The "Glamorous" Life of Auditions - Day 38

WOWSERS! Beer floats all around, because that's how I roll!!!

Another year has passed and this year with less auditions BUT more bookings - I'll take those odds every year. It's difficult getting into a stride when you don't have auditions to show for it, but whatever chance you get, you must learn to take the fullest advantage of because your next one isn't guaranteed. I agree this is a numbers game, but when you're on the bottom rung of the actor's ladder (like me), your chance to be seen can be slim to none...really let that sink in and know you're here for a reason. Every chance you get, you go out there and SHINE. Let them get you...let them understand your work but put the work in as if it's your break to finally get in, regardless if it's a gas paid student film, less paid web series, low budget film etc...make it into a cinematic experience for yourself and the audience. Who knows who's watching, it's not just some "thing...," this could be a shot for a bigger role, a more wide spread audience, more recognition, so don't take any booking lightly because if used properly, it'll propel you into your next job, no matter how "small" you feel the production is. Sometimes I hear actors speak about their work with embarrassment undertones...did it not give you another opportunity to be on camera? Did it not give you another credit? Yes, it may be bad but did you do your work so that it sets you apart? Are you able to use the footage? These are the things that matter...not that your were one away from a major blockbuster deal, that wasn't given to you so be proud of the work you're doing...someone would burst at the seams to be in your shoes right now. This year, I took on 3 plays (some pay), all at different theatres, 2 webseries, 1 guest star on a pilot for Discovery ID, a co-star role on a network show and 2 shorts - 9 outta 38 ain't bad, I would've loved more but hey, this year has been my busiest thus far and I want more next year...I even got an NAACP theatre award to top it all off, more of this please. Look, each year gets better and you will as well, don't let up now, even with feelings that all is lost, things can change in the blink of an eye. If you do your work, work your work and constantly give your art, there is no denying - sooner or later it's gonna happen! I don't care what your family/friends/neighbors/random person says...you just can't give all in your craft and have no returns. I know you can't survive off one show a year, so how do you turn that one show into more? Market your boo-tay off, make sure everyone in the whole world knows you're on that show...before it airs, while it airs and definitely after it airs - constant bombardment of work accomplished, get into some theatre to keep on talking or create your own content to keep on talking or be involved in friend's project so you can keep on talking...whatever it is, has to involve you constantly, consistently talking so learn to love what you've done and understand that each piece that you do, is a part of the puzzle you're putting together. Every step is one step, one push, one move forward...there will be times you stand still because you're not given the opportunity but best to stand still and work in that place so that you're ready for the next chance that comes along. My career has been lots of wait with little to no reward but this year, after being in SAG since 1997, things have finally moved in strides compared to the past years, especially after quitting for over 7 years. I won't dull it down for anyone, I've worked hard and I've kept at it even and am working harder for everything because I had quit...the goodness is coming, the understanding of my work is finally being settled and my craft is sharpening every day. I didn't get everything I was going for but I definitely got into wonderful projects this year and you better believe I'm using it all to fight my way to a better 2017...please join me, fighting together beats fighting alone any day.

