experience a plus.

* Father Pierre - Caucasian Male. late 30s - 60s. A foreigner Missioner. Actor must be able to speak English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese)

* Robert Morris - Caucasian Male, late 30s - 40s. One of the investors in the voyage, he owned half interest in "The Empress of China." Fencing/Stage Combat experience a plus.

* Daniel Parker - Caucasian Male, late 30s - 40s. Owner of Daniel Parker & Company of New York. A major investor in the voyage.

* Captain Green - Caucasian Male, late 30s - 50s. A mariner with 20 years of experience through the stormy era of the Revolution.

* Doctor Johnston - Caucasian Male, mid 30s - 40s. The attending physician of "The Empress of China."

* Thomas Randall - Caucasian Male, early 30s - 40s. A former officer of the continental army and a close friend of Samuel Shaw. second supercargo of "The Empress of China."

CHINESE CHARACTERS (Mandarin or Cantonese speaking)

* Master Pan- Chinese Male, age 40s - 60s. Father of Lotus and Wen-Da.

* Pan Wen-Da - Chinese Male, age 20s - 30s. Brother of Lotus. Martial Arts / Stage Combat Training a plus. Actor must be able to speak English and Chinese.

* Custom Chief Officer/Fan: Chinese male, age late 30s - 50s.

* Mayor Zhang of Canton: Chinese male, middle aged

* Zi-Lian (Lotus) - Chinese Female, age 15. Sister of Wen-Da. Actress must be able to speak English and Chinese

* Madame Pan - Chinese Female, middle aged. Mother of Lotus and Wen-Da.

* Mistress Pan - Chinese Female, age late 20s - 40s. Mistress of Master Pan.

* Ai-Ping - Chinese Female, age early 20s - 30s. Wife of Wen-Da.

* Su-Fen - Chinese Female, age 18 - late 20s. Lotus's teenage maid.

This is a Non-Equity production; however all cast & crew will be covered by the Volunteer Insurance.

For more information regarding the theatre company, please visit: http://www.yangtze-rep-theatre.org

纽约长江剧团现为话剧《中国皇后號》在美首演招募演员。该剧由香港話劇團委約長江劇團藝術總監陳尹瑩博士創作及導演, 于2011年一月在香港成功完成世界首演，社会反响强烈, 叫好叫座。现计划将于今年六月三日至二十六日在纽约新城市剧场演出十六场。

“《中国皇后號》：以第一艘由美国开往中国商船的传奇经历为背景所展开的奇妙故事”。本剧故事发生在1784年，清帝乾隆49年，借数位历史人物及几位虚构角色，探讨当日中美两国民族首次接触时怀有的遐想和善意，以及因彼此的民族差异和文化不同而引出的碰撞和深层交流。中国皇后號大班山茂召跟中国富商娇憨明媚的女儿潘紫莲无意邂逅，在无从沟通交往的情况下，却在对忠義坦诚的信念上，找到了共通的语言。

演出日期：2011年6月3日（首演）至6月26日（最后一场）期间每周四、五、六、日；6月22日（星期三）加演一场。

演出地点：紐約第一大道八至九街之間新城市剧院（Theater for the New City，155 First Avenue (between 9th and 10th Streets)，New York, NY 10003）

演员面试时间：2011年4月3日，4日，6日，7日晚上六点至八点半。

演员面试地点：纽约市中国城顯聖容天主堂樓下禮堂（Transfiguration Church auditorium, 29 Mott Street，请由侧门入内。即顺着Mosco Street小斜坡往下走，在您右手边的第一道门，门上标有“Transfiguration Church”）。

複試时间：2011年4月10日。

演出排练时间：2011年4月11日起每周一、周三、周四和周日的晚上5：45至9：45。

演员补助：基于美国长江剧团为非盈利性团体，所有的演职人员都为义务工作志愿者，不被支付工资和演出费。演员在全部演出完成后可获得300美元的车马费补贴，及本剧任何演出场次的赠票，共计四张。

招募非工会演员，如下：

七名白种男演员；其中一角色(彼尔神甫)年龄在25岁至55岁之间, 需會说普通话或广东话。

九名华裔男演员，要求会说普通话或广东话，年龄在18岁至60岁之间（其中四位为主要角色，五位为多重配角）。

五名华裔女演员，要求会说普通话或广东话，年龄在18岁至45岁之间。

面试时，请准备一小段独白。并请携带一张写真照片和一份简历。

另外，对面试“彼尔神甫”角色的演员和所有华裔演员，将会用普通话或广东话进行简短面试。

所有参加面试的演员，请您确保以遵守剧团的排练日程和要求为前提。

本剧为非工会制作演出，但是所有演职人员都会有义务工作者保险。

了解更多剧团信息，请登录：http://www.yangtze-rep-theatre.org

You Can Help!

2011-03-18T13:11:00.001-04:00

Donate to the Red Cross

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Japan Red Cross Society

Game Face. No Face.

2011-01-21T13:42:00.002-05:00

I remember a little over 2 years ago, I was at an open seminar - where a guest is invited to talk about the business of Acting. While waiting for the seminar to start, a group of us (actors) were talking about commercial classes. I guess for Actors, the word "Casting" is a very sensitive word. Just right when we were talking about Brooke and Mary and Actress jumped in, and asked "Casting? Which Casting Director?" One of us replied "House Productions."
All of the sudden, this actress' face went flat "Oh, they only cast Non-Union stuff." and turned her face away and totally ignored us - like nothing ever happened.

Rude, wasn't it?

Just because a Casting House that cast more Non-Union projects, that doesn't mean they don't cast Union productions. It's up to the Producer, not the Casting Director.

A similar situation happened recently. My friend Audrey was talking to another actress while we were waiting for our class to start. She mistakenly introduced me as someone who works at Wulf Casting. This other actress all of sudden got excited and pulled out a pen and paper, and wrote "WOLF CASTING" on the paper and asked me if she can email me her headshot and resume. I told her Wulf Casting is own by Matthew Wulf, who used to worked at Impossible Casting, and I'm not associated with any of them. I have my own company.

Then I told her that currently, most of the projects that I cast - that actually PAY the talents are very Asian-specific. Industrial and Voice Overs that require talents who speak an Asian language or trained in an Asian Culture-related skill. My other projects with more diverse cast are either low-pay or no-pay.

All of the sudden, this Actress' face went flat, and moved her attention back to Audrey, and started to talk about her commercial audition.

Just because I currently don't have a good-paid projection that suits her type, that doesn't mean I will never come across a project like that.

There's no need to be rude.
If you like to be superficial, the keep your game face on at all time.

Notes from the Other Side: Part 6

2010-12-28T15:19:00.005-05:00

Blind Submission Blinds You

Sometimes, I cast multiple projects at once – and I really appreciate talents submit themselves because they feel right for the role. (Which means, read the breakdown, and know exactly what they are submitting to) I don’t think actors should submit to everything and anything for the sake of exposure. Actors shouldn’t submit to projects if they have conflicts with Audition and Production dates. Experienced actors pretty much master the “Breakdown Scan” technique; with once glance, they get all the information they needed to determine if they should submit to the project.

An incident happened this morning. I’m currently casting two projects. The first project I was looking for a leading female – because we open the role to all ethnicity, I got 60+ submissions within 2 hours (and the number doubled in the morning). Because there is not enough time to audition all the talents – I have to narrow the number down to 18-20 talents who are most suitable for the role. Out of all the submissions, there were two talents who physically fit the description, and I have seen them submitted to my other projects (but weren’t a good fit). So, I was happy that I finally have something they can audition.

Then when I check the other project that I’m casting, where I specifically stated that I’m looking for a Puppeteer with puppetry experience, and I also requested the talent to include a submission note on their experience (or if they enjoy working with puppets). The same two girls submitted to the “Puppeteer” without any notes.

Immediately my focus shifted back to my first project...

Did these girls know what they are submitted to? Did they know the role requires them to wear lingerie and make-out with an older actor? Can they read?

I dropped the two girls from my list and replace the spot with two other girls who are just as experienced and beautiful. I don't have the time or energy to explain to the actors what the production expects from the talent, and the scene requirements. It's all written right there.

I spent the time to type out the breakdowns to make sure actors are aware of all aspects of the production. And I expect the same from the actors. Take the time, and read, and let me know why you are interested in the role or have any any similar experience. Any notes relating to the role helps!!

And when I see the same people who blindly submitted to anything and everything - I can't take them seriously.

This is a serious business, people!!

"Dream Brother" Indie Feature Film seeking Filipino Actors (NY)

2010-12-22T11:52:00.003-05:00

Dream Brother
Non-Union Feature Film
Pay Scale: $100 per Shoot Day; $50 per 3 Hours Rehearsal
Audition: Early January, 2011
Rehearsal: February – March, 2011 (twice a week)
Production: March – June, 2011 (weekends)
Location: New York Area (Manhattan, Queens, Bronx)

Send Headshot and Resume to: wccasting@gmail.com

Dream Brother is about a troubled young Filipina American girl fighting daily for her dignity and happiness against bullying, domestic abuse, and a dangerously consuming fantasy.

Breakdowns:

[Alex] Filipino / Asian Pacific Islander, Male, age 40-60. Owner of a successful restaurant. Outwardly decent but comfortable with lying and using people if he considered harmless. Speak Tagalog a Plus. Must be comfortable portraying a Child Molester. (No Nudity or Explicit Scenes) Lead.

[Lola] Filipina / Asian Pacific Islander, Female, age 60s – 80s. Loving, batty grandmother, grew up wealthy, now poor. Must speak Tagalog. Supporting.

[Ms. Gutierrez] Filipina / Asian Pacific Islander, Female, age late 30s-70s. Strong, smart, classy school teacher. Speak Tagalog a Plus. Supporting.

Rehearsing evenings and/or weekends 3 hours twice weekly Feb-Mar; shooting weekends (four weekends total per role) Mar-Jun.

Epic - FAIL

2010-11-13T00:16:00.002-05:00

It takes a lot to really upset me.

I once has pride myself, for being able to remain calm - and really take things easy.

But one thing I cannot tolerate is being unprofessional.

On November 4th, I got an email from a representative from Epic Models New York - stating that they got my contact information through Actors Connection referral. (and I recognized a couple of the email addresses included in the mass email)

Below is the email:

Hi,

I am with Epic Models and Talent NY. We are currently seeking new talent to add to our board for commerical, film, print and runway. We were referred to you by actors connection. Can you please send us a current photo, stats and resume if you have one for consideration. Please email me directly on epicmodelsny@gmail.com and place subject Representation.

Best Regards,

Darlene Josephine
Executive Director
Epic Models

I thought if she's referred by Actors Connection, then this must be legit. It doesn't hurt to reach out and see if I can meet another professional in the industry. (Like, a free seminar!)

So I sent an email to the address specified - and in about 2 hours, I got a response from Darlene, and scheduled a meeting on Saturday, Nov 6th at 2:00pm.

I went back to their website and wrote down their address, printed out the directions through MapQuest.

on Saturday morning, I woke up (from my 3 alarms), got ready, and dressed all nice and stylish (it's a modeling agency after all) - and headed out.

FYI - the weekend of Nov 6th was also when LIRR was going through major constructions. From where I live to the City, I have to first take the BUS to Queens, and then from there, take the subway into Manhattan. (Yeah, 2 hours commute 1 way)

And let me tell you, commuting to Upper East Side is not fun, especially the subway train run less frequently on weekends.

So it took me almost 3 hours or so, to finally make it to the building at East 63rd street. And I was right on time.

I went up the front desk security, ask which floor that I should go to see Darlene of Epic Models.

The gentleman replied "They moved. They moved 4 months ago."

My jaw dropped.

He continued "You are the second person who came looking for Epic Models today!"

I thank the guy, and quickly called Darlene on her cell phone - which led to a voice mail. I told her that I went to the address taken from HER website, without knowing the office had relocated. Then I told her if she's still available, I can still commute to see her.
After I hung up the phone, I wrote an email to her with the same content.

So... I went to a deli store around the area and ate a sandwich... Waiting to see if Darlene will return my call.

After two hours, I decided to head back home. I wasted an entire day for nothing.

---------------------

Today (November 12th) - I got the following email from Darlene:

Hi,

We did relocate a couple months ago that needs to be changed on website. Sorry we do not take walk ins or have open call, please submit your photo through our website.

Best Regards,
Darlene

I was like... What?! What is this woman talking about?! Walk-Ins or Open Call!?

I quickly wrote back to her - to clarify that we had an appointment which she FLAKED out on me, and now she classified me as a "random walk-in."

I BCC: Tony at Actors Connection, and two other friends who were also on the initial Email that Darlene sent.

Not only does this woman OWE me an apology, it took her over a week to respond, and wrote it as if nothing EVER happened. (In all my correspondence, I included contents from our past email exchanges)

I swear, if I ever get to do casting for a Print/Modeling project, I will never-never-ever do dealings with ANYONE from Epic Models.

The Reading of "The Soldier" @ NYC

2010-11-11T10:54:00.005-05:00

The AAFilmLab would like to invite you to a Reading of Myra Sito Velasquez’s THE SOLDIER, a black comedy set in 1930’s Japanese military bootcamp, to take place on Wednesday, Nov. 17th from 6PM to 9PM, Co-Hosted by the AAFilmLab

The AAFilmLab will be co-hosting a free reading to workshop “The Soldier” by Myra Sito Velasquez, a finished screenplay in the midst of transformation into a multi-media theatre piece.

Wednesday, November 17th
Doors Open 6PM
Reading begins PROMPTLY at 6:30PM

The reading is approx. 1 hr 20 mins. FREE admission including reception, wine, beer and tasty bites!

The Richmond Shepard Theatre
309 East 26th Street, NYC
(b/w 1st and 2nd Ave)

THE SOLDIER was originally conceived as a feature screenplay—@ 60 pages—Myra now plans to transform it into a powerful multi-media theatre piece. This public reading is her first step towards making this happen.

With the assistance of Wayne Chang of WC Casting, Myra has brought together a group of talented cast: Sandi Carroll, Ai Kiyono, Yoshiro Kono, Whitney Kam Lee, Jan Mizushima, Jun Naito, Koji Nishiyama, Eileen Rivera, David Shih, and Brian Walters.

Please RSVP with your name, & # of persons to hello.waynechang@gmail.com

"Play" Columbia University MFA short film seeking Child Actors (NY)

2010-11-10T19:15:00.001-05:00

Play
Columbia University Student Film
Seeking SAG and Non-SAG talents
Compensation: Credit and Copy
Audition: November 13, 20, and 27.
Production Dates: December 18 and 19 (Saturday and Sunday)
Location: Columbia University and West Harlem area (New York)

Min a 11 year old Asian boy, a recent immigrant to America looking for friends on his first day of school in Harlem NY. Unable to speak English to communicate he is immediately bullied by local neighborhood kids. Min is rescued by Kahn, an older Asian boy who speaks the same native language. The unlikely friendship with Kahn will teach Min a lesson of survival he will never forget.

Send headshot & resume to: wccasting@gmail.com
If submitting for the character Min or Kahn, please specify the native language spoken.

Brekadowns:

[MIN] 10-13 year old boy, Asian. Must speak fluent native language.

[KAHN] 15-20 years old boy, Asian Must speak fluent English and native language.

[TREY] 15-20 years old boy, African American or Latin American ethnicity

We are also looking for at least 5 other boys 15-20 all ethnicity in supporting and extra roles. We will be reviewing all the submissions and the casting call will be on invite only basis. Please see director's recent works at www.johnnymaktubfilms.com

哥倫比亞大學學生影片正在尋找亞裔男童演員年齡10至16歲. 我們道歉我們不能提供金錢. 但提供影片拷貝, 車費和食物,我們計劃在12月18和19日在紐約拍攝. 如果您有興趣,請寄圖照片和聯絡信息: wccasting@gmail.com

Notes from the Other Side: Part 5

2010-09-27T16:37:00.002-04:00

Know. Your. Range.

Maybe because I’m an Actor; I always try to give Actors the benefit of the doubt when I’m casting for a project.

If someone’s running late, that’s fine, as long as they can manage to come to the session before I wrap up the camera.

If someone is less than prepared (due to involvement with another show, other auditions), that’s okay. I will go through the sides with them, and give specific note on specific lines. (Technically, I don’t need to do this, unless there’s a specific reaction that my producer wants to see)

If there’s an actor who I have met in the past, and interested in another project I’m casting. I will double check with the actor to see if he/she really feels that they are suitable for the character – or be honest that I don’t feel he/she is suitable for the role. I will respond if time allows.

At the end of the day, I just want the actors do their best, and bring their own interpretation of the character (without going too far) to the audition.

This past weekend, there was an actor whom I have previously met at another casting session. Nice kid, really passionate about the craft, and has a unique quality about him. When he submitted to my most recent project, I immediately scheduled him for an audition. (I mean, physically, he looks the part.)

After the first day of the audition, I got an email for this actor. He felt he could have done better (he did his reading twice – the second time I gave him a couple adjustments to guide him closer to the character). He asked if he can come to the second day of the audition, and do the reading again.

I replied “Okay” and then in a separate email, I gave him a reference of a character from a popular Comic Book and Cartoon, who fits the “type” that the producer is looking for.

So, day two of the audition, he was right on-time; signed in and sat the waiting area until I was all set up and ready to go.

He sat down, slate, and did his reading with me.

After he’s done….

Wayne: “And the difference between this reading and yesterday’s…?”

Actor: “I feel much better.”

Wayne: “Of course, you are off book.”

Actor: “Yeah.”

Wayne: “Did you remember the notes I gave you yesterday, after your first reading?”

He looked at me, puzzled.

Wayne: “Your reading is exactly the same as your very first reading. Didn’t I tell you that this character shouldn’t react this way…..etc etc because etc etc etc and this…etc etc etc…”

And I pretty much gave him the same notes all over again.

Then he did the reading again, and it was exactly the same as yesterday’s second reading.

Wayne: “Okay, thanks for coming. I will replace yesterday’s footage with this one, because the lighting is nicer in this studio.”

And that was it.

I felt so bad that the Actress who had the first appointment had to wait almost 10 minutes in the waiting area…

Actors, unless you have a mind-blowing, completely amazing, out of this world approach when you ask for a 3rd reading (after I already feel I got what I needed) - you are risking the chance of leaving an impression to the Casting Director that you are “limited” in your range. And not to mention, wasting the Casting Director’s time.

Not all the audition footage get to be seen by the Producer. Anything can influence the outcome of an audition.

Leviathan Lab TWELFTH NIGHT RocketHub Campaign

2010-08-26T19:31:00.000-04:00

Helping out a friend, spreading the word!

**********

It features Leviathan Lab's classically trained Asian American acting company, directed by Nelson Eusebio III, with music by veteran Broadway actor/composer Jason Ma, and set and costume design by Katherine Akiko Day. We're incredibly excited by the level of cast and crew on this, the inaugural show of a new and very ambitious Asian American theatre company – now, we just need support to launch the show!

The link is below:

http://www.rockethub.com/projects/272-leviathan-lab-presents-twelfth-night

"SAFE" Feature Film seeking Chinese Girl (around age 10)

2010-07-15T11:49:00.000-04:00

好萊塢電影「安全」(傑森史塔森擔任主角) 尋找一個 9-13 歲, 天性聰明, 好奇, 敏感, 愛表演, 有興趣演戲的中國女孩. 要求講英語和懂廣東或普通話. 演員不需要有經驗. 有意請聯絡電子郵件 (請包括姓名,聯繫信息, 城市,和照片.) safecastingsearch@gmail.com

Seeking a 9-13 year old girl for leading role in film "Safe" shooing in New York starring Jason Statham - sensitive, intelligent, child who speaks English and some Mandarin or Cantonese. Must be smart, inquisitive, with good acting instincts. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. If interested, please email Name, Contact Information, Location (City), and Talent Photo to: safecastingsearch@gmail.com

Still Life

2010-07-02T10:14:00.001-04:00

This is a short film that I assisted in casting, check it out!

"Brand New Day" - by Joshua Radin

2010-06-18T18:42:00.000-04:00

Can you find me in the Video?

Notes from the Other Side: Part 4

2010-06-16T11:34:00.002-04:00

What do you have to loose?

I was casting a last minute voice over for a commercial. The spec for the role is an Old Chinese Kung Fu Master, around the age of 70. Someone who speaks English with an accent, but still clear enough for the audience to hear the words.

So I immediately contact people that I know either physically fit the character, or have enough voice over experience to produce that specific type of voice.

The audition process for this is fairly simple. By calling a phone number and record a brief voice mail with the material I provided.

Then....

One of the more experienced and professional VO talent wrote me an email:

"Thank you, but they are looking for someone with an older voice."

Well...

Guess what? The person who booked the job is in his early 30s.

Notes from the Other side part 3

2010-06-07T13:45:00.000-04:00

Let the "buyer" decide how old the "seller" looks.

I recently did a casting, where one of the role is looking for actor who can protray the age of 65+

An actor who is in his 50s submitted to the role.

At the audition, I told him that regardless of his actual age, he can physically passed for the character, and as long as he can deliver the personality that we are looking for, then he'll be fine. After I gave him a couple notes, I finally got a good take of his audition video.

Then he got the callback, and was brought in to read for the producer and the director the following week.

As soon as he's done with his reading, he went up to the producer, and argued that he felt he's too young for the role.

At the end of the day, when I review the actors with my client, he was the first person we elimate.

My client said "I don't like him. He didn't want to be here."

To the actor:

If you doubt that you can play the charactor, why did you submit to the breakdown at first place?

The reason you got a callback, is because my client thought you did a good job in your audition tape. By questioning and challenging my client's decision to meet you in person, you insulted the production team.

Laughing in the Wind (笑傲江湖)

2010-04-26T09:56:00.003-04:00

After 8 weeks of intensive training and rehearsal - It's hard to believe the time has finally come.

The show opens this Friday, April 30th, 2010.

Yangtze Repertory Theatre of American proudly presents: "Laughing in the Wind: a Cautionary Tale in Martial Arts" - based on one of the Chinese-speaking world's best known martial arts novels by Jin Yong, the most popular writer of the genre.

Cast include: Wayne Chang, Rachel Filsoff, Aki Goto, Zane Hayes, Carl Ka-Ho Li, Ashley Liang, Ajia Maximillian, Phillip Redmond, Adrian Sinclair, Peter Song, Derrick St. Hill, Rashawn Strife, Steven Sun, Stephanie Willing, Sen Yang, Cedric Yau, Sarah Yu and Jie Zhuang.

Choreographed by is David ChienHui Shen, Set designed by Yoki Lai.

For more information regarding the show, please visit the show's website.

April 30 to May 23, 2010
Th - Sat at 7:30 PM, Sun at 3:00 PM,
additional performance Wed., May 19 at 7:30 pm
Theater for the New City
155 First Ave. (at E. 10th St.), Manhattan, New York

$25.00; $20.00 Seniors/Students; TDF accepted.
20% discount for groups of 10 and above.
Box Office 347-574-4369; or reserve by email: office@yangtze-rep-theatre.org

Running time 2 hours plus a 15 minute intermission.

******************

This is the 3rd year that I work with Yangtze. Back in 2007, I first participated as an Actor for the stage production of "Love in Tears and Laughter."
Then for 2008's "Forbidden City West" and 2009's "In the Silence of the Heart" I was the Casting Coordinator.

This year, I also functioned as the Casting Coordinator for "Laughing in the Wind" - but I was so tempted to audition (which, I did) - especially that I have been crossing over to the casting side of the business... I really wanted to do to another stage production. (Plus I'm a HUGE Jin Yong (金庸) Fan!)

Originally, I wanted to a principal/ensemble role... I kind of wanted to take it easy - So I will have the time and energy for my day job, plus the casting service.
But after a few changes in the casting process, I was offered one of the antagonists role in the play. Probably one of the most noted 'villians' in Jin Yong's work - the infamous 偽君子 - 岳不群. Not only I have to protray a father with a 16 years old daughter, I have to deal with a bunch of "Ancient" Chinese.
(Believe me, I'm a native Mandarin Chinese speaker... But I have never used any of those "old" Chinese text in a conversation... I struggled so much...)

