PLAYING CATCH-UP

It's been five months since I've written here! Wow!

A few personal projects kind of took off and have kept me really, really busy.

Things are great! Am I exactly where I want to be in my acting career? No. Not at all, in fact. However, I'm happy and I feel like I'm moving forward in a very positive direction.

I'm currently taking some great acting classes and working on advancing my craft. I'm also doing private coaching, so overall, I'm always being challenged and pushed me to my limits. This, in turn, has aided in unlocking some amazing things for me and helping be become a stronger, more confident actress.

I've also been audition for some great roles in some amazing projects. Series Regular roles for Network Pilots that are being produced, directed, or written by people I admire. People whose work I had seen on TV or in films and could only dream of auditioning for. Recurring, Guest Star or Principal roles in shows that I actually watch on TV. Shows that I not only watch, but also like! As I'm sure you can tell, I'm beyond happy that I got a new agent. An agent who cares and tries to work hard for me, because he understands how hard I'm working too. An agent who chooses to believe in me. I turly appreciate him very much!

I'm also feeling much better in audition situations than I had felt a year ago. I'm learning to have more fun with it, bring more of myself into the room and just be free. It's not always easy, and sometimes one audition turns out to be more challenging than another, but it's kind of a relief to let go and not be so tense about it all. Not to say that I don't care, because that's the furthest thing from the truth. I care so much! But I'm trying not to let it get to me. I can still give a 110% of myself and want the role more than anything, but I'm not beating myself up over a line that could have been better, or worrying about who's kissing the casting director's cheek, or fretting over what kind of clothes I'm wearing and how much make-up I should put on.

The way I see it, I can only do my best. The rest is up to the universe. Or luck. Or some casting director or producer that thinks I'm a great actress (or takes a fancy to me - I'll take whichever one comes first!). Or how much I don't look like my co-star. Or how much I do look like my co-star. Or whatever other random thing happens to affect my chance of getting that particular role in that particular project. I can coach. I can do all the research and preparation before the audition. I can make sure that I look my best. I can have a great audition. And then, I can choose to stress out about it, or I can pat myself on the back and move on to the next one. I choose the latter. Otherwise, I've realized, I will drive myself nuts. Then, my acting choices would be limited to Lady Macbeth and girls in teen dramas. Which, technically, wouldn't be very bad parts at all now that I think about it.

All in all, I just wanted to come by and say "Hi!" I hope that all you aspiring actors and actresses are sticking it out as well! Or not, if it doesn't make you happy anymore. That's okay too. Sometimes, in this career, you need to know when you've had enough. A few months ago, it kind of came down to me either staying on this path and being happy with all the bad that comes with the good, or leaving and just...being. I'll get out when it no longer makes me happy, but for now, I will keep persevering.

Something great will happen soon. I just know it! :)

HAVE I JINXED IT?

It seems that every time I write a post about how great things are, I jinx myself! I am convinced that my most recent post on how things have finally picked up for me, has scared away all auditions. I have had 1 TV show and 1 commercial audition ALL MONTH. It's like a see-saw pattern - I complain, things pick up, I'm happy, things slow down. Therefore, I'm officially writing a COMPLAINT POST! You hear me Acting Universe?! I'm complaining! Please do something about it!

Aside from complaining, I'm keeping busy and staying positive. As an actor, do you really have a choice? Without some sort of a positive attitude, how would we be able to stay dedicated to this career? How's that Acting Universe? Now I'm kind of sulky as well. Complaining and sulky. You better do something quick!

Anyway, back to keeping busy. I've been doing some modeling and writing, which is always fun, but doesn't quite hit the spot like acting does. I'm also taking acting courses with a new coach that I really like. I think that I have finally found someone that works for me a 100%! I feel like I'm tackling some issues that I knew were there and needed to be worked on, but I didn't know how to address. This coach pinpointed them right away and we have such a great point to work from. I think having a good teacher that you can rely on is so very important for every actor. I am a big proponent of class work, but I also think that all actors need a private coach they can rely on. I've been waiting for my "The One" for a very long time. I've studied with some of Toronto's Best, but have often felt like they were more invested in making money and name-dropping than actually teaching. With this coach, I feel different. It's still too early to tell just how great we'll be together as our relationship is fairly new, but I really have a good vibe - both personally and academically - something I haven't experienced with many coaches. Wait, maybe I shouldn't say that out loud. I may jinx that too!

I do have to say that the "Vision Board" and "The Secret" haven't been doing much for me this month. What's up with that? I thought I was guaranteed some success. Or do I actually have to purchase the book first before it starts working?

xoxox

 

TORONTO IS PICKING UP!

I know that I have complained often about how slow the industry has been, so I think it's only fair that I write about the fact that there is so much happening in Toronto right now.

As I walked through one of the biggest casting offices today, I realized just how busy it is! They were casting for two Hollywood features here, four network shows there and it felt so good to be a part of it!

Things are looking up for me! :) I'm not sure if its the fact that: I am now ACTRA, have a great new agent or the industry has picked up...Or a combination of it all...But whatever it is, I am grateful!

I'm really happy with the type and amount of auditions I'm getting. I'm sure that after TIFF wraps up in Toronto, things are going to pick up even more until late Fall.

It also helps that I'm always keeping busy with personal projects - whatever they may be - so there's never a dull moment!

I hope you are all having a fun and successful September!

Wish me luck! :)

xoxox

 

VISION BOARDS

I have to admit that the idea of vision boards always seemed a little confusing to me.

