We have found 19,407 posts across 4 actor forums:
Want Success? Start Writing Your Own Narrative! by Maurice Vaughan • last post Sep 16th
In today’s blog, Erica Wernick (author, speaker, and producer at Hollywood Success Coach) gives some great advice on how changing your mindset can help you find success.
www.stage32.com/blog/want-success-start-writing-your-own-narrative-3490
Comedy, Sensitivity, & Respect by Karen "Kay" Ross • last post Sep 15th
Happy Introduce Yourself Weekend, my fellow actors!
It's Kay Ross, your friendly Stage 32 Community Manager, but I'm also a Writer | Producer | Actor | Director - and in preparation for my next directing project, I wanted to get a little deep here in the Acting Lounge.
You ready?
You ready?
LET'S GO:
I wanted to share this recent round table discussion from The Hollywood Reporter to get y'all's insight into the magic happening around the table. Yes, clearly, they're talking about comedy, they're talking about being a female-identifying person in the industry, and they're talking collaboration - things this group of actresses can all identify with. BUT because they ALSO discuss their individual battles, there is some discussion and learning about what they are going through that they can't all identify with and how they can show up for one another.
For example, at one point, the term "Indian" is used, and Devery Jacobs (Reservation Dogs) kindly informs them that they prefer people outside the community to refer to them as "Indigenous People". So often, we only allow for this kind of learning in an academic setting, but it's so crucial to employ gentle pushback so that every encounter is a productive learning experience, and thus a productive empathetic experience.
What do you think about gentle pushback? What was YOUR big takeaway from this round table discussion?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ck3OUiRrJ0I&t=3s
Chris Pine's "Poolman" by Matthew Gross • last post Sep 15th
I was so excited for the release of "Poolman" because Chris Pine selected me for an uncredited role in his directorial debut film. It was wonderful getting to work the scene out with him, because I'm such a huge "Star Trek" fanboy; and any chance to work with Captain Kirk is a dream come true. Unfortunately, the movie is a huge flop. Audiences are walking out on it at the Toronto International Film Festival, and critics are slamming it. The exposure I hoped it would bring my career isn't likely. No one wants to be in a terrible picture. I'm simply heartbroken. It won't have a direct negative impact on my career, but it won't help me get more chances. Ugh! The only thing I can think to do is order some Thai food and relax. How do you deal with professional failure, defeat?
https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/chris-pine-poolman-film-rotten-tomatoes-b2412010.html
Advice for Voice Over Success by Tammy Hunt • last post Sep 15th
"Find the Hints in the Script to Determine the Direction of Your Read.
You are usually given direction as to how your read should sound. Sometimes the direction can be a little confusing and even conflicting.
For instance, a message can be encouraging, inspirational, upbeat, excited, or empathetic. Know how to identify words and visual explanations in a script that will give you strong hints as to which direction your read should go. Some key words to look for to know what sounds to apply include “dimly lit” (intimate/close to the mic), “personal” (one-on-one/friendly), “you can be assured” (trustworthy), “imagine” (inspirational), and ”children playing” (warm and friendly). Written descriptions of how the spot is framed such as “pan in,” “tight shot,” or “wide shot” also send you direct messages regarding the emotional feel that your voice should convey.
Expect to Be Pulled in Many Different Directions at the Final Recording Session.
The producers can’t afford to have you back to re-record and pay you and the studio a second time, so they may direct you all over the place to cover all possible choices they anticipate the client may want to hear (as the expression goes) “in the can.” Don’t get jittery or nervous. Having you record many different choices does not mean you’re doing it wrong."
- Terry Berland Commercial Acting
#voiceover #actor
5 Tips To Make Networking Opportunities Valuable by Ashley Renee Smith • last post Sep 15th
Hey, Performers!
As we kick-off this month's Introduce Yourself Weekend today, be sure to check out these 5 Tips To Make Networking Opportunities Valuable on today's blog!
https://www.stage32.com/blog/5-tips-to-make-networking-opportunities-valuable-3489
Dear Actors, You Are Enough by Maurice Vaughan • last post Sep 14th
In today’s blog, Rebecca Reaney talks about three behaviors that prevent actors from feeling they’re enough, and she gives practical steps and techniques that’ll help actors trust that they’re enough.