People who know the story of "Laughing in the Wind" could not believe that I get to protrayed the part of "岳不群" - they kept on saying "What? No Way! You are not that cunning..."

The role challenged me both emotionally and physically (and, vocally as well). I personally felt that I have grew so much within the first month of the rehearsals... (and I lost 7 lbs! yay!) - And this it the first time I get to share the stage with two of my very talented friends Sarah and Carl. I have known them for 5+ years, but never get to work in the same production. (Isn't fate wonderful?)

So here I am, among the wonderful cast members... Getting ready to put on a great show!

If you are in New York area, and interested in Jin Yong's work, we'd love to see you at our performances!

Don't Blink... Or You'd miss Me!

2010-03-15T16:17:00.000-04:00

Grab-N-Go is a Skill

2010-02-25T11:28:00.003-05:00

If you are a working (female) model, you probably have heard or told by your agent/manager, that you should always carry a HUGE bag.

The Bag should include Heels (or tennis use, whichever you're wearing), mini-Make up Kit, mini-Hair Kit, tank top, hair band, Portfolio, Z-Cards (compcards), map, a bottle of water.

So you can change at anytime, and be Photo-ready at the speed of light.

Jump in front of the Camera at a Go-See, and then jump out and change right back into street clothes, and onto the rest of your day.

Now, as an Actor, it is important that we master the skill of "Grab-N-Go."

I'm not saying we have to carry a bunch of make-up & hair stuff. What I'm saying is... if you are wearing extra clothes, need to change in to a 'wardrobe' for your audition... Make sure you have a bag to hold all of the stuff. So you go in and out of the Audition without wasting time. (I don't usually recommend people leaving their stuff in the Outside (or if there's a Green Room)... Casting Assistants do need to use the restroom once in a while, and cannot keep an eye on everything that's around.

Unless there's someone that you know personally at the audition, who can watch over your stuff... Otherwise, take everything with you.

Here is an example of a recent audition where I was monitoring OUTSIDE of the auditioning room.

A lovely actress came in wearing her street clothes, because of the audition requres dance choreography, she had to change into more flexible so she can perform.
It was Winter, so she had a sweater, jacket, scarf, hat, gloves, her purse, and a bag containing her Yoga outfit.

She went to the Ladies room to change, and came back out. After she placed all her stuff on the chair, she started to strech and warm up. She was veryfocused and prepared.

After a couple minutes, it was her turn to head into the room. She grabbed everything from the chair, and went in.

From thethe little window on the door, I saw she did a wonderful job with the audition. After the Director said "Thank you for coming," the actress went to the corner, and start putting her clothes back on. Piece by piece. She wore the pants on top of her tights (which is fine), then put on her belt, and her shirt, then the sweater, and the scarf... and the Jacket... and tied her hair up in a pony tail... and then she sat down to put her boots on....

There was a line of actors waiting outside; the Director was waiting at the table for the next actor to come in.... And we are all waiting for her to finish.

Why couldn't she leave the room the same way she enter?

There are so many cheap Tote Bags out there, that she can put everything in the bag, grab it, go in, perform, grab it, and then come out. Then change.

It is true that the audition starts as soon as the Actor walked into the Room. But how an Actor exist the audition is just as important.

Grab-N-Go is a Skill.

Notes from the Other Side 2

2010-02-12T11:54:00.004-05:00

Part 2 of the Notes from the Other Side series...

Actors who really prepares for an audition, and gave it 100% really excits me.

Preparation Work not only involves the audition material (sides, script, etc) - but how you condition yourself before you walk into the room.

Recently I was approached by a filmmaker friend of mine, in search of a leading actress for his short film. He didn't want to make the project public - therefore, my only option was to pull from my files.

I was lucky enough to have previously worked on two independent films that involved Asian Female characters.

So I contacted the 4 actresses who did a great reading previously, in additions to actors who I couldn't see because they were not a perfect match for the role. Plus, the actresses who have shown interests in my previous project, but couldn't audition due to schedule conflict.
And of course, I've also invited my actress friends who fits the description.

As an Actor myself - I understand that sometimes getting an audition is very tough. So any opportunity is a step up a great Acting Career.
And as a Casting Director, I really do appreciate Actors showing interest in my project.

I've managed to invite and confirmed 26 actresses to come in to auditon for the film. But with a few last minute cancellation and no shows... We've managed to see 22 of them.

As expected, the 4 actresses I've previously met... aced their audition. (One of them got the role - I'm very happy for her...)

While for others actors that I met for the first time, I now have an idea on how they look in person, and their natural quality as a person. And of course, their talent and special skills. (So if I come across a project that is suitable for them, I will invite them back for an audition!)

Later that night, the Director, Producers, Writers and Myself compare notes - I named my top 8 actresses. And gave them my feedback.
Then the director gave me his choices, and I'd comment on the ones not on my list.

Surprisingly, these are actors who I couldn't remember exactly what they did at the audition. (Now I know why so many Casting Directors ask the Actors to make Strong and Interesting Choices. Something they will remember... Something that will help them stand out among 20+ other actors.)

Oh yeah, personality also had a huge impact on my feedback.

"The best actor doesn't always get the job"

Usually people see this statement, they get the idea that the Director or the Producer would hire someone who is more physically attractive, or someone who has the 'star' power.

On the other hand, there are actors who are really good at what they do, but lack the common courtesy, manner, and professionalism. I pick up people's energy easily (I'm sure a lot of actors do too, being emotionally available is something we must do - and we have to be open to Feel and be Affected by our enviornment). So the moment an Actor walk into the room, I could pretty much get an idea on his or her professionalism. And later on, further professional (or lack of) behaviors will confirm that.

I have convinced the Director why he shouldn't consider certain actors based on their behavior in the room.

"What you see now, is what you will probably see on Set."

That's exactly what I said.

We want actors who wants to work. We want actors who really shown interest in the project, and 'show' us why they wanted it. Regardless if the actor had a horrible stressful day... Leave it out of the room. We've only got 5 minutes to get to know the actor... Please make the best out of it.

I hope within the very near future, I will have the opportunity to work on good projects (Pilots, anyone?) or even producers with budget to pay actors.... So I can give something back to the actors who really took their career seriously.

Incase you want to do some Background Work in New York...

2010-02-05T11:25:00.002-05:00

If you want to do some background works in New York, below are current active shows that accept electronic submissions. You can send your headshot, stats (height, weight and age range) contact information to: (Updated February 5, 2010)

Law and Order: Original
lawseason20@gmail.com

Law and Order: SVU
nbcsvu@gmail.com

Law and Order: Criminal Intent
ciseason9@gmail.com

Boardwalk Empire
boardwalk@gwcnyc.com

Ugly Betty
uglybettyextras@gmail.com

Mercy
nbcmercy@gmail.com

Gossip Girl
GossipBG@gmail.com

Damages
http://www.barbmcasting.com (submit online)

Notes From the Other Side

2010-02-04T11:34:00.006-05:00

You have no idea how many things I've learn now having to work on the other side of the Camera.

I have been very fortunated to have the opportunity to cast for many great materials. (regardless of the budget, size of the production, etc)

And through the process, I have learned a whole about the mistakes that Actors made. Mistakes that I made as an Actor!!

So, I thought I'd share some of my experiences...

1) Submission

The Breakdown Services is probably the oldest, and legit tool in US that is used by Casting Directors, Talent Agents & Managers, and Actors.

The Casting Directors and Talent Agents use the "Breakdown Express" function to submit a casting breakdown, or to submit their clients to a breakdown.

Actors use the Actors Access function to submit themselves to breakdowns that are released to public.

As an Actor, I check Actors Access at least 4 times a day. First thing in the Morning, Lunch Time, late Afternoon, and 6:00pm. So I made sure I don't miss any roles that fits me.

And sometimes, there are Multiple Roles within the same Project that fits me. And I'd clicked through all of them and submitted myself.

*BEEP*

BIG MISTAKE. Actors, Do not Double / Triple Submit yourself!!

Recently, I posted a breakdown for an off-Off Broadway Show that I'm casting. I usually leave the breakdown online for about a week, then I would go back to check on the talent submissions.

Through the submissions, I would look at each talent's headshot, resume, union status, and special skills to see this particular person would be a good match. Then I would select the matching talents on the website, and send out an email to invite them to the audition.

For a particular role, there are 364 submissions. I look edthrough each one of the submission to filter out the talents who are not suitable for the project (and character). I mean, I had two men submitted for the role of a Madame... Also have a lot of Equity Actors submitting to my Non-Equity show.

I consider myself have pretty decent memory. But going through 364 headshots and resumes and their names - My brain went into over-load mode.

Then for the following character, I had about 120 submissions, but 30 of them are from the same actor who submitted to the previous role. And they used a different headshot this time.

So in addition to filtering out New actor submissions, I also have to double-check to see if I've already contacted a 'repeat' customer in the previous submission.

Can you imagine what I had to go through for the rest of the characters?

If an Actor wants to be considered for multiple roles, he/she can specify that in the submission note.

2) Cover Note

Personally, I do read them. Yes. I Do.

There are actors who would spend a little time and briefly describe why he/she qualifies for this particular role.

From Stage Combat, Weapon Training, Accents, or had done a Similar role. It all helped me to feel more comfortable in bringing in a Talent to meet the Director.

As an I actor, I never done it. I just click, leave the note section blank, and that was it. Hoping that my headshot would work its magic.

But honestly, a cover note can really change someone's mind. A headshot can only go so far - We like to know if a talent is really interested in the project, or WHY he/she is interested to audition. Is it the character, the story, or is it something that relates to him/her personally....? There are so many things to write about.

And made them personal. Make them brief.

I have read so many generic cover notes about the person's previous productions, the review in the paper, and day player / guest star roles. But all these information I can get from the Resume...

3) Generic Cover Note

Someone must have passed my breakdowns to a different source. Because after I scheduled 90 actors for the auditions, I got 20+ submissions in the email. I welcome anyone who is interested in the production.
Many of the submissions are from really young talent, and they have beautifully written cover note. Seriously, so nice, so proper, and they really specify on why they are qualified for the character. All these girls got an audition invite from me.

Yet, I have gotten a few... with the 'generic cover note'

Here are some examples:

"I would like to be considered for your future project"

If you don't specify the project, or name of the role you're interested in, I don't know what to do with your headshot & resume. I don't know what you want.

"I would like to be included in your database"

My database is my brain.
If I never seen your work, or have seen you in an audition environment, most likely, you're not going to be in my database.
But I do keep all the headshot & resumes emailed to me - I just needed a really good reason to go back to review them. (The 'future project' has to be a perfect match.)

Submission

I got people who sent me their pictures (not even headshot), no resumes. No cover note, just the word "submission" in the email subject.
Tell me, what would you do?
Does this person know that aside from the Off-Off Broadway show, I'm also casting two short films? What does this person want?

"Hello. My name is.... And I'm a recent graduate from.... I have done this... done that... and I know this Casting Director...and that Casting Director... and got called in many times by the following Casting Directors....."

After the first glance, I know this is a cover letter more suitable for an Agent Submission. When an actor who is looking for representation, the best way to catch an Agent's attention, is how much relationship this Actor has with the Casting Professionals. AKA, "Name Drop" Bomb.

So I knew this is a generic copy-and-paste cover note. I don't feel this person is sincere about the project.
From a casting point of view, I rather know how this person feel about the project, and why this person is interested in submitting. And at least, be specific which character interests you.

Oh, one thing about the "Name Drop" Bomb - This person listed 15 major Theater Casting Directors in New York. And I know 10 of them only work with Actors through talent Agents and Managers.
This actor's resume doesn't reflect any of the productions that were cast by these Casting Offices. In addition, this actor doesn't have a legit representation.

How am I suppose to take this person seriously? I'm not saying if this person was not being honest. But when you name-drop, you gotta have something to back-it up.

4) Read the Breakdown

I couldn't believe that I have submitted to LA breakdowns before. Now thinking back, I was either very desperate, or I wasn't thinking.

I have gotten calls inviting me to an audition, only to realize that the location is in Los Angeles. I wasted my time, I wasted their time.

I have also gotten calls like "Hi Wayne, we would like to book you on this date...." and I would reply "Sorry, I'm actually... Not available..."
then the person asked "Then why did you submit to the breakdown?"

I was a retard, that was why.

So my advice is always read the breakdown, to make sure if you are truely available. Make sure you review the following informaiton before you submit.

Type of Casting (TV, Film, Commercial or Theater)
Audition Date (If you are available to audition)
Production Date (If cast, if you are available to perform)
Location (If you are local, or if commuting will be an issue)
Character Descritpion (Make sure you are a good match for the role)

When casting, I always try to provide as much details about the production before invite anyone to an audition.

If you are out side of Los Angeles, and wants to submit to a LA breakdown, in the cover note, make sure you indicate your current location, and willing-ness to travel at your own expenses. Or suggest sending an audition tape and will travel if invited to a callback.

Uh, that's it for now. Phew.

New York Commercial Classes

2009-10-09T11:17:00.004-04:00

I recently had a friend asking me about the importance of Commercial Classes.

I feed back was, don't take any commercial classes unless you are interested in doing commercial works.(And of course, get a Commercial Agent, and attend Commerical Casting Calls)

But of course, for all the full-time working Actors, it is important to land a Commercial Agent before landing a Legit Agent - mainly because booking a Commercial can really help you pay the bills. Plus for both LA & NY, Commercial Agents are more likely to freelance (specially they need new faces and different types to cover all areas of Comemrcial Casting). And if you are a full time actor, I don't see why you shouldn't cover all grounds of show business: Theatre, TV, Film, Commercial, Industrial, Print, and Live Promotion, etc.

What are some commercial types?

Spokeperson
Interview / Testimonial
Solo Scene
2+ People Scene

Of all the above, the actor may be required to memorize lines for a scene, improv a scene based on a given situation, reading from cue cards or teleprompter, or series of reactions.

An Actor who is booked on a commercial, probably has one, or all the following qualities:

Approachable - Personality shines in this department. For majority of commercials, they are looking for real people with real personalities.

Believable - Whatever production/brand you are selling. For a testimonial scene, you gotta believe-in and be honest with words that comes out of your mouth.

Relatable - This probably falls under what "Types" of actor you are. And how your "type" related to the product and the targeted audience.

Watchable - The look. I know, this is a 'visual' business after all. The camera must love you.

So yeah, whenever you go to ANY commercial audition, make sure you are fully aware of what product/brand the commercial is for. Tt doesn't hurt to dress the part - and make sure you are camera ready.

New York Commercial Class Breakdowns (listing by price):

Weist-Barron Commercial Class

5 or 6 classes for about $58 per class.
Taught by either experienced Actor, Director, or Independent Casting Director (Shirley Sender). Weist Barron is considered one of the old school Acting Studios in New York. Their classes are affortable compairing to other Acting Studios - And they specializes in Soap (3 Camera setting) and Commercial Classes.

Angela Mickey Commercial Class @ Actors Technique

5 Classes for about $60 per class.
This is probably the best deal in NY. Not only the student get to work with Angela Mickey (Senior casting Director at Liz Lewis Casting) for 5 weeks, The class covers all aspects of commercial audition, as well as the business side of acting. The last class will be a showcase to two New York Commercial Agents. So, not only you get to establish a working-relationship with a commercial casting director, you will get to show your work to agents, who you can follow-up with postcards (or they might start sending you out on auditions).

Barry Shapiro Commercial Class @ Actors Connection

5 Classes for about $67 per class.
Barry Shapiro is the Casting Director (and business partner) of Herman & Lipson Casting. Peole who have taken his class told me the course was a lot of fun, where actors get to do a lot of improv.

Tisha Ioli, Casting Director at Don Case Casting also teaches at Actors Connection. 4 classes for about $63 per class.

David Cady Commercial Workshop

6 Classes for about $75 per class.
David Cady is a Casting Director at Donna DeSeta Casting. Not only David Cady has been teaching for years... Donna DeSeta Casting covers all types of casting from Webseries, Industrial, Voice Over/Radio, On Cameral, Print, and recently, Major Feature Film.
The class covers all aspects of commercial audition, as well as the business side of acting. The last class will be a showcase to one New York Commercial Agents.

Erica Palgon Commercial Workshop

4 Classes for about $75 per class.
Erica Palgon used to be a Casting Director at Liz Lewis Casting. Now she has her own company "Erica Palgon Casting & Beyond." People who have taken her class had many great things about her approach. Erica is straight forward, to the point, and result oriented. The classes focus more on Cold-reading skills.

Downstairs/Hungry Man Commercial Workshop

4 Classes for about $80 per class.
Taught by both Fay Shumsey and Stephanie Dalle Molle, the Commercial Casting Directors for Hungry Man Inc.
Downstairs Casting do both Union and Non-Union projects. I haven't met anyone who have taken their classes (since they are very low-profile)... But I assuming the structre of the class is very similiar to Brooke & Mary.

On Camera Commercial Class at Scott Powers Studio.

6 Classes for about $88 per class.
Unlike other classes taught by Commercial Casting Directors, the Commercial Class at Scott Powers are taught by Commercial Agent Stephanie Artuso (of TalentWorks) and Commercial Director Jeremy Russell.
While some Actors take Commercial Classes with Casting Directors, learning and understand what the CDs are expecting at an audition room, and hopefully, will land a gig and eventually get signed by an Agent; this works the other way around.
At the last class, it will be a showcase to a Commercial Casting Director.

Brooke & Mary Commercial Workshops

3 Classes for about $141 per class.
Taught by both Brooke Thomas and Mary Egan Callahan, the Casting Directors at House Production. It is probably one of the biggest casting/production company in New York. As they cover everything - commercials, TV promo, Industrial, Fashion, Print, Reality Show and Films...etc. Very expensive, but very effective. Brooke and Mary will really work you until you nail the techniques. Many commercial agents have mentioned their class at seminars... Since House Production does many Non-Union projects, if you are not currently in SAG/AFTRA, and looking to get do more Non-Union Commercial work, this may be a great wait to build a working relationship with the ladies from house Production.

NYU Graduate Film seeking Korean / Asian American Male Actors

2009-09-24T15:32:00.000-04:00

SAENG-IL (Birthday)
NYU Graduate Short Film
Accepting SAG and Non-SAG Submission.
Production/Filming Dates: November 16-23
Casting dates: TBD
Location: New York City
Non-Pay but will provide transportation, meal, credit, and copy of the final film.

SAENG-IL (Birthday), an NYU Graduate short film, centers on a Korean American teenage boy named Jae Lee living in New York City and working at his father's small deli. The story takes place entirely in one day, Jae's 18th birthday, on which he must work at his dad's store making deliveries on his trusty bicycle. When he disobeys his father in order to see the girl he likes, he will finally understand a little bit more about the man with whom he's never seen eye to eye.

Send headshot/resume to: wccasting@gmail.com

Breakdowns:

JAE LEE
Lead, Male, Korean /Asian American, 16-24
Jae is introspective, sensitive, frustrated. Having been raised by his strict and uncommunicative father, he feels like he has yet to really experience life. He sees his 18th birthday as marking the day when his life will change. (Korean knowledge a plus)

HANEUL LEE
Lead, Male, Korean (must speak Korean fluently), late 40s to 50s
Jae’s father, Haneul, is not one to express his emotions. Although he cares deeply for his son, he has a hard time communicating with him. He believes discipline and hard work will prepare him for the future.

Confused... With a bit of Frustration...

2009-09-08T12:58:00.003-04:00

I just say, I have been very lucky over this Summer. Not only I booked a Dunkin Donuts TV Promo (Which, I haven't seen it myself. It's off the air now...), I also get to work on a Pilot produced by ****. (I know. I have to keep it low profile)

These are the projects that I self-submitted and booked the roles.

In addition, I got sent out and auditioned for a co-star role for a major feature film, and a TV series.

I have never gotten this many "Actions" within 2 months. In New York, there arn't as many shows compare to Hollywood - so, I consider myself very, very lucky.

The problem is...

I thought I did great with the feature film audition.

It has been 3 weeks. Nope. No Call Back.

I thought I did great with the TV series audition.

It has been a week - And Nope. No Call Back.

This frustrates me - because I have never booked anything (legit) gig that were sent by my Manager.

Recently, I met an other Talent Manager through one of those Workshops. Originally, I took the workshop mainly to get feedbacks on my cold reading skills. (Plus the studio was having a discount, so I get to take 2 workshops for the price of one. I have problem saying "No" to good deals.)

But who knew, during our second meeting, the Talent Manager expressed interests in representing me. Of all these workshops that I have gone to, this was the first time that I got a direct positive feedback. (Based on the two under-prepared readings I did during week one. I mean, what? Someone liked my horrible readings?)

The problem is...

I'm already working with the same Talent Manager (on a free-lancing basis) for the past 6 years. I have never really worked closely with anyone else. (I have free lanced with other talent agents and managers in the past, but it was more like thr "1 or 2 casting call email and never heard from them again" deal. Plus, I had bad experience when I was contact by three agents regarding the same gig, I had to reject two of them... Let's say that didn't improve my relationship with the agents at all.)

Even though there are no exclusive contracts involved, I (and any other Talent Mangers) would perfer to work exclusively to avoid any conflicts. (It is okay to work with a Talent Agent while having a Talent Manager.)

I'm a One-Person kinda guy.

That's why I'm a bit concern at the moment. This New Manager had been keeping their company very low-profile, therefore, I wasn't able to find any information on them... I don't know anyone who have worked with them. (If they were as high profile as Authentic Talent Management, then that have helped with my decision.)

Similiar to my current Manager - Pretty much only the Asian (Actor) Communtiy knows about her.

My Acting Career has been pretty much the same until I started with all the Audition Technique classes and Casting Director workshops, that's whenI started to get legit auditions.

Was it because my Manager had been pushing me to the Casting Directors?

Or was it that I spent time and money, networking and learning from the Industry Professioanls?

It's really hard to say. And I don't really know how I feel about my manager right now. Other than being send out to auditions, there weren't any 'career consultation' or suggestions on how I can advance my acting careers.

So, right now I'm torn between a Manager who I have known for 6 years, but feeling neutral about our relationship, versus a New Manager who is very business oriented, but I know nothing about.

I'd hate to make the wrong decision and burn both bridges.

My plan is to reach a decision by the end of this week. *sigh*

Send Love to Taiwan Charity Concerts (New York)

2009-08-20T15:28:00.002-04:00

Send Love to Taiwan Charity Concerts

Date: Thursday, August 27th, 2009 @ 5:30pm

Location:
Taipei Economic and Culture Office (TECO)
1 East 42nd Street (Corner of 5th Avenue)
New York, NY

On August 8th, 2009 - Typhoon Murakot caused incalculable losses of lives and damage in Taiwan, epsecially in the southern parts of the island.

NY Taiwanese Students Associaton, together with NYTFA and many other NY Asian American organizations have joined hands to sponsor a concert of music and love to raise funds for the victims and survivors of Murakot.

We would like to ask you for your your help for the concert, so we can contribute strong financial supports to our families, friends, neighbors, or just ordinary citizens in Taiwan.

Every small contribution can make a great difference.

Please come to the concert, or otherwise, contribute to our cause, and send our love to Taiwan.

For more information, please visit: http://sites.google.com/site/taiwancharity/

Fox Diversity Audition

2009-06-21T23:56:00.005-04:00

In case you guys didn't know - but FOX Network is currently accepting submission for it's Diversity Audition/Casting Project. The goal of the this project is very similar to that of The Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts. It's to give, promote, and provide opportunties to those who are usually over-seen by the Media. The deadline is the end of June, 2009. So, if you are in the US area, and if you are considered a "minority" (Ethnic or Disability), then you should submit. (Hey, why not. You got nothing to loose)

Bascially, you need to create a video that is about 2 minutes long. Within the video, you will be performing a 1.5 minutes Monologue piece.

Please visit: http://www.fox.com/diversity/audition/ for details.