I have seen "The Secret" and heard all the wonderful stories of people creating vision boards to help them visualize their goals and dreams and then achieving them with the aid of said tools.

I'm sure that every actor knows the story of Jim Carrey and his ten million dollar check. According to legend - and various websites - when Carrey was just starting out in Hollywood and was somewhat down on his luck, he decided to write himself a ten million dollar check “For Acting Services Rendered". He post-dated it ten years and right before the time was up, he was paid ten million dollars for his work on a film.

Sounds magical, right?

But for every Jim Carrey out there, there are ten million nameless actors who carry such checks in their pockets, and this does not happen to them. So I have to wonder, how much of that was the fact that he wrote a check and how much had to do with the fact that he had a certain goal in mind and worked toward it full-force? I mean, can any Joe Shmoe actor write a ten million dollar check, sit back on his couch, and except that randomly, without doing anything to move his career forward he will wake up one day and this money or this great role or whatever will find him? I don't think so. I mean it happens, sure, people do encounter great luck (much of becoming a working actor is all about luck, isn't it?!), but I also see the actor's career as something active; something we need to grab control of and constantly work hard to move forward. 

Therefore, I am really conflicted by how vision boards are explained in "The Secret", because from what I understood, simply creating a vision board and sending out all these positive thoughts into the universe will tap into a "law of attraction" and bring you your desires. Mind you, I may not have understood it correctly, as I have to admit that I wasn't fully engaged in the film because I kept yelling at the TV: "I am always telling the universe that I'm going to book this role and that role and it's not happening! I envision it, I want it, I desire it, I feel it, I'm positive... So cut me some slack please!"

From what I can conclude, I don't think that vision boards are necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I think that they are a wonderful tool that can aid actors. However, they are simply an aid that has to be paired with lots of hard work. I now see vision boards as a way to keep my goals in check and  envision where I want to be and what I should do.

Therefore, I created my first vision board!

It contains what I believe are attainable goals for the next two months. For example, it is filled with Canadian shows that I want to work on and can feasibly work on. The vision board I printed out with my name is more filled out, this is kind of a skeleton of it. 

Goals and Visions for September & October 2011:

(Just to be safe, I'm going to be very clear). 

* Audition for 15 shows displayed on this board by the end of October.

* Book and shoot 5 actor roles on the shows displayed on this board by the end of October.

* Book and shoot 2 principal roles on the shows displayed on this board by the end of October.

* Book and shoot 1 guest star role on any Network TV show by the end of October.

* Book and shoot [any role on] 1 Feature Film by the end of October.

* Book and shoot 1 National Commercial by the end of October.

* Get 2 more ACTRA credits by the end of October.

* Add more credits to my IMDB page by the end of October.

* Earn money from my acting career by the end of October.

Do you hear me Dear Universe?!

So, fellow actors, what is your take on Vision Boards?

xoxox

 

REVIEW - YEARLY GOALS: JANUARY-AUGUST

As you may remember, at the beginning of 2011, I set some acting-related goals for the first half of the year. (You may view the post here).

September 1^st, 2011 marks my one-year anniversary of pursuing a successful working actress career as well as the end of the half-year period I set to achieve these particular goals, so I feel like it is only fitting to look back on my accomplishments. Since I often tend to focus on what I haven’t yet achieved and what I still need to accomplish, I need to bring certain triumphs into perspective so that they can act as fuel and drive me forward on this journey.

2011 Yearly Goals (January-August)!

Have a Great Agent

In an interesting turn of events, I now have a new agent whom I really like! As you know, I already loved my commercial agent, so I finally feel like I am part of a great team. I am comfortable with this new agent and truly feel like he understands me and believes in my goals. We haven’t been together very long yet, but I am certain that we have a happy future (filled with many great of bookings!) together.

Get new Headshots I LOOOOOOVE 

I shot some great new headshots! I really like them and my agents love them, but I have also come to the realization that I will always continue to be on some quest to get THE PERFECT headshot.

Become a Full ACTRA Member

Even thought, I have yet to become a full ACTRA member I did receive my first ACTRA credit and was finally eligible to join the union! Believe it or not, this actually caused somewhat of a dilemma, as I was scheduled to shoot five non-union projects (some of which I had worked on in a production aspect and others which I had excitedly booked!) and was unsure if I wanted to leave behind all these exiting opportunities to jump into the unknown. However, after much self-deliberation, discussion with my agents and other union and non-union actors, I realized that in order to be able to take the next step and start auditioning for and working on bigger and better projects, I really needed to become ACTRA. Therefore, I am now happy to report that I am officially an ACTRA Apprentice member! I need only two more credits (since they have changed it from six to three) to become full ACTRA. I have to admit that it has already paid off with a couple of great union auditions!

                                                                   

Write/Produce/Direct Something of my Own

I had a very busy few months and put my creative skills to good use. I teamed up with some wonderful people to create three different projects; all very diverse. As I am now unable to shoot anything that is non-union and I cannot afford to create an ACTRA TIP production at the time being, my partners and I have decided to pitch our completed scripts and packages to Networks this month. Well, two of the projects will get pitched, the third, which I have created and written on my own will actually be turned into a book with the intention that one day some big-short producer will want to make a show out of it. Of course, before I give them the rights, they will first agree to cast me in the lead role!

Shoot a National Commercial

See previous Blog post for details.

