365 Days in Orlando

Hello Readers!

Well today marks a special...day. It is my First Year Anniversary of moving to Orlando! Isn't that exciting? I truly can't believe how quickly it has gone by and how much has occurred. When I first moved here it was on the idea that I was going to try and make it as a working actor - to actually make my living off of playing around. And did I do it?

Pretty much.

Yes, I did have to work a few "normal joe" jobs. I think we all remember when I was working over nights at CVS and pulling 24 hour and, even a few, 48 hour days, between that, Nickelodeon, and being in God Still Dreams of Eden. And of course there was the few months I moonlighted as an official Government worker for the Census. Plus, my first and only official blip of working in a restaurant as s host for one day with actual customers.

Yes, I had some money given to me from higher powers (but who doesn't get that every once in awhile.)

But, I have done a pretty good job of establishing myself in the Orlando area if I do say so myself. I have a relatively stable job at Nickelodeon as an improv actor. I worked my seasonal contract at Sea World in the Polar Express and will be doing so again this year, in addition to a new holiday show they are producing. I was in the Orlando Fringe with the Humor Mill. I finally got into Mad Cow theatre, did two shows back to back and then went right into other show at the Orlando Repertory. I worked on a few small films and commercial projects. I auditioned for Disney, Universal Studios, Ringling Brothers Circus, and everything in between, and I've been to a ton of callbacks.

So, what have I learned. As much as this is fun, it is a business as well, and the bottom line drives a lot of what is decided. Everyone knows everyone - and they all talk. It doesn't hurt to ask questions or for a favor - yes, it's a business, but we are still all people. I need dance classes. Be prepared for anything no matter what the audition is for - it is a craft, and you have to make sure all your tools are sharp. Breathe and listen. Sometimes no matter how good you are, you just aren't right for the part. That last one is still a little difficult and I'm still learning to deal with it.

In conclusion, thank you to anyone and everyone who has welcomed me into Orlando, gave me a chance to work, and those who kept telling me that I was doing great and just needed to keep going. And that's exactly what I'm going to do.

Keep going.

So TypeCast wants to know: What is something that you've worked on for the past year, or any long term, that you are proud of?

Tick Tock Said the Clock

Hello Readers!

When I saw when my last blog post was, I was shocked. I had thought maybe a few weeks, more like a month and a half. However, when I think about it, time does seem to keep rolling faster and faster along the tracks. I don't really know what it's rushing towards, but apparently it really wants to get there.

Anyway, to fill in on as many events since August here I go. The Heiress is long gone. Pippi Longstocking has one more weekend after this one and I have forgotten how tiring it is to do 8 shows a week! I had gotten soft with these 4 or 5 shows a week productions. Whew! In the pic, that's me in Pippi as Adolph the Strongman. I know, hot. I'm still waiting to hear back about my Grinchmas callback. I had a callback for Gaston at Hollywood Studios but I'm not holding my breath, though I received many compliments from the casting directors about me and my talent (now if I could only receive a job.) I am doing A Christmas Carol at the Garden Theatre where I get to work with my boyfriend, one of my best friends Melissa, and with a very talented and influential director and producer. Oh, I'm playing the Ghost of Christmas Past! Haha, I'm moving out of the ensemble roles! Just kidding, there are no small roles, only actors with small dressing rooms.

Nothing really for the New Year yet though. However, if things keep going like they have been, I'm not too worried. Everyday, I keep meeting more and more people here in Orlando and learning the ropes. Plus, I can just keep using my boyfriend as a tool to crack into any group or individual I want to know, since he knows everyone. ;) And speaking of boyfriend and how fast time flies by, it's been over three months! It's crazy. Literally bananas (thank you Rachel Zoe.)

So, yeah. Life's been good and life's been a little sucky, but it all works out eventually. As much as I want to shove it into a more immediate satisfaction, I still have to wait my turn. So fingers crossed for Gaston. And/or Grinchmas. And/or Titanic. And/or Sleuths...

So TypeCast wants to know: What do you do to help slow down the clock? If you feel the sands of time slipping by, how to you step out of the rat race?

Beginnings and Endings

Hello Readers!
So I've decided that I'm not going to beat myself up for not doing this blog as much as I originally wanted. Life is busy and I don't want to bore you every other day with what new frozen yogurt flavor I tried that day. (Though so far, my favorite is Dreamy Dark Chocolate at Utopit in Baldwin Park. AHH-mazing!)

Well, it looks like it won't be happening with the Mouse again, and I think I'm just going to take a break from auditioning. It's great to hear all this wonderful feedback and support, but when there are no tangible results, you start to wonder and it gets a little old. Not giving up completely, but just stepping back.

And that's okay right now. I'm pretty much booked until January, if not March, so I'm doing pretty well. The Heiress is wrapping up this weekend and the family, plus Leannis and Erin, are coming to see it! It has been an excellent pleasure getting to work with this amazing cast, however, I will not miss the two hours of sitting backstage. ;) This means Pippi starts shortly, actually 7 days! So excited to be doing this fun children's musical! And while on the topic of the Rep, didn't get to do my House at Pooh Corner call back since it conflicted with Pippi, however, I have another Rep callback this Thursday for James and the Giant Peach, so yay! And while on the topic of callbacks, I had one for Grinchmas at Universal for the Narrator and it went well, so fingers still crossed on that one. Plus, Humor Mill is picking up with a brand new cast, plus one old me, and I'm very excited about the new and wonderful things we will be doing, including, hopefully starting regular shows at the Crowne Plaza Hotel!

Now the really big, fun audition I recently went to was for Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey's Circus's ringmaster! It was amazingly cool. Their whole artistic team was there, with lights and video cameras; I even got a little mention in the Orlando Sentinel. Pretty sweet. It was so weird because I didn't have much time to prepare (found out about the audition at 10 the night before. but proves you should always be familiar with your monologues and song book!) but they seemed to like me, so we will see. There were only 10 of us there, but they were also auditioning in New York and Las Vegas so I'm not holding my breath, but it would definitely be super awesome. So I should know in a few days. Plus, now a very large entertainment company has my information for future projects, so yay networking! I also had Mad Cow theatre season auditions and they went well. Will find out soon what (if any) callbacks I'll be getting. I'm really looking for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolfe?, Rashomon, and The Understudy (though I was also told to look at Legacy of Light by the amazing Peg O'Keefe, so I did.)