As Rebecca says in the blog, "*So my dear actors, when it comes down to it, the acting industry needs you to be you. The real you. The fully alive you, perfectly imperfect you. You are not broken and you do not need to be fixed. Instead, accepting yourself with embracing compassion will be the start of feeling fully alive. And then trust and know that you are enough because you really are.*"
Rebecca is a Movement Coach for Actors, Movement Director, and Intimacy Director. She has worked in the performing arts industry for nearly 25 years.
www.stage32.com/blog/dear-actors-you-are-enough-3488
D-Tips in 30: How to Network without being Annoying by Diakeim Lyles • last post Sep 14th
D Tips in 30: Networking Webinar
Networking can play a big part on an Actors journey to a rewarding career. I've got some Free tips on how to do it and NOT be annoying! Hope you find them helpful on your journey to success. And Stay tuned for more D tips in 30! Coming this Fall at https://lnkd.in/eTQEat4t
Today - Alessandro Fiorucci comes to Stage 32 by Sam Sokolow • last post Sep 14th
Earlier this year he walked the red carpet at Cannes as a cast member of KIDNAPPED, which was in contention for the coveted Palme d'Or. Today, he coms to Stage 32 to for an exclusive webinar where he will discuss acting craft, how to best prepare to work with A-List directors and to answer your questions.
Here's a link so you check out Alessandro's webinar: https://www.stage32.com/webinars/Actors-How-To-Prepare-To-Work-With-An-A-List-Director
When does an actor deserve to ask for more money? by Matthew Cornwell • last post Sep 13th
In full disclosure, I've been at this acting thing for over 20 years (professionally) and still regularly face the dilemma of working for scale (the lowest wage allowed by SAG-AFTRA) or not working at all. And while many actors, writers, and crew are in the same boat everyday, this strike season empowered me to voice the issue.
I've gotten great response from actors and other industry professionals so far, so I invite any additional feedback or anecdotes from your own career.
From Cringe to Confident by Anne Alexander-Sieder • last post Sep 13th
Whenever I found myself in a high-stakes meeting—be it an audition or a crucial session with an agent, manager, producer, director, or really anyone who held the keys to my acting career—I'd experience a sinking feeling. I knew they were going to start the meeting off with a big smile and the seemingly innocuous question, "Tell me about yourself.” My heart would start to race and my mind would go blank. I'd be caught between not knowing what to say and trying to figure out what they wanted to hear. I would usually ramble off stats from my resume (that they were holding in their hands).
One time, after fighting particularly nasty traffic, I used that precious time to complain. It could see their eyes going from eager curiosity to the dull stare of someone who was bored and maybe even a little disappointed.
In that moment, I felt like I had blown my chance. This setback would cast a shadow over my confidence, affecting the entire duration of my audition or our meeting. Even on self tapes, when nobody else was on the other side of my camera, I would hear myself droning on about something and imagine the light going out of the casting director’s eyes. I knew that if I could just let my true, authentic self shine through, we could connect on equal ground instead of me feeling like they had the upper hand.
The struggle to convey my essence became a roadblock in my acting journey. It was clear that I had the talent, passion, and potential to excel when I was portraying a character. After all, it was usually my acting that got me into the room in the first place, but I needed to unlock the power of authentic self-expression when it came to just being me.
---
I actually live in Germany where this nightmare question of “Tell me about yourself” has turned into a piece of marketing material that is almost as important as your showreel. It’s called, “the About Me” video. If that’s not bad enough, the trend is spreading quickly through Europe and I'm sure it won't be long before it spreads around the rest of the globe.
I get it. The powers that be want to see how you authentically act and react on screen. They want to see your true essence. They also want to make sure you’re not a psycho, and bonus if you can come across as fun to have on set.