Shoot a Print Ad Campaign with National Exposure

Hmm…I didn’t shoot an actual ad campaign, but I did work with various new designers and appeared in a few magazines, so I’ll count it as a success.

Shoot a Magazine Cover
I shot my first - and certainly not my last - magazine cover! Yay!

Publish a Writing Piece

I have to admit that I haven’t done much to pursue this goal, as my writing over the past few months has mostly consisted of scriptwriting. Nevertheless, I do have something to show for it and hopefully my partners and I will reactive some positive reactions to our pitches. As well, I am going to make it my goal for the future to actually commit to and finish this book. I know it’s a huge project, but I’m passionate about the story and believe that I can do it. I also collaborated with yet another group of partners and put out a first issue of an international print magazine. That’s something, right? :)

Travel to LA and Vancouver (hopefully on acting-related business)

I have yet to travel to LA or Vancouver. Things are in motion with my agency regarding this. I’m certain that in the future, I will have happy news to report on this matter.

Take an advanced on-Camera Acting Class

I did some coaching, but have not taken another acting class. This will change…Like tomorrow! To be a working actor, you need to be an actor in training.

Master 3 Accents Successfully

My main goal is to be confident with my GA accent. I really think that’s the most important thing that I need to focus on in the next few months in order to help with furthering my acting career.

Book & Shoot a Role on a Network TV Show

I’m really close! I really am!

Book & Shoot a Lead Role in a Feature Film

I did not book and shoot a lead role in a feature film, but I am happy to report that I will be making a very brief appearance on the big screen in a TIFF short. Baby steps! It’s my second time on the “big screen” and will not be my last. Next step, lead role in a feature film!

Exercise Regularly

I love the thrill of exercise and I can report that I did have a successful summer exercise-wise.

Be Healthy

Thankfully, I am!

Love Deeply

Of course!

Embrace Opportunities

Check!

Be Happy & Thankful

Even though in the past few months, I have had very low moments where I just want to cry about what I haven’t achieved yet and how far I have yet to go before I can happily call myself “an actress”, I am thankful for so much in life. I need to focus on all the achievements outlined above and continue on this path. I am especially thankful for my family and the love and support they offer me along this journey.

Be a Working Actress

While I still have yet to book roles on a regular basis and be able to support myself financially in this career, I love what I do with my whole heart and I do not wish to give up on this dream. I know that it is only a short time away until I will be able to confidently tell people that “I’m a working actress and yes, you have seen me somewhere – no, make that everywhere”! :)

xoxox

 

WHEN YOU LEAST EXPECT IT...

...YOU BOOK SOMETHING BIG!

The week, started off pretty busy. I had three commercial auditions, varying in role and product types. All three were for fairly well-known brands/companies. For the first, I was definitely not the type they were looking for (there is only so much you as an actor can do when the breakdown calls for a girl with a “full sleeve tattoo” and you don’t give off the vibe of someone that has ever considered getting one). Nevertheless, I actually enjoy stretching myself as much as possible to fit into various roles and always do my best. I think I looked the part (for most part - minus the tattoo) and I figured if they really wanted me, then darn it they would give me a fake tattoo! Alas, it seems that they did not.

The second commercial was a cattle call of all the pretty girls in the city (and during these, I always find myself surrounded with models vs. actors). Since I do float between both the acting and modeling auditions, I’ve gotten pretty good at reading between the lines and guessing which type of people I would encounter at which auditions. Sometimes at these auditions where they literally call what seems like hundreds of pretty girls, each one very pretty in her own way, I wonder if the casting directors even watch the tapes (especially for SOC) roles or if they just randomly choose, haha! I know it’s all legit and professional, of course, I just have a good time imagining the “poor” casting directors and their “poor” assistants (which happen to be mostly young men at this particular place) having to go over tapes of a million hot chicks for days! Anyway, I also did not book this one. I’m sure not for lack of skills or hotness, of course. ;)

My third and final audition of the week was for a commercial for a really well-known company. I guess a leading, international company in their line of work, you could say. The role breakdown was one of those where they tell you to dress casual and even though you’re the “hero”, they call you something random and odd and they say the script will be waiting for you the casting office so you don’t really know what you are doing or what is expected of you from the breakdown. In all honesty, from all the commercial auditions I have done not only that week, but probably all year, I worried the least about this one. I didn’t fuss over my hair (which I always wash and style right before the audition). No, in fact, I simply used the curls I had from the afternoon before and brushed through them. I didn’t fuss over my make-up, which was very minimal, but melting from the heat of one of the hottest days of the year. I made sure I wasn’t shiny, but I just let it go. In fact, I even had tiny wrinkles in my freshly-ironed top, again, due to the fact that it was super hot and sticky. Now, even though my wardrobe did not call for frumpy in the least, I didn’t freak out over it like I usually would. I would, at times, change ten times before settling on a perfect audition outfit for a specific role. Sometimes, I plan and plot the night before with my mom (and then still end up changing like three times the morning of the audition, hehe). I do have my top five go-to outfits for various roles, but I just want everything to be perfect to the last detail. But I honestly…I don’t know what got into me. I can’t say that I didn’t “care”, because, of course I did. I just “let go”. Kind of like “a whatever will be, will be” attitude. I was going out for a role in a commercial for a huge company and I know that they were casting their net very far and very wide, so I didn’t really have my hopes up too high.

