Hey there, back-to-schoolers!
I hope everyone is enjoying their new school clothes and Trapper Keepers.
Last week was pretty active. I landed more voice over gigs online and booked them from my home. I also had yet another wonderful recording session at ETS down in Princeton.
So, yesterday was my birthday. If you Facebookers are wondering why you didn't see it, it's because I forgot to make by birthday public so it didn't pop up on your Events. Oops! Feel free to post a belated birthday message on my wall. I'd love to hear from you!
This is one of the best birthdays I've ever had. I got to see a bunch of friends and got some very nice gifts. The best one was from three of my friends. They spent the day at my apartment redecorating! They re-covered the couch, painted the coffee table, and painted the entertainment unit. They're also going to hang up new pictures and frame some of my photos for display. I gotta tell you, what they did was pretty amazing! I'm very grateful to have such giving & caring friends.
TIP OF THE WEEK: I'm not very good at receiving compliments or gifts. What I've gotten a lot better at is looking them in the eye, smiling, and thanking them for their generosity and kind words. That's all they want. Make sure you do it every time!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: No lover is ever satisfied with the first smile of his mistress. William Henry Harrison
DISCUSS!: When was the last time you did something special for someone who didn't expect it?
Have a great week!
The Good Karma Network is an entertainment industry support group. We're here to help each other cast projects, get cast in projects, advertise the projects we get cast in, and share tips and tricks to succeeding in our field.
Showing posts with label Morris County. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Morris County. Show all posts
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 9/7/09
Happy Labor Day!
I hope everyone is enjoying their well-deserved time off. I, in the land of the self-employed, am doing my thing today. I already submitted three auditions this morning via Voice123 and will continue with my regular Monday routine.
Last week I recorded four voiceovers from home. For me, that's a lot! Two were from old clients and two were from a new client. I also had two auditions courtesy of Ingrid French, one for ING Savings Bank and one for the Neilsen Corporation. Both went very well, but I want to talk about the second one.
First of all, I had to wear a suit. Now don't get me wrong, I like dressing up, but I always feel like my chances of booking a gig go down when I do. I guess I feel like a schlub and all the other guys look so darn dapper. Also, I was auditioning for the role of a corporate executive. Did you know the average CEO is over six feet tall? People subconsciously equate height with confidence & power. Weird, huh? I'm 5'9" which is the average male height and I've never felt short but I did THAT day! Anyway, I did very well in the audition but I was mad at myself for weakening my own position based on my silly neuroses. Of course the ridiculous inner monologue disappears the second I walk in the room but I shouldn't psyche myself out like that.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Don't be your own worst enemy! Always set yourself up for success both physically and mentally. Be prepared, be positive, and have fun!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: We are what we imagine ourselves to be. Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
DISCUSS!: Have you ever auditioned for a part that you didn't feel right for? How did you do?
I hope everyone is enjoying their well-deserved time off. I, in the land of the self-employed, am doing my thing today. I already submitted three auditions this morning via Voice123 and will continue with my regular Monday routine.
Last week I recorded four voiceovers from home. For me, that's a lot! Two were from old clients and two were from a new client. I also had two auditions courtesy of Ingrid French, one for ING Savings Bank and one for the Neilsen Corporation. Both went very well, but I want to talk about the second one.
First of all, I had to wear a suit. Now don't get me wrong, I like dressing up, but I always feel like my chances of booking a gig go down when I do. I guess I feel like a schlub and all the other guys look so darn dapper. Also, I was auditioning for the role of a corporate executive. Did you know the average CEO is over six feet tall? People subconsciously equate height with confidence & power. Weird, huh? I'm 5'9" which is the average male height and I've never felt short but I did THAT day! Anyway, I did very well in the audition but I was mad at myself for weakening my own position based on my silly neuroses. Of course the ridiculous inner monologue disappears the second I walk in the room but I shouldn't psyche myself out like that.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Don't be your own worst enemy! Always set yourself up for success both physically and mentally. Be prepared, be positive, and have fun!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: We are what we imagine ourselves to be. Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
DISCUSS!: Have you ever auditioned for a part that you didn't feel right for? How did you do?
Monday, August 31, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 8/31/09
Hey guys! Thank goodness it finally cooled off. My sweat glands almost turned inside out!
So, over the weekend I auditioned to be part of the Awareness Audiobooks talent roster in Bethlehem, PA. Everybody there was very nice. The audition process was pretty interesting:
First, I read for the part of a teenage boy. Since most of my VO work involves sounding like a high school or college student, no problem.
Then, I read for the part of an uncle and was asked to use my favorite accent. My favorite is Russian so I used that, no problem.
Then I had to read a high energy breakfast cereal commercial. That's not my strongest area so I flubbed a few lines. Eek. Problem?
Finally I was asked to do some improvisation (YES!). I was asked to be a caller for a radio talk show. "Talk about something you feel strongly about, like sports. what's your subject going to be?"
I said, "I feel that all people over the age of 85 should be bronzed."
A split second of stunned silence was followed by peals of laughter.
'Well, at least they'll remember me.', I thought, and dived into the improv. They loved it!
TIP OF THE WEEK: There is no such thing as a perfect audition and the people that give the best auditions don't always get the part. Be yourself, work within your limitations, and have fun!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: As to the presidency, the two happiest days of my life were those of my entry upon the office and of my surrender of it. Martin Van Buren
DISCUSS!: When was the last time you thought you blew an audition and landed the part anyway?
Have a great week!
So, over the weekend I auditioned to be part of the Awareness Audiobooks talent roster in Bethlehem, PA. Everybody there was very nice. The audition process was pretty interesting:
First, I read for the part of a teenage boy. Since most of my VO work involves sounding like a high school or college student, no problem.
Then, I read for the part of an uncle and was asked to use my favorite accent. My favorite is Russian so I used that, no problem.
Then I had to read a high energy breakfast cereal commercial. That's not my strongest area so I flubbed a few lines. Eek. Problem?
Finally I was asked to do some improvisation (YES!). I was asked to be a caller for a radio talk show. "Talk about something you feel strongly about, like sports. what's your subject going to be?"
I said, "I feel that all people over the age of 85 should be bronzed."
A split second of stunned silence was followed by peals of laughter.
'Well, at least they'll remember me.', I thought, and dived into the improv. They loved it!
TIP OF THE WEEK: There is no such thing as a perfect audition and the people that give the best auditions don't always get the part. Be yourself, work within your limitations, and have fun!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: As to the presidency, the two happiest days of my life were those of my entry upon the office and of my surrender of it. Martin Van Buren
DISCUSS!: When was the last time you thought you blew an audition and landed the part anyway?
Have a great week!