I watched quite a lot of these “About Me” videos from my colleagues and honestly, most of them bored me to tears. It was much easier for me to objectively see where they were going wrong when I wasn’t emotionally connected to the outcome. On the other hand, I wasn’t sure what to do to fix the problem either.
That's when I began to obsessively watch other actor’s “About Me” videos to try and determine where my interest would lag and where it would peak. I also began to interview casting directors (because they’re the ones who watch most of these) to ask them what they thought made for a good “About Me” video. Lastly, I turned to my screenwriter’s group.
You see, I’d been a storyteller for years. I’ve written numerous screenplays and know how to structure them to create maximum impact but for some reason, I never applied this ability to my own “Tell Me About Yourself” answers.
My screenwriter’s group also had invaluable insights. It was through talking to all of these people and watching hundreds of videos that I began to unravel the art of storytelling and the importance of sharing one's authentic narrative. It wasn't about rehearsing lines; it was about tapping into the core of who I was and conveying it genuinely.
One mentor, Sarah, in particular, helped me understand that high-stakes interactions demanded a "Stage-Ready Version" of my story—one that could captivate at any moment, no matter the setting or the audience. She also made me realize that I needed more than one story because different situations demand different introductions. For example, I have a really funny little story that I tell about what my very first word in German was. It always makes people laugh in surprise when they hear it. (It was Fahrvergnügen (the joy of driving) in case you’re interested). I can tell this as a quick one-liner to break the ice in an elevator or as a three-minute story to entertain at a dinner party. But I definitely wouldn’t want to use that story if I was being called into a room to audition for something dramatic. I have other stories for that.
As I refined my ability to authentically express myself, auditions and meetings transformed. I started to connect with industry professionals on a personal level, which helped to level the playing field. And the best way I've found to put me on equal footing with everyone else in the room is for them to view me as a person they can relate to; not just an actor. I mean, c’mon - actors are already the lowest on the totem pole, so we’ve got to find a way to get up to eye level with other people in the industry.
—
Now that I’ve shared my story I’d love to hear yours. When we share our cringe-worthy moments, it's a reminder that beneath the polished surface of social media and #actorslife, we're all just human. In an industry that often demands perfection, it's these authentic, imperfect moments that connect us and make us relatable to one another. And they make us stronger when we realize we're not the only ones who struggle with these challenges!
So, what's the most challenging part of answering the "tell me about yourself" question for you? Have you ever frozen up or blown a networking opportunity?
The 1 Biggest Acting Reel Mistake Actors Make - How To Make A Great Reel by Aaron Marcus • last post Sep 12th
The 1 Biggest Acting Reel Mistake Actors Make - How To Make A Great Reel
https://youtu.be/JKOfeq4tEaA?feature=shared
Having a great acting reel can be very helpful. But, it is very hard to do when first getting started, and don't have the clips to use.
Watch this video and learn how to avoid common mistakes actors make, and how to get content that can be used for a great acting reel.
Having a great acting reel can be very helpful. But, it is very hard to do when first getting started, and don't have the clips to use.
Watch this video and learn how to avoid common mistakes actors make, and how to get content that can be used for a great acting reel.
Webinar soon! Actors: How To Prepare To Work With An A-List Director by Sydney Summers • last post Sep 12th
Stage 32 is excited to welcome Alessandro Fiorucci for his upcoming webinar! In this exclusive Stage 32 webinar, Alessandro will teach you his acting process so you can prepare yourself to work with A-list directors. Alessandro is an actor, director and screenwriter with decades of experience in the entertainment industry. Alessandro has worked with acclaimed directors such as Marco Bellocchio (THE TRAITOR), Paolo Virzì (MAGIC NIGHTS, THE LEISURE SEEKER), Stefano Mordini (THE INVISIBLE WITNESS, THE PLAYERS), and many others, including working on set for Ridley Scott (BLADE RUNNER, GLADIATOR, ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD).