Otherwise, not much going on. I'm taking any opportunity I can to network with the Orlando entertainment industry and am meeting more and more valuable people (with much help to my new beau. :) ) And like it's often said in this business, and any business really, it's a lot about who you know! So know people!

So TypeCast wants to know: Was there an audition or job that was just fun to go for, even if there wasn't the slightest chance of getting it?

The Roller Coaster

Hello Readers!

Hope you are all still out there! I realize it's been a month since I've spoken to you all and I apologize. As we all know, the life of an actor has many ups and downs, a figurative roller coaster of events and emotions, and I am still riding it.

I had the amazingly good fortune to continue my experience at Mad Cow theatre right after The Cradle Will Rock, when I was cast in the Victorian "horror", The Heiress. I am playing a very small role, Arthur Townsend and Man, but that is okay because the cast of this show is beyond belief. I am continually amazed by their talent and so blessed to be amongst such great actors. It opens this week and I can't believe how quick it came (a lot of that probably had to do with the fact that I was only at 5 rehearsals, and all the other days I was auditioning and working at Nick.)

To continue on this ride of success, I will be joining the cast of Pippi Longstocking at the Orlando Repertory immediately after The Heiress closes. I'm super excited about this since it's going to be one of those fluffy, fun children's' musicals and after these last two shows I'm going to need some fun and fancy free time on stage!

I did my filming for the UCF film and that is a production shot in my post as Don from Bad Pixels. I got to spend the better part of my day dressed in a rubber rain suit and get doused with, shall we say, a faux bodily fluid. Lots of fun and the people were extremely friendly and treated me like the star I am ;). Also in the film world, I am still part of a production company that will be filming a pilot in the near future that we hope we can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars so that the actors can get at least $10 an episode ( double ;) ).

I have had some kinda downers which I can't specifically go into due to the fact I've sworn not to talk about them since the info is sorta confidential. I can say that I did have to let go of two other jobs because of a contract schedule conflict and that I found out once more I had been cast in something, but was cut due to budget. It sucks, but as different friends have reminded me it's better to know that at least I was being considered for that role and that people wanted to work with me, and it's only the fact that so many do, that I can't do everything. And that's true. It's a bit of a downer, but in no way am I asking for pity. I'm very happy with what I've got and in truth I have more coming, and when it's official I'll post it here! Hahaha, cliff hanger ending...!!!

Ok, I realize I'm supposed to end there, but I had a few more things to say. Have another callback for the Orlando Rep for The House at Pooh Corner, as well as one for Disney's Holidays Around the World for the French Storyteller. There are some more auditions coming up for Universal's Halloween Horror Nights this weekend, so all in all, life it truly good.

So as the roller coaster keeps on going, I have to remind myself that I don't know what's coming up around the next bend. It may be a down now, but it could be a down that's getting ready to shoot right back up into something more amazing than I could have asked for. I know, it's a little on the Hallmark side, but it's the truth. Everything happens for a reason, and sometimes the universe has better things than we even wanted in store.

So TypeCast wants to know: Is there something in your life that you didn't get that you wanted, but because you didn't obtain it, you got something better in return (i.e. a more profitable show, cooler job, better boyfriend, etc.)

Priorities, Priorities

Hello Readers!

Well, The Cradle Will Rock has opened and I'm very happy about this! The show has been doing well, and people really seem to be enjoying the performances. The show itself, not everyone is so hot about. It's understandable. It's very dated and simplistic and the music is not the easiest to listen to, but it's got a great message of revolution and the people taking power. Plus, it's an important piece of theatre history that almost didn't happen. If you get a chance, rent the Tim Robbin's movie under the same title and you'll get a feeling of how fantastic it was that this show ever happened. And if you are in the Orlando area or planning on visiting it runs Thursday - Sunday until July 4th so come see me!

In other news, continuing to wait to hear from call backs and auditions from bunches of places, most recently, another Mad Cow show, The Heiress, which though I don't think I could afford to do financially, I would still like to do it to establish myself at MC.

It's a priority issue, mainly dealing with money - as it seems many things are now a days. It's great to be working on all these projects, but I really have to start looking at what makes sure I can pay the bills over what has my artistic integrity. I hard as that is to say it's true. People say it all the time, "This is the job that pays the bills. I like it, but I don't love it." And I'm at a point right now where I do have to look at establishing myself financially and then take the steps to establishing myself artistically. To step back at this moment, I will be a bit self indulgent, and give myself a pat on the back. I have been busting my back, and have really gotten the chance to do some amazing things - what I have done in the past 7 months is quite impressive, especially with having to start out all over again in a new entertainment community.

All right, that was enough of a pat. :)

Anyway, it's just the way of the world, and I never know what tomorrow will bring, and I may get something that quenches the artistic and the monetary. I have applied for some normal jobs as well as for the Company Manager position at the Orlando Shakes, which I wish I would have been more aware of sooner, but I got my stuff in, so we will see.

And, I want to thank everyone who took a moment to offer me advice after my last post! It was so nice to hear your words of wisdom and kindness, I really appreciated it, so - THANK YOU!

So TypeCast wants to know: What was something you had to let go that you really wanted to do, but couldn't do to time, money, etc.? And do you feel that sometimes priority should be thrown out the door and the heart followed?

You Are the Weakest Link...

Hello Readers!

I write to you today from a very odd place. I have just finished the Orlando Fringe with the Humor Mill and it wasn't half bad. We had some really good crowds and really good responses to the show. It was quite an experience being amongst all that talent and evolving theatre. I wish I could have spent more time within it, but of course other projects call, such as The Cradle Will Rock, which is why I'm in an odd place.

I am finally getting the chance to work at the "Delirious Bovine" theatre and I fear I am absolutely ruining the possibility of another chance. Now I have to admit, I am off book, I know my songs and lines, all my cues, etc. except I'm lacking one thing, the most important thing: the acting, or better yet, the spirit. I am missing the mark on both of my larger characters. It's just not happening. They aren't there and I don't know how to get them. And I keep getting similar notes and I talk with my director and then I end up bringing the same old crap on stage that is JUST NOT WORKING.