Monday, August 24, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 8/24/09
And a happy & slightly more temperate Monday to you!
So last week I got back on the cold-calling wagon. For those of you who are new to the GKN, I HATE cold calls!!! Half the time the receptionist has absolutely no idea what you're talking about and when they do you get the contact person's voice mail and most of the time they never call you back. AUGH! Very frustrating. Despite all this, cold calling does have merit:
First of all, it keeps you in touch with the industry. When is the busy season, when is it slow, what are the current trends, etc. Second, nothing can replace a one-on-one personal interaction. That's when you have an opportunity to make a positive, lasting first impression. Third and most important, it works. I've developed my client base largely from this and it landed me my first ever gig, the infamous Genital Herpes PSA!
TIP OF THE WEEK: here are a few cold calling tips...
1. Look in places like the Yellow Pages or online directories for potential contacts.
2. Try to find the name of a person in the company to ask for.
3. Be positive, be polite, and have a question prepared in advance so you can get your intent across quickly and professionally.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: There's only one me, and I'm stuck with him. Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
DISCUSS!: Do you cold call? If so, what techniques do you use to increase your chances of success?
Have a great week!
So last week I got back on the cold-calling wagon. For those of you who are new to the GKN, I HATE cold calls!!! Half the time the receptionist has absolutely no idea what you're talking about and when they do you get the contact person's voice mail and most of the time they never call you back. AUGH! Very frustrating. Despite all this, cold calling does have merit:
First of all, it keeps you in touch with the industry. When is the busy season, when is it slow, what are the current trends, etc. Second, nothing can replace a one-on-one personal interaction. That's when you have an opportunity to make a positive, lasting first impression. Third and most important, it works. I've developed my client base largely from this and it landed me my first ever gig, the infamous Genital Herpes PSA!
TIP OF THE WEEK: here are a few cold calling tips...
1. Look in places like the Yellow Pages or online directories for potential contacts.
2. Try to find the name of a person in the company to ask for.
3. Be positive, be polite, and have a question prepared in advance so you can get your intent across quickly and professionally.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: There's only one me, and I'm stuck with him. Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
DISCUSS!: Do you cold call? If so, what techniques do you use to increase your chances of success?
Have a great week!
Monday, August 17, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 8/17/09
Hello and wishing you a cool Monday!
So last night for the first time I watched the film "Everything's Jake" starring Ernie Hudson. It's a charming film about a homeless man who helps another man who's new to the streets that is more than he appears to be. It was shot in 2000 but took years to find distribution. I was an extra for a restaurant scene that was shot in Manhattan. This was the first movie I was ever in. (BTW a big thanks to Judy Keller Casting, who STILL calls me in for auditions!)
I was sitting at a table in the restaurant with three or four other actors watching the controlled chaos. I remember being fascinated by the huge white trucks lining the block, the miles and miles of cables, the crew bustling about getting everything set up, and of course my fellow extras. We were there for hours and hours. All this for one shot of one of the characters looking out the window looking lost in thought. Until that day I had no idea what goes into making a movie.
Nine years later, I've done my share of TV, film, and theater as both cast and crew. I gotta tell you, every time I step on a set I'm as excited as that day on the set of "Everything's Jake".
TIP OF THE WEEK: What we do is fun and exciting and a rare chance to be a part of something special. If you are one of the few who are fortunate to experience this on a regular basis, always remember to embrace it, cherish it, and pass along your wisdom to that new actor sitting next to you with the deer-in-the-headlights look. Count your blessings!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Heaven will be no heaven to me if I do not meet my wife there. Andrew Jackson
DISCUSS!: Do you remember your first time on set or on stage? What was it like?
So last night for the first time I watched the film "Everything's Jake" starring Ernie Hudson. It's a charming film about a homeless man who helps another man who's new to the streets that is more than he appears to be. It was shot in 2000 but took years to find distribution. I was an extra for a restaurant scene that was shot in Manhattan. This was the first movie I was ever in. (BTW a big thanks to Judy Keller Casting, who STILL calls me in for auditions!)
I was sitting at a table in the restaurant with three or four other actors watching the controlled chaos. I remember being fascinated by the huge white trucks lining the block, the miles and miles of cables, the crew bustling about getting everything set up, and of course my fellow extras. We were there for hours and hours. All this for one shot of one of the characters looking out the window looking lost in thought. Until that day I had no idea what goes into making a movie.
Nine years later, I've done my share of TV, film, and theater as both cast and crew. I gotta tell you, every time I step on a set I'm as excited as that day on the set of "Everything's Jake".
TIP OF THE WEEK: What we do is fun and exciting and a rare chance to be a part of something special. If you are one of the few who are fortunate to experience this on a regular basis, always remember to embrace it, cherish it, and pass along your wisdom to that new actor sitting next to you with the deer-in-the-headlights look. Count your blessings!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Heaven will be no heaven to me if I do not meet my wife there. Andrew Jackson
DISCUSS!: Do you remember your first time on set or on stage? What was it like?
Monday, August 10, 2009
GKN Weekly update 8/10/09
Holy Hot Scorch-your-face-off Day! It is brutal out there.
Over the weekend I narrated a tutorial for Ebsco Host, an online library. I seem to get a lot of those. Online tutorials, I mean. Apparently, I have the right sound for it. Ten years ago that kind of job didn't even exist! Weird, huh?
Anyway, it got me thinking. What exactly is my sound? Why do I get mostly e-learning work and almost no commercial work? I'm not exactly sure. If I had to guess, I'd say I have an energetic, young, friendly, guy-next-door sound. But that sound should get you commercial work, right?
Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. I love the work I do and the gigs I get. It's just that I would have never guessed that almost all my voice over work comes from the e-learning niche.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Find your sound. Not the one you want to have or think you have, YOUR sound!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: . . . as long as the heart beats, as long as body and soul keep together, I cannot admit that any creature endowed with a will has need to despair of life. Jules Verne
DISCUSS!: What is your sound? Is it different than what you thought it was when you started your voice over career?
Stay cool, my friends!
Over the weekend I narrated a tutorial for Ebsco Host, an online library. I seem to get a lot of those. Online tutorials, I mean. Apparently, I have the right sound for it. Ten years ago that kind of job didn't even exist! Weird, huh?
Anyway, it got me thinking. What exactly is my sound? Why do I get mostly e-learning work and almost no commercial work? I'm not exactly sure. If I had to guess, I'd say I have an energetic, young, friendly, guy-next-door sound. But that sound should get you commercial work, right?
Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. I love the work I do and the gigs I get. It's just that I would have never guessed that almost all my voice over work comes from the e-learning niche.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Find your sound. Not the one you want to have or think you have, YOUR sound!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: . . . as long as the heart beats, as long as body and soul keep together, I cannot admit that any creature endowed with a will has need to despair of life. Jules Verne
DISCUSS!: What is your sound? Is it different than what you thought it was when you started your voice over career?
Stay cool, my friends!
Monday, August 3, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 8/3/09
Good evening!
I hope everyone stayed as dry as they could this weekend. We had some serious thunderstorms!
First I want to welcome our newest Good Karma Network members: Meghan Donathan, Veronica Alsina, Monica Delgado, Ydaiber Orozco, and Ken Weingart. We're glad to have you!
Last week was quite an adventure! I was tasked with casting four roles for three different voiceover projects. One of the roles was scrapped by the client, one was cast by a non-GKN member, and one has yet to be cast. The great news is that the fourth role was filled by our own Trish Basanyi! Congratulations on being selected.
I had a rather interesting on-camera audition last week for CNN. It was part scripted and part improvised. The first take went extremely well and was pretty funny. The second take was even funnier but my acting partner decided to use profanity. Even though it was used to great effect, I wasn't sure if it was appropriate. I had to run with it regardless, using the Golden Rule of Improvisation: "Yes, and...". For those of you who don't know, "Yes, and..." means that if you are performing an improvised scene and a fellow performer asks you or presents you with something, you are supposed to agree with it and build upon it.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Improvisation is a very tricky thing. Part of the magic is that nobody knows what will happen next. That means is has the potential to get out of control. Was the profanity too much? If it was onstage and it was a general audience i.e. there could be children out there it would be inappropriate. For a closed door on-camera audition? I guess it depends on the attitude of the viewer. My advice would be to avoid profanity, politics, religion, sex, etc. whenever possible. That is, unless you strike comedy gold. See the problem here...?
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The circulation of confidence is better than the circulation of money. James Monroe
DISCUSS!: Have you ever been in an improv situation that got out of hand? How did you handle it?
Have a great week!
I hope everyone stayed as dry as they could this weekend. We had some serious thunderstorms!
First I want to welcome our newest Good Karma Network members: Meghan Donathan, Veronica Alsina, Monica Delgado, Ydaiber Orozco, and Ken Weingart. We're glad to have you!
Last week was quite an adventure! I was tasked with casting four roles for three different voiceover projects. One of the roles was scrapped by the client, one was cast by a non-GKN member, and one has yet to be cast. The great news is that the fourth role was filled by our own Trish Basanyi! Congratulations on being selected.
I had a rather interesting on-camera audition last week for CNN. It was part scripted and part improvised. The first take went extremely well and was pretty funny. The second take was even funnier but my acting partner decided to use profanity. Even though it was used to great effect, I wasn't sure if it was appropriate. I had to run with it regardless, using the Golden Rule of Improvisation: "Yes, and...". For those of you who don't know, "Yes, and..." means that if you are performing an improvised scene and a fellow performer asks you or presents you with something, you are supposed to agree with it and build upon it.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Improvisation is a very tricky thing. Part of the magic is that nobody knows what will happen next. That means is has the potential to get out of control. Was the profanity too much? If it was onstage and it was a general audience i.e. there could be children out there it would be inappropriate. For a closed door on-camera audition? I guess it depends on the attitude of the viewer. My advice would be to avoid profanity, politics, religion, sex, etc. whenever possible. That is, unless you strike comedy gold. See the problem here...?
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The circulation of confidence is better than the circulation of money. James Monroe
DISCUSS!: Have you ever been in an improv situation that got out of hand? How did you handle it?
Have a great week!
Monday, July 27, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 7/27/09
And a happy albeit humid Monday to you!
Last week something great happened not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES that epitomizes the Good Karma Network. I was called upon to cast three different voiceover projects, two medical narrations and one e-learning project. I sent out a few blasts via the GKN as well as making some targeted phone calls to talents who I think would be right for the projects. I was able to submit many of you and the clients have been VERY happy with the quality of the submissions. On top of that, as a result of the search for appropriate talent we have three new members of the GKN: James Clamp, Nicola Barber, and Karen Jarman-Caruana. Welcome!
TIP OF THE WEEK: this is EXACTLY why I formed the Good Karma Network. Building relationships with your colleagues and clients is they key to success in our industry. Always be at your best during every phone call, audition, booking, and networking opportunity. Smile, don't complain, and don't explain!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The mind is a strange and wonderful thing. I'm not sure it'll ever be able to figure itself out. Dr Dan Kaufmann, "Invasion of the Body Snatchers"
DISCUSS!: do you have a networking success story to share? Please do!
Last week something great happened not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES that epitomizes the Good Karma Network. I was called upon to cast three different voiceover projects, two medical narrations and one e-learning project. I sent out a few blasts via the GKN as well as making some targeted phone calls to talents who I think would be right for the projects. I was able to submit many of you and the clients have been VERY happy with the quality of the submissions. On top of that, as a result of the search for appropriate talent we have three new members of the GKN: James Clamp, Nicola Barber, and Karen Jarman-Caruana. Welcome!
TIP OF THE WEEK: this is EXACTLY why I formed the Good Karma Network. Building relationships with your colleagues and clients is they key to success in our industry. Always be at your best during every phone call, audition, booking, and networking opportunity. Smile, don't complain, and don't explain!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The mind is a strange and wonderful thing. I'm not sure it'll ever be able to figure itself out. Dr Dan Kaufmann, "Invasion of the Body Snatchers"
DISCUSS!: do you have a networking success story to share? Please do!
Monday, July 20, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 7/20/09
Good evening! I'm penning this pretty late since I spent the day at my friend's store helping him with some SERIOUS re-merchandising (Hey Tom, can you move everything on this wall over to that wall?).
Got a short but good networking story for you. Last week I had not one, not two, but THREE voiceovers in the same studio in the same day for three different clients! The guys at Hagens Studio were kind enough to recommend me for an Ultimate Escapes online promo and a website tutorial for Deloitte. Working with them for over twelve years and developing positive relationships have yielded great results. Thanks guys!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Don't take your regular clients for granted. Always be appreciative of them and treat every gig like it's your first!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Conscience is the most sacred of all property. James Madison
DISCUSS!: Tell us a story about a time when a regular client came though for you...
Got a short but good networking story for you. Last week I had not one, not two, but THREE voiceovers in the same studio in the same day for three different clients! The guys at Hagens Studio were kind enough to recommend me for an Ultimate Escapes online promo and a website tutorial for Deloitte. Working with them for over twelve years and developing positive relationships have yielded great results. Thanks guys!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Don't take your regular clients for granted. Always be appreciative of them and treat every gig like it's your first!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Conscience is the most sacred of all property. James Madison
DISCUSS!: Tell us a story about a time when a regular client came though for you...