PLUS! Alessandro will provide you with an exclusive handout to help you hone your acting craft. Downloads include:
-Comprehensive Acting Technique Guide
https://www.stage32.com/webinars/Actors-How-To-Prepare-To-Work-With-An-A-List-Director
SAG-AFTRA re-elects Fran Drescher president as strike enters ninth week by Geoff Hall • last post Sep 12th
The voting to recast Fran Drescher as President of SAG-AFTRA was unequivocal enough.
Drescher whose words at the beginning of the strike resounded with many, and still does.
“These are dynamic times and as one member body, we will weather the storms, stand on our principles and make sure our major contributions to this collaborative art form shall never again be diminished but rather be exalted.”
Here's hoping she is able to get the deal for her members that is so needed, so that we can all move forward.
https://www.screendaily.com/news/sag-aftra-re-elects-fran-drescher-president-as-strike-enters-ninth-week/5185754.article?
Actors Are Your Loved Ones Supportive? by Tammy Hunt • last post Sep 11th
When you just start your acting career and begin to navigate the unknown maze that is your options for acquiring skills as an actor, you really need all the encouragement and support you can get. This, of course, applies to your friends and family foremost because they are your trusted loved ones who are supposed to have your back no matter what. Right? Not always.
If you feel as though everyone you know is negative and just plain doesn’t “get it,” then take a moment and see your choice to become an actor from your family and friends’ perspectives. An attorney, a doctor, an accountant, or another mainstream occupation is more acceptable than what they perceive a struggling artist’s life to be, schlepping from audition to audition unpaid and having to attend classes in order to hone your skill set. Your spouse probably sees your decision to be without the proper consideration for your collective future together.
One of the best ways to deal with possible negativity from your family is to try and understand that they really do have your best interests at heart, and their intentions are good.
When your parents or significant other responds to you with anything other than, “Don’t worry. You’ll book the next role,” or “Hey, can I help in any way for your next audition?” simply display that you’re being responsible and earning a living doing something while pursuing your acting career.
If they do see that you are completely immersed in this career and are busy with every opportunity in moving forward then that shows you are to be taken at your word and they should see your commitment to your craft.
Whatever the outcome of your specific relationships, always think positively and embrace the challenges and adventures as you navigate your way as an actor. This is a truly exciting and invigorating process. You can be a part of evoking emotion from strangers as they sit in front of their TVs or in an audience by making them cry, laugh, get angry, and be entertained. You can make them forget everything for just a moment. Now that is worth more than you know.
#actors #support #goals
2-Part Acting Lab: Elevate Your Acting Reel Starts Wednesday! by Sydney Summers • last post Sep 11th
Stage 32 can't wait to have Kym Jackson host her upcoming acting lab. Learn how to make your acting reel stand out so you book more jobs from Kym Jackson, an actress who has worked on THIS IS US, CRIMINAL MINDS, NCIS: LOS ANGELES, S.W.A.T., SNITCH starring Dwayne Johnson, FATAL AFFAIR on Netflix, and more!
In this exclusive Stage 32 2-part lab, you will not only learn how to build a professional acting reel that will get you noticed, but you will also receive personal guidance and feedback on your current acting reel from an acclaimed acting industry expert. If you don’t have an acting reel yet, that’s fine! You will receive the same personal guidance on how you can and should create your reel that highlights your specific and unique abilities as an actor.
https://www.stage32.com/classes/Stage-32-2-Part-Lab-Elevate-Your-Acting-Reel
Actors: Is Your Reel Working For You? by Omari Washington • last post Sep 10th
In this exclusive Stage 32 2-part lab, you will not only learn how to build a professional acting reel that will get you noticed, but you will also receive personal guidance and feedback on your current acting reel from an acclaimed acting industry expert. If you don’t have an acting reel yet, that’s fine! You will receive the same personal guidance on how you can and should create your reel that highlights your specific and unique abilities as an actor.
Taking you through the step-by-step process of building your professional acting reel is Kym Jackson, working actress and author of the book The Hollywood Survival Guide For Actors. Kym is best known for her on-camera work on the hit CBS series CRIMINAL MINDS and NCIS: LOS ANGELES, the ABC series S.W.A.T. and the movies SNITCH starring Dwayne Johnson, FATAL AFFAIR on Netflix and countless other projects. Kym is also the founder of the Secret Actor Society.