I honestly feel like the weakest link of this show. I try to work on it, try to figure out what I can change, how I can up the stakes, and I kinda come up with some things, but then as soon as the show starts I forget it all and there I am being as bland and uninteresting as the beige-ist beige. And it isn't helping that I'm feeling inferior to the whole cast. And they are being amazing accepting me in, but they all know each other and have worked for years here and there, and are just wonderfully enchanting to watch, and I just feel like I'm bringing it all down. That I'm this kid who doesn't know anything about anything, and they are all wondering why in God's name I'm there. So I have all that working against me, plus I am just looking absolutely disgusting lately. My skin has broken out and I look like I have the Mark of Cain all over my face.

I just don't know what to do. We have two days until preview, I feel it would be better if I just left, because I'm getting in my own way and I'm not bringing the right things to this show. I'm just in a bad place. And it's like I want to keep diving into the script and work and work and work on things but then I feel I just get more frustrated when I do. So it's a double edged sword.

And that's where I am. I had a lovely, but way too short visit, from the family. They saw the show, and let me tell you, nothing more awkward then pretending to watch porn and enjoy it while your mom and brother watch from the audience. I guess it's not as bad as actually participating in sex. Anyway, thank you as always for reading.

So TypeCast wants to know: What do you do to get through mind barriers, to get out of your own way? What is the best way around them?

The Passion of Meryl Streep

Hello Readers!

You find me in a better mood today. Life was a little dark and depressing and I was having one of those I'm-not-good-enough-to-be-an-actor episodes, when I was reminded on how life has better things planned for us, even if we don't see it at the time.

What brought on this mood you may ask?

Well once again the Mouse said no to me, even though I was told I was absolutely amazing, but due to budget, sadly it was not a possibility this time. Then I was given another shot for another show with them, and made it all the way to final callbacks and I'm still anxiously awaiting to see if I'll be thinking fish are friends, not food. I had another audition for a theatre doing t.o.s., which seemed to have gone wonderfully, but was not called back, as well as not hearing from Universal if I would be paling around with Dr. Doom. So within a few days, a previous week that had been glorious, was for a melodramatic sense, crashing down around me. Now true, I am still working at Nick and was approved for the improv show (yay!) And true, I am doing a show at the Orlando Fringe Festival, which is pretty impressive. And also true, I am contracted to do a pilot of a new t.v. show. And also very true, I got to do a cast recording of the workshop musical I was in, where I was told at the studio I have a great voice (over the microphone; kinda a passive aggressive comment, but what the hey.) Yet with all of those truths, I was feeling kinda low. For some reason, I did not feel like I was a good enough artist - that something was wrong. And as I'm sure my bestie Leannis was thrilled to be hearing for the umpteenth time of me moving to Orlando, I was having another career crisis ;). I was trying not to have a pity party.
Because it's true. This life can be difficult. There are no guarantees that you'll go from job to job. That you won't have to work a "normal" job to make ends meet. That getting one gig doesn't make you a horrible person. And I realize this topic comes up often in my blog, but I feel like it's an important reminder to myself and to people in the arts, and for life, in general, and should be repeated often since we only have one life.

Live with Passion.

Look at what you are doing and find the good in it, or at least find something that gives you goodness in your life and enjoy it. Find the passion of living everyday. As I watched the making of Julie & Julia today, I was reminded about a few things. First, that I hadn't written in my blog in a while and I was breaking a promise to myself. Second, that people like Julie and Julia found passion in life and embraced it every moment. Third, that Meryl Streep is amazing and she brings so much life and, you guessed it, passion to her work. It was all a big connection for me with blogging and life and being an actor and not letting life pass you by, on all sorts of levels.
So what's my point today. Well, that I will, I promise with all my passion, to write in this blog more often. I have so many people who support me in this, that they deserve something back. Also, I will remember that I need to look at what I'm doing today and enjoy it! Bring passion to it! Forget about tomorrow! (Not completely, but remembering that today is important too.) And finally, I got into a show at Mad Cow! I will be playing Junior Mister/Gent/Clerk in The Cradle Will Rock. It all happened very quick and was exactly what I needed. Life held back a few things, yes, but it gave me a real nice present in return.

So TypeCast Wants to Know: Was there an event in your life that made everything else better? Something that, when it happened, put other things into perspective?

I've Missed You Readers!

Hello Readers!
I didn't realize how long it has been since we've talked and I apologize for that. Life has been extremely busy (when is it not) and sleep sorta takes precedent.

Enough of that noise though, onto the good stuff! To make sure I get you up to speed fully, I'll just go from project to project:

God Still Dreams of Eden: The project is done...for now. It was performed out at Orlando Shakes for one night (technically we had a very full open dress as a second night performance as well) and people seemed to like it. It went through a lot of changes along the way (and even the day of) but that was the fun (and stress) of it. If you've never worked on a workshop, it's definitely not your normal theatre rehearsal experience. It's a roller coaster of new pages, songs, rewrites, deletions, etc. and can definitely be unsettling, but it's fun to know you helped create something. It's still going under some changes, and we most likely will be performing it again. The fun part is in a few weeks, we get to go do a cast recording of it!

The Humor Mill: Show is getting better and better everyday! Everyone is really pulling together and we are getting some good publicity out there. I and another member got to perform at the Fringe Preview and people really seemed to enjoy the material. We also did a mini-preview for some theatre students and were met with more positive feedback. The group is also shooting some promo videos which you can find on our Facebook page: There is also new promo photos for our show Spare Change as well as the performance video from Fringe Preview.

Nick Hotel: Apart from crazy personal drama (and when do you not have that when entertainers are involved)it's going really well. I truly love this job. Coming to work and acting like a kid is great. Plus, other show possibilities are opening up and it seems like a very nice place to set up a long term home. Also, it's a great place to run through walls during sets where you are acting like a sibling getting chased.

Upcoming News: I have another callback with Disney, this time for Morris in Mulch, Sweat, and Shears over at Hollywood Studios. I also have a callback for Dr. Doom at Islands of Adventure. Both are very exciting possible opportunities, and one or both would be nice to get! Also, I just was cast in a budding television series called Anything Goes At the Castle, which I hope will turn into a blossoming television show.