I think I went on my last audition of the year, to another web series but this one with some action involved. Although after looking at the sides and feeling this could be bad especially with one night to look over 3 scenes I decided I had side stepped enough auditions for the year. I looked up the writer/actor and not much but I saw another casting office to get familiar with so why not?! The words on the page didn't transcend writing but that's our job...so I decided to take another approach to the script. It could be done cheesy, most people would because it's easy, I decided to just let it sit and become as real as possible. I raced to drop off some goodies and made it to my audition 45 minutes early hoping to get out early but that was not the case. Everything was telling me to get out there, from the non-parking on the streets because of the time (had to valet at the building) to the 6+ people waiting ahead of me. It moved so slow but it did give me some time to review the words even more making my confidence in what I wanted to do even more solidified. I chatted with the other actors and listened to the silly convos that came up still staying focused on my purpose. Finally went in after the girl they knew had to take a moment because her sides were different, so I went in first for the role. Spoke to everyone, asked what they'd prefer in me standing or sitting which they gave back to me in which I stated "I'll go ahead and stand, whatever the camera is set for because my 1st scene was standing anyway and if they needed me to sit after, I'd do so." One of the men there, totally thanked me immediately for putting the room at ease and coming in with such relaxing energy. These are things I want to come in with, even being slightly frustrated for waiting such a long time, this was unexpected to hear and receive, thus making my work come effortlessly from one scene into the next, changing my voice and giving each a textured performance. So much so, the guy (actor/writer) stated "perfect" after each scene and the other guy stood to shake my hand so as to thank me for sharing my art. That moment made it all worthwhile, seeing the appreciation in the warmth of words and them realizing the bar I was trying to set...especially after seeing I was once again, the only minority of black descent there. I left realizing I made another space in that room, that maybe, just maybe the next casting session when it calls for everything but a "black" female, they'd rethink that choice and give 2 or 3 more a shot and even call me back in again. This is the purpose of my work, to be so good in the room, they may forget the who they have in mind and start considering someone, some people instead...I can only keep doing that and knowing every now and then, they'll take the risk and pick me. I've freed myself from feeling the weight of needing the job, I already know I deserve the job, it's their minds that need to open to my work and I don't have to change a damn thing because I enjoy doing theatre work, I enjoy being at the bakery, I enjoy doing my art where it's respected/wanted. Let the pressure of needing to be what they want you to be, be the drive of your craft to not be...finding fulfillment in your own purpose. What is it that you want to accomplish? What do you want to say? You're more than just a face saying lines...know that, stand in all that and keep pushing forward, YOU'RE TOO GOOD TO QUIT!

Below is just a small glimpse of artists in my world that have kept me inspired and are out there creating content, writing, filming and constantly making a yes when no's are all around - CHEERS to you all, you amazing creatures you....


Stacey K. Black
@staceykblack 
Has directed episodes of "Major Crimes" "NCIS" "Trouble Creek" - I'm on this one thank goodness etc, etc. She's shooting another documentary style webseries "Send My Mail To Nashville" as I type this, she's a busy gal. Follow her, like the YouTube and stay tuned to all her work, she's one to keep an eye on...










Shea E. Butler
@SheaB1
Wonderful Writer/Director with a new book out about a cockroach detective on Amazon ya'll...need we say more. One of the lovely ladies of "Trouble Creek" and always up to something...


Sue Keeton & Brian Kronenberg
A dynamic duo, they stay in constantly...writing, directing, producing and shooting it all on their own. Was able to do "The Package" last year and then "Walk Away" this year, they're now busy with their short documentary winning awards! Good things happening to good folks...




Saundra McClain
Actress, writer, singer and director extraordinaire. Her direction is always to give visual perception but she's open to your organic leanings as well. She loves attractive artists and are willing to look past looks if you walk in pushing the envelope even if she has her own preconceived notions as to what the part should look like. Open to listening to interpretations as long as it doesn't sway from the focal point, this lady is a must know as she's out there directing wonderful theatre pieces and working towards a musical. Don't miss an opportunity to be seen by this insightful lady or consider her for a role...

Mike Quain
www.quainphoto.com/@quainphoto (instagram/twitter)
Not only is he my beast, but he's a gifted photographer/director with an eye for light. He shoots it all, including my upcoming soon to be released 11 minute short that he directed and edited along with countless other videos/headshots to date. If you have a project/photo need, he's the guy to see...his pictures are clean and crisp plus he captures what you give him. Laid back, no hassle, no ego just good work - you'll leave with his work in your pocket. Check out his work, new studio up and running in Monrovia, just east of Pasadena.


Jared Boghosian
@jaredboghosian/jaredboghosian.com
Actor/director/creator of his own content. YouTube workin' it so catch his work and try to work with his work. Just good peeps getting creative, putting art out into the world and a great person to know. Lucky enough to do a small skit directed by this one this past year and I don't regret it...not one bit!





Eugene Nova
@novatheking/leonenova.wix.com/clickstarent
Music, actor, writer, director and will fill in as crew to help you out if need be as well because he's good at everything like that. Worked on "The Label" with this fella and was able to get him an audition in "Married With Secrets," which we were both on. He's constantly up to something...watch out!




Aundrea Posey/Greg Francis
She's a producer/writer, he's a director/writer as well and I was lucky enough to get an audition and booking for the pilot this past year on "Married With Secrets." Not only very open to my interpretation, but with no egos to boot about it as well. Love when the people who hire you are trusting of your talent, if you see these names, you're in good hands and congrats to you for working with them...I can only hope and cross my fingers that we'll get a chance to work magic once again on set together!