Below is a "blooper" from my video - I TRIED really hard to keep myself focused...

Good Luck, Ya'll!!

Casting Director with Websites

2009-06-08T13:12:00.210-04:00

My collection of Casting Director (or Office) with websites.

New York

Judy Bowman Casting
Geoffrey Soffer Casting
Wulf Casting
Mitchell / Rudolph Casting
Liz Lewis Casting
Susan Shopmaker Casting
Daryl Eisenberg Casting
Beth Melsky Casting
Red Penny Casting
Calleri Casting
Casting Solutions
Donna DeSeta Casting
Lawyer Nicholas Casting
Barden/Schnee Casting
Hope/Boland Casting
Kipperman Casting
Allison Twardziak Casting
Cassandra Kulukundis Casting / Unison Films
Doreen Frumkin Casting
Jandiz Estrada Casting
Howard Cherpakov Casting
Dyane Foster Casting
Lisa Moir Casting
Natalie Joos Casting
In the Wink of an Eye Casting (Wendy Mackenzie)
Laura Stanczyk Casting
Jodi Collins Casting
Barbara Pfister Casting
Michael Cassara Casting
Clemmons/Dewing Casting
Destiny Lilly Casting
Chantiles Vigneault Casting
Stark Naked Productions
Donna Grossman Casting
Paul Russell Casting
Susan Fried Casting
Just Voices Casting
Paladino Casting
Janet Foster Casting
Diana Glazer Casting
Jen Halpern Casting
Caroline Sinclair Casting
Barbara Barna Casting
MTC Casting
Alina Zakaite Casting
Stephanie Klapper Casting
Fay Erin Casting
Doriane Elliott Casting
Alison McBryde Casting
Vinnie Potestivo Entertainment (MTV East Coast Casting)
Judy Keller Casting
Sean De Simone Casting
Pamela Fahey Casting
Selective Casting
Palm Star Entertainment
LLP Production & Casting
Broadcasters Casting
Don Case Casting
Lisa Rubenstein Casting
Pirate New York (Voice Over) Casting
Duncan Stewart and Company
TEC Casting, Inc.
Megan Larche Casting
Holly Buczek Casting
Hats Off Casting
Erica Palgon Casting & Beyond
Stick Figure Production
Spotty Dog Casting
Amhalise Casting
Godlove & Company Casting
Impossible Casting
Jen Rudin Casting
Orpheus Group Casting
Toni Cusumano Casting
Phantom Audio (Voice Over) Casting
Matthew Messinger Casting
Paul Adamo Entertainment
Ken Lazer Casting
Lewis & Fox Casting
Gothem Casting
Amerifilm Casting
Esquire Casting
8-12 Casting
WC Casting

Los Angeles

April Webster Casting
Cricket Feet Casting
Patrick Rush Casting
Carla Hool Casting
Michael Donovan Casting
Yumi Takada Casting
Joseph Middleton Casting
Billik/Wood Casting
David Kang Casting
Mark Sikes Casting
Helen McCready Casting
Julia Kim Casting
Megan Foley Casting & Co.
Kari Kurto Casting
Headquarters Casting
Beth Homes Casting
Make It Sparkle Casting
AE Casting
Jane Jenkins /Janet Hirshenson Casting
Brad Gilmore Casting
Heidi Levitt Casting
Craig Campobasso Casting
Terry Berland Casting
Stella Novah Casting
Renita Whited Casting
Mark Paladini Casting
Doron Ofir Casting
Laurie Records Casting
Dino Ladki Casting
Vicki Goggin & Associates Casting
Gabrielle Schary Casting
Danielle Eskinazi Casting
Kara Sullivan Casting
Billy DaMota Casting
Marci Liroff Casting
Perry/Reece Casting
Bebe Flynn Casting
C&C Casting
GO Casting
Jory Weitz Casting
Martin Casting and Associates
Lien/Cowen Casting
Big Pants Casting
Zora DeHorter Casting
Mambo Casting
Elizabeth Barnes Casting
Goldstein Casting
Melissa Skoff Casting
Annelise Collins Casting
Brigitte Burdine Casting
Lisa Fields Casting
Rachel Tenner Casting
Ricki Maslar Casting
Big House Casting
Lynne Quirion Casting
Kalmenson & Kalmenson Casting
DD Casting
Lila Selik Casting
Latanya Potts Casting
Casting Duo
Stone Casting
Ross Lacy Casting
Lisa Pantone Casting
Mariko Ballentine Casting
Malyszek Casting
Shooting From the Hip Casting
ASG Casting
Helgoth & Associates Casting
Alyson Horn Casting
Pop Casting
Gilles Casting
Cervantes Nomad Casting
Blanca Valdez Casting
Jeff Gerrard Casting
Matthew Lessal Casting
Cornwell Casting
Joey Paul Casting
Kelli Lerner Casting
Elaine Craig Voice Casting
Coleman Alexander Casting
Redwood Curtain Casting
Debbie Sheridan Casting
Shane Casting
Castaway Studios
Casting Artists, Inc
Jeff Hardwick Casting
Iconic Casting
Carol Grant Casting
SOBO Casting
Karen Armstrong Casting
Dream Big Casting
Cathy Reinking Casting
Michelle Metzner / Currently Casting Inc.
Pemrick-Fronk Casting
Matthew Barry Casting
Eastside Studios Casting
Headquarter Casting
Dream Casting
Jeff Olan Casting
Spot Casting
Rich King Casting
Digital Dogs Casting
L.A. Casting Group

San Francisco

The Blackwell Files
Nancy Hayes Casting
Integrity Casting
Beau Bonneau Casting
Katie Cronin Casting
Media Casting
Forcier Casting
Beau Bonneau Casting

San Diego

CBF Casting
Samuel Warren & Associates
Candis Casting

Last Vegas

Baskow & Associates
Goldman & Associates
Wild Streak
Vegas Casting

Utah

Jeff Johnson Casting

Pennsylvania

Heery Casting
Mike Lemon Casting
Philadelphina Casting Company, Inc.
Kathy Wickline Casting
Nancy Mosser Casting
Donna Belajac Casting

Chicago

O'Connor Casting
Diane Vanaria Casting
Tenner Paskal & Rudnicke Casting

Boston

South Shore Casting
Boston Casting
Christine Wyse Casting
Peter Bezemes Casting

Washington DC/Maryland/Virgina/Missouri

Kimberly Skyrme Casting
Caryln Davis Casting
Liz Marks Casting
Pat Moran Casting
Complete Casting
Betsy Royall Casting
Kim Swanson Casting
Casting VA

New Orleans

Liz Coulon Casting
Megan Lewis Casting

Alabama

Alabama Casting

Ohio

Marcy Ronen Casting

Texas

Buffalo Casting
Beth Sepko Casting
Real Casting
Katz Kasting
Southwest Casting
Barbara Brinkley Casting
Margo Manning casting

Iowa

Ann Wilkinson casting
Copeland Casting

Louisiana

Brent Caballero Casting

Michigan

Carrie Ray casting
Detroit Casting Company

Georgiahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Tracy Martin Casting
RtSE Casting
Dysart Casting
Diva's Unlimited Inc. Casting
Bill Marinella Casting

Tennessee

Moore Casting
Kim Petrosky Casting

Seattle

Kalles Levine Casting
Complete Casting
Jodi Rothfield Casting

Oklahoma

Chris Freihofer Casting

North Carolina

Marty's Casting Company
Corrigan & Johnson Casting
Hollywood East Casting
Fincannon & Associates Casting

Minnesota

Lynn Blumenthal Casting
JR Casting
Lynn Steele Casting
Bab's Casting

Arizona

Walden Entertainment
Wyatt Williams Casting
Faith Hibbs Clark Casting

Florida

Lori Wyman Casting
R.J. Casting
Dee Miller Casting
DiPrima Casting
Barbara Divisek Casting
Universal Casting
Mullen Casting
Ellen Jacoby Casting
Marquee/Brad Davis Casting
Martini Shot Casting
Terry VanderWier Casting
Tony Varro Casting

Hawaii

Anna Fishburn Casting
Reel Services Hawaii

***Outside of US***

Spain

Kastyn Casting (Spain)
Ice Casting (Spain)
Josu Bilbao Casting (Spain)

Canada

Jigsaw Casting
AJ Unger Casting
Marsha Chesley Casting
Powerhouse Casting
Morgan Casting
Lewis Kay Casting
Elite Casting
Lois Siegel Casting
Brian Levy Casting
Michael Stevenson Casting
James Lofranco Casting
Deb Green Casting
Kim Hurdon Casting
Stacey Jenkins Casting
SMS Concepts
Larissa Mair Casting & Associates Inc

UK

Paul De Freitas Casting
Sam Claypole Casting
Rolf Scheider & Julien Peltier Casting
Mark Summers Casting
EJ Casting
Andrea Clark Casting
Debbie O'Brien Casting
Select Casting
Jayne Collins Casting
Francesca Greene Casting
Candid Casting
Capataz casting
Work the Room Entertainments
Leoni Kibbey Casting
Crocodile Casting
Emma Stafford Casting
Shaheen Baig Casting
Kate & Lou Casting
Sam Haywood Casting
Janet Hampson Casting
Hubbard Casting
Napier-Bell Casting
Topps Casting
Just Casting
Manuel Puro Casting
Gail Stevens Casting

Germany

Berlin Casting
Uwe Bunker Casting
Simone Bar Casting
Anja Dihrberg Casting
Nessie Nesslauer Casting
Uta Seibicke Casting
Susanne Schubert Casting
Die Besetzer Casting
Tiger Casting
Stefany Pohlmann casting

Other

Stanley Casting (Hong Kong)
Aan Het Park Casting (Netherland)
Sanoja Casting (Netherland)
Casting House (Mexico)
Julio Toledo Casting (Mexico)
Triangulo Casting (Brazil)
Playground Casting (Hungary)
AllCasting (Hungary)
Modeling22/Thailand Casting (Thailand)
Nancy Bishop Casting (Prague)
Gillian Reynolds Casting (Ireland)
PJ Casting (Czech Republic)
Reykjavik Casting (Iceland)
FBI Casting (Italy)
Gillian Reynolds Casting (Ireland)
Christine King Casting(Australia)
Greg Appls Casting(Australia)
Jacqueline Alliss Casting (Australia)
Nick Hamon Casting(Australia)
Corinna Glaus Casting (Switzerland)
Aardvark Casting (South Africa)
Christa Schamberger Casting (South Africa)

Feel free to submit Suggestions!!!!

My Reaper Audition

2009-06-01T15:29:00.003-04:00

So, I told my friend that I will upload my Reaper Audition for If.Net on YouTube for the public to see after the voting is over.

Here it is!!!

I ended up ranking #36 out of 112 Entries. So, I guess it's not that bad. Enjoy!!

Web Series Collection

2009-05-28T09:48:00.016-04:00

The Web Series are booming in the industry!!

I have came across some of the funniest, dramatic, unique, and fun-filled web series that I've decided to share them with you all!!

The Battery's Down
Leaving Bliss
Megabot!
The Guild
Studio the Show
Take 180
Workshop the Series
Velvet Moon Chronicles
Manivore
Brevity TV
Jack in a Box
Galacticast
Acting School Academy
Title of the Show
May "Be" New York
Epic FU
End Result
Quarter Life
Drama Queenz
Gemini Division
2/8 Life
College Musical
Legend of Neil
Dr. Horrible's Sing-along Blog
Clark and Michael
Beverly Hills Salon
Johnny and Kooks
Dead End Days
Petunia (Garage Musicals)
Gorgeous Tiny Chicken Machine Show
Gay's Anatomy
The League
Imaginary Bitches
Ivory Tower
Kirill
Sanctuary
Casebook

The list will be updated on a regular basis!!

The "Reaper" Audition Clip

2009-05-05T00:00:00.000-04:00

If you love Me, then you will VOTE for me:

http://www.if.net/contests/general/1342361?cid=1718281

SO, If.Net, the contest network is currently having a "Reaper" audition. Where the top 5 most voted audition footage, will be shown to Marc Gordon. The producer of hits shows like "Private Pratice," "Reaper," and "Criminal Minds." One winner will be selected, then the winner will have the chance to meet and audition for Marc Gordon LIVE in Person in Los Angeles!! (Yay!!)

Originally, I was hoping an Actress friend of mine would help me with my audition tape. Especially it's a scene of two characters, I needed someone to read the lines off with.

However she got sick... And I don't want her to get 'sicker.' - So over the weekend, I decided to create the video myself. (Especially the contest ends on March 26th - I want to make sure my video made available to generate enough votes)

Here are some intereting fact about the video:

1) The wig was first purchased in 1999 for a student project. (I didn't wear the wig, but since I bought it, I kept it)

2) I don't have any Video Editing software in my computer. So I downloaded a freeware from Tucows.

3) I didn't know how to properly use the freeware, so I ended up having to edit the video backwards. (From the ending to the beginning)

4) I spent 40 minutes filming the video. Then 30 more minutes editing the video.

5) I memorized the Male Character's line first. Did the performance with small pause in between each lines.

6) The shirt that I wore as the Male Character has "Mean People Wear Fur" at the front.

7) The plastick curving-stick thing I held in my hand was a Back Massager. (The script specified a wooden Hammer. But I don't have one. Plus, I wanted to make good use of my hands in the scene)

8) The film was shot using a Canon Digital Camera.

9) The pink shirt that I wore was a gift given by a really good friend back in 2002.

10) The entire time, I had a pair of boxers on.

11) My dog was walk around me while the filming was taken place.

12) The cap has the label "Computer Associate" at the front.(I got it at a convention)

13) The set was my living room. The camera was placed on top of a can of Pringles.

14) I was sitting on the floor while during the lines.

15) You can see some of the cast members from Shrek in the background.

Rain Day on God's Land

2009-05-04T09:44:00.003-04:00

This past Sunday as my first shoot day for the Indie FEATURE film "God's Land."

Unfortunately, it was a raining day on God's Land. But the production did not want to further delay the filming schedule - we decided to press on.

(The Guy in the blue shirt, with the cap, is Preston Miller, the Director of the film)

My involvement with the scene today, was a big press conference, where I had three pages full of intense and technical 'broken English' dialogues. My character's name is "Richard Liu" and he's considered the "Speaker" of a religious cult.
Teacher Chen, the older gentleman in the crowd, is considered the "Brain" of the cult. He is protrayed by Jackson Ng.

In the photo below, we were doing a rehearsal...

The scene went by fast. Since I got the lines memorized 98%, I didn't need to cheat to my cheat sheet at all.

Then we break for lunch.... We had Hamburger and Hot Dogs.

We were super hungry!! I had 3 hot dogs and 1 hamburger!!

(Our Lead Actors, Shing and Jodi)

The children spent their downtime watching DVD in the waiting area:

(John taking a Nap)

(Amy getting a bottle of water)

Everything was so great, until... I found out that I had an older version of the script, where there were more scenes and dialogues been added to the newer version.

So after lunch, I was told they were ready to do more 'press conference.'

I was like..."What? Huh?!"

I looked at the shoot schedule, looked up the scene number on my script... Then compared it to Preston's script...

I freaked out.

I called Preston and let him know that of all the scenes written to be shot today, I wasn't suppose to have any dialogues. It turned out, there are at least 12 pages more 'press interviews.'

We are rushing against day light.

We didn't have time.

The Kids wanted to go home.

Everyone worked so hard.

Everyone was wet.

And all these are suppose to be matching shot with the big press conference scene. There's really NO WAY we can shoot these scenes on the other day.

So I told Preston that I will need at least 2 minutes to go through all the lines before we shoot each scene. I also asked him if he can work it out with the DP to focus on my face at every first & second lines of interview, then pan the camera to either Teacher Chen, or other members of the Cult. I will continue to COLD READ the script off camera as if the viewer are watching a Discovery Channel show.

I was really mad at myself though. I should have been more familiar with all my lines in the script before coming to set. (I printed out the scenes based on the schedule, and memorized the lines needed for that day) Because the remaining interviews were SO FUNNY. OH MY GOSH, the LINES were SO GOOD, that I was SO Pissed that I had to read it off a script, instead of really perform them according to the context!!! Arrrggggggghhhhhhhhh....

But seriously, I really have to give credits to all these Workshops that horned my cold reading skills. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to put on any types of 'performance.'

Now I just have to pray from some Post Production Magic to make those scene look... Fabulous.

Here is picture of the actual Teacher Chen and Richard Liu:

And is Jackson and I:

Screening of "Golden Seas"

2009-03-24T11:23:00.003-04:00

The short film "Golden Seas" will be screened at this year's Showbiz Expo NYC on Sunday, March 29th @ 4:30pm, as part of the Showbiz Short Film Festival Series. If you are planning to attend the Showbiz Expo, don't forget to stop by the screening area and support me!! (You can see a clip of the film here) - Even though I have registered to attend the Showbiz Expo as early as January of this year, it turned out that I will be spending the entire Sunday at my accountant's office going though my Tax paper....

Dramatic Scene from One life to Live: Judith Light

2009-03-18T17:42:00.003-04:00

Ms. Judith Light, ah, she's best known with her character "Angela Bower" on TV series, "Who's the Boss?"

But I never knew how an amazing Actress she is...

Part 1:

Part 2:

I worship her.

Networking? What is That?

2009-03-11T16:09:00.007-04:00

For Beginning Actors in New York:
How to be a Working Actor, 5th Edition: The Insider's Guide to Finding Jobs in Theater, Film, & Television (How to Be a Working Actor: The Insider's Guide to Finding Jobs)

For Beginng Actors in Los Angeles:
Acting Is Everything: An Actor's Guidebook for a Successful Career in Los Angeles, Expanded Gold

For Actors who wonder... What went wrong with my Acting Career?! (The Do's and Don'ts):
Scott Sedita's Guide to Making It in Hollywood: 3 Steps to Success, 3 Steps to Failure

Acting Schools & Workshops outside of the US

2009-03-10T14:54:00.010-04:00

I have came across a lot of questions regarding Acting Schools outside of the US region.

Seriously. I'm pretty clueless. But that doesn't mean I will not do my own research. So, this post is another entry where I will be updating on a regular basis. And you readers out there, feel free to write me suggestions!!!

Schools

Canada

Neptune Theatre School
National Theatre School of Canada
Vancouver Film School

UK

East 15 Acting School of University of Essex (London)
Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (London)
The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (London)
The Method Studio (London)
Theatretrain (London)
The Saturday Academy (London)
Richmond Drama School (London)
Guildhall School of Music & Drama (London)
The Centre Stage School of Performing Arts
Actors Studio (London)
King's Head Theatre
Expression Studio
BSA Actor Training
The Betsey Group Acting Workshops

China

Zhong Xi Theatre School
江蘇省戲劇學校
Instituto Cultural do Governo da R.A.E. de Macau

Taiwan

National Taiwan University of Arts
國立國光藝術戲劇學校
Guling Street Avant-Garde Theatre
Taiwan Drama Performance
Chinese Culture University Department of Theatre Arts
STU Department of Performing Arts
Taipei National University of the Arts
Taiwan Film Arts

Australia

The Actors Studio - Sydney
The Actors Conservatory
Screenwise Film & Television School for Actors

Workshops

TVI Studios Europe
Industry Hollywood (London)
Acting Coach Janey Clarke (London)
Make It America (London)

This time around... The Orderly Came in late

2009-03-05T16:54:00.003-05:00

late, as in, Later in the day.

My call time was 4:00pm. That means, I get to sleep-in in the morning. I totally took my time to get ready before taking the train to the filming studio.

Same with last time, I went in and checked-in with the Wardrobe department.

Who knew, they have to re-take my picture for the hospital ID again. They probably never expect anyone to return doing the same role within a month.

This time around, my picture came out better. I actually looked happy.

One thing, I need to get used to a daytime soap, is that there are so many cast members, with a bunch of side stories.
None of the actors that are on set today, were from my previous booking.

New faces. Or rather, old faces. The scenes that were shot all involved Actors that have been on the show for a long time.

For example, Michael Eason and Trevor St. John, who has been with OLTL since 2003. Also Kassie DePaiva and Melissa Archer, who has been on the show since the late 1990s. I mean, wow, I get to watch the veterans perform!!

But the only dramatic scene I get to witness, was performed by the beautiful (and skinny) Florencia Lozano. Not only is she beautiful, she's also a firecracker. In a particular courtroom scene, she kept on spitting fire at Todd Manning. And per the director's suggestion, she as able to tone it up, and tone it down, and hit the right mark every single time. Aye me gusto Mucho!

I have been taking way too much On-Camera classes, that I find it fascinating to watch people perform on screen. I can learn so much just from watching.

This time, I really understand why so many hollywood stars are crazy in dieting and loosing weight... For a scene, I had to stand behind Trevor St. John, and follow him into the frame. This guy is around my height... But more slender. I mean, he is extremely slim compare to me. However, he looked just right on screen. So... That means I probably looked like a freakin' elephant on TV...

ANYWAY - Remember in my previous entry, that I commented on how few people that we had on set? Well, this time, Llainview Hospital has more staff on duty. We had 2 doctors, 2 nurses, 1 orderly and two security guards.

Yay.

All of us were waiting until we were called to be on set at 7:00pm. And we wrapped the shoot at 8:00pm.

So yeah, another easy day.... Yeeepeeeeeeeee. (There's not much to write... It was a short day!!)

The Last Air Bender Thingy...

2009-02-27T12:16:00.006-05:00

Some of you might have been aware of the live-action movie of the Cartoon Series, Avatar: The Last Airbender, are in the pre-production stage. In April, they will begin production in Philadelphia.

But anyway, there have been protests, and even more upcoming protests to the Production company in regarding to their decision of casting Non-Asian actors for the leading roles.

When I first read the news on AngryAsianMan, I felt a bit uneasy. Because I have seen the cartoon more than a dozen times - it's clearly that the leading roles are Asian. I mean, the whole thing is Asian.
I can only assume that in order for an Action film to be successful at the box office, they have to cast what appeals to the mainstream audience. Along with named stars, pretty face... etc.

Honest to say, being Chinese, I did get send out to audition for a samll-small role (along with every other Chinese Actors in New York), but lost the part to Brian.

Over the last couple days, a bunch of friends sent me casting information on the up coming New York Open Call for Asian-Background Talents for the film.

I really have a mix feeling about this... Really.

From a business-oriented point of view, of an Asian American Actor who is struggling in getting more principals roles and more works... I can careless about the whole racial issue. If I got the part that I auditioned for, there's NO WAY I would turn it down!! I want to work on a feature film. I need the money. When will there be a film that calls for so many Asian Actors? For those of you who are Non-Union, this could be an opportunity to get all your SAG-Waivers. Because when they are desperate for more Asians... It's very likely they will give out Waivers like water.

From a more moral-oriented point of view, this could lead to many other films that will never feature an Asian talent for the leading role. As long as the production company features enough Asian backgrounds, Asian tiny parts here and there... They can get away from manipulating any ethnic materials. I have been a long time supporter of the Asian/Asian American Acting community... I have always trying my best to help out fellow Asian talents (or anyone) to get them more works... To be more visible in the media. There are times I have auditioned for films, but turned down the role after I read the entire script, because I felt the material reflects the Asian culture in a negative way. I always support Filmmakers who embrace a multi-ethnic cast.

I guess it's really down to being Selfish or Selfless.

If you would like to follow up on the status of the protest... Please check out "Saving the World with Postage."

The following is the casting information for the film:

************************
Based on the hugely successful Nickelodeon animated TV series, the PARAMOUNT PICTURES & NICKELODEON MOVIES live action film is set in a world where human civilization is divided into four nations: Air, Water, Earth, and Fire. The film's hero, the reluctant young Aang, is the "Last Airbender." Aided by a protective teenage Waterbender named Katara, and her bull-headed brother, Sokka, Aang proceeds on a perilous journey to restore balance to their war-torn world.