Now that I'm out of CVS world, I'm happier. I'm back on the path of why I moved down here and that is to make art my passion and my career. Yes, I did take the census job, but it's very flexible and not as demanding. I feel better now about life and I actually have moments to stop and breathe for a sec and not wake up in next month wondering what happened. Thank you again readers for sticking with me and I hope to bring you amazing news soon!

TypeCast wants to know: What are annoying/frustrating habits that drive you nuts when your director/boss does them?

One Step Forward, One Step Back

Hello Dear Readers!
As I begin this blog, Gloria Gaynor has begun singing I Will Survive on my iTunes and I feel it is very appropriate. I apologize for not writing for these past few weeks, but I have found myself very, very busy, and when not at work, rehearsing, or sleeping, I haven't been in the mood to sit and type. However, things are a changin' and hopefully in the direction for the better.
I'm officially leaving CVS next Thursday. I just couldn't do it anymore. The amount of time it took up, and the things it kept me from, and the little pay wasn't worth it. It was nice to have, but it was taking me a step backwards from the whole reason I moved to Orlando. That being said, I'm still at the Nick Hotel, and it is absolutely wonderful. They have been just so lovely to work for and I have made some amazing friends. I've been cross trained into some things apart from the original dinner theatre improv show which opens me up to more possible hours/opportunities. It's one of the reasons I had to let go of CVS. My lack of availability was keeping me from doing more of what I really wanted to do. And even with a current job offer right now with the Census, I'm wondering if I am even going to take that, with it being a 40 hour a week position. It feels like I would just be putting another wall up, taking another step back.
I am still performing in the Orlando Fringe Festival with the Humor Mill coming up in May, so keep your eyes and ears open for that. I'm also getting ready to do the workshop performance of God Still Dreams of Eden in a few weeks. I'm freaking out because I have been flying by the seat of my pants since my rehearsal schedule has been limited with them, but I think the cast will be able to pull it off well. I'm just excited to be doing something on stage. I also filmed my first appearance in Winter Park: the Web Series, and it looks to be a fun, yet not-so-time-consuming project, for me.
I know it's not much, but work has been keeping me busy and sleepy. I have an audition in with the Winter Park Playhouse so I'm hoping to hear from them and there are a few more auditions coming up in the next month. But below is a few bullet listed points of things I want to mention - little lessons if you will.
- Always take the opportunity to learn something new or work with a new group (that has some upstanding to it.) It most likely will lead to another job or more opportunities.
- Always tell people you are interested in doing more. Jump in. Help. The more you show initiative, the more likely they will look at you for future advancements/jobs.
- Don't forget what you are striving for. Make sure to keep to your path, you don't want to lose sight of that big picture.
- Make everything a learning experience, especially if it's not that positive currently. The more you can look at things as learning or broadening your horizons, the less you will be disappointed and embittered by the random inevitable negative things that happen.

That's it from me. Just stepping forward. I hope you had a wonderful Easter! I know I did!

TypeCast wants to know: What do you do to keep yourself striving forward towards your "big-picture" goal?

Schedule Chaos

Hey there everyone!

So sorry I've been aloof lately. I just started my two new jobs: real job that is Walgreen's competitor (boo) and the place where kids rule (yay!) and have basically been jumping from work to work to bed to work to work to work...you get the picture. Anyway, I've just been swamped with it, trying to make it all still work with the sketch comedy group AND this new musical I was just cast in. And by new I mean, as in new, never done before, we are work-shopping it with future plans of a tour. I always enjoying getting in on new pieces because it has no obligations to what's been done before. You can do anything with it, create new characters that are in new situations, and evolve this whole world no one has seen before.

With that said...

Trying to get the schedule to work with technically four jobs (yes, getting paid for all of it, which is also amazing) is I'm pretty sure comparable to how air traffic controllers feel when landing planes....in a snow storm....and their computers are out. OK, I realize it's not that complicated, but it does require finessing.
"I can't be there for the whole two hours, but I have this afternoon available."
"No I'm not going to be able to make that day, however these two nights I have an hour before my overnight shift."
"I know it's not perfect, but I have 15 minutes right before I pass out every third Thursday of the month."
I'm joking, but kinda not.
HOWEVER, I am extremely grateful for the chance to work. As someone who didn't have much going on for about a month and was worried how he was going to pay rent and eat, it is a wonderful thing to have to delicately piece a schedule together.

So as we can see, it's about month four and life ain't bad. Working for "kids" is sooo awesome. We get to go around and slime and pie people and act like, well kids all day. Plus, I've met my work wife who is just absolutely adorably and tall like me! (oh and cute and funny and just wonderfully talented (as she would say (often.)))

Anyway, that's what I got for now, thanks for reading and I'm up to 12 followers, so thanks all for reading!! Have a good night all!

TypeCast wants to know: Have you ever had the chance to work on a new piece/gig/performance in any capacity and what was it?

It's a Small World After All...

So I write this entry the day after one of the most busiest and dreadfully sick 24 hours I have probably spent in a long time.

The day started at 6 p.m. Thursday and ended around the same time on Friday. Within it I had a sketch comedy rehearsal, 9 hour work shift at CVS, and orientation for my new job at the Nick Hotel. I would have ended the day with an improv show after that orientation, but my body finally gave up and told me that was just not going to happen. I'm fine now, on some wonderful pills, but still a bit tired. Just to remind people, I have started my job at CVS as a overnight supervisor, and survived my first week (barely). It's a little more responsibility/work than I was looking for, but it's a job that pays me on a regular basis so I'm going to stick it out (thanks to the advice of M.K.).

I'm really excited about my job at Nick Hotel! Orientation was fun (even though I was a bit ill), and it definitely sounds like a job that has the possibility of becoming more than it is right now, which is always great in entertainment. One of the points in class was disclosure, which I have dealt with in other jobs, and I think is an important point to cover in today's blog.

In the entertainment world, as the rest of the world, it's important to not burn bridges and to not reveal too much information on projects you're working on. The first point regarding bridges is I think pretty obvious: the entertainment world is a small world (cue music with dancing children dolls). Every time I go out to an audition or callback I meet someone who is friends with someone I know or with another director I'm working with. So if you make an enemy in one place, they most likely know 5 people in other places who will think twice before hiring you if they hear something unsavory about you. So this means try to refrain from behavior such as blowing up at cast and crew, quitting a project for no stated reason, talking negatively about projects/people behind their backs, etc. You just never know what info might get where, and in this biz where work is hard enough to get, you don't want to add another obstacle to the track. On the latter point of revealing: first of all, if the project you are working for says don't talk about this, blog about it, take pictures and post it on Facebook this, DON'T. If they find out, you're out, and that's it. Also, if you spill, someone else might hear it, bring it somewhere else, do it there, and then no one is coming to see you and you are out of a job again. SO, be careful of who you talk to and about what, at all times.