Anthony Bawn & Brentley Willis Bawn - Bawn Media
@AnthonyBawn/@BawnMedia
Got to shoot and be a part of this wonderful story created by these men. "Cheetah In August" is currently on AmazonPrime and I'm ever so lucky to have had the opportunity to work with these two very busy new content creating creatives. Check out their work and check into what they're up to, got to keep these folks in your radar...

Rodrigo Brand
Had the pleasure of working with this cat on "Twelfth Night" as he brought about the ridiculousness of Malvolio. He wrote a short, produced it and had me play the mom - showing me if you want something bad enough, make it happen. Love pro-active artists, it's the only way to be and this guy is doing it...






Love to you writers out there just making it happen, I'm getting around to supporting you all...

Doug Richardson - "Lucky Dey Series - Reaper" out now on Amazon
El - Elyse Young doing fun, sexy, romance - "Billionaire Blind Date"
Carlos Desmond Davis - collection of poems on Amazon - "50Fifty100"
Chris Wallace - "The Escape Artists" (got for Christmas and will now be reading!)

The "Glamorous" Life of Auditions - Day 36 & 37

The "Glamorous" Life of Auditions - Day 36 & 37

One outta the house and the other in the Penthouse Suite on Ventura for Pemrick/Fronk. Hadn't see them in ages, so I had to make sure to get to this one even though I received the audition the evening before with a condition to shoot immediately the following day. The problem was I was scheduled for rehearsal in the morning to deal with Act 2 scenes for the upcoming play of Bee Luther Hatchee and I've never cancelled out last minute but sometimes you just gotta hope it all works out. It was a pretty specific look, so I was hoping they wouldn't choose me but it was another opportunity to reconnect with casting...I would deal with consequences later. Sent my scene in (for the home audition) and was then asked to send a downloadable version which was handled quickly, although I wasn't asked for anything again, I took it as a good sign that I was requested to send another format so quickly...so at least it was watched - HA! Got the thumbs up from Mr. Fronk (at the penthouse) after my read which is always a good sign as I'm quickly trying to exit and back to the house I go to focus on my script. Didn't get the call to either of them but again, try to remember, it's not about the booking...the bookings will come, just keep making them remember you doing good work so that they can keep calling you back, it's coming...I can feel it, for you and for me! DO NOT GIVE UP...opportunities arise in a blink an eye, so hang tough, your moment can come any minute now. Don't believe me...looking back from the year before last (2015), I'd never think I'd have the year that I've gotten around to...it's to a point that I'm absolutely excited to see what 2017 holds for me. I'm already going into the New Year with a wondrous play/role, but I was up for something truly life changing that I can't even talk about until I know for sure, I've got no chance...because there is still a chance and boy am I crossing my fingers and toes. =)

Got to see a musical play about Duke Ellington through the eyes of Billy Strayhorn played at the Matrix Theatre (where I've had the opportunity to rehearse and see Tyne Daly's picture on the wall...after working with her - beautifulness) done by the same writer/director of "When Stars Align" with 2 other actors I've known - one winning "Best Ensemble" at the NAACP Theatre Awards with me this year, Boise, the other from "WSA", Brad and a FB friend that I never met but finally saw in action, Gilbert Glen. I also got to hang with my wondrous director that has given me so many opportunities to be a part of her productions, Ms. Saundra McClain and reconnected with casting director Amy Lieberman once again during this show. Love seeing familiar faces putting in work whenever I can...we must cheer each other on, it's not a competition, it's a journey together to see all of us get to the top. I love being able to recommend friends whenever I can because what is mine, can't be claimed by anyone but me as long as I'm prepared, have done the work and am willing to risk it all but the choice lies in the other people in the room...not my fellow artists. Tell everyone to kill it and mean it because no one is going to do it like you anyway, so why even worry...it's not in your hands, let that negative energy go and allow yourself the freedom of realizing you're only fighting to be a better you in that room. I can't wait to get to a place where if I'm busy, I can be taken so seriously that I can just say that I think my other gal/guy beast is even more perfect for that role - WOW - to get to that point where I can catapult someone else's career to their next level and be a part of that will mean success for me in everything. Can you just imagine sharing light/red carpet/events with others you know who are just as deserving??? I can...I want it with everything inside me and I can't wait to celebrate that moment with each and everyone of you - keep at it and keep dreaming!