Monday, July 13, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 7/13/09
And a happy Monday to you all! We had another nice weekend of weather to bask in. That makes two weekends in a row. Must be a record!
Today we're going to talk some more about networking...
I spent the weekend working at Dexcon 12 in Morristown, New Jersey. It's four days of playing board games, card games, video games, strategy games, role playing games, and LARPing! That's right, Live Action Role Playing, which is basically a bunch of people in a hotel banquet room dressed up in tights and beating each other senseless with foam rubber swords. Anyway, I was there working for my friend's store All In One Collectibles. I watched his vendor table and helped out here and there. So, what does this have to do with networking?
After someone relieved me from a shift of working at the All In One vendor table, I decided to look around at the other tables. In a "can't help but sniff the bad milk" kind of mood, I stopped at the foam rubber swords table just to see what all the fuss was about. Can you believe some of them run for $100?! Anyway, I started chatting with the vendor and the next thing you know, we're talking about the voiceover industry. It turns out that her mother is a former VO talent and she herself works for a video game company. On the side she's a concept artist and offered to help me design a logo for my business. Talk about finding opportunities in the strangest places!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Always keep your eyes open for networking opportunities. Make sure you have business cards with you at all times and are able to quickly articulate what you do and your recent work. You never know when it'll come up!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: This, to me, is the ultimately heroic trait of ordinary people; they say no to the tyrant and they calmly take the consequences of this resistance. Phillip K. Dick
DISCUSS!: Where is the oddest place you've networked? (keep it clean please!)
Today we're going to talk some more about networking...
I spent the weekend working at Dexcon 12 in Morristown, New Jersey. It's four days of playing board games, card games, video games, strategy games, role playing games, and LARPing! That's right, Live Action Role Playing, which is basically a bunch of people in a hotel banquet room dressed up in tights and beating each other senseless with foam rubber swords. Anyway, I was there working for my friend's store All In One Collectibles. I watched his vendor table and helped out here and there. So, what does this have to do with networking?
After someone relieved me from a shift of working at the All In One vendor table, I decided to look around at the other tables. In a "can't help but sniff the bad milk" kind of mood, I stopped at the foam rubber swords table just to see what all the fuss was about. Can you believe some of them run for $100?! Anyway, I started chatting with the vendor and the next thing you know, we're talking about the voiceover industry. It turns out that her mother is a former VO talent and she herself works for a video game company. On the side she's a concept artist and offered to help me design a logo for my business. Talk about finding opportunities in the strangest places!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Always keep your eyes open for networking opportunities. Make sure you have business cards with you at all times and are able to quickly articulate what you do and your recent work. You never know when it'll come up!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: This, to me, is the ultimately heroic trait of ordinary people; they say no to the tyrant and they calmly take the consequences of this resistance. Phillip K. Dick
DISCUSS!: Where is the oddest place you've networked? (keep it clean please!)
Monday, July 6, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 7/6/09
Happy Belated Fourth of July! I hope everyone had a fun, safe, and filling weekend. Mine was blissfully quiet. I haven't had a weekend like that in a while so I am all kinds of geeked up for the week!
Let's talk about auditioning today. Ingrid French Management got me an audition for a lead role in a feature film! I'm not sure I can say what it is, but the character I read for is a certain Great Dane of comic strip fame. I was asked to record the audition from home and email it to them so they can pass it along to the casting director. I read the whole script (which was fun!), the sides they wanted me to record, and a character description. The funny part is that they want a deep voice which is young, energetic, and eager at the same time. At first I thought it was a contradiction, then I read who they wanted it to sound like: Seth Rogan. Aha! He would be perfect for this role and I think that's a great call on the part of the casting agency.
However, I do NOT sound like Seth Rogan. My voice is young-sounding and energetic, but not deep at all, at least the voice I use to do the bulk of my gigs isn't. When I try to deepen my voice I sound like a ten-year-old kid making a crank call. So what do I do? I did two things. First, I made sure my vocal placement was in my stomach, not in my chest, neck, face, or head. It gave me a bit more resonance without trying to deepen my voice. Second, I made sure my pitch didn't go too high like it does when I record these high school/college roles I so often do. It took the top off my register so it made my voice sound deep-ish.
Will it get me the part? I have no idea, but doing those two things allowed me to focus on my acting and not on trying to sound like Seth Rogan.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Unless you're a gifted impressionist, don't try to sound like someone else. Sound like you!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it. Thomas Jefferson
DISCUSS!: What kinds of adjustments do you make based on the roles you audition for?
Have a great week!
Let's talk about auditioning today. Ingrid French Management got me an audition for a lead role in a feature film! I'm not sure I can say what it is, but the character I read for is a certain Great Dane of comic strip fame. I was asked to record the audition from home and email it to them so they can pass it along to the casting director. I read the whole script (which was fun!), the sides they wanted me to record, and a character description. The funny part is that they want a deep voice which is young, energetic, and eager at the same time. At first I thought it was a contradiction, then I read who they wanted it to sound like: Seth Rogan. Aha! He would be perfect for this role and I think that's a great call on the part of the casting agency.
However, I do NOT sound like Seth Rogan. My voice is young-sounding and energetic, but not deep at all, at least the voice I use to do the bulk of my gigs isn't. When I try to deepen my voice I sound like a ten-year-old kid making a crank call. So what do I do? I did two things. First, I made sure my vocal placement was in my stomach, not in my chest, neck, face, or head. It gave me a bit more resonance without trying to deepen my voice. Second, I made sure my pitch didn't go too high like it does when I record these high school/college roles I so often do. It took the top off my register so it made my voice sound deep-ish.
Will it get me the part? I have no idea, but doing those two things allowed me to focus on my acting and not on trying to sound like Seth Rogan.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Unless you're a gifted impressionist, don't try to sound like someone else. Sound like you!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it. Thomas Jefferson
DISCUSS!: What kinds of adjustments do you make based on the roles you audition for?
Have a great week!
Monday, June 29, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 6/29/09
And a good morning to you all!
Let's get right into overcoming professional challenges. How do you leave your personal life at the door before an audition? Here's an example...
Last week I went to have my car's oil changed. The service guy discovered a copious amount of repairs that needed to be done to the point that it wasn't worth putting that much money into it since it has over 100,000 miles. They asked me what I wanted to do and I couldn't answer them because I had to leave for an audition.
On the way to the audition, a million different questions were running through my head about the car situation. At the same time, I'm trying to get in a good mental place for the audition. Not an easy task!