On a less aggressive and serious note, I had a call back today for a new musical that will be work-shopped and hopefully will become a tour. I went to the final callback for Hoop Dee Doo Revue on Monday, and am anxiously awaiting to see if I may be joining the team there. I also auditioned for Star Wars Weekends, which was also positive (somehow I had to do a dance and was of course in the first group in the front, oiy) but was a lot of fun.

Not that much entertainment news I know, but I've decided to take a little break auditioning right now for any long term project since I have the job with CVS and Nick right now. I kinda need to build up my bank account again, so I have to focus on what projects will really be beneficial to me.

Alright everyone, have a wonderful rest of your weekend and don't forget that the Oscars are on tomorrow! My love to the Mercer Oscar Party and all those in attendance!

TypeCast wants to know: What's the worst job you ever had?

P.S. Here is the link to the video from the Sonnet-a-Thon I did about a month ago. Gosh, how time flies.
http://www.livestream.com/orlandoshakes/video?clipId=flv_31761d8d-cccd-451c-966d-d46d16720ffb

The Network

This post comes from stream of consciousness. I'm just emotionally and mentally exhausted that I can't really focus on format. But I have stuff I want/need to say, so I'm basically just going to vomit it out on here.

First of all, fucking fuck I got a ticket for running a fucking red light, even thought I was clearly stuck in the fucking intersection by another car. Fucking $125 I don't fucking have and I probably have to go to fucking traffic school which is more fucking money. FUCK YOU ORLANDO STOPS!!!!! Alright that's kinda out of my system.

Other than that fucking dismal part of my day, which basically ruined a perfectly good fucking day, it was, well, a good day.

I had my callback for Hoop Dee Doo Revue and I was asked to stay for dancing which I did decently. Tomorrow I'm getting a call either way if I move to the next round of callbacks and I ask all and any to pray to which ever God you pray to that I get to the final callbacks on Monday. Thank you.

I'm technically officially an overnight supervisor at CVS which is nice because finally money will be going into my bank account instead of just out. Plus, I'm also with Nick Hotel as one of their improv actors which will be nice to actually get paid to perform. I've also got an audition in at the Orlando Shakes Playfest that went well even though the guy in front of me definitely did the same monologue I did!!!!! Thank god, we were doing two and I did mine in a completely different way, but talk about an Oh Shit moment. I'm hoping to hear back about some extra work on Thursday that will pay some money so let's pray on that one. Which leads to today's post title, The Network.

I found out about this extra work from a woman I did some extra work for last week. It wasn't paid, but it was only 4 hours and I had nothing else to do. But because I went, she is now recommending me for this job on Thursday, so Network. I met a bunch of people at this extra filming, exchange info, talked about upcoming auditions and added to my growing network of people who can help me find other jobs. And that is what it's about people. Knowing other people. The more people you smooze and become friends with, the more you will have the inside tract on everything that is going on. Of course don't just be a leech, you have to contribute too, but pass info on, make connections, strike up conversations, do some unpaid work, cuz it will most likely lead to something bigger and better.

My schedule is closing up, so people will have to put in their final bids and the highest bidder wins. I'm happy I'll be having a normal job to go to so that I can pay fucking ridiculous tickets and not worry about spending too much money at the gas pump. That's it folks. I hope it wasn't too bad. I'm hoping to post something later on this week that's a little more structured and a little less screaming punk. Thanks as always for reading.

TypeCast wants to know: What's the best network connection you ever made?

The Grass is Always Greener on the Other Stage

Uhh, so remember when I didn't have anything to do?

Yeah, that's kinda changed.

It seems like things are culminating to a point and soon I'm going to have to make decisions on what I'll be staying with and who I'll have to say good bye to, if only for a little while.

Things I have completed in the past week include the filming of the Full Sail student film I was in, which was hysterical, including the fact that I had to continuously eat these horrible cupcakes throughout shooting. It was a character choice the directors and I thought would really add to the character. Which as a side note, I'm finding more and more in film, they are open to improv and letting things just happen and let the camera roll. Just an FYI to the film actor novices (which I still consider myself). I also filmed a little scene, I'm talking minuscule, in this independent rom com movie. I was also out at the Orlando Shakes Sonnet-a-Thon on the 12th. It was just a fun little way to get involved in the arts community.

Audition wise, I went out and showed the people at Theatreworks Florida my stuff for The Great American Trailer Park Musical and got a callback. And I must say, it was the most fun I've ever had at a callback. When you are surrounded by such amazing talent, and everyone is just letting loose, it's so nice. However, there were only four guys called back (me included) so it was definitely down to the nitty gritty, and is a little fretting knowing you are so close. Also I have the big Hoop Dee Doo Revue audition coming up for Disney. Enough said. Plus the Orlando Shakes Playfest auditions are on Sunday and Monday and I'm going to walk my self on over there (especially if Phillip Seymour Hoffman is going to be involved.) And I have an appointment time to go and audition for the Arabian Night Adventures Dinner Theatre on Saturday, so we will see how that goes.

Upcoming gig wise is getting a little tied up. I should have a normal job soon with CVS (i know, gasp!) as an overnight supervisor. I was just offered a job at the Nick Hotel as one of their "Splat Pack" improv actors. And, if you all can remember back to the Joseph auditions with the "high-note incident", I was asked to join the cast as the Baker. And, I'm still in rehearsals for that one indie film project. So my brain is a little frazzled on how to make everything happen, make a decent paycheck, and get people to recognize me. And of course, everyday is an almost, maybe, possibility, constantly changing schedule where one day you are doing nothing, and the next your booked.

NOW, do not take this as me complaining about work, because I know how fortunate I am to get these offers. However, I am complaining about having to make decisions. Why can't everything just fall into place?! And of course, the next offer is always more tempting and more of what I want to do. And I just want to do everything! Why can't this be EASIER!!? (okay, crazed, whining over.)