I was not surprised when I arrived at the casting office and found tons of people – girls, women and men of all ages with perfectly groomed hair and dressed to the nines. What’s more, I was called in first (with two other men for a group audition). I am often first at two specific casting offices in the city and often last at another one. I’m not sure why this is, I assume it may have to do with my name or my agency or another odd reason, but I have yet to determine whether going first/middle/last makes a difference (and if so, which is the best position). Anyway, since we were the first group, the casting assistant who was taping the audition explained what he needed us to do and then he called in EVERYONE. FROM. THE. WAITING. ROOM. (and there were a lot of actors in there since not only were they running a little behind, but many arrived early) so that we could PERFORM. FOR. THEM. ALL. because it was somewhat tedious choreography and he said that he wanted to show everyone auditioning what they needed to do. I don’t know if this is common practice, as I have never had it happen in my entire life (I mean, I was taught simple choreography for a commercial in a group with other actors, but never did another actor do the actual demonstration. Anyway, there I stood, thinking that I really wanted to insert a laugh at a certain part that would be cute, but didn’t want to give the other actors any ideas of how I wanted to tweak the audition and make it stand out so that made me a little uncomfortable. However, I decided instead of seeing it as a negative, that I would use the demonstration time as rehearsal time so when he started to actually shoot my audition, I would be great! After all, how could they not cast me?; I was already performing the commercial in front of an audience! Anyway, it went as well as all other commercial auditions often tend to go (which really means nothing at all) and I went home.

I did end up getting a callback the next day for the day after, so I literally repeated my entire routine - day old curls and nonchalant attitude included. Now, I usually try not to get my hopes up during callbacks, because even when it’s just between you and another person, nothing is guaranteed. It was definitely not between just me and another person. It was between me and at least five other people, maybe even ten because they just kept coming and coming. Anyway, this time around, I didn’t have to do the presentation, and again, it went well. Well, well, well. (My mom always calls me after an audition to ask how it went, and unless I think I really messed up something, I don’t have much to say…I mean it usually “was amazing”, or it “went well”, or “grr! I messed up”!) but who knows as it seems that no matter what, I have the same booking rate with all three, so I’ve kind of given up trying to figure it out (okay, well, I haven’t really and never will, but I did with this particular audition).

I received a call and was placed on hold. Heck even when you’re on hold and it’s between you and one other person – it could still unfortunately turn out that you don’t get it. I have learned early on in my career that while holds are a reason to pat yourself on the back, they are not a cause for celebration. A few days went by. I didn’t let myself get excited or tense or anything really. I wanted it, yes, I wanted it very badly, but it was literally out of my hands.

That is, until I got the call! I BOOKED IT! So I suppose the moral of the story is that you really never know. When you least expect it, when you go to the audition with day-old curls and just let go…you just might book it!

xoxox

  

THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS

 

Happy May! Today, I am 8-months into my full-time acting career adventure. According to my amazing grade school math skills, that means that I am already two-thirds into my journey! Time truly flies when you're having fun and working hard.

I did not intend to write a reflection regarding my monthiversary today, as it was actually unbeknown to me that it was already May (I'm choosing to ignore the fact that it's almost summer and we have barely seen the sun here in Toronto), but I did come to share some thoughts on what I have been up to lately, so I suppose the two will work well in conjunction.

Things have been okay. Just okay. Everyone who follows my "real life" keeps mentioning how great I'm doing and how much I have accomplished. However, I'm way more critical of my achievements. In all honesty, if I hadn't been hustling like crazy, focusing on the positive and creating my own work, I would be feeling very sad about my acting career.

RE: Hustling Like Crazy

I have been self-submitting myself and auditioning a lot. In March, I booked almost everything I went out for. The stuff I didn't book either fell through (Show Pilots) or I was at least on hold for (Commercials). In April, my booking rate went way down! Why? I'm not quite sure. I went through a two-week period where I was doubting my acting skills a lot. I was questioning the fact that maybe I'm just not that talented and I should quit while I'm ahead. The weird thing is, in March all my feedback was about how "amazing" and "impressive" I was and in April I was getting callbacks for every single thing, but no bookings! I was seriously doubting my acting skills. And as these things do, it just snowballed. By the end of the month, I was starting to feel very disconnected and out of character in every single audition and just not like my usual self. Finally, I just decided that I'm going to need to make a decision - am I in or am I out? - and go with it! I decided that obviously, I'm not going to quit pursuing my dream just because I hit some weird rough patch and by the end of the month, I was back in my groove. I even booked a lead in a film - albeit it's a short and unpaid, grr! I also met with a Casting Director that I haven't met with before and she gave me some great feedback about my performance. This woman was every actor's dream CD! An absolute blessing. In May, I hope to meet at least two new Casting Directors and book something that will get me to your TV set - a National Commercial or a Network TV Show (at least an actor role!)

RE: Focusing on the Positive

As you may have noticed, I tend to downplay my success quite a  bit to myself as well as to others. Nothing is ever good enough for me! I book a commercial, "Oh, it's only local/web, it's not national!". I get an editorial in a well-known magazine: "Oh, it's only online, not print!". I book a lead role in a film: "Oh, it's an indie short, not a studio feature!". It's never enough! So, I told myself to chill out and focus on the positive and shout it out to the world (this was hard, as I don't like pimping myself out). I'm not yet making a living out of my acting, but as far as other career accomplishments (that don't put food on the table and pretty new shoes on my feet!) I am doing just fine. I'm doing great! I have to say that my spirits have also been high over the past month due to the fact that I have been working out regularly. In a career field where I have so little control over the outcome, it's definitely nice to busy myself with something where I can see results of my hard work. Sweat and tears are always welcome when the result is a nice booty!