I get to the audition, sign in, fill out my size card, and before I get a chance to look at the script my name gets called. YIKES! Nobody in that room cares about my car dilemma, especially at this particular moment. Not that they're cold or uncaring, they just have a job to do and need to do it fast. What do I do? So I took all that nervous energy that I brought with me and made it work for me. I gave an energetic, focused audition and left the room feeling that I did good work.
TIP OF THE WEEK: If you're having a bad day and you have an interview, audition, booking, or important meeting, remember this: don't complain, don't explain, and smile!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The truth is that there is nothing noble in being superior to somebody else. The only real nobility is in being superior to your former self. Whitney Young
DISCUSS!: How do you handle important professional events when you're having a bad day?
Let's get right into overcoming professional challenges. How do you leave your personal life at the door before an audition? Here's an example...
Last week I went to have my car's oil changed. The service guy discovered a copious amount of repairs that needed to be done to the point that it wasn't worth putting that much money into it since it has over 100,000 miles. They asked me what I wanted to do and I couldn't answer them because I had to leave for an audition.
On the way to the audition, a million different questions were running through my head about the car situation. At the same time, I'm trying to get in a good mental place for the audition. Not an easy task!
I get to the audition, sign in, fill out my size card, and before I get a chance to look at the script my name gets called. YIKES! Nobody in that room cares about my car dilemma, especially at this particular moment. Not that they're cold or uncaring, they just have a job to do and need to do it fast. What do I do? So I took all that nervous energy that I brought with me and made it work for me. I gave an energetic, focused audition and left the room feeling that I did good work.
TIP OF THE WEEK: If you're having a bad day and you have an interview, audition, booking, or important meeting, remember this: don't complain, don't explain, and smile!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The truth is that there is nothing noble in being superior to somebody else. The only real nobility is in being superior to your former self. Whitney Young
DISCUSS!: How do you handle important professional events when you're having a bad day?
Monday, June 22, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 6/22/09
Happy Summer! It's about time we had a dry day.
First off I'd like to welcome our newest Good Karma Network member Ashley Pierce. We look forward to your contribution to the group!
Yesterday we finished shooting "Transition". I would like to thank all of the GKN members who donated their time and effort to the production:
Justine Topham
Braden Herrera
Jennifer Wos
David Youngblood
Maureen Rogalski
Dana Chiocchi
Great job, everybody!
And a quick "Thank You" to Ingrid French for sending me out on those Heineken and GNC auditions last week.
OK, let's talk about networking. "Transition" is a great example of how networking can reap great benefits. Just about everyone on the set took the time to get to know everyone else and made it a point to exchange contact information. Last night the business cards were flying! Throughout the shoot the cast & crew were discussing marketing, building websites, taking classes, and other projects they are working on. Nobody was showing off, bragging, or dropping names. They were just sharing their experiences, developing new relationships, and having fun!
TIP OF THE WEEK: If you are entering a situation where there are potential networking opportunities please remember the following:
IMPORTANT!!! Make sure that it is an appropriate environment to network. Sometimes it isn't and you don't want to offend anyone or embarrass yourself. Networking party, sure. Funeral, not so much.
Bring business cards, pens, or anything unobtrusive that has your contact info on it.
Don't bring head shots, resumes, demos, etc. Those can be sent along afterward.
To quote the great Dan Duckworth, don't complain and don't explain! Griping about the industry or why your demo isn't as good as it could be is not networking, it's kvetching and nobody wants to hear that.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn't go away. Phillip K. Dick
DISCUSS!: How do you know when to network and when NOT to network?
First off I'd like to welcome our newest Good Karma Network member Ashley Pierce. We look forward to your contribution to the group!
Yesterday we finished shooting "Transition". I would like to thank all of the GKN members who donated their time and effort to the production:
Justine Topham
Braden Herrera
Jennifer Wos
David Youngblood
Maureen Rogalski
Dana Chiocchi
Great job, everybody!
And a quick "Thank You" to Ingrid French for sending me out on those Heineken and GNC auditions last week.
OK, let's talk about networking. "Transition" is a great example of how networking can reap great benefits. Just about everyone on the set took the time to get to know everyone else and made it a point to exchange contact information. Last night the business cards were flying! Throughout the shoot the cast & crew were discussing marketing, building websites, taking classes, and other projects they are working on. Nobody was showing off, bragging, or dropping names. They were just sharing their experiences, developing new relationships, and having fun!
TIP OF THE WEEK: If you are entering a situation where there are potential networking opportunities please remember the following:
IMPORTANT!!! Make sure that it is an appropriate environment to network. Sometimes it isn't and you don't want to offend anyone or embarrass yourself. Networking party, sure. Funeral, not so much.
Bring business cards, pens, or anything unobtrusive that has your contact info on it.
Don't bring head shots, resumes, demos, etc. Those can be sent along afterward.
To quote the great Dan Duckworth, don't complain and don't explain! Griping about the industry or why your demo isn't as good as it could be is not networking, it's kvetching and nobody wants to hear that.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn't go away. Phillip K. Dick
DISCUSS!: How do you know when to network and when NOT to network?
Monday, June 15, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 6/15/09
Happy Halfway-Through-June Day! I hope everyone enjoyed their soggy weekend.
First off I'd like to welcome new Good Karma Network members Edward Morgan and Sheryl Webb. We're glad to have you!
I originally envisioned the Good Karma Network to be a place where entertainment industry professionals can come together to share their accomplishments, seek advice, and find work. With that in mind, as of today I'm going to slightly change the focus of my weekly ramblings. I want to concentrate more on process: how to land gigs, how to network, and how to overcome other professional challenges.
I'm happy to talk about landing gigs. I've always shared my audition experiences, how they went, and what I think did or didn't get me the job. Some others are reluctant as they don't want to give away "trade secrets" or "share their Rolodex" for fear of losing gigs. I think that's a lot of crap. I'm all for sharing and if I tell a peer about an audition that we're both right for and they land it, more power to them! This is about karma, right?
When it comes to networking, the more we share our ideas and experiences, the better. In fact, when we do that, that IS networking!
You have to be careful when it comes to discussing professional challenges. Much of the time they involve revealing what goes on in the booth or on the set. You want to remain professional and not disclose information they may embarrass or offend your colleagues. This is a small world, you know. So on that note, I'll only talk about my own or shared challenges and none that involve "interpersonal issues".
In short, I want the GKN Weekly Update to be more about you. How we can help you find work. How we can help you build strong relationships in the industry. How we can help you overcome obstacles.