"Bee Luther Hatchee" has just received a grant that will allow this show the creative freedom to have panel discussions with writers/artists moderating on diversity and all the issues it brings that is brought up in this very racially charged/appropriation deciding play during the run. This show now has the extra funding for extra clothing/supplies/props etc to make it the show it should be...it's gonna be beautiful and heartbreaking but most of all, a story that needs to be told and in perfect timing to all that is going on in this world today. "Libby" is so magical, I just can't believe I get to do this...for a full month coming up in January! I love the process of rehearsals taking up most of my time...we're in the phase of tape on the floor to pretend we're on stage and what our space may feel like. The play has been blocked with a designer run through this Sunday...I'm so close to having it memorized, with 2 scenes to go and then hopefully off book completely. Looking forward to hearing the discussions this show will create in everyone that sees it...whew, it's gonna be heavy, beautiful, good!

 "Trouble Creek" (newest video teaser below) is in post with more announcements coming soon but I am so humbled and proud to be a part of this project as a Sheriff, I'm on pins and needles wanting to see it! And the meme's of "Cheetah In August" are out as well, with the entire season set to drop soon...YES!

Home project done did, a small pond sanctuary for the back yard designed and done by my beast. I got to spend the morning hauling free rocks from the area to the car and then up our 2 flight of stairs to the back yard. Exhausted, but now when I wash dishes, out the window, I get to see plenty of birdies and other little creatures running around enjoying the space. Inspiration in the nature of things....keep creating! <3

 

The "Glamorous" Life of Auditions - Day 35


Short film audition for a "heroin addicted mom" at the CastInHollywood Studios which was my first time there - fun, fun. I liked the role and decided to keep my overall look with less makeup since it still refers her to be attractive. I wore flats with my jeans and my favorite "casual/mom" top to keep it simple. Had 2 scenes, one more domineering and the other from a "withdrawal" space which I used grogginess of drinking as a reference point. No need to do drugs in order to understand the feelings/effects it creates...explore from what you've experienced already. If you don't drink and can't come from a place of intoxication, have you ever taken medication that made you feel groggy, off, woozy etc? Use that...if not maybe paying attention on how you feel when you're completely exhausted or when you first wake up and trying to get your head clear. Watch as many documentaries as you can on the subject whenever you're doing some research and watch the behavior of real addicts, not those who've portrayed them before because even they are trying to replay the real thing and if you take from that well, you're making a copy from a copy as my wonderful instructor Allen Levin would say...go for the real deal and get your take on that first. Nothing wrong with appreciating another actor's interpretation but to get a clear view you must try harder to get it from the source first hand so that your version is crystal clear for yourself and the viewer. You don't have to become a drug addict to play one, you don't have to drink yourself under the bus to portray a drunkard but you must practice, practice, practice to keep in touch with pushing those bounds without having to live neck deep in them...it's unnecessary and I believe damaging to yourself and the truth seeking, learn to find that balance to understand the feeling and then step away from the edge.