Creating My Own Work
I have a few self and partner created projects on the go. I really like having creative input and control over the my work. I have always been attracted to the creating, writing, directing, producing etc. aspect of the industry and this allows me to immerse myself into other parts of the "acting world". What's the worst that could happen? Nothing, in my opinion. It's a learning process, but each day is very exciting and being behind the scenes of the creative process helps me in becoming a better actress.

Here's to a very successful May!

xoxox

TIPS FOR OVERCOMING INDIE FILM BLUES

I have been meaning to write about something indie film industry-related that has been on my mind for a while. Considering some recent happenings, I think it’s a good idea to discuss it now.

This issue mainly affects the non-union, low budget, indie aspect of the industry. Basically, it comes down to this…If I put out an ad on a casting website that states that: “I am Miss Unknown Director, currently casting for my new film”, I will get tons and tons of headshot/resume submissions from talented, eager and willing actors. This is the reality of our little struggling actor industry. Since we work in such an oversaturated and competitive market, most of us will be eager to work on a project – any project!

However, you have to be careful. The truth is that basically anyone can post on websites like Craigslist.com and Mandy.com and request actors for their production. Sometimes, these people may have high-hopes and great ideas, but no way to follow through. Therefore, you go to the audition, meet with Miss Unknown Director and her friend Mr. Unknown Producer, give a stellar performance, even receive a “We absolutely love you!” cheer, and then never, ever hear from them again. Then you begin self-doubting yourself. What did I do wrong? Am I a bad actor? Am I not pretty enough? Too pretty? (Come on, you know you've use this one to soothe your hurt actor ego..."Yup, I'm just too darn pretty for the role!") And on and on...

Sad Kitteh is Too Fluffy for the Role!

The truth is, sometimes productions like this fall through due to many different reasons – lack of funding, equipment or resources, Miss Unknown Director deciding that directing is not, in fact, her calling and going back to her day job, etc. So you have basically wasted your precious time preparing for and going to an audition for a job that will never be. Or maybe the job “is” and Miss Unknown Director just gives the lead roles to her BFFs. The thing is when working in the indie industry and auditioning for roles without an agent’s guidance, you need to be careful and do your research so that you’re not wasting your time, energy and possibly tears on such projects.

Here are some tips that I have come up with:

1. Know who you are auditioning for.

Google the heck out of them (you should be doing this anyway even for union auditions/jobs so that you are familiar with the director, producer, past work, etc.). If you are unable to find ANYTHING about them or their production company, then ASK THEM! Yes, it’s that simple. I think that actors sometimes forget that they have the right to audition the director, producer, whoever. You have standards, don’t you? I’m sure it would make a big difference if the indie director/producer/whoever has three quality films under their belt and a solid production crew behind him/her vs. if they are an eleven-year-old with a passion for directing and daddy’s handy cam (I use this example from personal experience). You, as an actor, have every right to know about the crew’s past work and experience. Yes, they are auditioning you, but you need to audition them as well. That’s not to say that you should not give new and upcoming directors/producers/whoever a chance if they have a strong project and action plan. Who knows where the next Spielberg is hiding?

2. Know the plan for the project.

What will be the outcome of your 12 hour days on set (unpaid, of course)? Are you working on something that will be pitched to networks, submitted to festivals, shown in the director’s parents’ basement? Unfortunately, you can’t always gauge where exactly the project will end up and how well it will do. Maybe it will get submitted to every single festival in the world, but it does not get selected. Maybe it will be pitched as a pilot, but the network passes on it. However, at least knowing the intent may help. Not always, though. I worked on a project that was supposed to be pitched to a major network, and to this day it has still not been edited, let alone pitched! I guess you win some, you lose some. That’s the gamble of the indie industry.

3. Show me the money...Or at least talk about it!

If you are working on a non-paying project, know what you are working for. I once did a film for a student (an end of the year project), singed my release and once that director graduated, I noticed that he was selling the film – without even telling me! Mind you, I don’t think he was making any significant amount of money from it, but still. If you are not getting paid for a project, are you working on a deferred payment method? If so, do you have that in writing? When you have an agent, it’s easier because he/she can help oversee the contacts and release forms. However, if you are a struggling actor, eager to work (on anything!) make sure you pause and read all release forms carefully. Do you know and understand exactly what you are signing?

4. Choose projects wisely.

The world will not come to an end if you don’t audition for every single project that comes your way. The thing with actors is that quantity often overrides quality because we’d rather be audition for 10 so-so projects than 1 amazing project. The odds of booking SOMETHING are obviously higher in the former. However, sometimes it may be a better idea to skip auditions for obviously bad projects and take a class instead. Or go to the auditions just to practice your auditioning skills. The truth is, you never know where a project will end up  and how well it will do. I'm sure that many actors have passed up on opportunities that they later regretted (Will Smith passed on "The Matrix" so that he could film "Wild Wild West" - actually a lot of actors apparently passed on the role of Neo). Anyway, you never know! You are usually better off saying "yes" to auditions and projects, but just be careful so that you don't burn out.

5. Don’t dwell on it.

As I mentioned above, sometimes indie projects simply fall through. You have to be ready for that, even if you book the role. Don't dwell on a role you never hear back about, don't dwell on a project that is shelved...It's life!