Over two interactive and action-packed sessions, you will implement the fundamental tools to create an outstanding acting reel and receive personal feedback on your own acting reel. Kym will review your acting reel (or body of work if you don’t yet have a reel) and will take you through a scene-by-scene analysis of how you can improve and/or actually build your reel.
PLUS! You will receive exclusive handouts to help fine tune your acting reel including a Fundamentals of an Acting Reel worksheet and more.
To guarantee all students receive ample one-on-one time with Kym, this course has limited enrollment and right now there are only 7 spots left. There's 2 days left to sign up.
You’ll walk away from this lab with your own personal roadmap to an improved and elevated acting reel and the tools you need to continue to elevate your reel throughout your career.
https://www.stage32.com/classes/Stage-32-2-Part-Lab-Elevate-Your-Acting-Reel
Actor Diction Focus by Tammy Hunt • last post Sep 10th
Diction is the way you talk: your enunciation and the types of words and phrases you use.
These exercises are great for actors to practice:
Yoga hum: Take a deep breath in, then hum while slowly releasing your breath. Do this 5-10 times.
Dragon's breath: Stand with your hands on your stomach and take a deep breath in. Release the breath with a "hah!" on fast, sharp exhales.
Tongue twisters: Go through any catchy tongue twisters you know, such as:
She sells seashells by the seashore.
We surely shall see the sunshine soon.
Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers
A peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked
If Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers
Where's the peck of pickled peppers Peter Piper picked?
How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
He would chuck, he would, as much as he could, and chuck as much wood
As a woodchuck would if a woodchuck could chuck wood.
Can you can a can as a canner can can a can?
To practice, say the above tongue twisters slowly and deliberately five times in a row. If you're able to say them without making a mistake, increase the speed. If you make a mistake, slow back down again. The key with tongue twisters as diction exercises is to only speed up once you're in control of the words and to go faster and faster until you master them at all speeds.
- Practice vowels and consonants: Practice saying and singing vowels using different consonant sounds at the front, in the middle, and at the end.
For example, slowly and clearly say the words
"poke," "toll," "boat," "cope," and "stone" back to back, focusing on keeping that long "o" exactly the same.
#actor #diction
5 Things Actors Can Do Everyday To Ensure Success by Maurice Vaughan • last post Sep 9th
In today’s blog, Sara Quiriconi gives five great tips to ensure your success as an actor or actress.
Sara is an actress, TV host, producer, model, and founder of Live Free Media LLC.
One of the tips she gives in the blog is “*work on a script or monologue.*”
www.stage32.com/blog/5-things-actors-can-do-everyday-to-ensure-success-3481
Ask Me Anything with Spencer Robinson of Art/Work Entertainment by Maurice Vaughan • last post Sep 8th
Actors! Spencer Robinson is having an AMA all day today in the Writers’ Room: www.stage32.com/lounge/vip/Ask-Me-Anything-AMA-9-8-to-9-9-Literary-and-Multi-Hyphenate-Representation
Spencer is an experienced literary manager and talent manager at Art/Work Entertainment, and he’s also a Stage 32 Thought Leader. He represents writers, actors, producers, and a book publishing company.
If you’re not a Writers’ Room member yet, you can get a free first month by signing up here: www.stage32.com/writers-room/plans-vip
Ask Me Anything with Spencer Robinson of Art/Work Entertainment by Maurice Vaughan • last post Sep 8th
Actors! Spencer Robinson is having an AMA all day today in the Writers’ Room: www.stage32.com/lounge/vip/Ask-Me-Anything-AMA-9-8-to-9-9-Literary-and-Multi-Hyphenate-Representation
Spencer is an experienced literary manager and talent manager at Art/Work Entertainment, and he’s also a Stage 32 Thought Leader. He represents writers, actors, producers, and a book publishing company.
If you’re not a Writers’ Room member yet, sign up here: www.stage32.com/writers-room