Currently, we are looking for:

(Boys & Girls 6-16 Yrs. Old and Men & Women 18-65 Yrs. Old) of the following ethnic backgrounds:

Full Korean Descent
Full Chinese Descent
Full Taiwanese Descent
Full Vietnamese Descent
Full Mongolian Descent

If interested, send email us at: lastairbendercasting@gmail.com

Please include your ethnic background (in the subject line), contact information, and a photo.

Thank you!
The Last Airbender Casting
lastairbendercasting@gmail.com
Information Hotline: (215) 574-7878

************************

THE LAST AIRBENDER - NEW YORK OPEN CALL
Casting: Asian Americans. Men, women, children ages 5-85. Dress casually.
Must be available March 09 - July 09. All positions are paid, including per diem, travel and accommodations.
When: Sunday, Mar 1. 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Where: Flushing Town Hall. 137-35 Northern Blvd. (at the corner of Linden Place). Flushing, NY 11354.
************************
The Last Airbender casting

We are looking for Chinese and Korean actors for principal roles in M. Night Shyamalan's new film, "The Last Airbender."

“The Last Airbender” is a new Paramount Pictures production, written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The film is an epic adventure story based on the Nickelodeon TV series, “Avatar: The Last Airbender.”

Needed are Chinese and Korean actors- MEN ONLY, age 30-60, SAG or non-Union.
All roles are paid under a SAG contract.

Shooting begins in Philadelphia in April 2009.

If interested please e-mail a picture/resume to: airbendercasting@gmail.com

NO Phone calls please.
************************

I will filming an Indy Short Film over the weekend. So, open call or not, I wouldn't be able to go anyway.

The Return Of...

2009-02-24T16:42:00.003-05:00

The Orderly.

The strange thing is, after I departed with Steven that night, after our work with OLTL was done.. I remember him telling me that the casting office usually wait a couple more months before using the same talents again for background work. And usually will cast the talents in different roles.

Well, Sheryl called, book me on another day as the LLanview Hospital Orderly.
So... Yay. I needed the money. (I didn't re-activate my AFTRA membership for NOTHING.)

See, now you know how important it is to follow-up with any Casting Staffs with postcards. Either to thank them for the audition session, or booking of the job.

If you don't have a postcard, that is okay. As long as you have a color printer... Just print out a small size print of your headshot, and then go buy one of those affortable 25 for $2.99 (General) Thank You cards. Glue the picture inside of the Thank you Card and write a general note. Then that would do it.

Strangest Meeting with a Talent Agent...

2009-02-20T10:17:00.006-05:00

Years ago, out of the blue, I was contacted by a man named Bruce - who introduced himself as the owner of Eastwood Talent Agency. (The eventually went from Talent Representation to Talent Management)

At the time, I was freelancing with a bunch of agencies and managements. So I figured... "Why not?" Then I met with Bruce and gave him copies of my headshot & resumes.

Within the 5 years being 'attached' to Eastwood Talent. I've only been contacted 3 times.

The first time - I booked a featured role on Falling for Grace. (2005)

The second time - I booked a small role on Sushi Prince goes to NY. (2007)

The third time was last year (2008) - but instead of Bruce, I was contacted by a man named "Vincent." It was about a booking for a Japanese Tourism show.
It turned out, that Bruce had retired from the Showbiz, and went to focus on other career paths. Anyway, I went and met with the producers and the production assistant. Everything was great. We even talked about production schedule, things to prepare and material... Before I leave the office, the Producer said they will contact me to confirm the shoot time. I was convinced that I got the job. But for some reason, the production assistant never called. Vincent never return my call. So... I guess the production went with a different choice.

At the beginning of 2008, I have been focusing on working with my Manager - and pretty much cut-off all ties with other agencies/managements. Because compare her to many other people that I have worked with, she's the only one who consistantly sends me out, giving me suggestions, and always tried to arrange an audition slot that works with my day-job schedule.

Last week, I got a mass email from Vincent of the "New" Eastwood Talent - asking all the talents that the company had worked with, to re-submit our updated headshot and resume. I thought "Why Not?" - It doesn't hurt to freelance with Eastwood again - especially majority of their clients are over-sea companies. So that shouldn't have any impact on my booking with New York productions.
So, I emailed him my headshot & resume.

The next day, I got an email requesting that I drop off 6 hardcopies at his office.

Last night, after I got off work, I went to New Eastwood Talent Agency.

The new office was tiny. It was the size of a closet. I guess for a Talent agent, if it's a boutique size, all he/she needs is a computer, internet connection, phone, and a cabinet for files.

I walked in and greeted Vincent.

He scanned though my resume, looked up, and ask about what I do for a living.

I explained that I do have a 9 to 5 day job, but I have stored enough vacation and sick days that I can be as flexible as needed.

With his eyes on the words "SAG-Eligible" on my resume, he asked... "How many waviers do you have?"

I was like... "Why do you ask? You think I lied on my resume?"

I found it very offensive.

He said he just want to make sure - in his broken English.

V: So, what you want to do?

Wayne: Right now, my focus is Primetime Television. But I'm open to other opportunties. And of course, more Films.

V: Do you... Do you have monologue?

Wayne: Yes.

Then he points to an old picture on the wall. "That's Joe. I want you to go see him next week."

Wayne: "Why?"

V: "Do your monologue for him. Then he will let me about you."

Wayne: "What do you mean? Who is Joe? Is he a Casting Director? Is this an Audition?"

V: "He is my friend, and also a coach. He worked on Sopranos."

Wayne: "I'm not looking for a Monologue coach."

In my mind, I felt that he was trying to sell a class to me - or one of those scams.

V: "No. Because people talk. You know. If I submit you, and you are not right. People talk."

Wayne: "If you question my ability of auditioning, booking, and being professional onset. That I ensure you there will be no problem. I have been sent out and auditioned for legit TV, Film, and Commercials. I have been doing this for 6 years - and if I suck, I wouldn't have all these credits on my resume. I'm not new to this industry, and I hope you are aware of that."

I was about to ask him to return my headshots and walk out of the office.

V: "I know. But I just want to make sure."

Wayne: "Why don't YOU audition me right now?"

He paused a little.

V: "Joe will tell me about you."

Wayne: "Aren't you a Talent Agent? Isn't it your job to screen people that you are going to work with?"

V: "Go to Joe next week."

I was turned-off by the idea - and felt Vincent was being very unprofessional - and didn't know how to run a Talent Agency.

Vincent wrote down Joe's name and address on the back of his businesscard.

Wayne: "I can't. I have class."

V: "Go whenever you can."

Wayne: "............ okay."

V: "Just go to Joe, and tell him Vicent sent you."

Wayne: "............ okay."

V: "Do you... Are you on... On the Web. ActorAccess?"

Wayne: "............ Yeah."

V: "I'm still going to submit you on projects."

Wayne: "............. okay."

V: "Okay."

Wayne: "Good night."

In my mind, I just want to get out of there. It was a waste of my time.

I walked out of the office, and saw a young actress waiting at the Hallway, waiting to talk to Vincent.

I nodded at her... Then left the building.

After I got home, I did a search on both "Joe Paradise" and his "Address" - didn't find anything. I also looked up Sopranos on imdb, and found no match to the name.

I ended up not meeting this "Joe" person, nor working with New Eastwood Talent. I don't want to have anything to do with them.

**********
The reason that I post this entry, is to inform all the actors out there... Yes, it is important to be represented by a Talent Agent or Manager in order to get sent out for legit jobs. But that doesn't mean we should be desperate, and begging to get signed.
In this industry, we have to protect our own reputation by carefully selecting who we work with. A bad agent can do more harm than good.

To be... Or Not To Be...

2009-02-17T10:00:00.001-05:00

Last Monday, in my Comedy class - we were asked to perform our comedy sides emailed by our instructor over the weekend.

I love the sides. It was cleverly written, very funny - I felt that I can take the character to many directions.
Because in the previous class, I was commented by how THICK my accent was... I spent extra effort on the lines. I video taped my performance with my camera, then played it back with my headsets on. I pay close attention to how I sound.
I made some adjustments, then record myself again....

But on Monday, again. She commented on my accent. Asked me to slow down, and enunciate the words.

I did. I really did.

I have been living in the U.S. for 20 years. I have told that I do have an accent... but no ever describe it as "Thick." - I felt like a slap on the face... And went into a total depression. This accent thing is going to haunt me for the rest of mylife.

So, after I did the sides for the second time, she suggested that I should 'go with the stereotype' - just to see how things turn out.

The Crazy Asian Man.

I turned on my super thick accent... Turn on my character engine... And went all out.
Everyone was laughing. They liked it. They loved it.
Jodi even suggested that sometimes, it is the stereotype character that gets us the job. Instead of resent it... We should embrace it, and utilize it when the time comes.

Little did they know... Doing this Stereotype character is my specaility. I mean, it's one of many tricks that I have in my bag. Having them commenting on my performacne - I didn't know if I should feel flattered or depressed over the fact that the only way I could entertain is to play a stereotype.

Of all the legit auditions that I have been sent out for, are characters who are either a Chinese Delivery Man, a Chinatown Chef, or someone who recently came to America.

For "Golden Seas," my character was asked to put on a thick broken English. (I did it, because it's effective with the subject matter of the film. You will know when you see it.)

For "White Knuckle," my character has a super thick Chinese Accent. (I did it, because the script wasn't insulting and stereotyping Asians. It's part of the character's charm)

For "Pink Slip," I was asked do 95% of my character's line in Mandarin Chinese. (I did it, because the character is working at the company for VISA. You know. VISA.)

For "Passengers of 7D," I protrait a foreign resident of the apartment. (A foreign resident, that make sense, because he wasn't a native New Yorker)

For "Sushi King Goes to New York," I was a Chinese-Japanese Chef, who doesn't really know how to make authentic Japanese food. I was asked to speak Japanese with Chinese accent. (Well, it's a Paid Job...)

For "Concerto," my character was a Host who speaks with thick accents. (The segement is suppose to be a Japanese TV Commercial... So yeah, Broken English would make sense)

The list go on and on and on...

Yes. Of all these projects that I have done - I did them because the content of the script did not insult or degrades the Asian culture. (And yes, I have rejected projects that I found offensive, or protraiting the Asian character in a negative way)

One of my goals this year, is to put together a nice Acting Reel. But I don't want to filled it up with a bunch footage of me, speaking everything but Standard English Accent.

(Uh... Yeah, I got other works of me speaking pretty good English, but I couldn't use them for my reel due to other reasons....)

I know Jodi was trying to be helpful - and part of her job was to help us finding what is our own "Brand" - If I don't improve my Standard English Accent, then I will always be stuck with this "Brand."

You must be thinking... Maybe I should invest some money Accent Reduction Courses?
Yes I have. And I'm still working with a private Acting/Dialogue Coach on a per-case basis. (Per-case: whenever I got a script, I will work with him on it).

But right now, I'm on the hunt for an affortable and effective Speech/Accent Reduction Class in New York that I can attend on weekly basis.

*sigh* So expensive.... So expensive...

On the set of "OLTL"

2009-02-12T16:59:00.003-05:00

OLTL = One Life To Live.

Unfortunately, it's one of the Daytime Soap that I'm not familiar with. (I used to watch GH. Well, I grew up in California... So go Figure.)

So I worked on the set of OLTL yetserday as a background artist. (An EXTRA) - When I got my call time, I was thrilled.

My call time was 1:00pm. That means I didn't have to get up 6 in the morning to get ready. I had plently of time to mail a package to my parents, drop off donations at Salvation Army, and get something to eat.

ANYWAY - back to the main story line here.

I went to the beautiful ABC Studio 17 - on the 66th Street. Its a building with stone walls... Looks like a Castle. As suggested by the casting hotline, I checked in with the front desk 10 minutes before 1pm... Was directed to the basement... Then there was this very nice Production Assistant David, sitting at the general resting area.

Wayne: "Hi. I'm a background for today's scene. Sorry, this is my first time at the Studio, so I don't know where to go."

David showed me where the wardrobe department, restroom, and waiting room are.
(Basically, the waiting room is the lobby of the floor, with soda machine, microwave, sink, and a TV)

I went into the wardrobe department and told the staff that I was to be the "Hospital Orderly" - she then took a picture of me in the hallway... Which was later made into my employee ID:

I tried on the scrub she gave me... Made some adjustment, then that was it. I walked back into the Lobby and was told they are taken their lunch break.

Now, if I was on a FILM or a TV Series set, I would be looking for the craft table... Or sniff really hard to see if I can detect any catering service in the area.

But smell nothing. I heard nothing. I saw back down, and observed the area... Pretty soon, this young guy came out from the dressing room wearing only a T-shirt and a pair of boxers. He sait down on the other side of the sofa... Looked as if he was thinking something. Then he jumped up back.

He asked David: "Do you have any takeout menu?"

Then I saw the wardrobe and makeup people came out wearing their coats... "Where do you girls want to eat?"

David looked into his drawer, and pulled out a stack of menus.

Another pretty looking girl came out of no where, tapped the young guy's shoulder, "Scott, want me get you something?"

Scott: "What are you gonna get?"

Girl: "Veggie Wrap. They have sandwitches too."

I gasped in my head.

There are no Craft Table. No Catering Truck. Its a "walk-away lunch." But instead of getting some $$$ for the lunch... It's coming out of our own pocket. To the employee at ABC, this is like a day job. They take lunch break like every other employees.

That's something new... I didn't expect that. Thank goodness I didn't ask David where the craft services is located. (In case you are wondering and didn't read my previous blog entry... Yes. This was my first time working as a background on Daytime Soap.)

David told me that I should go take lunch break as well - But being overly prepared, I already got enough food in my backpack...

Wayne: "Thank you David, but I'll just wait here... I brought food."

I sat on the sofa...

It was so quiet...

So I started to read my 'research paper' (for my next film project, my character is a member of a religious cult... So I printed out some articles about cult, and their life style).

About 1:45pm, a gentleman came down the stair and sat down on the sofa. He took out a magazine from his bag. He smiled at me, I smiled back.

Around 2:00pm, I heard the announcement "Thank you everyone. We're back."

People hurried down the stairs back some went back up...

Soon, the TV in the lobby area started to play something... The TV was showing the filming progress... The young guy who I saw earlier was in this scene, along with a pretty blond-hair actress. The actors (Scott and Crystal) were going through their blocking and lines. I heard a lot of sounds coming from the TV speaker... The Director was commenting on something... The light guy, the mic-guy, the assistant director... The blocking was a chaos... The camera would flip and change angles back and forth, zoom in and zoom out... out of focus, in focus... Out of frame, in the frame... (well, I've heard that they use 3 cameras to film Soap) The whole process took about 20 minutes... Then it was the real thing. Only this time, the camera would capture the perfect angle... Right on the spot. Whenever Stacy (played by Crystal) turned her body, the camera would focus on Skyer. After they are done with scene, the chaos came back... And the entire process would repeat itself for different blocking...

Wayne: "Wow... So Busy..."

The gentleman on the sofa said: "He's the new guy."

Wayne: "Skyler?"

Gentleman: "Whatever his name is."

Then I went to introduce myself...

"Steven" he said.

Wayne: "This is my first time on a Soap set."

Steven then told me that he has done so many of these stuff... (I guess he's a full time actor)

Wayne: "Today, I'm the Hospital Orderly."

Steven: "They had more people last time. 5 Nurses. I'm the Doctor, by the way."

It turned out, there were only two of us doing background. The Doctor and the Orderly.

Wayne: "Any idea when they will use us?"

Steven went up to David's desk, and checked on his production schedule.

"In about an Hour."

I nodded and went back to the TV.

Stacy and Skyler had their little scene together. (Rox also made a brief cameo) Then it was over.

Scott came down, still wearing his boxer and T-Shirt, and greets David "I'm Done!"

He went back into the dressing room.

On the TV, I could see the Camera are moving around... Stacy was still in the scene... But this time, joined by another actress.

Stacy: "Gigi, what are you doing here?"

Gigi: "I don't need you anymore!"

Then Steven said: "She also played a b*tch on another soap."

Wayne: "She's doing two soaps at the same time?"

Steven: "No. She joined the show 2 years ago. Before this, she was on Days of our Lives."

Scott came back up wearing casual clothes... "Bye David. I'll see you tomorrow at 8!"

The scene went on for about 40 minutes... I was totally enjoying it. Watch them doing the blocking... Everything was so fast... The actors must have all the lines memorized... or something...

Around 4:10pm... The speaker announced "Doctor and Orderly on set please."

Steven grabbed his lab coat, and I followed him up the stairs. (I was tyring to play cool... letting him walk first... The truth is, I have no clue where the studio is)

We walked through a small double door... Then as if I walked into a giant Cubical office space. Each giant Cubical is a set. I see a Ktichen... Skyler's Room... A beautiful Victorian style living room... Then the Llanview Hospital Lobby. It was a very tiny set... Smaller than the usual Starbucks Coffee Shop.

Gigi was on set with a taller Actor.

He was sitting on a coach, while she was standing 6 ft. from him.

There were three huge camera on wheels... A bunch of microphones here and there... Crews running around...

The Assistant Director came to Steven and I. "Hey Steven, good to see you again. And you are....." He looked down on his clip board. "Wayne. Hi Wayne. Follow me."

He gave us brief instructions, while talking on a wire-less head-set, and writing down stuff on the clip board. (He sure can multi-task)

Then a woman came out from a booth, also wearing a blinking head-set.

"She's the director." Said Steven.

"She directed the episode where I was killed."

Wayne: "But you came back alive?"

Steven: "I was a butler for that episode."

Wayne: "When was that?"

Steven: "Last year."

(So yes. For Soap, they do recycle actors!!!

While the director was talking to the two actors... The cameras are running about the set.

Steven and I had to move and skip over electric chords and dodging the cameras...

About 10 minutes, the director went back to the booth. The A.D. came over and gave Steven direction... And me direction on when to enter the scene, and where I should exit.

The Spearker announced: "Okay. Let's start."

The set got quiet... The camera-on-wheels settled...

It was a dramatic scene between Rex and Gigi.

They exchanged a few words... (Steven walked passes the hallway) And all of the sudden, Gigi started to cry. Her hands were shaking... lips trembling... She turned her body as if she was trying to run away from Rex. Then Rex reached out and grabbed her, shook her shoulder... The intensity filled the air...

"Cut. Thank you." announced the speaker.

The Director came out again, spoke to Gigi. Then she gave Rex a different blocking.

Gigi got herself some tissues and blew her nose.

The makeup person came up and fixed her hair.

"Okay, everyone ready."

Rex sit back down on the sofa. This time, Gigi came up from behind... Leaned down and whisper something in Rex's ear. Rex jumped up... said something to her.
Then Gigi burst into tears... She held herself by the elbow... Then she started to back away from Rex. Rex, went up to her, grabbed Gigi by her shoulder and pulled her closer...

Rex: "Gigi!"

"Cut. Thank you."

This time, the A.D. went up to the Actors and gave them directiongs.

At the same time, the Camera-on-Wheels moved around.
The light guy adjusted the lights with a pole.

"Okay. everyone ready."

This time, Gigi's face was already flooded with tears... Rex hold her body up... He kisses her.

Gigi pushed Rex away... "I can't... I can't..."

Her fragile body moved away...

Rex: "I don't understand! We are Gigi and Rex! We are meant to be together!!"

"Cut. Thank you."

Gigi sat back down on the sofa, getting her hair and makeup fixed.

Rex tood at his spot, while the cameras focuses on him. He was making all these weird funny faces...

"Okay, Ready."

Gigi positioned her by the pole, while Rex was looking angry... sad... Depressed...

(then I walked in, and walked out. Steven walked in and walked out)

Gigi: "I'm sorry Rex..."

Rex remained silent.

Out of no where, Stacy came out from the Lobby Wall.

Stacy: "What Happened?" (As Steven walked by her)

Gigi: "..... What do you think?!"

Rex: "Stacy, why are you here?" (I walked passes the cabinet)

Stacy: "I've got a good news."

"Cut. Thank you."

Steven and I were released from the set. They were done with the extras.

After I returned my scrubs to the Wardrobe department, I saw "Rex" coming down from the stairs. He too, was done for the day.

In the back of my head... I envy him. I envy them. This is like a day job... They go on set, they get lunch break, then they get to go home when they are done. (The Soap contact is different than a Film contract. The actors are paid on a Salery level - like my day job. It doesn't matter how many days an Acotr is used on set, they all get their paycheck on a bi-weekly basis)

This is what I want to do.
I want to do what they do....
A day job that I will enjoy doing...

Anyway...

Pretty much, that was the Soap process. The production moved very vast... They probably spent 2 hours per scene. Each scene was probably 20 - 30 pages of dialogues.
the shot was very fast.

Other than how fast the shoot was in compare to a Film set... I was very impressed with the actors.

I made fun of 'soap acting' before. Many times.

"Haha. that's so Soap! So Dramatic!!"

I am so ashamed of myself.

For given such a short and a super-fast environment, constantly having people moving around you... With three giant camera surrounding you... Knocking out a scene every 20 minutes to meet the schedule. Tears, No tears. Tears, No tears. Hitting the mark. Move away from the Mark. Stop here, move there. No, start crying. Stop. You already cried. Re-do the scene over...

Whenever the cameras are rolling, the actors were 'in the moment.'

The emotions were real.

The tears were real.

I know a lot of you guys would think that the Soap Actors move funny. Well, they weren't. They were hitting their marks and position themselves in a way so all three cameras can capture them - without blocking the other actor from another camera.

The soap shoot is definitly more technical and restricted than a film set.

*Sigh* Farah Fath was amazing. (And she's only 24!!!) Not only she's beautiful in person... She's a great actress.

I don't even think I can re-charge and re-live the moment that many times while having so much distraction around me. I couldn't even squeeze-out my tears on cue!!!
It's crazy to see Farah to went from once scene, and jumped right into the next scene with different emotional state. (The actors weren't given any 'preparation' time because the tight schedule.)

Taken from a quote from the Casting Director, Mark Teschner, "If you can do Daytime. You can do Anytime."

I'm so glad that I have the chance to be on a Soap Set - and especially for having to witness a dramatic scene... It opened up my eyes and my mind.

Today, I wrote a Postcard to the BG Casting Associate who hired me for the gig, thanking her for the amazing experience.

Act Now to Save New York State's TV and Film Tax Credits!

2009-02-11T09:43:00.000-05:00

New York State Governor David A. Patterson is threatening to cut funding for the New York State Tax Credit Program. According to a 2007 study, the state and city combined have issued $690 million in tax credits and have collected $2.7 billion in taxes from movie and television productions. In 2007, this program helped create over 7,000 jobs directly and over 12,000 jobs indirectly. With an unemployment rate of over 7%, now is not the time to cut programs that create jobs and foster new businesses in our state. This program is proven to be highly successful and at a time when this industry needs all the help it can get.

Click here to sign the petition asking the Governor to fund the New York State's Television and Film Tax Credits and save our jobs!

Background Artist!!

2009-02-10T13:32:00.002-05:00

I think most Actors out there, their first on-set experience are usually doing background works for either a television show, or a feature film.
Personally, I think this is an experience that ANYONE in the film/tv/reality show industry should have. Because you will get to see what a film set is like.... Who are involved... And the 'wait' time for each scene.
Plus it's a great opportunity to network and meet new friends.
(It's also a great way to make extra money... And earn your SAG Waivers!)

When you decided to send your headshot & resume to these casting agencies, don't forget to include your sizes, primary contact info, and your Union Status in the body of the email. Not unless you knew they are looking for a specific type, you usually put "General Background Submission" in your emails ubject.