6. Have fun!

Remember to have fun along the way. If you want to work on something just for the heck of working or because you want to surround yourself with like-minded individuals even though they may not have a mile long IMDB credit list or the best Demo Reel, that’s okay! Just make sure you know what you are getting yourself into it, and then enjoy! Maybe you will meet an up and coming director/producer/writer/whoever who makes a wonderful hit! Or perhaps you will become friends and after making a few flops together you will collaborate on an amazing hit! You will help them develop their skills while you work on your acting in a supportive environment. It’s a win-win situation.

7. Create your own work.

You have the power to make your own work! Get together with your fellow struggling actors/writers/directors/whoever and create something!

So, Fellow Actors and Actresses, what are your thoughts on this topic?

xoxox

FLEXING MY CREATIVE MUSCLES

Hello!

What a lovely day! Sunny Spring weather makes me very happy and energetic.

I am currently waiting to hear back about a few indie short/feature films, TV pilots, music videos, as well as commercials. Keep your fingers crossed for me! :)

However, while waiting for my big break, I'm not sitting by idly and staring at the phone. In fact, I'm trying to create an even bigger break with a few personal self-created/self-produced projects.

Being creative in this aspect is making me very excited about everything! Going to auditions for other people's projects is also different now. I'm not longer "desperate for any job" because I know that no matter what, I will be working on something I love this Spring/Summer!

Anyway, I just thought that I would write a quick note and express my excitement about the industry and being an actor. I know that I usually tend to write about the less positive aspects of the industry because - let's face it - people are more interested in hearing about the "ugly" audition or on-set experience. However, by always focusing on the struggle of being an actor, I sometimes forget why I am here - why I love and crave this career...Why I get so excited to be on set, explore various characters, work with diverse people, etc.

Therefore, my new goal is: "Focus on the Positive" and  hopefully the positive will focus on me as well!

xoxox

PUTTING THIS FAIRYTALE TO REST (FOR NOW)

My agent submitted me for the role of Snow White in "The Brothers Grimm: Snow White" in the upcoming feature film and I didn't even get an audition! Boo! Well, not to worry - Phil Collins' daughter got the part, lol! I am certainly not saying that she isn't talented and experienced and that she didn't deserve it fair and square; it's just a bit discouraging to even compete for roles against girls who come from such powerful backgrounds (and are not stuck in Canada). Apparently, oddly enough, there are two (or maybe even three) "Snow White" films coming out in 2012 - One with Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron, the other with Lily Collins and Julia Roberts and possibly a Disney one as well. Why so many, I wonder?!

The good thing that came out of this is the fact that my agent submitted me for the role. Whee!

Upward and onward. I'll get there soon. Then Ms. Collins and Ms. Stewart better watch out! :)

Maybe "Sleeping Beauty" will be the charm? The funny thing is, I make a pretty darn good Snow White!

xoxox

SHARING THE AUDITION SPOTLIGHT

 

I recently had a Pilot audition for a great series regular role for a show set to air on a network. My lines were very fun and simple, the acting was sitcom-style, the show seemed interesting, I looked good for the role...It was all nice and peachy!

I got there after a fairly fun commercial audition, spirits high, ready to rumble. Everyone was going into the audition room to meet with the director and producer one by one; however the casting director suddenly decided to start sending in some girls in pairs in order to cut down on time. Unfortunately, one of these pairs (and there were only very few!) ended up being me and Miss Centre of Attention.

I went in with a girl who not only knew the director and producer and decided to start talking to them about “old times”, but who also tried to dominate the audition. It was very hard to stay with her without going over the top, but I was stuck at the “play it safe and not get noticed” or “take risks and hope for the best” crossroads and needed to do something about it. I decided to take some risks and match her while at the same time keeping to what I had previously rehearsed and hope for the best. After all, it’s a sitcom, so hopefully that was fine. I don’t know. It was weird. She was making them crack up because of the choices she made, but if I had gone to the same extreme with my character, it would have looked really odd and comical. I have to say that this was quite an alarming situation to be in especially because instead of getting to know me, the director spent all the time reminiscing with the other actress. At the end of the audition, they didn’t even know my name…:S

We were going for different roles, I’m not worried about her taking my role or anything, but I’m worried about the fact that another actress went right after us for my role and she got to go in by herself. She was obviously going to get more personal time and not have to worry about them not catching her name just because someone beside her is babbling on. I don’t know. I’m just hoping that I made a strong impression. They didn’t videotape the audition so I’m either hoping that they are doing callbacks so that I get a second chance to show off or that I was super memorable in some way and they are just so ready to cast me. I wouldn’t even object to the outspoken actress chick being my castmate! :)

I know that this is the industry. Curveballs are constantly being thrown at us actors and we need to know how to deal with them on the spot. We shouldn’t complain. I guess I was just peeved because there was literally nothing I could have done in this situation to divert the attention to myself aside from making myself stand out in a bad way by fighting for the spotlight. I was also quite sad about the fact that when I got into the room, the director asked: “How come you both came in? Is there a reason that you’re being sent to us in pairs?” Grr! I’m pretty sure I offered to step out and come back, trying to save my audition, but they just decided that they’ll have us audition together since we were already there.

Perhaps it’s my fault for not fighting for attention. Maybe I made the mistake of not using the situation and what was happening in the moment to my advantage and trying to stir their conversation in my direction, but I’m just not that type of person. I find that tacky. I guess I just have to trust that my acting and my look were right for the role and made the director and producer stand up and take notice. It just seems like a funny and interesting project and I would love the chance to be involved in it and show off what I really can do.