TIP OF THE WEEK: So yesterday was Day Three of shooting "Transition" and we had two rather large challenges to overcome: extras and weather. I've noticed over the years that these are recurring themes when producing small budget independent film. Extras tend to show up late in far smaller numbers than hoped for and often have to leave at different times for different reasons. Weather problems are obvious: it's cloudy when you want it to be sunny and it's sunny when you want it to be cloudy. Unfortunately, these challenges are almost impossible to control. So how did we get though the day? We stayed focused, positive, and realistic. There was no tension, everybody worked hard, and we kept things light. Major kudos to Doug Bollinger for selecting an outstanding crew and nurturing a positive culture!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Public virtue cannot come without private virtue. John Adams
DISCUSS!: How have you overcome challenges on the set or in the booth? Was there any particular lesson you recalled to get you though it?
First off I'd like to welcome new Good Karma Network members Edward Morgan and Sheryl Webb. We're glad to have you!
I originally envisioned the Good Karma Network to be a place where entertainment industry professionals can come together to share their accomplishments, seek advice, and find work. With that in mind, as of today I'm going to slightly change the focus of my weekly ramblings. I want to concentrate more on process: how to land gigs, how to network, and how to overcome other professional challenges.
I'm happy to talk about landing gigs. I've always shared my audition experiences, how they went, and what I think did or didn't get me the job. Some others are reluctant as they don't want to give away "trade secrets" or "share their Rolodex" for fear of losing gigs. I think that's a lot of crap. I'm all for sharing and if I tell a peer about an audition that we're both right for and they land it, more power to them! This is about karma, right?
When it comes to networking, the more we share our ideas and experiences, the better. In fact, when we do that, that IS networking!
You have to be careful when it comes to discussing professional challenges. Much of the time they involve revealing what goes on in the booth or on the set. You want to remain professional and not disclose information they may embarrass or offend your colleagues. This is a small world, you know. So on that note, I'll only talk about my own or shared challenges and none that involve "interpersonal issues".
In short, I want the GKN Weekly Update to be more about you. How we can help you find work. How we can help you build strong relationships in the industry. How we can help you overcome obstacles.
TIP OF THE WEEK: So yesterday was Day Three of shooting "Transition" and we had two rather large challenges to overcome: extras and weather. I've noticed over the years that these are recurring themes when producing small budget independent film. Extras tend to show up late in far smaller numbers than hoped for and often have to leave at different times for different reasons. Weather problems are obvious: it's cloudy when you want it to be sunny and it's sunny when you want it to be cloudy. Unfortunately, these challenges are almost impossible to control. So how did we get though the day? We stayed focused, positive, and realistic. There was no tension, everybody worked hard, and we kept things light. Major kudos to Doug Bollinger for selecting an outstanding crew and nurturing a positive culture!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Public virtue cannot come without private virtue. John Adams
DISCUSS!: How have you overcome challenges on the set or in the booth? Was there any particular lesson you recalled to get you though it?
Monday, June 8, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 6/8/09
Hi there!
Since I had such a crazy weekend I'm taking today off. The Transition shoot went extremely well and I have no sunburn or windburn to show for it, thank goodness! Here are pics of fellow GKN members Jennifer Wos and Maureen Rogalski who were a huge help:
TIP OF THE WEEK: SPF 30 Sunscreen, a baseball cap, and lots of water!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The test of courage comes when we are in the minority. The test of tolerance comes when we are in the majority. Ralph W. Sockman
DISCUSS!: What is the best experience you've had on a shoot?
Have a great week!
Since I had such a crazy weekend I'm taking today off. The Transition shoot went extremely well and I have no sunburn or windburn to show for it, thank goodness! Here are pics of fellow GKN members Jennifer Wos and Maureen Rogalski who were a huge help:
TIP OF THE WEEK: SPF 30 Sunscreen, a baseball cap, and lots of water!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The test of courage comes when we are in the minority. The test of tolerance comes when we are in the majority. Ralph W. Sockman
DISCUSS!: What is the best experience you've had on a shoot?
Have a great week!
Monday, June 1, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 6/1/09
Hello to you on this first day of June! It's nice out, isn't it? Too bad I can't go outside right now 'cause I'm busy talkin' ta you mooks!
So last week was another good one. Aside from the usual ETS gig, I had an on-camera audition for Heineken at Donna De Seta Casting courtesy of Ingrid French.
I got my hands on the Spanish on-camera Toyota commercial I did and here it is! (BTW I'm the pasty-looking one at the end of the spot)
www.tomdheere.com/Toyota.wmv
Thanks to Dara Cirucci of Sid Paterson Advertising for passing it along!
I want to plug a new company that fellow GKN'er Steve Anthony started called Atlantic Audio Books. It's a venue to afford smaller producers and narrators the opportunity to sell audiobooks they have produced. Please visit his website and if you know of any producers or projects that might be right let him know.
TIP OF THE WEEK: So June has begun and I just printed out my new Monthly Action Plan. Most of it stays the same from month to month and I always try to inject new life into it by adding interesting projects. Finding new websites to find VO work, for example. Fleshing out my online social network profiles to garner interest is another. The Tip is to mix it up, people! Routines & structure are great but don't let them get monotonous. Move things around or look at them from a different angle to keep it fresh.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The true delight is in the finding out rather than in the knowing. Isaac Asimov
DISCUSS!: OK, lets try that new title for a while. I'll ask a question and you post your answers. Here's the question: what was the last marketing idea you implemented and did it work?
Have a great week!
So last week was another good one. Aside from the usual ETS gig, I had an on-camera audition for Heineken at Donna De Seta Casting courtesy of Ingrid French.
I got my hands on the Spanish on-camera Toyota commercial I did and here it is! (BTW I'm the pasty-looking one at the end of the spot)
www.tomdheere.com/Toyota.wmv
Thanks to Dara Cirucci of Sid Paterson Advertising for passing it along!
I want to plug a new company that fellow GKN'er Steve Anthony started called Atlantic Audio Books. It's a venue to afford smaller producers and narrators the opportunity to sell audiobooks they have produced. Please visit his website and if you know of any producers or projects that might be right let him know.
TIP OF THE WEEK: So June has begun and I just printed out my new Monthly Action Plan. Most of it stays the same from month to month and I always try to inject new life into it by adding interesting projects. Finding new websites to find VO work, for example. Fleshing out my online social network profiles to garner interest is another. The Tip is to mix it up, people! Routines & structure are great but don't let them get monotonous. Move things around or look at them from a different angle to keep it fresh.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The true delight is in the finding out rather than in the knowing. Isaac Asimov
DISCUSS!: OK, lets try that new title for a while. I'll ask a question and you post your answers. Here's the question: what was the last marketing idea you implemented and did it work?
Have a great week!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 5/26/09
Happy Memorial Day!