Below are some Backgroud Casting office in New York Area. (Updated 2/9/09)

--- Grant Wilfley Casting ---

Kings
kings@gwcnyc.com

Law and Order: SVU
svu@gwcnyc.com

--- Comer & Gallucio Casting, Inc. ---

The Unusuals
candgcasting@gmail.com
with email subject “The Unusuals Background Submission”

Ugly Betty
candgcasting@gmail.com
with email subject “Ugly Betty Background Submission”

--- Sylvia Fay / Lee Genick Casting ---

Damages
contact@sylviafaycasting.com

--- Barbara McNamara Casting ---

Rescue Me
Submit your profile online or Email talent@barbmcasting.com with email subject “Rescue Me Background Submission”

30 Rock
Submit your profile online or Email talent@barbmcasting.com with email subject “30 Rock Background Submission”

Naked Brothers Band
Submit your profile online or Email talent@barbmcasting.com

--- Central Casting ---

Gossip Girl
gossipgirlbg@gmail.com

Cupid
cupidtv@gmail.com

In Treatment
backgroundsubmissions@gmail.com

Life on Mars
marstv@gmail.com

**********************
Upcoming Feature Films

Nancy Meyers Project - nancymeyers@gwcnyc.com
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice - apprentice@gwcnyc.com

************************
Update on Central Casting
************************

Hey, I was informed by the talented Jun Naito, regarding Central Casting. Here is what he wrote:

I was reading your blog and saw you made some new posts. I wanted to mention something regarding working with Central.

You instruct people to mail their hardcopy headshots to Central, but I believe they do everything electronically now. You can read about registration info here: http://centralcasting.org/NY/actors/faqs.htm

They ask you to come register in person (Union and Non-union have different days for registration). There's a number you can call (646-205-8244 ext: 1) to find out which days and what times you can do this. You can download, print out and fill out the I-9 and W-4 forms before you go. You'll also need to bring documents to prove you can legally work in the US (passport, etc). What's great is once they have this information on file you don't have to bring it with you to the set because it's stored in their database!

The most important thing to know is they will say you can pay $25 to give you the option of uploading your own photos. But you can decline and just get a digital photo of you taken on premises for free. Central Casting no longer has a mandatory signup fee, and it is totally free.

Thanks Jun!!

Wayne's V-Blog "What is a Choice?"

2009-02-09T11:12:00.002-05:00

Is it me, or I sound like a girl?

Seriously, you must be wondering, why in the world I would record myself online... Other than informing aspiring actors out there (and those who are curious about the Acting business) - I'm also using this as a way for me to improve my Accent..

***************************************************
I love Iron Man the Movie. I love Iron Man the Movie. I love Iron Man the Movie. I love Iron Man the Movie. I love Iron Man the Movie. I love Iron Man the Movie.

Who's Casting What in Soap World

2009-02-04T09:48:00.006-05:00

A friend of mine recently signed up for a Soap Workshop, hoping that he will have the chance to land an Under 5 or a Principal role. After he told me about the workshop... I told him that the person who is teaching at the workshop only cast Background roles for the show. Of course, I don't know what happens with the headshot once the Casting Assicoate took it back to the office. I've never taken a Soap Workshop, so I never get to ask if all the Principal, Under 5, and background casting share the same Talent Pool. (Talent Database)
If that's the case, then yeah, the Background Casting Associate would pass the headshot & resume to other Casting Associates to considered for a Non-Background role.

But if your intention is to learn how to book a Non-Background Daytime Soap Role, then you're better off taking a workshop from Casting Director & Associates who specializes in casting these roles.

I have list them for your reference:

ALL MY CHILDREN
Principals: Judy Blye Wilson
Background & Under 5 Casting: Bob Lambert

AS THE WORLD TURNS
Principals: Mary Clay Boland
Under 5 Casting: LaMont Craig
Background Actor Casting: Kate Martineau

DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Principal & Under 5 Casting: Marnie Saitta
Background Actor Casting: Susanne Robbins

GENERAL HOSPITAL
Principal Casting: Mark Teschner
Under 5 & Background Actor Casting: Gwen Hillier

GUIDING LIGHT
Principals: Rob Decina
Under 5 Casting: Allison Goodman
Background Actor Casting: Jill Creighton

(Rob Decina is also the author of The Art of Auditioning: Techniques for Television)

ONE LIFE TO LIVE
Principals: Julie Madison
Under 5 Casting: Victoria "Tori" Visgilo
Background Actor Casting: Sheryl Baker Fisher

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Principal & Under 5 Casting: Christy Dooley
Background Actor Casting: DeAnna Andrews

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Principal & Under 5 Casting: Camille St. Cyr
Background Actor Casting: Marisa Rodriquez

**** Update ****

This is the weirdest thing. In the last 6 years, I have never got called to work on day time soap. (I have never submit my headshot/resume to any of the soap casting offices) But after I blogged about Soap casting this morning, I got called to do Background work for ONE LIFE TO LIVE next week...

I'm so going to blog about Iron Man 2 in my next entry.

Wow, Great Audition

2009-01-28T11:28:00.001-05:00

Seriously... Rachel McAdams, you're amazing.

The difference between Acting Schools and Workshops

2009-01-27T11:26:00.006-05:00

Recently someone asked me why I would suggest him going to Acting School, and then attend Workshops.

In Acting School (or Acting Studios) - an actor aquires the training on techniques, methods to approach a theatrical production. These includes Acting Techniques, Scene Study, Script Analysis, Movement, Improvisation, Cold Reading, Speech, Singing Voice, and Stage Combat etc. These are tools that allows an actor to do whatever he or she wants to create truth around a character.

A Workshop - Serves more as a supplemental course that allows you to use your tools in a different direction. (Which, I would never recommend anyone new to acting to take these workshops)

Have you ever heard a fellow actor commenting on another actor?

"Oh, She's a Theatre Actress. I can see it."
"Oh, He is over doing it. Theatre Acting"
or
"He's not used to performing on Stage. He's not projecting at all."

For example, an actor trained in Theatrical Acting might not be aware of the difference between acting on Stage and acting in front of a Camera.

An On-Camera Workshops teaches you how to use your existing tools, and modify your technique to fit into the different medium.
Audition itself, is a skill to aquire. And not a lot of acting schools teach that. With so many different types of shows out there, each audition is different. Auditioning for 1 hour drama is different than 1/2 hour sitcom. The same apply to Feature Film and Hosting shows.

There are other types of workshops that will help you grown as an artist... Breathing, the Business of Acting, differeht types of Method/Techniques, Mask work, Long Form Improvisation... There are so many out there that will help you expand your technique and bemore aware of your senses.

Then what are Seminars? Seminars functions more like a showcase, but on an individual basis. In a seminar, you get to meet with a talent agent face to face, perform either monologue, 16-bar song, or a scene. It's a great opportunity to learn about eachother. Then from there, it's up to the actors to continue to follow up with the Talent agent, and hopefully, the talent agent will express interested in representing you. But remember, it's a 2-side street here. You have to find an agent who you feel comfortable with, and know he/she is in serious about your (and their) career.

So, if you are new to Acting - I would suggest that you focus on training in Acting Schoo/Studio first. Learn the skills set... Use them in Class, or in various of Student/Indie productions.

After you have completed your training, and ready to take your career to another level... Take at least ONE On-Camera audition technique workshop. (But don't take the 1 day intensive class. Take the one where you get to work with the casting director for multiple weeks) Some class offers different materials every Under-5 roles, Soap Principals, Commercial Sides, Sit-com, 1 Hour Drama, Comedy...etc.

If you want to go straight into a Casting Director workshop without prior training, then you will be wasting your time & money. Not only you will not be able to do the necessary adjustments during your performance; you will also leave a bad impression to the Casting Director. You don't want a Casting Director to think "You are not ready yet" and then wait another year to be seen by him/her again. (Not unless you are a natural... Born with star quality, doesn't need training, then yeah, go and let your talent shine)

Click here to see a list of New York Acting Schools & Workshops
Click here to see a list of Los Angeles Schools & Workshops

Many studios offer different packages and courses - some Casting Director may only have 1 day intensive at one place, and yet have a 4 weeks class at another. It really depends on which teacher you want to work closely with, and learn from him/her. But please do beware there are some other shady business out there that are taking advantage of Actors. My recommendation would be,
Remember, there's no such thing as one workshop place is better than the other. The teachers (Casting Directors) are the same. Go through each studio's catalogue, then compare the class duration & cost, and see which one suits you.
(If you are in New York, then you can contact me directly then I'll give you input on where I think the best deal is)

**********
So, I got this notice yesterday. It's an 8 weeks On-Camrea class taught by both a working actor, and a casting director. Many of you know who Susan Shopmaker is --- She doesn't do a whole lot of seminars and workshops... And yet she has been casting big budget films like Enchanted and Speed Racer, and successful indie films like Shortbus and West 32nd Street.
So this class is like an On-Camera & Audition Technique 2 2 in 1 deal.

I would love to this class, but I have already signed up and paid 50% of my tution for my On-Camera class at The Barrow Group. If I have money, I would take both....
**********
Caymichael Patten Studio Winter/Spring 2009 8 Weeks On-Camera Class (NY)

The main focus of the class will be learning to trust yourself in front of the camera. In order to do that, you must first learn to "get out of your own way." Another aim is to give the student the confidence that when you appear "on set" you will know what your job is. You will understand the terminology, you will understand how Film or TV "tells the story" and you will understand your role in the "telling." Students will work in each class on material that includes scenes from recent pilots, screenplays, and NY based dramas. The class will also cover auditioning for on-camera work.

WEDNESDAYS 6:30PM to 10:30PM
Meets once a week - 8 WEEK SESSION
FEE: $600
February 11th, 2009 to April 1st, 2009

CHRISTOPHER McCANN NY: Future Me (SPF'08); Charles Mee's Paradise Park at The Signature Theater, The Wandering Boy (SPF'07), Everything Will Be Different, True Love, Attempts On Her Life, Lydie Breeze, Impossible Marriage, Mad Forest, The Devils, The Lights (OBIE, Drama Desk Nomination), Richard III, Richard II, Pericles (BAM) and Robert Woodruff's productions of The Changeling and Buried Child (Premiere). He's appeared at theaters throughout the country. Film/TV: Tim Disney's American Violet, Afterschool ('08 NY Film Festival), Michael Glawogger's The Father Game, Mary Harron's The Notorious Betty Page, Buy It Now (1st Prize, Cinefondation, Cannes); Damages, The Bronx is Burning, Sidney Lumet's Strip Search, & numerous episodes of Law & Order. He has directed the plays of Quincy Long, Will Eno, Jessica Goldberg, Y. York, Sam Shepard and Joe Chaikin.He currently is on the Acting faculty at the Conservatory for Theater Arts & Film at SUNY's Purchase College, where he recently directed the 3rd year students in Jose Rivera's Marisol.

SUSAN SHOPMAKER is the founder of Susan Shopmaker Casting and has cast many feature films. Recently, she was the New York Casting Director on Disney's ENCHANTED directed by Kevin Lima, for which Susan was nominated for an Artios Award in Outstanding Achievement in Casting
She was New York Casting Director on Nancy Meyer's SOMETHINGS GOTTA GIVE (with Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton), and THE HOLIDAY (Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet) Mark Water's MEAN GIRLS (written by Tina Fey produced by Paramount) Mark Water's SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES (Paramount), as well as his GHOSTS OF GIRLFRIENDS PAST and GLORY ROAD (Directed by James Gartner, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer). Other credits include casting John Cameron Mitchell's SHORTBUS (Cannes 2006) and JCM's HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH. She cast Robert Altman's TANNER ON TANNER (written by Garry Trudeau) for The Sundance Channel. Casting Director on, SERIES 7 (written & directed by Dan Minahan), produced by Killer Films & Open City Films, and Michael Kang's WEST 32nd STREET (produced by Teddy Zee) & THE MOTEL ( produced by Miguel Arteta, Matthew Greenfield, Gina Kwon and Karin Chien) nominated for a 2006 Independent Spirit Award. Susan also worked on the Wachowski's SPEED RACER (Warner Brothers Films), JUSTICE LEAGUE, & the search for Daniel Craig's' 'Bond Girl. '

Caymichael Patten Studio
939 Eighth Ave, Suite 206
New York, New York 10019
212-765-7021
cpatstudio@gmail.com
http://www.www.cpattenstudio.com
Office Hours - 11 AM-6:30 PM M & T; 11 AM-3 PM W; 11 AM-3 PM F

... I'm just saying..

2009-01-12T11:19:00.004-05:00

Have faith in your actors. Trust your actors.

Because after all, we are Actors.

I have had the pleasure of working with Directors who trust the actors' instinct, have faith in our skills, and gives clear direction on the character and adjustments that allows the actors to advance in a scene.

It's usually through the audition process, that a Director would learn more about an actor and his/her ability to 'bring it.'

However, I had two experiences within the last years that left me speechless.

Experience #1:

Student Director: "Hi Wayne, do you remember me? We worked on a short film last month."

Wayne: "Yeah. What's up?"

Student Director: "Do you know any Metrosexuals?"

Wayne: "Metrosexual, as in Ryan Seacrest Metrosexual?"

Student Director: "Yeah."

Wayne: "Is it a documentary?"

Student Director: "No."

Wayne: "Well, I don't know any people who call themselves metrosexuals. But I can recommend a few actors who can protrait the type really well."

Student Director: "It's for my friend's project. She's looking for Metrosexuals."

Wayne: "Uh... Why can't she hire actors to protrait metrosexuals?"

Student Director: "I will email you with details" **hung up**

And that was pretty much the end of the conversation. And I never got any emails from the Student Director.

Experience #2

Student Director: "But you are such a nice guy. I don't see you in an Evil Role."

Wayne: "......."

And that was the end of the conversation.

I guess every director is different. Some perfer working with actors whose look and personality matches the role (Yes. Personality is important); while others have faith in the homework that an actor bring to the set, of 'living' the life of the character.

***********************************************************
On an additional note, Eddie recently screened a partial footage from the Megaman Film at the MAGFest 2009. You can read his interview following this link. (You will also find the trailer and some behind the scene videos there)

2009 starts with... a bad bang...

2009-01-07T20:56:00.007-05:00

Hello guys, I'm back from my vacation.

Yesday, as soon as my plane landed the airport, I got a text message from my manager. It turned out, that Life On Mars has another casting call, and wanted to schedule me for an audition. I went brain dead. I called my manager and explained that I literly *just* got back to New York and there was no way that I could make it to Queens for an audition. So, my audition was rescheduled to the next day.

By the time I got home from the Airport, it was already passed 8pm. I had to clean up the living room, take care of the plants, settle the dog, mopped the floor, clean up the friedge, then went back to the airport to pick up my sister.

So, by the time I got back home, it was already 12:25am. I was tired. My body aches. I was feeling dizzy. I felt like I was getting sick. But as usual, I need to check my emails before I head to bed.

Then there it was, my manager emailed me the sides and my new audition time.

Eight Pages.

E I G H T P A G E S

OH MY GAWD. This is not one of those One or Two liners.

This character is a freakin' CO-STAR. ($$$!!!!!!!)

I NEED MORE TIME!!! AIYA!!!!!!

EIGHT PAGES OF SIDES.

Did you know that I don't have a printer?

I scanned through the sides... And was completely thrown off by the amount of time I have left to prepare...

It was late, and I was so sleepy... Plus I hae to get up at 6:00am for work (And I'm still trying to recover from Jetlag)

So, I forwarded it to my work email address (so I can print them) - hoped that I will have sometime in the morning before I head to the studio.

It turned out, after being gone from work for 2 weeks, my mailbox was flooded with reports and assignments that are due last week.

I worked and I worked and I worked and I worked until my fingers went numb.

Then an hour before my audition time, I printed out the sides, grabbed my coat and went out. It was a 45 minutes train ride to the studio... But seriously, I couldn't not bring myself to concentrate on working the sides. I couldn't... Everything just didn't feel right for me. (Been out of any acting stuff for 2 weeks, along with the 5 lbs Holiday weights... This audition came at the worst time)

As you may have guessed it from the blog title... The audition was horrible. Instead of auditioning for the Casting Associate... I did it with the HEAD of Casting.
I wasn't off book, and I wasn't emotionally prpared. I rushed through it and stubmled on a bunch of words. All the hardwork and money that I invest in my classes went down to drain.

I wasn't asked to do any adjustments... or anything else.

The only feedback I got was "Thank you."

I totally blew it. And the Head Casting Director will forever remember my performance... *sniff* *sniff*... This is probably the last time I'll ever get called in for Life on Mars... *sniff* *sniff*

Happy Holidays

2008-12-23T17:16:00.002-05:00

Another Year is coming to an end - Happy Holidays everyone.

May 2009 bring us success and joy.

Megaman Movie, isn't this Exciting?!

2008-12-12T18:50:00.001-05:00

Wise? Or Not?

2008-12-09T13:34:00.004-05:00

So... yeah, I just signed up for the "Acting for Film and TV" class at The Barrow Group. The class doesn't start until next year (only couple weeks away!)... But I've already been thinking about how much money I have spent, on this "SIDE JOB" of mine.

YES - for Actors should keep on training, and continue to train to keep his/her instruments ready for work.

BUT - Classes cost money. Oh my gosh. Cost so much money.

Have you ever heard or see ads of Young sexy Actresses looking to find 'sponsorship' to help their career... In exchange of 'partnership.' *ahem*
Perhaps, maybe I should do that too. So someone can pay for my classes.

No, kids, if you are reading this. No. No. No. No. No! Don't do this! Because when you become successful, you don't want some gossip magazine to dig up your past as an escort. Imagine that people would comment on how you are not worthy of 3 diamons rating...

ANYWAY!

Last week, I had a film audition. Nope. Didn't get a call back. But it really made me think about... Me as an Actor, and what I bring to the table.

It is true those Casting Director workshops have been helpful. But if an actor cannot take direction or do the necessary change... It doesn't matter how many workshops that I have taken. If I can't act, then I can't act.

So... I decided to take a step back and take an On-Camera class at a reputable Acting School. My past trainings - it has always been theatre style scenes, monologues... I have never taken an On-Camera Acting class before. I learned most of on-camera craft from the numerous of film works that I done. I have the experneice to back me up... But I feel I need to sharpen it more... Bring it to the next level.

So when I need bring it, I'll bring it with a bang!

Getting back to that audition... I went and arrived at the location 10 minutes before my call time. I signed in and check out other actors who were auditioning for the same project. Of course, not all of us are auditioning for the same role... But the person before me was doing my side.

He went it. And spent about 5 - 8 minutes in the room. There were laughters, chatting sounds, several takes with different actions... then he came out. (Oh, Heland is a wonderful actor. If he got the part, he totally earn it) Then it was my turn. I went in, greet the Casting Associate... She put a mic on me, gave me brief instruction, turned on the camera.... I did my precious ONE line. Then that was it. She said "Thank you very much."

That was it.

That

Was

It.

What happened to the laughters and the chats that I was hoping for my session?

I didn't even get to do another take.

That was it.

Flash Back, Flash Forward

2008-12-03T12:51:00.006-05:00

Last night, while I stood my way on the Train back home... I suddenly asked myself a question.

Wayne, what's your very first PAID GIG?

I know that I have been talking about me acting in New York for #'s of years... But my first GIG actually took place in San Diego, California - when I was still studying at UCSD. Gosh, so long ago... I don't even remember how I got the casting notice... (Probably some poster at the Theatre Department building)

It was a background gig.

Yeah.

My first background gig. I protrait one of the reports taking pictures and notes at some kind of press conference. (I totally don't remember the name of the film, and who were in it... I was kinda dumb back then) The gentleman who protrait the speaker was in his mid-40s.

I was amazed by how well composed and prepared the Actor was. For coverage, he was asked to do the same speech, same action for at least 6 times. Every time, he did it exactly the way he was doing. Not a single beat faster, not a single beat slower.

I felt like I was watching a Video. Where I can hit Pause, Rewind, Play, Forward, Rewind and back to the same scene.

What a robot that man was. In an amazing way.

Wayne, what's your very first leading role?

It's a student film called "The Samurai" (or later known as "Confrontation"). Directed and Written by Mr. Juan Lewis Lopez.

I worked on this film 8 months after I moved to New York. I was pretty new to the New York scene... let alone the audition process...and schools... and training.

At the rehearsal, I bet the leading actress, Chiasui Chen. Whom I met briefly at another audition. I was thrilled to meet my first Taiwanese Actor in New York. (I recently met my THIRD Taiwanese Actress in New York).

The film itself, is a huge challenge for me. Because....

1) There's going to be a sword fight
2) All the lines are in Japanese
3) I had never protraied a "Father" before
4) I had never been in a 'intimate' scene with an actress
5) Sh*t. I have a kid in the film
6) Topless scene.
7) Sci-Fi Makeup

It's like, a crash course of all film types into one.

I never studied the art of Sword Fighting... So you can imagin the number of days and nights we rehears the fight scene with our awesome choregrapher...

Sci-Fi Makeup. yeah, I was suppose to have this huge a$$ battle scar across my chest. So yeah... they glued it on me.

Topless scene. That was the part where I 'show' the battle scar after I came out of a hot shower. I've never done any types of nudity scene before... and My body looked like sh*t... So it was a very uncomfortable moment for me...

I don't speak Japanese. And after the filming, I still don't speak Japanese. The lines... I had no clue what I was talking about... And it was HARD to act in an emotional scene while speaking a foreign language... (later when the film screened at the school, the Japanese film students laughed their a$$ off...)

But the most amazing thing to me... Was working with Chiasui. We are suppose to be husband and wife... So yeah, a lot of the scenes we were either embracing each other... looking at each other with sparks spewing out of our eye lids... or those precious tear drops in our farewell scene.

Again, I have never done anything like that... or at least, that 'close' of a distance with another actress... I was super nervous. I didn't know what to do... So when it was the time for us to shoot our "BED" scene.... *AHEM* No. Not what you are thinking... It was an INNOCENT BED scene. The night before our final goodbyes...

I felt like a frozen chicken. I sat on the bed, looking at her with my mouth open.

Wayne: "Uh... So... Hmmm..."

Then Chiasui crawled forward, held my hands... and looked into my eyes. At that moment... I felt my entire body was surrounded by her energy... As if she was pulling my soul into her world... The world she created for the character.

That was it.

She didn't say much. And she didn't need to.

I was already part of the scene. I was her husband. And it was our last night before we depart forever.

She was THAT good of an Actress. (And she STILL is an amazing actress and mentor)

I have worked with so many wonderful actresses in the last 7 years. She still ranks #1 on my list.

For those of you are reading this in Taiwan... Chiasui has recently been asked by the Taipei Film Comission to teach an On-Camera Acting Technique Summer workshop in 2009. But I found out that she already has been teaching after her return two months ago. So, if you are in Taiwan... And if you are new to the acting scene, or want more On-Camera training... Check her class out!!

Chiasui has previouly studied at Herbert Berghof Studio in their full time program, as well as Sally Johnson Studio, school for professional actors. So yeah, she can train the heck out of you!!

I have never taken any acting classes in Taiwan, so I don't know what techniques or styles the teachers use. But Uta Hagen Technique is one of the well respected acting technique in the industry.

Castleblanca

2008-12-01T11:59:00.003-05:00

This is a cool movie-style edit from out of our show, "Castleblanca." Starring the talented Canaan Robinson, Carmella Bloom, John Bardy, Pat Fitzgerald, David Barenfeld, and Myself. It's based on the film "Casablanca" but with a Vampire Twist. It was the second Act of the evening - which, really gave the audience a 'fun' feeling after our dramatic scary opening Act.

I appeared briefly near the end of the act. Watch for my first Stage "death" scene!!

I'm so.. Disappointed.

2008-11-26T10:53:00.003-05:00

So Disappointed that my doggy chew and destroyed my LAN Cable.

I won't have any internet access at home until I get a new cable.

I already don't have access to my personal email at work... Now I'm totally got screwed over by my dog.

Oh well... Still love the little guy.

The show is finally over. Week after Weeks of rehearsals, blocking, and going through lines... It's all over.

Gosh, I'm going to miss the people. Seriously. Having to work with the Producer, Directors, and the Actors for such a long time, I felt we sort-of-some-what-kinda bonded in a way.
Or maybe it's the sudden "FREE TIME" that I get after the show.
But never less. I have grown so much from this experience... Thank you Rod, Thank you John, Thank you to all the people I met and get to known... and worked on stage.

Now, I just have to focus on the pick-up scenes for "White Knuckle" and my On-Camera Class in December.