That's it...I think. I'd have to look at my planner to make sure, but I'm pretty sure. Alrighty, thank you again my readers and followers for all your constant support and comments! I look forward to what more you have to say!

TypeCast wants to know: Was there ever something you had to do in a show that you personally did not like doing (i.e. me eating horrible cupcakes all day), but that your character loved, or enjoyed, doing?

Working My Tail Off...

Hello TypeCasters!

I'm sorry for being away for so long! The past week was a doozy! Or is that doozey? Anyway, it was busy! Since you last heard from me, I've been acting my slowly diminishing butt off (gosh, I love the gym.) Sorry, sidetracked.

Monday was filled with traveling as I went to Tampa to do some background work for a commercial about an herbal supplement for women. Now before the jokes start, I was in the background, being all business-y, as the very happy women walked the streets of "New York." Actually, the location they found did have the look of NY. So I have now filmed my first professional commercial (well, not really, I did one in Gainesville, so first professional commercial in Tampa), and let me tell you if you haven't done commercial work, as talent you will sit...A LOT. So bring a book, your iPod, and a comfy sittin' cushion cuz you gonna be waiting.

Tuesday and Thursday was back to the PSA and it was so much fun. The world of performing is odd as you can be background one day and then principal the next. Thursday was the best as I got to be turned into a classic '80s werewolf (hence the picture!) I was in the chair for two hours having three people paint, glue, latex and stretch my skin. It was pretty awesome. Click on the following link for more pics:

Wednesday I decided to go audition for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the beautiful Garden Theatre, which I found out yesterday, I will be playing the Baker! (It means I get thrown in jail with the attractive, shirtless Joseph. It's like Oz, but with singing.) At the audition, I must say though, I had one of those moments where I went crazy and sang a ridiculous note...twice. I was doing Be Our Guest and just was so into and I was building and building and was getting to the end and was like, "Oh god, here comes the end. Am I going to go up or stay on the same note. Cuz up isn't good every time. Oh here we go."

I went up.

It was okay. I have to ask for confirmation though that no one died.

Then, they had us dance, and the music director arrived and since I couldn't be at callbacks they had me do it again. So I did. And I sang that note. Again. After dancing a lot. Jury is still out on the "okay-ness."

Friday had me at improv which was fun as more and more of our performers were being shunned by fate to not make it to the show, but it happened. We made it by the skin of our elbows.

That's about it! I went to Gainesville this weekend and got to see GCP's Mockingbird (Great!) and then to FAIRE, where I was embarrassed several times in front of large amounts of people, or as I like to call it, publicity. Today, I had a callback for a major independent film, so lets keep our fingers crossed. Also, I'm being seriously considered to be brought onto the entertainment wagon over at the hotel owned by the network that likes to slime people. Can you figure out what I'm talking about? I Double Dare you.

So TypeCast wants to know: what's the coolest costume/make-up you ever had to wear for any sort of performance gig?

The Audition Marathon

People talking to walls.

Random snippets of show tunes.

Smiles so sharp, they would scare a shark.

Oh gosh how much I love auditions.

Yesterday was, for lack of a better phrase, a freakin' marathon of auditions. I was bouncing off the walls, or better yet, bouncing along the streets of Orlando proper and it's surrounding hamlets, trying to impress people enough to hire me (even if it meant little or no money.) Saturday held what I think is the most auditions I've ever had in one day - 6. I know, some hoity toities would look at that number and scoff. "Six. Please, I used to six auditions a day when I was ten, now I have that many before breakfast. Six. Psh."
But let us remember, I am still technically a novice in this world of an actor's life. It's really been only four or so months where I have solely relied on acting gigs, whatever they may be, to be my life's bread, so let's give me a little credit.

So as a brief rundown as to yesterday's event's here is an hour by hour account of the Audition Marathon.

10 a.m. - Callback with the Humor Mill's sketch comedy group. I thought it went okay, I was worried afterwards I was taking it a little too seriously, but I guess not since they hired me on.

12 p.m. - Voice over callback for a telemarketing/communications company, which turned out to be actually a small gig right there and then, which may lead to other ones with the company in the future, and which lead to me getting $40 for 30 minutes of work. (Sometimes you gotta love the acting pay scale.)

2 p.m. - A prominent film school located in the area was having it's regularly scheduled auditions. I went in for two projects and was complimented on both the fact that "I take direction very well," and "You had the right amount of vacancy required for that line." What can I say, four years of theatre training.

3 p.m. - Meeting with the writer and producer of a web series about art imitating life. Or was it the other way around? How artsy! They later told me, they would like me to get on board with the project.

4:30 or 5 p.m. (I'm a little blurry on the time because I was hungry and all I had to eat all day was a pack of whole wheat grain cheddar cheese crackers and a tall Gingerbread Latte.) - A university having an audition call for short films, where while waiting to go in, one young enthusiastic actress kept working her favorite punch line of a monologue, "Someone threw a bran muffin at me, with NUTS!" If I had had a bran muffin...Anyway, they showed a lot of interest in me, so we will see.

So there ya go. That night I went and saw GOAT's production of RENT and I thought it was delightful! They have some really amazing voice talents in that show, and the cast really brings that gritty, fun, bohemian flair to it. Go and see it if you can.

Well I really need to be off. Going to Tampa tomorrow to film a commercial and need to be up in the morning, and we all know how much of a morning person I am. ;)
Good night dear readers and may you stay busy!

Typecast wants to know: What is one of the most memorable audition experiences you have had? It can be positive, negative, humorously post audition, whatever. Alright, get typing.

"Loving is Sharing Rainbows of Happiness"

I'm baaaaaaaack!

After a week of what seemed liked endless auditions and driving around the county of Orange, it's Tuesday again! I can't believe it. As much as I don't have a regular job yet (being positive), I'm still staying busy with reading, working on monologues, arranging auditions, going to auditions, and making the apartment more and more like the den of theatre I want it to be. I'll try to post a pic of the wall I put up today.