I hope everyone had a fun and safe weekend. I was invited to five parties but I could only make it to three of them. I can't be everywhere, you know!
BTW I wanted to welcome about a dozen new Good Karma Network members. Some are from the Yahoo! Group and some are from Facebook. Please stand up and say hello to the rest of the gang! Also, I'd love it if you guys would post your headshot/logo and website link here for all to see. This is all about networking, you know!
Speaking of networking, the film "Transition" now has a website, a Myspace Film profile, and a Facebook group. Please join to show your support. We have three more shoot days and if you've contacted me already about helping out you'll hear from me soon.
I also had VO gigs at ETS in Princeton and at Full House Productions for Oxford UK.
TIP OF THE WEEK: It's nice to get back to normal after a long weekend, isn't it? After a few days of being unproductive I start to feel, well, unproductive. I like jumping back into the mix and looking for new ways to find work. This time around I'm gonna spend more time on LinkedIn and Plaxo looking for work on a regular basis. I recently dumped a bunch of job sites because they have yielded no results. That's what you have to do once in a while. Change up your routine. Re-examine your habits and behavior so you don't get caught in a rut. Trust me, it's good for your brain and for your soul!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Few men have virtue enough to withstand the highest bidder. George Washington
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: I originally started this section to start a weekly dialogue but there have been very few responses to it. Maybe it's because you're doing what the title says and "thinking" about it instead of talking about it. Should I give it a new title to encourage discussion? Ask different questions? BTW don't think about it, tell me!
Have a great week!
I hope everyone had a fun and safe weekend. I was invited to five parties but I could only make it to three of them. I can't be everywhere, you know!
BTW I wanted to welcome about a dozen new Good Karma Network members. Some are from the Yahoo! Group and some are from Facebook. Please stand up and say hello to the rest of the gang! Also, I'd love it if you guys would post your headshot/logo and website link here for all to see. This is all about networking, you know!
Speaking of networking, the film "Transition" now has a website, a Myspace Film profile, and a Facebook group. Please join to show your support. We have three more shoot days and if you've contacted me already about helping out you'll hear from me soon.
I also had VO gigs at ETS in Princeton and at Full House Productions for Oxford UK.
TIP OF THE WEEK: It's nice to get back to normal after a long weekend, isn't it? After a few days of being unproductive I start to feel, well, unproductive. I like jumping back into the mix and looking for new ways to find work. This time around I'm gonna spend more time on LinkedIn and Plaxo looking for work on a regular basis. I recently dumped a bunch of job sites because they have yielded no results. That's what you have to do once in a while. Change up your routine. Re-examine your habits and behavior so you don't get caught in a rut. Trust me, it's good for your brain and for your soul!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Few men have virtue enough to withstand the highest bidder. George Washington
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: I originally started this section to start a weekly dialogue but there have been very few responses to it. Maybe it's because you're doing what the title says and "thinking" about it instead of talking about it. Should I give it a new title to encourage discussion? Ask different questions? BTW don't think about it, tell me!
Have a great week!
Monday, May 18, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 5/18/09
(zzz...zzz...zzz...) Huh, what? Oh, hi! Sorry about that, I slept in today. Why? Because I'm POOPED! POOPED, I say! And sun burnt. And I'm a big ole wuss, so there you go.
Yesterday I was the 1st Assistant Director for the film "Transition". It was an amazing day! We shot at Holmdel High School in Central New Jersey for almost 12 hours. The cast and crew were a pleasure to work with.
I want to thank the director Doug Bollinger for bringing me in on this project. I also need to send out some serious props to fellow GKN members Justine Topham who supplied us with sound equipment and a great intern, Jennifer Wos as the 2ND AD, and David Youngblood as our Clapper Loader. All of you did an incredible job!!!
Last week seems so long ago after yesterday! Some good things happened, though...
I sent out a targeted postcard mailing to every agent and casting director I've met via Voiceovers Unlimited.
I sent out my quarterly newsletter "The Rognog" issue 17. I hope you enjoyed reading it!
I did the final batch of retakes for those nine sci-fi short stories I narrated for Infinivox.
I had a very nice ESL recording session at Full House Productions and got to work with fellow GKN member Ollie Wyman. Good for you, good FOR you.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Yesterday was very gratifying on many levels. I was flattered that Doug would ask me to be the 1st AD. It's a hard job to run the set but everybody was so nice it was pretty easy! I was particularly happy at the amount of responses I got from fellow GKN members willing to pitch in. It was shocking! It proved to me how powerful marketing, networking, and developing strong relationships with your peers really are. And it yet again affirmed what wonderful people I've had the pleasure to meet and work with over the years. Remember, it's not who you know in this business, it's how you treat who you do know.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: To avoid situations in which you might make mistakes may be the biggest mistake of all. Peter McWilliams, Life 101
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: When you go an audition or a booking, do you start conversations? Do you make sure to bring business cards? Do you thank everyone for their time and the hard work they put in?
Yesterday I was the 1st Assistant Director for the film "Transition". It was an amazing day! We shot at Holmdel High School in Central New Jersey for almost 12 hours. The cast and crew were a pleasure to work with.
I want to thank the director Doug Bollinger for bringing me in on this project. I also need to send out some serious props to fellow GKN members Justine Topham who supplied us with sound equipment and a great intern, Jennifer Wos as the 2ND AD, and David Youngblood as our Clapper Loader. All of you did an incredible job!!!
Last week seems so long ago after yesterday! Some good things happened, though...
I sent out a targeted postcard mailing to every agent and casting director I've met via Voiceovers Unlimited.
I sent out my quarterly newsletter "The Rognog" issue 17. I hope you enjoyed reading it!
I did the final batch of retakes for those nine sci-fi short stories I narrated for Infinivox.
I had a very nice ESL recording session at Full House Productions and got to work with fellow GKN member Ollie Wyman. Good for you, good FOR you.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Yesterday was very gratifying on many levels. I was flattered that Doug would ask me to be the 1st AD. It's a hard job to run the set but everybody was so nice it was pretty easy! I was particularly happy at the amount of responses I got from fellow GKN members willing to pitch in. It was shocking! It proved to me how powerful marketing, networking, and developing strong relationships with your peers really are. And it yet again affirmed what wonderful people I've had the pleasure to meet and work with over the years. Remember, it's not who you know in this business, it's how you treat who you do know.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: To avoid situations in which you might make mistakes may be the biggest mistake of all. Peter McWilliams, Life 101
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: When you go an audition or a booking, do you start conversations? Do you make sure to bring business cards? Do you thank everyone for their time and the hard work they put in?
Monday, May 11, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 5/11/09
Happy Mother's Day!