If my performance is ever posted on Youtube... I will link it here :)

Did you know that I audition for a bit part for the show "Life on Mars," yesterday? I have been acting in New York for 6 years... And it was my very first 'Co-Star' audition for Primetime TV!!!

For the audition... I took the 55 minutes train ride to Kaufman Astoria Studios. (It was also my first time having to travel all the way to Queens for an audition) After I got off the train... I walked for few blocks before I arriaved at the entrance of the studio. The studio was huge. I saw signs and many people walking around in Doctor and Nurse uniform... Appearently, it was a working day for "Nurse Jackie." Anyway, I found the room where the audition was taking place... I signed in, sat on the chair... looking at other actors memorizing or reviewing their lines... Then it was my turn to audition.

The Casting Assistant was very nice, and she placed me in front of the camera. After a brief instruction, I did my lines twice.

And that was it.

I said Thank You and then walk out of the room.

I have to say, but the On-Camera/Audition Technique classes that I took really helped me prepared for this rare opportunity. (For those actors who are currently in Acting School, or recently completed your program... I'd advice you to take at least ONE On-Camera Audition Technique class with a working Casting Director. You will learn about the Process and the Business Side of Acting. And exactly what a Casting Director is looking for during an audition)

It doesn't matter if I booked this job or not... It was a great experience, and I felt great before and after the audition. I wasn't nervous at all. I was very prepared and I knew my lines by heart. The important thing about the auditioning process... is that as long as you know you did your best, and that's pretty much it. The best actor doesn't always get the part. It's up to the head Casting Director, Producers and Directors to decided who would be the fittest for the role. It's a combination of Talent, the look, and TYPE of the actor.

Next week, I have a feature film audition... Wish me Luck!!!

Wayne's Book List

2008-11-25T17:15:00.020-05:00

Okay, I recently spoke with Canaan, and he suggested that I put together a list of books that I'd recommend on my website. So... Here it is. I will continue to update this list.

Here is my rating guide:

(No Rating = I haven't read the book)
* Neutral
** Not Bad
*** Recommend
**** Must Read

Books on Business of Acting

Acting -- Make It Your Business: How to Avoid Mistakes and Achieve Success as a Working Actorby Paul Russell **** (Applies to NY & LA, but more on NY market)

Acting Is Everything: An Actor's Guidebook for a Successful Career in Los Angeles, Expanded Goldby Judy Kerr. *** (Applies to LA market)

Self-Management for Actors: Getting Down to (Show) Businessby Bonnie Gillespie **** (Applies to LA market)

The Organic Actor: Insider's Secrets to Auditioning for Film and Televisionby Lori Wyman * (Applies to FL, or smaller Acting markets)

Acting As a Business, Third Edition: Strategies for Successby Brian O'Neil *** (Applies to both NY & LA, and other areas)

So You Want To Be In Show Business: A Hollywood Agent Shares The Secrets Of Getting Ahead Without Getting Ripped Offby Steve Stevens * (Applies to LA)

How to be a Working Actor, 5th Edition: The Insider's Guide to Finding Jobs in Theater, Film, & Television (How to Be a Working Actor: The Insider's Guide to Finding Jobs)by Mari Lyn Henry, Lynne Rogers, and Joe Mantegna. ** (Applies more on NY market)

Acting Professionally: Raw Facts About Careers in Actingby James Calleri

An Agent Tells Allby Tony Martinez ****

How to Agent Your Agentby Nancy Rainford ****

Ask an Agent: Everything Actors Need to Know about Agentsby Margaret Emory ***

The Los Angeles Agent Book: How to Get the Agent You Need for the Career You Wantby K Callan

The New York Agent Book: How to Get the Agent You Need for the Career You Wantby K Callan

How to Sell Yourself as an Actor: from New York to Los Angeles (and everywhere in between!)by K Callan

So...You're An Actor?! PROVE IT!: Branding and Marketing for Today's Aspiring Actorby Canaan Robinson

Technique Books

Audition: Everything an Actor Needs to Know to Get the Partby Michael Shurtleff ****

No Acting Pleaseby Eric Morris

A Challenge For The Actorby Uta Hagen ****

The Intent to Live: Achieving Your True Potential as an Actorby Larry Moss

The Power of the Actorby Ivana Chubbuck ***

Sanford Meisner on Actingby Sanford Meisner

On the Technique of Actingby Michael Chekhov

Acting for the Camera: Revised Editionby Tony Barr ***

The Eight Characters of Comedy: A Guide to Sitcom Acting And Writingby Scott Sedita ***

The Monologue Audition: A Practical Guide for Actorsby Karen Kohlhaas

The Art of Auditioning: Techniques for Televisionby Rob Decina **

Truth: Personas, Needs, and Flaws in The Art of Building Actors and Creating Charactersby Susan Batson *

Stella Adler - The Art of Acting: preface by Marlon Brando compiled and edited by Howard Kissel (Applause Acting Series)by Stella Adler

The Actor's Art and Craft: William Esper Teaches the Meisner Techniqueby William Esper

Transformational Acting: A Step Beyondby Sande Shurin **

How Not to Audition: Avoiding the Common Mistakes Most Actors Makeby Ellie Kanner and Denny Martin Flinn

How to Audition for TV Commercials: From the Ad Agency Point of Viewby W. Jenkins

How to Get the Part... Without Falling Apart!: Featuring the Haber Phrase Technique for Actorsby Margie Haber ****

Acting: Advanced Techniques for the Actor, Director, and Teacherby Terry Schreiber

A Practical Handbook for the Actorby Melissa Bruder, Lee Michael Cohn, Madeleine Olnek, and Nathaniel Pollack **

The Actor's Menu: A Character Preparation Handbook by Bill Howey

THE LYNDON TECHNIQUE: The 15 Guideline Map To Booking Handbookby Amy Lyndon and Thomas Garner **

An Actor's Companion : 99 Bits of Craftby Seth Barrish ***

Acting Out: Your Personal Coach to a Money-Making Career in Television Commercialsby Stuart Stone and Dennis Bailey

The Science & Art of Commercial Actingby John Howard Swain

Acting in Television Commercials for Fun and Profit, 4th Edition: Fully Updated 4th Editionby Squire Fridell

For Child/Youth Actors & Showbiz Parents

Stage Mom 101 : How to Give Your Child the Opportunity to Work in Showbizby Marie Hopkins

Raising a Star: The Parent's Guide to Helping Kids Break into Theater, Film, Television, or Musicby Nancy Carson and Jacqueline Shannon

Acting for Young Actors: The Ultimate Teen Guideby Mary Lou Belli

Acting Up! How to get your kidz in the biz!by Lucia Forte

Others FUN but Imformative Reads

An Actor Prepares to Work in New York City: How to Master the Business of The Businessby Craig Wroe

An Actor Prepares...To Live in New York City: How to Live Like a Star Before You Become Oneby Craig Wroe

I'm Here, Now What?! An Artist's Survival Guide for NYC!by Amy Harrell

Black Veil Thus Far...

2008-11-21T15:33:00.003-05:00

So far, I'm very happy with how Tales of the Black Veil 6 has been running. Except for the fact that I'm still having a lot of issue talking with the fangs on.

Especially last night, one of the fangs got loose while I was speaking... Oh gosh. I hope Rod doesn't upload THAT particular performance on YouTube.

But never less... I'm very honored to work with so many, many, wonderful actors.

Now, the bad news is... I got sick. My voice went raspy this morning... Then my nose start to run... 5 more performances to go... Let's see how my body can held up. (damn it. this always happens...)

Has anyone seen the Megaman Trailer?

Acting Schools & Workshops in Los Angeles

2008-11-13T13:14:00.069-05:00

Previously, I have blog about Acting Schools & Seminars in New York. The list kept on growing... Because I have been added new information whenever I came across them. So, those of you who have been following my blog... Should check back on my entries. (I have added the LA and NY school information to my links section (*points to the left*)

Anyway, being originally from Los Angeles, I've decided to maintain a list of Acting Schools/Studios and Workshops for those who are interested in continue your training, as well as learning more about the business of acting.

I welcome any suggestions that you have. You can either leave me a comment, or through my email.

Acting Schools / Studios in Los Angeles

American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Lee Strasberg Theater and Film Institute
Stella Adler Acting Studio
Atlantic Acting School - LA
Baron Brown Studio
The Actors Circle
Elizabeth Mestnik Acting Studio
Larry Moss Studio
Margie Haber Workshops
Brian Reise Acting Studios
Aaron Speiser Acting Studio
JRose Studio
Ivana Chubbuck Studio
Lynette McNeill Acting Studio
Scott Sedita Acting Studio
Anthony Meindl Actor's Workshop
Bjorn Johnson Workshop
Annie Grindlay Studio
Bernard Hiller Acting Studio
Bill Howey Acting Studio
Aquila Morong Studio for Actors
Mother of Invention Acting School
Carole D'Andrea: Classes for Actors and Singers
The Groundlings Theatre
John Sudol Studio
Celebration Theatre
Catherine Carlen Acting Workshop
The Ardavany Approach
Lesly Kahn & Company
Jeremiah Comey Film Acting Studio
Kimberly Jentzen Studio
Lewis Smith's Actors Academy
Nikolai Guzov Acting Studio
Tim Phillips Studio
Bob Krakower
Gloria Gifford Conservatory
Beverly Hills Playhouse Acting School
Metchik Studio
Actors Boot Camp.

Commercial Workshops

Killian's Commercial Workshop
Hey, I Saw Your Commercial
One Day Commercial Intensive with Michael Donovan Casting
Stuart K Robinson Creative Workshop
Talent To Go
Carolyne Barry Acting Workshops
Porter Kelly Commercial Workshop
Commercial Break

Workshops and Seminars

Actors Network
Actor Site
Reel Pros
The Network Studio
The Casting Network
Act Now!
Casting Network
Pro Actors
One on One Productions
TVI Studios
AIA Actors Studio
ITA Productions
Actors Key
Actors West
JB Casting Network Workshops
Synergy-LA
The Actors Collective
GoGoActing
Industry Alliance
LA Connection
Show & Tell Workshop
Actors Creative Workshops
SSLA Studio
Steve Eastin Studio
Actor's Advantage
Dominion Entertainment
Acting Professionally
Actors Evolution
SAG Foundation

Showcase

Cricket Feet Showcase
Mark's Showcase
Twenty-Something Showcase

Special Workshops

No Budget Film School
Cold Reading with Amy Lyndon
Film Actor's Academy with David Kang Casting
Matthew Barry (Casting Director) Workshop
Craig Wallace Audition Technique Workshop
Jack Plotnick Workshop
Acting Classes via Podcast by Renita.

Whoa!!

2008-11-12T17:34:00.003-05:00

Exciting News!!

Yesterday, I got an email from the producer of an Indie film that I auditioned couple weeks ago, offering the role of Richard Liu. The film is called "God's Land."

The interesting thing about this, is that when Preston finished the script, he invited a number of Actors to record a "Radio Drama" version of it. Jing was the one who contacted me and forwarded my information to him. Let me see... This was back in... 2005 I believe. And of course, I recorded the voice of Richard Liu.

Yeah, it has been a long time.

So, when I saw the breakdowns on the net, I got really excited. I want to audition for the film. I want everyone to audition for the film. I mean... The film itself is already interesting based on the subject matter -- the film style will be Docu-Feature Film. Something that I haven't done before.

So yeah, Exciting time.

*****************************
Hrm, I'm still waiting for my rehearsal call for The Tale of the Black Veil 6. But at this point, I think the producer probably going to go through intensive rehearsal during the "Hell Week" - which is the days before our opening night.

With so many actors in the cast, it's hard to get everyone together to work on the scene. I was pretty available in the last two months... But now I started to get call backs... that I've constantly crossing out dates on my calendar for class/audition/filming.

For me, it's going to serve as a one-day intensive, since I will be stuck in Queens on Tuesday. (I just got a revised call-sheet. I will be on set for 14 hours...)
Never less, I have been going through the scripts like crazy on my own. As long as my scene partners keeps the pasting moving. I have also been working with my Dialogue/Acting coach Eric Thal. So yeah, Eugene (I know you are reading this), don't worry. I won't let you guys down.

I'm gonna F**KING bring it.

Now the problem is... What am I going to wear?! O.M.G. I don't think we've ever talk about our wardrobe... I'll just have to flip through my closet to see what I can find... to make me look Vampy.
*****************************

Okay, let's talk about The Tale of the Black Veil 5. A friend of mine was visiting from California over the weekend... And I'd thought I'd take him to see the 'prequel' of what I have been working on.

Now, because he's a friend that I have known for 10+ years... We are very honest about our opinion. So, whenever I ask him about something, he will tell it the way it is. No sugar coating, no fear of hurting my feeling, no bullsh*t.

Did I mention that he's also a stage performer? So, yeah, he's not new to the scene.

Despite some technical problems that took place during the show (Okay, for some reason, it took 15+ minutes before we get to see the first Act... I wasn't expecting that. And the curtain had problem half-way through) I thought the show was great. I've only seen the actors doing it during rehearsal... But I was really impressed with the Acting. (Yeah... When I see a show or a movie... I tend to focus on the Actor's speech, technique, & movement)

Eugene, now it's time for the bad news. After the show, when I asked my friend for his feed backs. The first thing he pointed out was TIMING. He said the flow between each act and the timing of the actors in the scene are inconsistent. Some acts are stronger than the other.... And some that he felt was dragging... And eventually he fell asleep.. during the show.

The second thing he said was... BLOCKING. He mentioned that in a scene where multiple actors are present on stage... He felt that either the actors are blocking each other, or talk over each other's lines.... (I assume he meant the first Act, during a club scene) He said the scene lost its focus - and for a good 5 minutes, he couldn't tell what was going on. It was just too 'busy.'

Other things he said were just something not worth mentioning here... So, I'm skipping'em.

Despite there were only 6 people in the audience on Saturday afternoon - Every actor gave their 110%. I know I will enjoy working with these guys and gals next week.
*****************************
Anyone going to ActorFest NY this Saturday? (nov. 15)
I'll be there!!

Que Pasa, Wonderfulcow?

2008-11-07T10:18:00.003-05:00

So, what's new with me?

Well, my show will open in two weeks - but we didn't have rehearsal last week, and probably not this week as well - because the Producer and the Directors are busy with their current show.

Honest to say, I'm a bit freaked out. Recently, I saw the amazing Lee/Gendary, and was blown away by its production quality. After I saw the show, I asked myself..."Gee... I can never do that..."

I started to fear that my performance would suck. My performance would drag the entire show down with me.

I just hate to disappoint.

I think that I need more rehearsals.

Yeah. I need more rehearsals. Damn it. At this point, I don't even have the slightest grasp on the pasting of acts I'm doing. It has been over a year since I last did a stage show, it's not easy for me to tap into a live stage show when I've constantly acting in front of a camera.

(Yes, Ladies and Gentlemen. Theatre Acting and TV/Film acting are similiar in some way, but different in other ways. The transition can be tough, if you are not used to it.)

And the most SHOCKING part is... THe day before our FIRST SHOW... I'll be filming in Queens all day. Which means, I couldn't make it to our last Tech. Rehearsal.

SH*T. I know. Right? I felt like I've digging up a hole, so I can bury myself in it.

But there's not way I'm going to turn away "White Knuckle." It's a comedy, and I love the script. (The writing is very fun and clever) The Director is great, and has a clear vision on how he wants to make his script come alive. I've auditioned for him twice - and I walked away knowing that this project is something I will be proud of. At least, will make people laugh.

So... yeah... That's that.

**********************
Last night I attended the "Law & Order" Intensive Class with Claire Traeger. First of all, I have to say... It wasn't a class at all. It was more like a typical seminar where you meet the Casting Director, do your sides, get feedbacks, do adjustments, and then "thank you very much." The only difference is, you get to watch 19 other students doing their sides, hear their feed backs, and watch them do their adjustments... And on yeah, this class cost me $89. Where I could take a seminar at One on One for $65.
I should have done more research before I signed up for the 'class.'

But one thing about my class last night, was that EVERYONE was SO Freaking GOOD!! The talent level was so high… I have attend other (real) classes, but the talent level really varies among the students.
I was the 3rd person to go up – and I actually got scared. In addition to my ‘very straight forward, nothing dramatic’ sides, I really was stressed out about not be able to showcase what I can do.

The two girls who went before were excellent!! The people who went after me were amazing. They all get sides that are very dramatic… There are so many emotions involved… I can see beats, changes, reactions… But for me, all I had was “Yes. We used methyl silicone gum capillary to extract volatile hydrocarbons.” And “yes” and “That’s Correct.”

The worst part was that I let the situation get to me... I lost my focus anymore and everything went into a blurb. As a result, I stumbled on a couple words. I said ‘carbon-hydro-gen’ in my second read. Oh Gosh, I was so embarrassed.

Claire is very nice. Gives good adjustment and feedbacks. She did give us an idea how all the Law and Order series are like in their casting process. How that she will bring talents into meet with Suzanne Ryan, and then if everything goes well, the talent will be brought to ‘producers’ meeting to audition. Every talent that was brought in, and met with Suzanne, the headshot & resume will be filed in a special database. So, once we were brought in, and it didn't matter if we book the job or not, we will have a chance of get invited to audition again. (so no need to attend another seminar with Claire)
**********************

Current Project:

1) "White Knuckle" - Filming starts November 18th, 2008.
2) "Tales of the Black Veil 6" - Runs from November 19th - 23rd, 2008.
3) "Chinatown Navigator" - Auditioned for the gig, but just waiting for confirmation.
4) Standardized Patient Project.
**********************
And yes, when you become a starving actor, every single dollar counts. I'm not stingy by nature... I just want to spend smart.

Class with Jonathan Strauss....?

2008-11-03T17:22:00.003-05:00

Those who have been reading my blog, or been in my class, would probably know that I'm constantly looking and comparing pricess for the Casting Director workshops.
You know, at which studio would you would be paying the best price for the session.

However, there are Casting Directors that only teach at certain places.

For example, Casting Director Jonathan Strauss (Casting Director, Law & Order: SVU) only teaches at TVI Studios. And that Marci Phillips (Director of Casting for ABC) only offers 6 weeks On-Camera class at One-On-One? (She has other 1-day intensive class at other places...)

Personally, I've been wanting to take Jonathan's class before I started doing my reach on Casting Director Workshops.... And I have done research and more research - and couldn't find any other locaitons where Jonathan offer any classes....

So, yeah. I got a call from TVI, and Jonathan's next class comes up in January. Yay. But then when I check my calendar... It turned out that I'll be out of town for the FIRST day of the class. Boo... That sux.

Anyway, I'm not doing any promotion or putting any good words about TVI Studios. I just want to share my discovery...

Jonathan Strauss' class is NOT cheap. It's actually more expensive than any other classes I've taken. For Non-TVI Members, it's $595 (Members $495). That's enough money for me to buy 2 Ninendo Wii's.

But do you want to learn what it takes to be on Law and Order: SVU?

Do you want to improve your On-Camera audution technique?

How about acting in front of a camera for Dramatic TV series? (I heard Jonathan's a very technical teacher)

If you're interested in Jonathan's 8 weeks class, and able to afford the tution fee... You can contact Leigh Feldpausch (my TVI Career Coach) at leighf@tvistudios.com or 212-302-1900 to schedule an interview/audition.

As for me, I will have to wait for Jonathan's NEXT class in 2009...

Actors, please be Professional

2008-10-23T10:31:00.002-04:00

Some of you might know that I'm a daily contributor of AARising's Casting and Other Opportunities Forum. Where I gather all sorts of Casting Notice and posted in one centralized location. I have been doing that since 2006. The casting notices are either production with Asian characters, or a role that anyone can submit. I want everyone to have the opportunity to be successful, and be seen in the media.

Yesterday, when I was walking my dog late at night, I got a call from a Casting Director from Los Angeles. It turned out, that there have been actors, instead of mailing their Headshot & Resume as instructed in the casting notice, they physically showed up at the Casting Director's Office to drop off the package. The problem with this, is a lot of Independent Filmmakers' office are their own private home. This is absolutely inappropriate and unprofessional.

Not unless the casting notice says "DROP OFF AT...." - NO one, should visit a Casting Office in person.

The day at a Casting Office is crazy. The Casting Director and Associates are constantly making calls, schedule appointments, contacting Talent Agents.... They don't have time to deal with Actors. That's why they would ask their Interns and Assistants to file all the MAILING submission that comes it. They were given specific instructions on how to file the types of the character. At the end of the day, the Casting Associate will screen those headshot & resume before making any decision on who will be invited to an audition.

So, anyone who showed up at the Casting Office without any appointment or invitation is considered a STALKER. Unwanted Visitor. And you know what? You will end up in the black list. I just completed a 4 weeks class with Daryl Eisenberg, and that's exactly what happened. There was an actor who wanted to be on Gossip Girl so bad, that the actor would EMAIL her office, making calls, and stop by the office IN PERSON on a monthly basis. Eventually, Daryl sent out a notification to all casting directors and talent agents to BLOCK and BLACK-LIST that Actor from ANY castings.

You have no idea how angry I was. I was angry, because I don't want to give Nelson (the owner of AArising) any trouble - in addition to ruining my own career. (Those of you who know me in person - I don't get angry easily. So you can imagine how serious this is)

After I got home from walking the dog, I went online to check the forum and locate that specific casting notice.

My jaw dropped.

The casting notice was posted on May 13th, 2008. Which means, there's no reason for Actors to continue to submit to it. Why would people still drive all the way to the Casting Director's home to drop off headshot/resume FIVE months after the casting? The production already ended. Please, use your common sense!

After I deleted the casting notice, I spent an hour type out a list of RULES for Actors/Aspiring Actors who are new to the scene (an those who want to save $1.00 for mailing headshot & resume).

When it comes to Business side of Acting, there are rules to follow. I don't care if you are a starving actor or cannot afford to buy 9" X 11" mailing envelopes (It's $1.65 at your local drugstore). This is part of the life of a working actor - everything costs money. Headshots, Photographer, Transportation, Online Submissions, Union Membership, Acting Classes, and Workshops. If you cannot afford them right now, then wait until you saved enough money before you get yourself out there.

I hate to be an a$$ to anyone - but I cannot expect everyone to be professional.

Business of Acting: Reading Suggestions

2008-10-21T16:14:00.005-04:00

Hello guys, for those of you who are interested in the show business, or already in show business... but don't know and where to start... Well, here are some books that I strongly recommend you to read.

There are things that you will never learn at Acting School. You can be the greatest actor in the entire workd, but never made it a leading role in a Hollywood Feature. Why? Because other than Talent and Skills.... A successful actor should also know how to navigate through the Show Business. Do the Do's and avoid the Don'ts.

General Books on how to start, maintain, and be successful with your Acting career:

Acting as a Business by Brian O'Neil

An Agent Tells All by Tony Martinez

Self-Management for Actors by Bonnie Gillespie

For those of you are out in Los Angeles, or planning to start an Acting career in Hollywood, then this book is a MUST read:

Acting is Everything by Judy Kerr

For Talents who are new to New York, or just started out your career in the big apple... These two books will help you from becoming a starving actor:

How to Live Like a Star Before You Become One by Craig Wroe

How to Master the Business of The Business by Craig Wroe

Central Casting seeking Asian Talents for Law and Order October 21st (NY)

2008-10-20T13:41:00.000-04:00

Central Casting is looking for men and women all ages who can portray an individual of ASIAN descent for background work on an upcoming episode of Law and Order: The Mothership on Tuesday, October 21st, 2008

Central Casting will be holding open calls every day between 2:30 and 3:30 PM and have proper legal documentation. This means - a Passport OR original drivers license AND social security card

We also accept

- Unexpired PERMAMENT RESIDENT CARDS
- employment authorization card with NO exceptions under terms and conditions
(please note, we only accept employment auth cards with exception that also have an unexpired 1-20 that deals with acting, drama, or theatre)

Please only come with proper documentation or you will be turned away

Please also come camera ready as we will be taking a digital photo of you…

thanks and see you soon

You can also submit med sized clear JPEGS to: lawAsians@gmail.com

plesae include your name and phone number as well **IF YOU ARE ALREADY REGISTERED WITH CENTRAL CASTING THERE IS NO NEED TO RE-REGISTER*

Kiku: The Art of the Japanese Chrysanthemum

2008-10-17T14:12:00.001-04:00

My friend Julie will be performing/modeling at this event on Saturday October 18th!!!