Originally this post was going to be called "Callback Conflicts and Comfort Food." Instead, I changed it to the fortune in my...fortune cookie, "Loving is Sharing Rainbows of Happiness." Yes, I realize, a little cheesy, but I feel it's something my week was missing, at least in my career world. Now I know I haven't been hoofing it for years, living on Ramen Noodles and selling blood to make rent, but I definitely had got caught in a rut of sorts. I realized I wasn't having enough fun at my auditions. I was too stuck in my head worrying about too much when I should just be letting it flow. In other words, I wasn't loving my job. And when you are an actor, if you don't love it, it's not like you are doing it for the money. Now mind you, some of these things I auditioned for didn't pay, but I wanted to go out and stretch my wings. Plus, sometimes one non-paying thing can lead to a paying thing. So take a chance, you never know. But always try to love and get out of your head!

So now I'm trying to kind of pep rally myself before an audition.
"Go Alex, Go! Remember to have fun! You can do this! Just listen to what they are asking for and give it your best! Ra Ra Shish Goo Bomb!" (Or something like that. I really don't know how that last bit is supposed to go.)

Anyway, just remember fellow entertainers, and people of the world in general, love what you do, or at least find something in it to love. If you don't, that's when you will find yourself in a rut, hating your life.

In career news, I just got cast in a PSA for the Humane Society. More details to come soon. I have the callback coming up for the sketch comedy group. (Oh that's where the part of the title "Callback Conflicts" came from. They were planning on filming the PSA on Thursday which was the same day as the sketch comedy callback. But I got some things rearranged, so we are good to go.) Bunch more auditions coming up in February. I'm going to Tampa on Monday, to be an extra in a commercial, my first actual paid one! So things are on the up and up. Like someone very special to me said one day, "It takes those 99 'No's to get that 1 'Yes'."

So what do you love about your job? What's that thing that actually makes you happy at work, or if you don't have that, what is something that you look for in a job that makes you happy? (if you need a map to that sentence, i understand.)

Suggestions, Comments, Concerns

Hola from the Audition World!

Yes, I've been auditioning my butt off since you last heard from me. A t.v. movie, an orange (the fruit, not the color) commercial, some other thing or another and I have two scheduled for tomorrow for a spokesperson position and a student film (for the fun of it.) Plus I have rehearsal Friday night for Improv and Saturday will be rehearsing for another project. I have an audition on Monday for "Superior Donuts" which is exciting. February is also booking up with some auditions as well. And I signed up for the Orlando Shakes Sonnet-a-thon and will be performing one of Billy Shakespeare's sonnets in February (very awesome!) So all and all, staying relatively busy.

I know, it's not very exciting, or funny, today. Nothing really extraordinary really occurred. But I suppose as a blog writer you always need to keep up and find something to say. I have started looking for a normal job *gasp* and I'd forgotten how much information they always want on those applications.
"Where did you go to school?"
"Who's a professional reference?"
"What's the address of your 3rd cousin removed?"
It's like woah. I'm sure it's some sort of resilience test to see if you are worth hiring.
"If he can fill out this 23 page application and make it through the Firey Forest he shall be a Barista!"
So we will see how that goes.

To explain my title, I figured I would ask those who read my blog, what they think. Likes, dislikes, what you want to know more about, etc. I love that I have this band of followers growing and I would definitely love to hear more comments back. As an "artist", comments and criticism (constructive to you Negative Nellies) are always appreciated and helpful. So let me know what you think!

Well, that's it for today. As always thanks for reading!

Question of the Post: What was the strangest question you were ever asked during a job interview or on an application?

The Dangers of Acting!

Caution: This blog entry contains phrases of violent action, stupid actors and contractual red-tape. You have been warned!

Hello Readers!

So, I came up with this blog title when I was lounging with some friends who were visiting in their very swanky hotel room. It was really in reference to one event and a subsequent event, but then I realized it covered many of the things I encountered this week in the world of acting.

This week began on Thursday morning, after I had gotten back from my escape visit to Gainesville. I had an audition for a CGI film that was to be a children's show short. I was led to a room where for the first time I saw that enormous green wall you always see in the behind-the-scenes extras for things like Pirates of the Caribbean or Harry Potter. Anyway, the voice over and first take of the scene went well. Actually the director has something wonderful to say, which I still chuckle at, which was, "You really brought something different to it, that I hadn't thought of. You made me laugh which, (pregnant pause where he kind of looks inside himself), I guess is exactly what you are supposed to do." At this point, I think, well that means I've got the job in the bag (not so, I haven't heard from them since.) Then, they asked for a second take, and that is where danger struck. As I was "acting", I "overacted" and tripped myself, fell, resulting in injury I found later on when I took my pants off....at home....that's not how I get roles thank you very much. However, (this is the important part, so novice entertainers listen in), I kept acting and pretended to have planned the whole thing. When asked later by one of the producers if I was okay, I told him I was a trained faller. This injury proved to be fatal when at my first improv show* I was fake punched and hit the knee again, making me bleed the rest of the performance - and on my nice pants!

The more figurative, and less tactile, but as real, dangers of acting came when I was sent to a call for a music video for a Finnish music group (don't ask). Here is a warning to all who read to always be on your game when you have a person you've never audition with auditioning with you. Bring it, especially if the other people are in the mind set that this is going to be their big break getting discovered in a FINNISH MUSIC VIDEO!!!! COME ON PEOPLE!!! Okay, had to get that out. Since I don't want to make this too long of a post, basically I had a 40/50 year old telling me he was auditioning for the younger hero part and I was the scientist even though the receptionist told us differently. Done. At least I brought a parka to match the part. (If you would like more info on this, comment and I'll tell you.)

Lastly, a true danger of the entertainment industry: contracts. Make sure to get them. Make sure to read them carefully, and make sure to get everyone to sign them. I haven't been screwed yet, but some people are on their last string with me and need to get me my contract before I throw a diva fit. I'm not going to get canned and screwed out of money, so stop dawdling and get it to me. To my readers, and I'm most likely preaching to the choir, before you rehearse, do a read-thru, have a costume fitting, etc. GET THE CONTRACT and MAKE SURE ITS SIGNED. That is all.

Well, that's about it. I have some auditions coming up in the long run for some really cool stuff and I'll let you know later when it gets closer.

Typecasted wants to know what was your biggest danger in the acting world? Who's got some good stuff out there? ;)

*I got into the improv troupe! It's sooo much fun, and I have a call back with their sketch comedy group, which will be performing at the Orlando Fringe Festival, so double yay!