In hindsight, I should have told the casting director that “I reeeeally have to run to the restroom!” with an embarrassed smile and made my competition (that was going right after me) go in with the other actress instead.

I guess the lessons that came out of this are:

• Always be ready for anything.
• Don’t be afraid to make “them” pay attention.
• Trust your acting abilities. 
• Don’t sweat it when it’s out of your control.

C’est la vie! Things happen for a reason. Who knows! Perhaps things will work out in my favour! Maybe we made such a great duo that they are going to absolutely have to cast us both! :)

xoxox

SELF-SUBMISSION ADVENTURES: THE REWARDS

 

March was quite a wonderful, busy, productive month! My hard work has been paying off little by little!

I shot a short indie film, worked on two music videos and booked another one which I’m set to shoot soon, shot a regional commercial, got an IMDB credit for a feature film I worked on, did a few editorial photoshoots for magazine submissions, modeled clothing for a designer’s lookbook, auditioned for many diverse projects and received amazing feedback regarding my acting, had a few commercial holds, started pre-production on a few self/partner-created projects, took an acting class, and enrolled in a workout class that kicks butt (literally!). Phew!

 

All in all, March has been great and I’m very proud of myself. I have been working so hard for a while now and it feels like things are finally taking a turn in a positive direction. However, I want more, I crave bigger and I know I can do better! Therefore, April is going to be even grander! I just know it! I’m not giving up!

It’s funny, if everything works out the way I hope and dream it would, I could actually knock off most of my acting goals this month. I auditioned for a few roles in some feature films. One is theatrically bound, so that would be absolutely awesome to be involved in. The other one is either TV or film festival bound. I also apparently already booked a lead role in another feature film, but I have yet to get any confirmation about the role, shoot, etc. so I’m not getting my hopes up until I have a contract of some sort in front of me. I also auditioned for two pilots for a Network TV Shows, so if they like me, hey! That’s another goal accomplished. As well, I currently have a callback for a national commercial so wish me luck. I also have three or four editorials being shopped to some magazines, two of which could end up being covers if chosen, so that would be absolutely amazing!

Unfortunately, this is such a topsy-turvy industry. You have to be ready for anything when you are doing things on your own (through self-submissions)! It could work out that I do not book those feature films for reasons X, Y, or Z. The other one that I have already booked could fall through since I haven’t heard back from the director in almost a month. The Network TV show issue is a whole other story for another day – I will explain tomorrow. The national commercial…Well, the only problem with that one is that it may be for the European nations instead of our North American ones although it’s for a good brand, haha. The magazines could pass on the editorials, just as easily as they could pick them up and put my face on the newsstands! It's truly such a cutthroat, crazy industry!

Oh, well. I can’t think that way. I have to keep positive, have high hopes and reward myself for my accomplishments! I’m doing well! I have been working very hard and hopefully it will pay off! Come on Universe! Show me some love! :)

xoxox

SO YOU WANNA GO TO HOLLYWOOD?

Looking For:

• An American bachelor willing to marry me!
• Preferably a good-looking one with pleasing manners and a great sense of humor.
• Even more preferably one with connections in the entertainment industry.

 

(In case the U.S. government happens upon this blog post, I wish to clarify that I’m totally kidding. Well, kind of. I also wish to ask why you have made it so difficult for a girl to pursue her dreams?!)

All jokes aside, I wanted to dedicate this post to my fellow Canadian (and other non U.S.) actors dreaming of auditioning/working in LA or NY or anywhere else in the U.S. for that matter.

Before you pack your bags and rush off to Hollywood, consider this:

• Do you have a dual Canadian/American citizenship or a way of getting one?
• Are you married/engaged to - and hopefully in love with - a U.S. citizen?
• Do you have a really awesome job lined up where a sponsoring organization (in the entertainment industry) is willing to vouch for you?
• Are you an individual with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in motion picture or television industry and can prove it?

If your answer to all of the above is “No”, then the unfortunate news is that you should probably hold off on that move. The good news, however, is that you’re in the same boat as me! How fun, right?

I’ve been researching ways that I can get my butt out of Toronto and closer to where the action is, and have come up completely short.

I suppose moving to Vancouver would be one way to be closer to the action. Many American shows and films shoot in Vancouver and often cast Canadian actors for various actor/supporting/co-star/guest-star roles. Before making such a move, I would first have to hook up with a legitimate, first-class Vancouver agency and preferably become a full ACTRA member.

I could also stay in Toronto hope to one day get some notable auditions and work up a good body of work on network television shows and in recognizable film (feature/big festival) roles so that I can qualify as “an individual with an extraordinary ability/achievement”. However, at that point, wouldn’t I have achieved my goal of becoming a “working actress” and not really need to be in Hollywood? I digress, I would still want to be in Hollywood because that’s where most of the action for the type of work that I wish to be doing currently is. Plus, this post is about what you need to accomplish as an actor to get your butt from Canada to the U.S. and work!

Basically, according to my research, you’ll either need to have a dual citizenship (is your mom/dad a U.S. citizen?), marry a U.S. citizen over a certain age (I also believe that they have to prove ability to support you), get an industry job that sponsors your Work Visa (I wish!), or apply for an O-1B Visa for individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in motion picture or television industry.