*****************************************************
Kiku: The Art of the Japanese Chrysanthemum
October 18–November 16, 2008 at The New York Botanical Garden

The chrysanthemum, known as kiku, is perhaps the most revered of the fall-flowering plants in Japan. For centuries the secrets of its cultivation were carefully guarded. But during a five-year cultural exchange, The New York Botanical Garden learned the time-honored growing techniques and display styles to become the first garden outside of Japan to showcase the art of kiku in the Imperial style.

Discover for yourself the exquisite beauty of kiku—cascades of flowers, single plants with hundreds of flowers, and others with an enormous flower atop a single stem—as Kiku: The Art of the Japanese Chrysanthemum, an elaborate flower show and art exhibition, returns to the Botanical Garden.

Featuring:

* A fourth kiku style, shino-tsukuri (“driving rain”), on display in the Courtyards of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory along with the three traditional styles presented last year: ozukuri (“thousand bloom”), ogiku (“single-stem”), and kengai (“cascade”).
* A new exhibition, The Chrysanthemum in Japanese Art, in the LuEsther T. Mertz Library gallery, depicting the use of the chrysanthemum as a visual motif in paintings, prints, textiles, and more. The 32 objects on display from October 18 to January 11, 2009, include a kimono, hanging scrolls, folding screens, and an array of household treasures and are on loan from exceptional collections of Japanese art: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Mary Griggs Burke Collection of Japanese Art, and several private dealers and collectors.
* A new bamboo sculpture by artist Tetsunori Kawana, who created the popular towering bamboo sculpture in the Conservatory Courtyards last year.
* A chance to wind down and view the exhibition in the evening with Kiku and Cocktails
* Bonsai in the Conservatory’s Seasonal Galleries (through November 2) and in the Conservatory Courtyards (through November 16).
* An autumnal display of Japanese maples, conifers, and bamboo in the Conservatory Courtyards.
* Kiku for Kids, hands-on activities for families including a child-sized tea house, in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.
* Kiku Matsuri, a range of cultural programming, including dance and music performances, demonstrations, workshops, and lectures as well as courses celebrating the chrysanthemum in Japanese art, life, and culture.
* Audio and guided tours.
*Celebrating Kiku at Shop in the Garden.

Garden Hour & Admission: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays

All-Garden Pass: The fees below include entrance to the Conservatory, the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden and Kiku for Kids (October 13–November 16), the Rock and Native Plant Gardens, the Tram Tour, and all other gardens and exhibitions on the grounds, including The Chrysanthemum in Japanese Art in the LuEsther T. Mertz Library, October 18–January 11, 2009.

Adults: $20
Seniors: $18
Students (with valid ID): $18
Children (2-12 years): $7
Children under 2: Free
Members: Free

For more information, please visit: http://www.nybg.org/kiku08/

Come see Me on Stage!!!

2008-10-06T14:30:00.004-04:00

Okay, I didn't know the Producer of the show wanted us to PUSH for tickets. Originally, I didn't want to spread the word like this... After all, it has been a years since I last did a Theatre piece. So.. I'm just doing what I was told!!!
If you want to see me performing on stage (with Fangs), here's your chance!!! (If you are outside of the New York area, it is okay. DVD of the performance will be available early 2009)

******************************************************
Tales of the Black Veil 6 - Sanguines on Stage is the latest incarnation of the Original Sanguine Stage Showcase begun by Nightforce International Productions in 1999. Tales of the Black Veil features stories, situations, monologues, and sketches - all with a vampiric slant. If its comedy, drama, philosophical, musical, etc-there will be a vampire involved! Some stories have been written by Vampyres and a few vampyres have been known to cross upon our stage. This version (as always) features new stories, some new performers and the same sensual sanguine theme. If you have a problem with our brand of Darkness, you are advised to stay home; but if you are even the least bit curious about our Dark World, you are more than welcome to the darkness...

Location:

Producers Club
358 West 44th Street
New York, NY 10036

Show Times:

• Wednesday (11/19/08) @ 8:00pm
• Thursday (11/20/08) @ 8:00pm
• Friday (11/21/08) @ 8:00pm
• Saturday (11/22/08) @ 2:00pm
• Saturday (11/22/08) @ 8:00pm
• Sunday (11/23/08) @ 2:00pm

For more info, please visit: http://www.nightforce.freeservers.com
Tickets: http://www.theatermania.com/content/show.cfm/show/145697

******************************************************
TALES OF THE BLACK VEIL 6: SANGUINES ON STAGE PROGRAM LIST

Opening segment directed by Eugene Kopman

Host: Eugene Kopman
Cell Phone guy: jonathan Wexler
Vamps: Michael Harmon, Kapreme Lewis, Wayne Chang

Wedding Vows directed by John Bardy

Annie: Melissa Koval
Therapist: Lauren Piselli
Alex: Jonathan Wexler

Vampyrz Prey directed by Rod Barnes

Blain: Jonathan Wexler
Malki: Wayne Chang
Sarah: Melissa Jackman
Girl: Helen Tong
Cop: Julie Ann Colon

Strings directed by John Bardy

Evan: TJ Clark
Charlie: Wayne Chang
Beth: Amy Charowsky

Frederick Schwartz's Last Night on Earth directed by Rod Barnes

Schwartz: David A Barenfeld
Vamp: Cara Crompton
Dorian: Wayne Chang

Schwartz II: The return of the Koo-koo Banga King directed by John Bardy

Schwartz: David A Barenfeld
Margaret Wicks: Melissa
Silver Darius: Michael Harmon
Leslie: Canaan E Robinson Jr

Retribution directed by Rod Barnes

Nemesis: Michael Harmon
Carnal: Kapreme Lewis
Innocencia: Ji Young Kim

Blood Vendetta directed by Rod Barnes

Angelica: Melissa Jackman
Annicia: Jeannette Lutz
Sammael: Canaan Robinson Jr
Melanna: Helen Tong
Lord Praxys: D Michael McMillan
Jonas: TJ Clark
Anna Hawthorne: Carmella Bloom

******************************************************
Thank you!!

Teens & Young Adults

2008-10-02T10:27:00.003-04:00

Recently, I have been pretty active on Yahoo!Answers - responding questions about the business of acting. How to get started and where.

80% of the Questions were posted by Young Adults inquiry about wanting to be an actor, and wanting to be on the Disney Channel.

Everyday, I basically copy-and-paste my answers to one to another post (with some modifications based on the question). It's pretty much the same thing they wanted to know.

************
Questions: I want to be on the Disney Channel. Where do I start?
************
Answer:

Before you can land an audition for any Disney productions, you need the following:

1) Resume
2) Headshot
3) Talent Agent

I would strongly recommand you to take acting classes either at your school (Theater classes, or Drama Club). Get involved. If your school doesn't offer that, see if there are local Theatre Groups/Workshops that you can attend. (You can either find them in newspapers or online). If you want to be an actor/actress, you have to aquire the craft of acting first.

It is at your classes or workshops, that you will learn more about the business in acting. Develope your own network, or even, from your classmates, you'd get a referral to see their talent agents. - But do as much work as you can - audition for location theatre productions, student films, indie films... you name it. This will help you develope a good actor resume.

For headshots - I would just suggest you to find a friend, with a good camera and take a neutral photo of you from the shoulder up. (Do not spend $500+ for professional photos, unless you're already in the Union and have done a bunch legit works) As a starting actor, a good quality headshot is enough. (My first headshot is the one I took of myself in the bathroom - and I landed a national commercial) Once you are signed with a talent agent, he/she will recommand a reasonable priced photographer to you. (But make sure you do a research on the agent and the photographer first. check out http://www.easybackgroundcheck.com)

To find an agent - well, google for them, check out local newspapers... The world of mouth is the best way. My first agent that I freelance with was though referral from another actor while we were on a filmset as background extras!! Remember, network, network, network!! Some acting school offers Netowrking/Seminar events - it's a good way to meet Talent Agents (or Casting Directors) face to face - and leave an impression. Who knows, maybe you will be called into their office and get signed.

Also, if you have been doing a lot of local theatre performances - you will been seen, and discovered. Some Talent Agents *DO* attend the shows!1 Ask your castmembers to invite their talent agents and managers to the show.

Once you have a good resume, a decent headshot, and a talent agent (or manager) to represent - then that's where you tell your agent/manager to look out for any breakdowns or auditions from a Disney production. As him/her to submit you to them and see if you'll get an audition invite.

If you already become a popular name in various theatrical productions and commercials - Disney will probably be asking for you before you have the chance to ask your agent to submit you.

Other ways to find an audition with Disney production is to check out disney website often (also, ABC.Com). Sometimes they will have casting notice for various of projects, either promotional, reality show, or game show contestants. All of them helps, to get your foot in the door.

Good Luck!!
************

Places that are available for Young Adults/Teens to start acting in New York:

HB Studio: http://www.hbstudio.org/classes/index.htm (scroll down and click on "Young People's Class"

ACTeen:
http://www.acteen.com
They offer training classes as well as industry networking & seminars.

TVI Studios - Young Actor Program: http://www.tvistudios.com/youngactors

Stage Coach: http://www.stagecoach.co.uk/stagecoach/html/country_usa.php?cid=9

If you are in LA, then The Network Studio West offers Intensive classes for Teens: http://www.thenetworkstudioeast.com/los_angeles_intensives.php

Okay... More Work...

2008-09-29T11:17:00.002-04:00

Over the weekend, I went to the rehearsal for The Tales of the Black Veil 6 (Nightfore Production). Little did I know, they were still finalizing casting the full cast for the show.

Anyway, I went from working in just 1 Act, to two other Acts.

Since it has been a while since I last did a Theatre production, I really wanted to just focus on one character. However, I was asked to audition for the open roles on Saturday... And I got them. (Because the production is actually for both Black Veil 5 and Black Veil 6 - they placed most of the actors who came to the audition in Black Veil 5, and left very little Male Actors for Black Veil 6) Some actors in Black Veil 5 would continue their work into Black Veil 6. And actors in Black 6 - gets to do multiple roles.

Originally, I was only "Vampire Prey," protraiting a very 'comic' role. (It's about time I do a comedy) - But after I read the script for "Strings" - the characters are so mentally messed up, I couldn't help it but gave it my all at the audition. I wanted that role.

Because they were also casting the lead actress of the scene - The other actor and myself are rotate doing readings with each of the 7 actresses. At the end, I was exhausted. I re-lived Charlie's scene 4 times within 10 minutes. Each time, I did something a little different to give the actress more things to play-off, so all their performance will not be identical. (For the first reading, I sat myself pretty far from the actress, then for the next reading, I was start out sitting in mid-stage, the following reading, I stood at the center...and the last reading I sat RIGHT next to the actress)

ANYWAY - it turned out that "STRINGS" will open the show, followed by "Vampre Prey." To me, that's going to be a tough thing to do... Because It'll super hard for me, to jump from a dramatic piece right into a comic role within a short period of time. (If you come to see the show, you'll know how emotionally messed up I will be) The two characters are just so... different....

Okay, my dear readers (Does anyone read this?!) - we still have more roles open for The Tales of the Black Veil 6. If you are interest...

Rehearsals for Tales of The Black Veil has begun! There are still roles for both The Resurrection and Sanguines on Stage but they are going fast! send an email to RodBarnes@nightforce.freeservers.com or nightforceinternational@yahoo.com for consideration.

Los Angeles - So, what's next?

2008-09-17T16:48:00.008-04:00

The funny thing is, I'm FROM Los Angeles, but I've never been seriously involved in Show Biz there.

A number of my friends are moving to the West Coast, some wrote me if there anything that I can recommend that will help them with their acting career in LA.
If you know me personally, you will know that I'm always about helping out and sharing experiences. So, I did my research.

***
I have heard about a great bookstore in LA called Samuel French. Even though it’s a bookstore, there are postings for local theatre castings, private coaching, classes, school… You name it.

The Los Angeles location is at:

Samuel French Bookstore
11963 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
Website: http://www.samuelfrench.com

***
If you are an actor, then you definately need to have an account with Actors Access. Once you log onto Actors Access, you can go to The Virtual Channel Network – they have a bunch of web-shows that you will learn so much about the industry. “Inside Casting,” “An Agent’s Eye,” and “Coaching Corner” are my favorite shows.

***
Everything Acting Podcast – an online Radio show that gives you insights to the industry. Darbi and Roz are amazing hostesses.

Now, here comes the expensive stuff…

Actors Network (http://www.actors-network.com) is a paid (monthly) membership based service that offers networking opportunities, seminars, coaching, etc… You can browse through their website and look around. I do know they offer free orientations for new or potential members who want to learn more about Actors Network.

***
I’m sure you have heard of Actors Connection in New York. (They rent out studios for auditions) At night they, have host industry seminars and classes. (Expensive, but you get to meet industry people face to face).

They also have something in Los Angeles called "LA Connection," but instead of pay-per-class/seminar basis, it’s going to be 7 days workshop/seminar/classes all roll into one.

***
Here is another one just like Actors Connection - but it's the West Coast version. It's called the Actors Creative Workshops.
Where they have a bunch of workshops taught by industry people (Director, Casting Director...etc)

Here are other places in LA that offers Casting Director Workshops:

Actor Site
Real Pros
Talent To Go
***
Actors Boot Camp. This is very similiar to LA Connection, but with more focus on learning Acting Techniques. From Cold Reading, Scene Studies, Monologues, On-Camera, and Freeing your body and use your body as instruements, you name it.

It's also a good networking place to meet fellow actors in LA, and maintain good relationships with the instructors.

***
I hope these would provide good resources for those who are new to Los Angeles and wanting to break into the industry. And I welcome you experienced LA-based Actors, to provide feedback on other resources that will be helpful, for the 'emerging' actors.

***
Here is a great article by Michael Kostroff:

HOW TO NETWORK
The transplant’s guide to meeting L.A. actors
BY MICHAEL KOSTROFF
bsweditorial@backstage.com

Hey there, new in town? Moving to L.A. can be a challenging transition for an actor. It can be even more challenging without help from those who know the lay of the land. So, after finding an apartment, a car, a day job, your supermarket, your Starbucks, and all the other basic necessities, one of your next top priorities will be to build a network of fellow actors--for the camaraderie and for the connections. Your new showbiz neighbors can guide you to local opportunities, connect you with contacts, and provide the kind of support that can only come from those who are on the same path. But how do you connect? Because L.A. has a car culture, meeting peers can be a challenge. Here are suggestions for places where you can make a start.

Company Policy
Joining a theatre company offers multiple benefits. You make friends, which is of no small value when you’ve recently arrived and don’t know a lot of people. Your fellow members—professional performers, like you—will know more about the L.A. acting scene and can fill you in. You get to keep your chops up by working on plays. And if it’s a respected company, you’ll start having opportunities to be seen by casting people. What’s more, being accepted to a theatre company is a form of approval, letting you know that you haven’t made a terrible mistake by moving here.

Classy Connections
In addition to the obvious benefits of training, acting classes are great places to get to know fellow actors. Meeting at a party is one thing, but when actors study together, they bond in a deeper and more substantial way. What’s more, if you’re agent-hunting, a fellow actor is far more likely to recommend you if he or she has seen your work in class. (See our related article, “How to Choose a Teacher.”)

Uniting Through the Unions
Our actors’ unions offer wonderful programs, workshops, and seminars, which are well worth attending for their own merits. But an added advantage is that these events facilitate gatherings of actors, and they do so in an atmosphere of learning and solidarity. The SAG Foundation (www.sagfoundation.org) offers Conversations, “a national speaker series inviting high-profile industry professionals to share their experiences in the industry with an audience of actors,” and LifeRaft, “a professional development program that provides insight into the business of acting; giving SAG members practical industry skills and knowledge to help guide their careers and make informed decisions.” AFTRA also offers a series of classes and seminars for members, listed at www.aftra.com/locals/losangeles/membereducation.html, as does the Actors’ Equity Association. Information about Equity’s Education and Outreach program can be found at www.actorsequity.org/EducationOutreach/edoutreachhome.asp. Union educational events are nearly always offered without charge. (See our related article, “How to Join the Unions.”)

Meeting Under Protest
For better or worse, performing arts’ unions have had their share of strikes lately. On the up side, there’s no better place than a picket line to literally rub elbows with your peers. And there’s plenty of time to chat about the business—or lack thereof—as you tote your sign back and forth. Membership meetings are also good places to enhance your circle while staying actively involved with your unions.

Park It
When I moved from New York, I had a pretty snobby attitude about theme parks. That was before I learned that lots of performers with major Broadway and regional theatre credits work at places like Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. I did too, for years, and they were some of the best support jobs I ever had. I made a living performing, and I made friends and contacts—lots of them, many of whom I’m still in touch with. And the schedule is such that you have substantial breaks between shows. It’s a great time for hanging out and getting to know your new cohorts.

Site Search
Many actors stay in touch via websites like MySpace and Facebook, where you can join groups, communicate with peers, ask for advice, promote shows you’re in, organize gatherings, read reviews, and get information on classes, teachers, theatre companies, and just about any other actor-related topic you can think of.

Some actors choose to commune away from their professional settings. Here are a few of those places.

At Your Service
If you’re spiritually inclined, why not choose a house of worship where you can attend alongside fellow thesps? Agape, described on its website, www.agapelive.com, as a “transdenominational spiritual community,” seems to be a popular actors’ church, frequented even by those who don’t consider themselves religious. The Synagogue for the Performing Arts, www.sftpa.com, speaks for itself, and Valley Beth Shalom, www.vbs.org, attracts industry types as well. There’s also InterMission Hollywood, www.inter-mission.net, an interdenominational organization for Christians in the entertainment industry. Several Christian churches cater to the industry as well, such as Ecclesia Hollywood (ecclesiahollywood.org), and Mosaic (mosaic.org).

Get With the Program
You really want to meet actors? Go to a 12-step program. That’s not a joke, a recommendation, or a judgment. We’re just saying that if you choose to go, you’ll find comrades there. And because of the nature of these groups, 12-steppers also tend to be more supportive than competitive, and willing to help you get acclimated.

Helping Helps
You know what they say: If you want something, give something…or something like that. Volunteering is good for the soul, good for the world and a good way to connect. And since here, two out of every three people seem to be actors, you’re bound to meet some along the way.

Hangouts and Habitats
When not working on their careers, actors are often found at the gym, at the coffee house, or engaged in what is apparently our favorite pastime: eating and talking. The short stretch of shops and restaurants on Franklin Avenue, between Tamarind and Bronson, is an actors’ mecca, as is the 101 Coffee Shop a few blocks west. The hike at Runyon Canyon seems designed for reunions, as you’ll rarely get to the top without stopping to swap war stories with a contemporary. Some gravitate toward the Farmers Market on Fairfax, some gather at the Aroma Café in Studio City. The point is, you’ll meet more of your fellow artistes if you leave your house.
So welcome to L.A. It’s a strange place. But by connecting early on with your new showbiz comrades, you’ll find it a lot easier to navigate.

Michael Kostroff
Back Stage Columnist
www.backstage.com/workingactor
Author of "Letters from Backstage"

Photographer: Christine Chang

2008-09-16T10:30:00.003-04:00

I had the pleasure working with photographer Christine Chang this past weekend. She's actually based in Los Angeles, but is in New York for a mini-vacation.

We took several shots in the Meat Packing District - with two different looks. I have say, she's a very 'precise' photographer. That, is actually nice, because she will physically adjust you to make sure you look your best in her shots.

At the mean time...

Currently, Christine is in New York until Mid-October, and she's offering her headshot package of $150 for 1 Hour Session (60-80 shots), and two touched up photos in high resolution picked by the talent.
Feel free to check out her portfolio at http://www.christinechangphoto.com

Acting Schools & Workshops in New York

2008-09-09T13:16:00.105-04:00

I have been asked for recommendations for good Acting Schools / Studios in New York. But the fact is, I cannot tell wither or not if a school is GOOD... The techniques taught may have varies result for actors. Some Actors clicks with a particular approach, while others just couldn't get into it.

Acting Schools/Studios:

William Esper Studio
Herbert Berghof Studio
Atlantic Acting School
Stella Adler Acting Studio
Lee Strasberg Institute
Maggie Flanigan Studio
The Neighborhood Playhouse
Ron Stetson Studio
The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts
American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Weist-Baron Studio
The Julliard School
The Acting Studio Inc.
T. Schreiber Studio
Robert Patterson Studio
Michael Howard Studios
Robert X. Modica Acting Studio
The Studio New York
Playwrights Horizons Theater School
Jim Bonney Acting Studio
Circle in the Square Theatre School
Ted Bardy Acting Studio
International Theatre New York
Primary Stages Acting School
Anthony Abeson Workshop
Bob McAndrew Workshop
Deena Levy Theatre Studio
Matthew Corozine Studio
Larry Singer Studio
Gene Frankel Theatre & Film Workshop
Glenn Alterman Studio
Bruce Ornstein Acting Workshop
Greg Seel: Alexander Technique and More
Kimball Studio
Catherine Gaffigan Studio
Maggie Reed Workshops
Ward Acting Studio
Joanna Beckson Studios
Acting on Impulse
LAByrinth Theater Company
The Acting Factory - NYC
The Actors Theatre Workshop
Charles Tuthill - Acting Coach
The Art of the Audition
Anania Studio
Acting International Workshop
Stonestreet Studios
A Class Act NYC
ACTeen (Kids/Teen)
ACT (Kids/Teen)
SOCAPA Summer Camps & Programs for Teens

Acting Schools/Studios for Working Actors:

Black Nexxus Inc
Sally Johnson Studio
The Barrow Group
Caymichael Patten Studio

Improv School / Training:

Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
Magnet Theater
The Peoples Improv Theater
Chicago City Limits
National Comedy Theatre
Gotham City Improv

Stand Up Comedy:

Manhattan Comedy School
Comic Strip Comedy Club
Carolines School of Comedy
Stand Up NY

Modern/Other/Mixed Technique Acting Teachers:

MTB Studio
Sande Shurin Studio
Penny Templeton Studio
Turturro Acting Studio
RE-Acting with David Vadim
Bova Actor's Workshop
Acting with Carol Fox Prescott
John Dapolito Workshop
Tom Todoroff Studio
Tim Phillips Studio
Australian Institute of Dramatic Arts

Of course there are other schools in New York, but the ones that I listed above are either 1) I have worked with Actors who studied there and had good experience working with them; 2) Well Known in the Industry; or 3) Great Reviews from local papers and fellow actors.

Commercial Workshops

Brooke & Mary Commercial Workshops
David Cady Commercial Acting Course
David Bellantoni Commercial Workshops
On-Camera Acting & Career Counseling with Erica Palgon
Commercial Workshops @ Downstairs/Hungry Man Casting
Media Image Coaching with Patricia Stark
Commercial Print Modeling Workshop

Acting Coach / Unique Classes

Bob Krakower
Kimberly Graham Master Class
Michal Zecher Acting Coach
Matt Newton Acting Coach
Daryl Eisenberg Master Class
Capes Coaching
Master Class with George DiCenzo
The Art of the Audition
Southgate Productions
Coaching with Roz
Acting on Film with Peter Kelly
Private Coaching with David Caparelliotis (MelCap Casting /Manhattan Theatre Club)
Private Coaching with Lina Todd (Lina Todd Casting)
John Howard Swain Acting Workshops
The Next Step Audition Workshop
On-Camera Audition Workshop with Geoffrey Soffer
Coaching with Jen Rudin
MaxTheatrix
Voice & Speech for Actors with Shane Ann Younts
Amy Stoller, Accent & Dialect Coach
Acting Heart NYC
New York Reality TV School
36th Street Studio

And Don't forget the Seminars!