Are you still taking care of your body? What you put into it is as important as how you push it physically. So many of my friends are repeatedly sick or developing sickness in one way or another and there comes a point when you must realize that it's the food you eat. The meat I buy is now without nitrates and such, I go organic without soy as much as possible and although you may believe I spend a ton of money, I usually spend no more than most people doing regular grocery shopping because it's a job making money stretch the way I must in order to enjoy life. A "Grocery Outlet" has opened up in my area and it carries a plethora of  organics as well as other varieties that Whole Foods/Sprouts carry for a quarter to half the cost. I realize I'm lucky to live in Cali but I also have to make a true effort to do the "grocery ring of discounts." I tend to start here first for some organic veggies (which vary from week to week,) random shots of non nitrate/organic meat products along with organic eggs as well as non dairy products - they've got good stuff ya'll, you just gotta look and then on another day it may be Trader Joe's/Sprouts/Whole Foods and pretty much in that order which includes a trip to the Farmer's Market whenever possible as well. Saving money is a task in and of itself, but you can make it a priority to get the best deal or go for the quickest and complain about money being short therefore not being able to feed yourself the way you must. Trust me, if I could do fast food every day and still feel great, I would...I just know what's in most of that crap so it's more of a last minute, no avoiding option that I call upon once a week and on cheat days if needed otherwise, I want the good stuff in my system and my body rewards me for those choices - made organic refried pinto beans, mixed with organic black beans and veggie meat substitute for a home made burrito with organic mixed salad to top it off from the Grocery Outlet (except for the "meat.") Plus I get to hang with another October Born Day Gal (Colleen) of mine, buy a Groupon to a local vegan spot with Kombucha beer, raw/vegan lasagna/enchiladas, and enjoy the goodness my body desperately needs as much as possible to stay in tip top form. My workouts are strong, I'm rarely sick and I'm sure I've fought off other unknowns over the years by cleansing, juicing and being mindful. A simple cup of hot water, with raw, local honey and some apple cider vinegar - added a trace amount of tumeric this morning to my normal concoction - will chase them throat itches throughout the year...follow it with more hot water and just a pop of lemon/lime (fresh) and you're already cleansing your system of unwanteds first thing in the morning. My mom just hipped me to the next "Asian" secret of combating cancer cells...not sure if it works but it feels like a cleanse because I could hardly stomach the sludge but hey, why not! A cup of joe, with a tsp of organic apple cider vinegar and a tsp of organic cinnamon...stir and drink as quickly as possible or you'll hit sludgeyness which is almost unbearable. Bitter yes, weird...yeah, but if it's an "Asian" thing, most likely I'll give it a go and see what happens unless it's so outta the box there is no way at this time and point in my life. I tried it for 3 days straight - once every morning right after Thanksgiving and I'm for doing it right after Christmas as well to end the year. I've my normal Master Cleanse I'll do at the beginning of the year this go around and we'll see where my wellness path leads. I'll keep you informed every step of the way but I urge you to look into cleaner eating, gentle cleanses and small home remedies instead of popping the pills every chance you get. There are times for those but it's not every single time your body is trying to fight...learn to give your system a chance to tackle on these new diseases but in order to do that, you must choose to do so otherwise you'll keep ending up on the road you've been traveling down every year until something worse happens. My body isn't ripped to the Gods, I've got some jiggle but I do know I'm less sick then most of those friends of mine that seemingly have perfect bods. I'd rather my insides be well managed then just my outside looking good because all that crap in your system (if you'd just read the labels) isn't doing your temple any favors in the long run if you read what it's made out of, there are better options...research and choose wisely!

"Bee Luther Hatchee" is coming your way finally at the Sierra Madre Playhouse opening the 2nd weekend in January. Rehearsals with tape on the floor are underway as the scenes are coming to life by the wondrous Ms. Saundra McClain and getting to share the stage with first time leadster is Tamarra as "Shelita Burns." Get ready, because "Libby" is coming and I'm so very excited to get to play a character that not only comes in and out of "reality" but also goes through the stages of different ages...this role is one I've been in love with since I read her! Just got measured for wardrobe and we've blocked Act 1 - absolutely crazy how much passion is going into this show that will be a touchy subject meant for discussion for times to come. So happy to go into the New Year working on such a beautiful project, this is the stuff art passion is made from - let's get to work! When it's slow, allow some theatre into your life craft...it'll only enrich this journey for you more so, the process will make a searcher of truth in all that you do...go get you some!

If you missed "Married With Secrets" you can catch my full episode as "Mrs. Eliette Dominique" here for free - just download DiscoveryID Go or look out for Dr. Deception's episode which is playing frequently now plus you get to see me in some vintage nurse/wedding gear and go from younger to older and all around - check it out at:
https://www.investigationdiscoverygo.com/married-with-secrets/dr-deception/

After a long look and year of wanting to support friends instead of promoting "JANE" to many film festivals which costs were a juggling act, I've decided to release "JANE" to my YouTube channel this upcoming year of 2017. It's 12 minutes of footage I had the chance to create with the help of many supporters and I decided to take the needed cash and start the process of sending out the thank you's with this postcard coming to all of you that decided you wanted to be a part of this project in some way. This isn't defeat in any way but a conscious choice of showing what we did with the little we had and to keep my project rolling on my terms until I can best get the whole show/film out, which is coming. Every step I've made this year, is making this story just one step closer to finding a creative life...it's coming, get ready!