I cannot help you with the first three (I truly wish I had a great feature film job over at Paramount to offer you!); however I can give advice on the fourth. You can check out the information regarding how to qualify for an O-1B Visa as presented on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service website.

Here is a breakdown of the Evidentiary Criteria for an O-1B Visa:

Evidence that the beneficiary has received, or been nominated for, significant national or international awards or prizes in the particular field, such as an Academy Award, Emmy, Grammy or Director's Guild Award, or evidence of at least (3) three of the following:

• Performed and will perform services as a lead or starring participant in productions or events which have a distinguished reputation as evidenced by critical reviews, advertisements, publicity releases, publications, contracts or endorsements
• Achieved national or international recognition for achievements, as shown by critical reviews or other published materials by or about the beneficiary in major newspapers, trade journals, magazines, or other publications
• Performed and will perform in a lead, starring, or critical role for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation as evidenced by articles in newspapers, trade journals, publications, or testimonials.
• A record of major commercial or critically acclaimed successes, as shown by such indicators as title, rating or standing in the field, box office receipts, motion picture or television ratings and other occupational achievements reported in trade journals, major newspapers or other publications
• Received significant recognition for achievements from organizations, critics, government agencies or other recognized experts in the field in which the beneficiary is engaged, with the testimonials clearly indicating the author's authority, expertise and knowledge of the beneficiary's achievements
• A high salary or other substantial remuneration for services in relation to others in the field, as shown by contracts or other reliable evidence
• If the above standards do not readily apply to the beneficiary’s occupation in the arts, the petitioner may submit comparable evidence in order to establish eligibility (this exception does not apply to the motion picture or television industry).

 

So basically, I just have to be nominated for an Oscar or something, right?

If you want an uplifting, positive story of a Canadian actor who accomplished the O-1B Visa thing and is now successfully working in the U.S., check out Stephen Amell’s Blog (especially the early entries where he writes about the application process in detail). His blog inspires me to work hard and hope for a brighter acting future!

For now, looks like I'm stuck in Toronto, hustling and dreaming!

Umm...Are you SURE there are no eligible American bachelors available for the lo/no/deferred job of being my hubby?

xoxox

FULL SPEED AHEAD!

Happy March 1st everyone! I can’t believe that we are already two full months into 2011. Time seems to be moving at an incredibly speedy rate lately! I also can’t believe that I have just concluded month 6 of my “Full Time Actress” career venture. Month 6! Half of one whole year! Half of the time limit I have set for myself to “make it” (or rather, make something - anything - of it!). I just want to dig my heels deep into the ground and prevent the Earth from rotating or something. Sloooow down! I do have to say that I am happy that we are heading out of the dreadful winter weather. Everything picks up in the spring; productions are more alive, casting is more active, etc. so hopefully months 7+ are going to be very productive and successful!

This month is going to be quite an overhaul month for me. I have very many things planned and I hope to accomplish them all!

My agent has told me that the audition situation should change this month. I’m not going to get my hopes up. Don’t get me wrong, I would love for things to drastically change this month and my skepticism to be proved wrong. I would gladly eat my words and shout from the rooftops how wrong I have been! Please let that happen! However, I have to face reality and, if things don’t change this month, head out in search of different representation. Therefore, I need to completely re-do my previous marketing strategy. I need to set myself apart from thousands of actors who are also submitting their packages to casting directors and agencies and beat them out for the spot on the roster. My resume, albeit missing Network TV/Feature Film work and a degree from an acting conservatory, is full of great training and interesting special skills so it should be fine. What I really need to do is have very strong headshots and a great demo reel so my focus will be on achieving those two wonderful accomplishments.

“Acting Career Overhaul” Project will commence this month and result in bringing about more auditions and great roles in the near future!

Acting Class

I’m getting my butt into an acting class with a great and well-respected instructor. I’m so nervous and excited! Whee! This will help me further develop my craft and add to my resume.

Film Projects

I have some indie film work lined up and will continue to audition for and accept further acting roles throughout the month. I’m hoping to add at least three new things to my resume this month!

Headshots

I’m getting new headshots done! I’m not in love with my current headshots (that were shot by a “bigshot” Toronto headshot photographer and cost me an arm and a leg!) so I cannot wait to have something that really stands out and separates me from the pack. I’m so excited!

Demo Reel

This is the big fish. I’m undertaking a huge writing/acting/directing/producing demo reel project this month. I’m making it my goal to actually commence and conclude it this month so it’s going to be quite a challenge. Basically, I’m redoing my demo reel – my style! I’m not happy with the quality of work on my current demo reel (which is from 2009) and I simply cannot wait for everyone I have worked with more recently to get their act together and start sending me new stuff for my reel (which I’ve shot months ago). Anyway, I am going to write, design, act in, and produce about five diverse scenes that will aid in spicing up my reel. Since I actually have such high hopes of redoing the entire demo reel in a short period of one month, I’m going to have to set strict deadlines for this project. The first week of March (1st -6th), I’m going to write all the scenes. The second week in March (7th-13th), I need to scout locations, hook up with other actors and most importantly, get a good production crew (one or more) on board. The third and fourth weeks can be spent on shooting (14th-27th). The fifth week (28th-31st) will be dedicated to editing the reel and making it the best possible demo reel ever! I have a feeling that this is going to be a very challenging, but also very rewarding project. Basically, I’m undertaking the creation of five short films in one month! Phew!

I'm tired of sitting around and waiting for things to happen! I'm going to take action and make them happen!

xoxox