Yes. If you have enough budget, and want get a chance to meet and audition in front of Talent Agents, Managers and Casting Directors, then you might want to invest in Seminars. (And Workshops taught by Casting Directors)

Even though Mass Mailing can be effective, but there's nothing more effective than meeting the Agent/Director/Manager face to face. When you submit your headshot/resume & cover letter via the big envelope, more chance is that it will be picked up by the Mail room first. Depends on the size of the agency, either the Mail room personal will open the submission, and do the first 'process of elimination.' What was left, will be delivered to the desk. Pretty much all the Agents/Manager would agree that they open ALL mails that went to their desk, they will open/review them in the most time efficient way... And that was that. You don't know if you will ever get a call from them...

Here are some of the well known facilities that hosts Seminars and Workshops taught by Industry People:

The Network Studio East$$
Showcase New York$$
Actors Technique$$
In the Room NYC$$
Breakthrough Studios$$ (Requires Phone Interview)
Paul Russell Casting Workshop$$
Actors Alliance Studio$$ (Requires Audition & Annual Membership Fee)
One on One Production$$$ (Requires Audition & 1-time Membership Fee)
The Network NYC$$$
Actors Connection$$$
TVI Actors Studio$$$ (Requires Audition & optional Annual Membership Fee)
Scott Powers Studios$$$$
The Actor's Green Room $$$$
The Actor's Market???
Donelli Workshops???
ClubModel USA???
The Wright Way Master Classes???
TruOnline$$$(Annual Membership Fee)

Marketing / Business of Acting

Act Outside the Box
Paul Russell: Access to Agents
The Actor's Enterprise

Acting Career Consultation

Intuitive Career Guidance with Pamela

Showcase

The Actor's Project NYC

A year in the Making

2008-08-27T10:45:00.003-04:00

Yeah, I'm not sure if I have mentioned this before.... But back in 2005/2006, I worked on a student action film called "The Setup."

There are been a lot of changes and problems we encounter during pre-production, but neverless. We were able to pick up pieces, re-arrange the script, and completed the shoot. Now, the Director finally finished editing the footage and uploaded them online.

There are scenes shot in the winter of 2005, and then scenes shot in Spring/Summer/Fall 2006. So don't be surprise if you see my hair changed from Short to Long and back to Short. (It's always easy for the GIRLS - they just have to tie their hair up and then they looked the same. My hair grows F A S T.)

The Setup Movie Trailer: Theatrical Version

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6 Part 1
Chapter 6 Part 2
Chapter 7
Chapter 8

To be honest, I didn't like my acting too much in the film, at least, in the scene shot in 2005. (Compare Chpater 3 to Chapter 8, You will see a difference). I didn't have enough experience under my belt, and I wasn't committed to the role, and to the scene.

So, watch the movie for it's entertainment value, not for MY acting. (Julie Jei protrayed the character Yumiko in the film... She was sooooooo good and dedicated to the production)

Seriously, I have met so many cool people in the production, and some I still keep in close contact with. :)

Right now, I'm aiming to do more theatre projects before the end of this year. (If I'm lucky, I might be able to do two shows!) Tonight, I have an audition for The Tale of the Black Veil 6. (I know, it does sounds like a Erotica Reading, isn't it?) But I did a little research and found some online videos of the past show. It's actually a collection of monologues/scenes/1-Acts involving characters who are Vampires, or those who are their Lovers/Victums/Supporters/Hunters. Very interesting. I know for sure, that I will have fun doing to cold-reads with them. I have never done a Vampire-character piece before.... So, we'll see.

*** Got offered a small (but fun) role for the short film "SEXTREMITIES" (Deidre Britter Dir.) - Production date TBD....

Mi Amor for My Family - That's a Wrap!!

2008-08-21T11:19:00.002-04:00

Well, a wrap for my scene.

It was definately a hot, hot, hot, and sweaty night for everyone. (No. I'm not talking about orgy.) There were lights, fog machine, equipments and a bunch of crew stuffed in a living room... Of course it'd be hot and sweaty and humid.

One of the HIGH-Note of the evening, was seeing a familiar face on set. Mr. John Hudar, whom I previous worked with in "Passengers of 7d," is the DP for "Mi Amor for My Family."

Everyone has a different style when they are working on set. When you are familiar with someone's style, it makes things easier on set. (Plus the actors will have more confident on the scene, without having to think about how he/she will look on screen) John is very professional and knows his stuff. Some might find his style and sense humor a bit 'uneasy.' But that's just how he works. And he produces quality work, there's no doubt about it.

I have to say, overall, the scene went pretty smoothly. Personally, I struggled a bit in staying with the character during the first few shots. I'm not sure why... Maybe it was because I had a long time at work... Or that I just couldn't focus. (I did give myself space and time to prepare... But appearently, that wasn't enough) I tapped into the character easier during the rehearsal than the actual filming... It was not until later in the evening, I was able to maintain and really involved myself within the story. The Director (Andre Maffioletti) seemed pretty stressed in the evening, and I didn't receieve any directions from him (in terms of character work, not physical positions)... I really hope that I gave him enough...

This Sunday, I have some pick-ups to do for Megaman. (Yeah... I'm not done with the film...) Oh, did I mention that there's a new message board for Megaman?! Plus an awesome banner featuring ROCK (protrayed by the super talented Jun Naito).

Long Time, Ya?

2008-08-01T21:01:00.002-04:00

Definately, it has been a while since I last update this blog. Well --- the news is, that I have gotten a new day job. A corporate position - lots of paper work, lots of typing, lots and lots of spreadsheets and this and that and more.
It's driving me nuts.
But hey, it helps to pay the bills...

N-E-Ways, this Sunday will be my last day filming Megaman. So, that will be a wrap for my part - I've also recently finished my last scene for Chinadoll. I'm going to miss everyone in the production...

*AHEM* But wait, don't think that I have nothing to do next - for those of you who knows me... I'm always out there auditioning and working... Right now, I'm involved in the following projects:

Mi Amor for My Family (Web Series)

An urban drama centered on Michael, a young Hispanic man who, due to a disastrous turn of events finds himself struggling in between fighting the state of NYC to keep the custody of his two sisters and the lure of a criminal life that can bring in enough money to save his family, but rob him of his liberty and humanity in the process.

I got offered a principle role of "Luke." Who originally was written for a Non-Asian cast. But I guess I looked thuggish enough at the audition, I landed the role.
But did you know that when I submit my headshot & resume, it was for another part? (well, the only part that I could submit at the time)
At the audition, I as offered two sides with character names that I didn't recongize.
One is for a WHITE BOY, and the other is a JEWISH MAN.
But neverless, the audition was great - I was in a great mood. Mentally and Physically, I was ready.
"Luke" only has 1 scene in the series - but it's a very - very - very - good scene. When I first read the updated part in the script, it got me very excited. I started to do my "Actor's Homework" right away. It will be a challenge though, because I have never done a scene like this. (Similiar character, but different choice)
If everything turns out well, it wll definately be part of my reel.
I will be filming the scene in the 2nd week of August.

Once the web series is available to view online, I will defiantely annouce it to the world - and will be looking for your support to the production. (Did I mention that the producer and the director are super nice? And *VERY* professional.)

Concerto (Short Film)

'Concerto' Shot on Super 16, Sets built and provided by Sets and Effects A highly stylized, hypothetical 1950's sci-fi idea of a modern future, a society on the brink of a Golden Age. 'Concerto' follows a young applicant, Brice Windsley, pending acceptance into Codones, the elite Institute of Modern Sciences; the future of health. A utopia/dystopia exploration of ambition, bureaucratic red tape and the pressing matter of progress- a social commentary on complacency, obedience, and the perversion of science in mankind's quest for ultimate control.

If you haven't check out the website, then you should. The beautifully concept art for the film really made you wonder... how exactly this film is going to turn out visually?

I also got a principle role, but it's more of a scene within a scene in the scene. Uh, does that make sense? I mean, my scene will be part of a "Television" program that will be played on a Television in a particular scene.
To be honest, I'm very lucky and greatful to be offered the part. I did not like my audition at all. The audition required the character to be very energic, like a bomb about to go off. However, the day job drained me, plus I had another audition before this one.... I really had to dig whatever that was left in my body to perform... I didn't feel real at all...
I will also be filming the scene in the 2nd week of August.

Kari Kari (Short Film)

Independent film series by Swiss student filmmaker
Experimental film project with global theme, taking a cross-cultural look at immigration, identity, visibility and personal space.

Yes. I have a principle role in this film. Several rehearsals have took place, and we are aiming to film in late August or early September. Believe me, the film involves a HUGE cast - and a LOT OF things going on at once. Just within the scene that my character will be involved, it's already a handful.

The director is still looking for more ASIAN MALE Actors to be part of the ensemble. If you are in NEW YORK, and fit the descrption, and like the idea of an experimental film, please send your headshot & resume to: djarriamedia@yahoo.com and tell the director that you're referred by me.

Well, that's it... 3 projects and probably will all be done by the end of August.... ah...

My Others

2008-07-20T19:30:00.002-04:00

Today, I had the pleasure of watching my friend, Pauline Cheung, performing her first Cantonese off-off Broadway show, "My Others."

It is so rare, to see a production that consist equally "star power" of both Asian actors in their senior age range, and the younger ones. Personally, I really enjoy watching the more mature talents performce, because they bring years of experience, solid training, and emotions to the stage - to the character.
As for other actors, it's always see how they're able to bounce off the energy of their co-stars, and bring something to the table.

With limited budget, I think the show was well put together. The script is very neat, and story line is easy to follow. (And YES, they have English Sub-titles)

So, if you are interested in the show, and want to support a low-budget fun performance, please.... please check it out:

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My OTHERS Playwright/Directed by Kit Sing Chao

Returned home from the Spring break one day, Lily, a quiet and reserved girl who has a hard time communicating with her father, found him sleeping on the couch. Or did he? According to her aunt, Lily's father has been killed recently in an auto accident. So who was the person she just saw in the house? That night, while she was cleaning up her father's room, a stranger appears - her mother's dead twin sister. Through this unacquainted relative, Lily is able to travel back in time and witness the events that took place after her mother's departure up until her father's last days. The haunted experience has helped Lily to expel the demon that has been living inside her, and finally resolve the differences between herself and her father.

Showtimes:

July 25 (Friday) 8pm
July 26 (Saturday) 3pm & 7pm
July 27 (Sunday) 3pm

Admission:
$12.00, senior citizens half-price
(Print out this poster and bring it to the box office, you will get $2.00 off)

Location:
Flamboyan Theater
CSV Cultural Center - The incubator of the arts
107 Suffolk Street at Rivington
New York, NY 10002

Direction:
Located at Lower East Side of Manhattan between Rivington St. and Delancey St.
(By Train:) F train to Delancey St. or J,M,Z to Essex St. Walk to Suffolk St., then make a left.

For more information regarding Four Seas Player, please visit: http://home.4seas.org
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Pauline's performance was great. I thought she did a wonderful job protraiting a ghost from the ancient past. Her movements, gestures, and expressions made her character believable.

I was shocked that after the show, when she greets me off stage, she asked me for my opinoin with her performance. I was very flattered - since I'm not really a stage actor, and definately not at the level to "coach" other actors. But I find nothing wrong with her performance. (Not that she's my friend or anything. I'm a very straight forward person, if someone asks me for my option, I tell it the way it is)

She told me that she couldn't get her tears to fall during a certain scene. (In rehearsals, she was able to turn on the flood gate and let everything go out)

My first instinct was, "Spirits don't have tears." And I told her that. I mean, after people die, all liquid within our body are either extracted, or dried up. How could a corpse cry?

One of the actors, she told me, cried during their scene.

I said... "I didn't notice."

Paulne: "He had tears."

Wayne: "Pauline, I was sitting in stage right, 4th row, right behind the person who does the subtitles. I didn't see tears. He looked white." (His character had WHITE theater makeup on his face)

Pauline: "You couldn't see?"

Wayne: "Nope. He's supposed to cry?"

From my personal point of view - Being able to cry (on cue) doesnt' prove an actor is professionally trained, or a 'real' actor. I mean, after all, this is a show, not a crying contest. If the tears come naturally within the character during the performance, then let them flow. But don't force yourself to cry. It doesn't work that way. (Plus, for stage performance, it's hard for the audience to see if a character is crying or not from far away. Tears are more effective for TV/Film close-up shots... but for Theater.. I think the focus should be voice projection and movements ---- yes yes yes, feel free to disagree with me)

Quoted from my acting teacher, Sande, that when you're on stage, you "live" in the situation. You express whatever it is, that *you* are feeling - in the content of the scene.

I think Pauline had no idea that her performance really showcased the years of training she had. She needs to have more faith in herself. I mean, she didn't realize how natural her movements were? The way she placed her handkerchief below her cheek, how she tilt her head side-ways... I personally think she outstaged her peers on stage.

Please Vote for Us!!

2008-07-05T08:27:00.000-04:00

Hey all!

Recently, me and fellow actors Jun Naito, Sarah Yu, Eddie Wong, and Hugo Salazar particpated in a 72hr film competition. The final film has been put on line and voting for the Audience Award has begun. PLEASE VOTE FOR US! If you REALLY love me, you'll do this....plllllleaaaase!

http://ningin.com/mediastream/item:show/2008/07/01/initial/

Thanks peeps!

Dissociative Identity Disorder

2008-06-02T11:28:00.005-04:00

Dissociative Identity Disorder is a psychiatric diagnosis that describes a condition in which a single person displays multiple distinct identities or personalities, each with its own pattern of perceiving and interacting with the environment.[1] The diagnosis requires that at least two personalities routinely take control of the individual's behavior with an associated memory loss that goes beyond normal forgetfulness; in addition, symptoms cannot be due to substance abuse or medical condition...

Now, you must be wondering, why did I start up this blog with an entry on DID?

Remember that I complained about that after the China Doll wrapped my scene, I'd end up with no gigs? (well, I'm still waiting for callbacks from 3 auditions that I went last week...)

Well, last Friday, while I was on location for a photo shoot with the talented Photographer Steve Pitre. I got a voice mail from Eddie, saying that there's something that he'd like to discuss with me ingards to Megaman.

I actually auditioned for the film last year - but didn't get the part. For a while, I knew that they film has been in production, and have seen some production/behind the scene photos... And was pretty excited about the film, especially that I know majority of the casts in real life. It turned out there have been some complication with one of the casts, and I was asked if I could replace that role. (For a sec, I thought I was going to be asked to help casting a replace for the role. Oh, by the way, did I menion that I do casting too?)

Boy, was I excited.

YES! YES! YES! YES! OH YES! I screamed in my head. But I knew that I needed to know the reason why, and see if the production schedule works out before I can confirm my availabity.

It turned out that things would go smoothly with the production schedule, especially the filming only takes place over the weekend.

Yay!

Anyway, the character that I will be replacing is a principle role with DID.

So far, I have not gotten notes from the Director in regards to the character. But of course, we all love to do our Actor's Home - that I've already doing my reasearch so I will be prepared when I attend the rehearsal. I came up on an interview session(starting 17:20) of Erika Slezak, of her character she protraied "Victoria Lord" on the daytime soap, "One Life to Live." It was amazing to hear Erika how she prepares and protrait the character. Because Erika totally breakdown the background story of her character and what could have been the source of the DID.

So, if it's not identified in the script aobut the source of the character's problem, then I'll start developing his own background story, and hopefully it would work out in the world of the script. (The character is Non-Human, so this will be interesting...)

One really good example of the transition, can be found on NBC's Show, HEROES (Season 1) Episode "Distraction." I serious think Ali Larter did a wonderful job with her take on Jessica/Niki Sander. In this espisode, she demonstration the directly 'transition' between the two personalities. Not overly dramatic, and yet the view can get a clear distinction between the two 'personalities.'

When I auditioned for the role, the transition described on the sides required a physical transaction-time, body and face movements shifting from one personality to another. But I personally feel the change should be settle... Similiar to what Ali Larter did with her character. I like it... Organic... But we'll see. I still need to do more work on this character and meet with the Director and other casts....

Niki Sanders: "Oh God, please help me."

Jessica Sanders: "Who needs God when you've got me?"

PS. Oh gosh, I love EDGY characters!!!

Panic. What's Next?

2008-05-27T18:20:00.002-04:00

Over the weekend, two things happened:

1) World Premiere / Screening of... Blitzkrieg: Escape From Stalag 69
2) Filming fight scene for... China Doll

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Blitzkrieg is a lot of fun. While filming the movie, I'd expect it to be a HORROR BLOODY Film. Tons of Screams. Tons of death. And Tons of blood.

But I literly laughed my a$$ off at the theater. I guess that's what the film is suppose to do to the audience. Yes, it's a slasher film based on a rather 'serious' theme, but the dialogues.... And the actions that the actors chosed are SO FUNNY.

Charles Esser (Helmut Schultz) and Steve Montague (Wolfgang), gosh, you two got great chemistry. You two *are* the show.

I didn't get to meet any of the other casts during my shoot, since my scene only involved 5 actors... It was definately a great pleasure meeting the lovely Tammy Dalton (Who played Candice), talented Brenda Cooney (who played Lucille), and the EVIL EVIL Gordanna Jenell (who played the EVIL Frieda). And of course, my super actres friends Anna Kuchma and Steph Van Vlack were present at the screening too.

This film may not suit everyone's taste, and some might find it offensive (yes, there are nudity involved) - but over all, I found it to be very entertaining. It definately has it's own unique style. Keith Crocker is one amazing Director/Writer.

Thank you all, so much, for having me be part of such fun production. :)

Now, from what I heard, that Pioneer Theater in New York will be showing this film for an entire week during the month of August '08. So, in case you're interested... mark your calendar!!

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I have been having stomach problem for the last couple days. The food I ate simply just sit in my stomach.... and won't go any where. - It largely has to do with the medication that I'm taking for my acid-reflux problem.... My belly has been bloated like, days. So, when I first went to the shoot for China Doll, I knew exactly how I will end up looking on film.

Some guy in Red shirt with BIG BEER BELLY.

Yeah, but there's nothing I could do... so I just sucked it up.

Kelmen and Tim are great, I enjoy working with them in our fight scene. Especially Tim, my, what a dirty mind you have. I'm sure you gave XiaXia a lot to think about at night.

Alain, if you are reading this.. PLEASE PLEASE PUT A LOT OF SPECIAL EFFECTS on my stomach, so i will look Tooth-pic thin.

Right now, there's still one more scene to shoot, before I'm totally done with China Doll.

Hrm... so what's next?

N O T H I N G

N O T H I N G !!!!!!!

I can't believe this, for the second time in the last 5 years, I have NO FOLLOW-UP Projects!!!!! I usually ALWAYS have something to do - either auditions or filming every week.... but now I have nothing.

I've been on a few auditions in the past weeks.. but I got no call-backs or booking notice from them.... Damn, I suck.

Inspiration

2008-05-14T15:11:00.002-04:00

For my character Huojin, (China Doll the Movie)- even though the character is described as a more "silent but deadly" type, kind of like "Miho" in the movie, Sin City.

But I want to infuse a certain 'fire' into Houjin's character.

I just hope that I will master the fight sequence, so I won't end up looking like this:

What makes a Good Photograph? How to Choose a Photographer?

2008-05-02T13:05:00.002-04:00

Recently, I had two friends ask me questions regarding to picking the right photographer, how to prepare before a photo session, and exactly, what defines a good photograph (headshot)?

Well, I'm not an expert, and have been in this industry for only 6 years. But being a future talent agent in training, I have read enough books and went to enough casting sessions, that I seriously think I can offer some good advices.

How to Choose a Photographer?

Besides in review a photographer's website (portfolio) online, you should always meet the photographer in person. It's a meet-n-greet session, where you can explain more to the photographer on what you'd like to accomplish in the photo session. At the same time, you need to see if you can develope a good relationship with the photograher. (Or, they call it "CHEMISTRY") You have to have good chemistry with the photographer, and feel comfortable with him/her around. A photographer's personality reflects in his/her style in photo shoots. (If someone tells me "Make Love to the Camera!" - I think I'd probably end up throwing-up)

Meet at least three to four photographers before you decided on which photographer would be shooting your headshots. Your headshot/compcard is your key to open doors of many oppertunities.

How to Prepare for a Photo Session?

Mirror Mirror On the Wall - Who's the fairest of them' all!

You are, darling. You are.

Pratice makes EVERYTHING perfect. Including how you express yourself.

Understand and feel how your face feels when you do certain expression. What's your best angle? Did wrinkles come when you smile a certain way? How to tone it down a little? What poses will make you look lean and fit? How can you hide that double chin?

I believe that every actors/models who poses in front of a camera, already have an image of how they look in their mind. It's about preparation and muscle memory.

Of course, during the photo session, you should also let yourself OUT, totally let go of any restriction of movements.... free up the expressions. So at the end of the shoot, there will be photos that are 'posed' and 'natural' to choose from.

The day before the shoot - PLEASE - Get Enough Sleep!! Sleep at least 8 hours... And don't drink ANY water two hours prior to bed time. And, avoid alcohol as much as possible. You don't want to look either too hydrated (eye bagggies) or dehydrated.

Before you go to bed, exfoliate your face with facial scrub, this will get rid of dead skin cells, and then use a gentle moisturizer (night cream? serum?) on your face. The morning you wake up, your skin should look more energic. If not, then wash your face with COLD water.

After a Photo Shoot...

Since you see yourself everyday - sometimes, a second or third opinion would help you find the perfect photo to use as your headshot.

You should definately ask the Photographer to help you pick up the best shoots. For example, pick top 5 photos out of 300 that was shot. The photographer would know which photo works, interms of lights, shadows.... (more technique stuff)

Later, show the top 5 photos to your agent/manager, and get feedbacks. (Agents/Managers see talents every day. They know what they look for in a headshot and they will tell you what works for you)

What defines a Good Photographer?

You. Your headshot definately need to look like you. Despite the amount of re-touching done, ir make up used... Eventually, you need to look exactly like your headshot.

Eyes. Your eyes. Your eyes need to make a connection to whoever is looking at the headshot. During the photoshoot, don't just blank-stare into the camera lenses.

Simple. Your photograph should make the viewer focus soley on your face. Dress simple, and don't over-do your hair. No big necklaces or earrings... Get rid of the any distractions. A solid, or a nice print shirt/dress works fine. Add a layer of sweater, or thin jacket is fine, but less pattern the better.

Hrm, yeah, that should be it. Let me know if you have any questions.

Nelly Yuki, She's Nelly Yuki

2008-04-30T15:21:00.004-04:00

Earlier this week, the TV show "Gossip Girl" introduced a new character, Nelly Yuki. She is "lactose intolerant," mega Book Worm, and wears GIANTIC GLASSES!!

I'd love to see more of her. I mean, Asian Representation!!!! Nelly Yuki!! Go Nelly Yuki!! Because She's Nelly Yuki!!!!

So, everyone, if you enjoy the show, or want to support a fellow Asian Actress, please go to CW's Gossip Girl Message Board, and write something good about her... Reques to see more of her... And turn Nelly Yuki into the series regular!

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A good news is, that I got casted for a role in the short film China Doll for the role of 'Huojin' - From what I know so far, is that the character will be fighting with a sword... This will be the 2nd film that I will be working with Actor Timonthy, and 3rd projects with Kang Zhang.
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On the other hand - I recently got an email from "Sean" - requesting an autograph from me... Well, I really don't know what to say, since I haven't really work at any mainstream projects (TV Series, Films).... Not that I don't want to..or anything, I was just never got invited to audition for the roles. (Makalina, are you reading this? Send me out more! Hee Hee)
Well, Sean, it has been sent out yesterday, and you should get it by Friday afternoon. I apologize for the delay, I had to order new cards with my recent photos. Again, thanks for being the FIRST person ever requested an autography from me. I'm very flattered.

And, definately want to know in what show/projects that you've seen me?
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Have you Voted yet?