Escaping...

Hello Readers!

So I'm blogging today from my home away from home, Gainesville. After a few rough days in the O-town, I needed to get away and see some of my besties. (That's right, I said besties.)

Anyway, so sad news on the auditioning front. My two theme park auditions were a bust. No callbacks from anyone. It was a struggle, thankfully I had some wonderful support from my special someone. It was a reminder though for me to stick to my gut - to follow my instincts. I was trying to use this new type of genre of monologue, more of a stand up comedy routine, but it seems I missed the mark again. Of course, they could have loved it, but just not have a place for me at this time. Which reminded me of something that I do understand, but is still a bitter pill to swallow. I am not right for every role. No one is really. Unless you are a freak. (Kidding.) And with my height and size, it limits even more the amount of roles open to me, no matter how well I can perform the role. However, I do not allow this to pigeon hole me. (I'll let the casting directors do that. ;)) I feel the more that I can stretch myself and show others what I can do, the more I grow as a performer and the more I show others how much I am willing to work.

Prime example: I auditioned for a commercial (the father role) that was about some sort of new energy pill. Now, as we all know, I'm only 25, and have that adorable round face that doesn't lend itself to looking necessarily paternal. However, I went in there playing the best father I could. And, due to the fact that they didn't have any other actors yet, I was able to audition twice with two different family groups. Which leads me to another point: always take the opportunity to show a casting agency how much you can do and a willingness to work and to help out. People want to work with people who are nice and who want to be there. I have heard many casting directors, professional actors and directors, who have said they would rather work with a less talented person who is easy to work with than an amazing performer who is a diva.

Alright, so in conclusion to this rambling blog, I am still waiting to hear back from the improv group, which I was very happy with my audition with. I have set up another audition for a CGI/Live Action short film within the next few days. And I randomly booked a commercial for a local bakery which I didn't realize until a few days later.

And to my fellow performers, a few things to pull from this stream of conscious post: remember, you are not always going to be right for every role; there will always be more opportunities; don't get in the way of your own casting - follow your instincts; show people you are willing to work, that you are flexible, and nice to work with.

When life gets tough, and you need to escape, what do you do to get away?

A Week for Auditions

First of all, thank you to those who have commented and become followers already!

Second, you will slowly notice changes/improvements to the blog as it goes along. As I said before, I'm a novice blogger, and will be learning the ropes with the help of some of my more tech savvy friends! ;) This will also include less naming of names, and being some what vague on who I may be auditioning or working for.

Thirdly, auditions this week! Yay! Several! Yay! After what seemed like a million posted calls for shows that I couldn't fit in or didn't pay (or both), a few things have popped up. The first is for Character and Parade Performers for a major theme park iconed by a mouse. I'm excited, since I haven't auditioned for them in awhile and I always love a parade! However, as it comes with any sort of character/look alike audition, type outs are bound to happen, so we will see what box I may be type cast in. The next is for another park that encompasses the universe, where they are looking for actors/singers for several shows. While we are on this note of theme parks, I have found that it is a very different world of auditioning. I have to throw out some of the conventions I learned in school. In regards to the audition this weekend, I'm looking at more conversational/stand up routines that have high energy and punchlines all the way through. It's really about fitting the role right at the moment (in appearance and energy) and being bigger with your physicality. This does make sense since in the theme parks you don't have that 20 or 30 feet to play with an actor's appearance most of the time, like you do on stage, and so you have to get people who look the part up close and personal. Now, of course, this is just an idea of mine, or it can even be called a "coping mechanism" to why I may not get called back or cast, but it does have some logistics to it. Anyway, I am happy to be getting out there and auditioning again.

The last audition is for an improv and comedy sketch group. This one should be tons of fun, because I love improv and I get to be as goofy as possible! I just have to remember to properly set up the scene, always support my partner and never deny anything, only build on it! (Thank you Improv Class at UF!)

Apart from auditions, I do start rehearsals for a top-secret, non-disclosed, independent film this Saturday! I find out things like what my part is, how much I get payed, what it's called. BUT, sadly, I will not be discussing it in any real detail, due to contractual agreements. Sorry guys.

So today's question will revolve around auditions. What show/gig/etc. were you most excited about auditioning for (even if you didn't get cast)?

Thanks for reading.

The Beginning

I suppose I shouldn't start with shortcomings, but I really wanted to start this blog on the 1st of January, 2010. Well, obviously that didn't happen. I had this injury thing, and work, couldn't figure out what to call the blog...anyway.

Today, was my last day of the first job I had in a theme park. I wasn't fired. I mean, I've never been fired. Well once, it was this telecommunication job, it was shady. I think they were worried I was too good at my job and someone would notice them. But back to the other job. The one I wasn't fired from. It was with Sea World and I played Santa for their Polar Express Experience. It was a total blast and I meet some amazing people while I was there. And if any children are reading this blog or if their adults who still believe in Santa, that's good, he does exist, he just has to hire us on to make sure he gets all the right things on the list.

Most people who know me were really surprised to hear I would be play...helping Santa since I am 25 and skinny. Well, not skinny, but I'm not in the "jolly" weight category. But if you noticed, this was for the Polar Express, and he is not your normal Coca Cola Santa. If you missed that detail, don't worry, so did a lot of the guest, as I was constantly called too young and too skinny. But, as they said at the auditions, they were looking for tall and youthful looking Santas and well I guess I got typecast.

And that's what this blog is going to be about. Not just type casting. God no, that would be boring. But more about my journey as an actor. The times I do get typed and the other times I don't. The lessons I learn about what it means to be a working actor. One thing I remember from school is that someone said you stop being an actor when you stop learning. As an actor, you can't learn everything. Each character, production, or performance teaches you something new about this life on the stage. And off of it.

So there. You will learn more about me as this goes along. I hope to stick to it. I've never been good at journaling, but I want to be. I always liked writing. (Oh and P.S. let me know what you think. I'm new to this "blogging" and I sometimes don't know what I'm doing. Thanks!)

Alright...well, here we go.

(Oh one last thing. I always am being told to stand out, make something that catches the eye or hooks people in. So I'll end each blog with a question that I'll ask my tens (hopefully) of readers.) What would you say your typecast would be?

Ok, here we go. For reals this time.