I hope all you mommies out there had a great day and that you got all of the affection & gifts that you so rightfully deserve. My mom is doing the retired thing in Florida but I did get to spend time with my favorite little girl in the universe, ASHA!!! Insert gratuitous adorable pic here...
So last week I had two more recording session for ETS in Princeton and a great production meeting for the film "Transition". What's that you say? You'd like to hear more about the film and get involved? Well, okay...
My good friend Doug Bollinger has asked me to be the 1st Assistant Director (1st AD) for the SAG short film "Transition" which he is directing. It's a true story about a high school lacrosse player who has beaten cancer and is trying to get his life back. It will be shot in a few locations in Central New Jersey on the following dates:
Sunday May 17
Sunday June 7
Sunday June 14
Sunday June 21
The film is fully cast but there are a few crew roles that need to be filled. They are:
* Hair/Makeup (May 17th, 7am-7pm, June 7th, 8am-8pm)
* Location Sound (all dates)
* Script Supervisor (all dates)
* 2nd AD/Key PA (aka my assistant/extras wrangler) (all dates)
There is no pay but credit, copy, meals, and travel compensation will be provided. Please contact me ASAP if you are interested and available. Don't hesitate to ask questions. If you can work some of the dates but not all of them for the job you're interested in, that's fine. Feel free to write back or call me at 973-216-3808. This is DEFINITELY a project worth being involved in.
Here's more great news! the Radio Repertory Company of America (www.rrca.com) had released their latest sci-fi adventure "Anne Manx and the Empress Blair Project". I've listened to the first half and it's a romp! Thanks to Angelo Panetta for casting me. Order your copy today!
TIP OF THE WEEK: So my friend Carly (mother of the world-famous Asha) recommended the book "Blink" by Malcom Gladwell to me so I started reading it. Great stuff! It's about the power of snap-judgements and first impressions. There is also a reference to an interesting website: www.implicit.harvard.edu.
Go there and take the test!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: I finally figured out the only reason to be alive is to enjoy it. Rita Mae Brown
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: How often do first impressions help or hinder you? What do you do to try and make a good first impression?
I hope all you mommies out there had a great day and that you got all of the affection & gifts that you so rightfully deserve. My mom is doing the retired thing in Florida but I did get to spend time with my favorite little girl in the universe, ASHA!!! Insert gratuitous adorable pic here...
So last week I had two more recording session for ETS in Princeton and a great production meeting for the film "Transition". What's that you say? You'd like to hear more about the film and get involved? Well, okay...
My good friend Doug Bollinger has asked me to be the 1st Assistant Director (1st AD) for the SAG short film "Transition" which he is directing. It's a true story about a high school lacrosse player who has beaten cancer and is trying to get his life back. It will be shot in a few locations in Central New Jersey on the following dates:
Sunday May 17
Sunday June 7
Sunday June 14
Sunday June 21
The film is fully cast but there are a few crew roles that need to be filled. They are:
* Hair/Makeup (May 17th, 7am-7pm, June 7th, 8am-8pm)
* Location Sound (all dates)
* Script Supervisor (all dates)
* 2nd AD/Key PA (aka my assistant/extras wrangler) (all dates)
There is no pay but credit, copy, meals, and travel compensation will be provided. Please contact me ASAP if you are interested and available. Don't hesitate to ask questions. If you can work some of the dates but not all of them for the job you're interested in, that's fine. Feel free to write back or call me at 973-216-3808. This is DEFINITELY a project worth being involved in.
Here's more great news! the Radio Repertory Company of America (www.rrca.com) had released their latest sci-fi adventure "Anne Manx and the Empress Blair Project". I've listened to the first half and it's a romp! Thanks to Angelo Panetta for casting me. Order your copy today!
TIP OF THE WEEK: So my friend Carly (mother of the world-famous Asha) recommended the book "Blink" by Malcom Gladwell to me so I started reading it. Great stuff! It's about the power of snap-judgements and first impressions. There is also a reference to an interesting website: www.implicit.harvard.edu.
Go there and take the test!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: I finally figured out the only reason to be alive is to enjoy it. Rita Mae Brown
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: How often do first impressions help or hinder you? What do you do to try and make a good first impression?
Monday, May 4, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 5/3/09
Happy May! A bit of a wet start to the month, ay? Isn't that only supposed to happen in April?
Last week was a bit light so this'll be short. The only in-person audition I had was a VO spot for Tecate Light. Funny script! While there I bumped into fellow GKN member Mike Rivera Smith who played Kevin the Cat in that Cartoon Network pilot I did. It was great seeing you, Mike, and I wish you continued success in South Pacific at Lincoln Center!
I also had a great conference call with my fellow Project TERRA creators. The real animation has begun!
Since last week was light I picked up a copy of the Ross Reports so I can do a targeted mailing of every agent & casting director I've met over the years at Voiceovers Unlimited. Did you know the Ross Reports is now called the Call Sheet and it's $10.50 an issue? Thanks to Steve Caputo for directing me to the Barnes and Noble in Paramus!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Wow, my first slow week in months! It was bound to happen. Good thing I have my Action Plan to keep me on track. That's how I got inspired to do the new targeted mailing. It's my go to, the thing that keeps me grounded. Call it nerdy, anal, micromanaging, or what have you, it certainly works for me!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Rule of the Great: When people you greatly admire appear to be thinking deep thoughts, they probably are thinking about lunch. Anonymous
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: What keeps you grounded, if anything? Family, a desire to succeed, the need to eat?
Have a great week!
Last week was a bit light so this'll be short. The only in-person audition I had was a VO spot for Tecate Light. Funny script! While there I bumped into fellow GKN member Mike Rivera Smith who played Kevin the Cat in that Cartoon Network pilot I did. It was great seeing you, Mike, and I wish you continued success in South Pacific at Lincoln Center!
I also had a great conference call with my fellow Project TERRA creators. The real animation has begun!
Since last week was light I picked up a copy of the Ross Reports so I can do a targeted mailing of every agent & casting director I've met over the years at Voiceovers Unlimited. Did you know the Ross Reports is now called the Call Sheet and it's $10.50 an issue? Thanks to Steve Caputo for directing me to the Barnes and Noble in Paramus!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Wow, my first slow week in months! It was bound to happen. Good thing I have my Action Plan to keep me on track. That's how I got inspired to do the new targeted mailing. It's my go to, the thing that keeps me grounded. Call it nerdy, anal, micromanaging, or what have you, it certainly works for me!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Rule of the Great: When people you greatly admire appear to be thinking deep thoughts, they probably are thinking about lunch. Anonymous
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: What keeps you grounded, if anything? Family, a desire to succeed, the need to eat?
Have a great week!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)