StarCast Auditions

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: CYNTHIA SHAW

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

CYNTHIA: I have been studying acting since 2005 and started auditioning in 2009.  I had acted in high school, but as a pianist and musical director here in New York I kept finding myself wanting to be on the stage rather than playing the piano for shows.  Eventually I started taking classes and found I just loved it.  My focus has now moved totally away from musical directing and towards theatre and film acting. 

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

CYNTHIA:  I memorized the monologue and tried to imagine the kind of person my character was.  If I knew people like her or people in her situation.  Or times I felt I had been slighted and taken advantage of.  

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

CYNTHIA:  I have been in many student films in leading roles.  I have since moved to feature films and landed supporting roles in about 5 films and will shoot a leading role this fall.  I also perform on stage and recently returned from Kentucky Repertory Theatre where I performed leading roles in two plays, one of which I will be performing here in NY in November.

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

CYNTHIA: If someone had asked me ten years ago if I would have ever imagined myself up on this stage in front of this microphone talking to all of you and accepting this award, I would have said they were crazy.  But here I am!  

STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?

CYNTHIA: I think one of the hardest things about the business is the unpredictability of it.  One moment you are on top of the world because you have been cast in something, the next moment you are in despair because nothing is going on.  So, I think that trying to not let the ups and downs of the business get to you is very important.  I also think that one must constantly work on perfecting their craft as well as constantly submit for auditions and look for opportunities.  And there are a million ways to learn in this business.  Learn from every source you can.

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

CYNTHIA: I think that acting classes are very important.  I think they help a person know that who they are is acceptable and enough.  I think we all feel that successful actors have something special that we don’t have.  No.  I think we all have a gift and a good program can help you fully explore what you have to offer and help you dig deeper to allow it to be available.  Actors have to be vulnerable and available.  A good acting school can help you feel safe about that.

STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

CYNTHIA: Actors Access, NYCastings, BackStage, Casting Networks, Actors Connection, The Network, Casting About

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

CYNTHIA: I love Meryl Streep, who wouldn’t! 

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

CYNTHIA: To continue to book film and theatre roles and commercials.

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

CYNTHIA: I love the business.  I love the unpredictability.  I love the possibilities.  I love the people I meet and the places I’ve traveled to.  I love the energy of fellow actors.    

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

CYNTHIA: Just keep auditioning.  Don’t place major importance on any one audition.  Just keep doing them. Treat each one as another step towards your goal.  Bookings and castings have come from all sorts of places for me, places I would have least expected.  So, I would say expect the unexpected.  

STARCAST: Do you have a website, YouTube channel or reel you would like us to post? And do you have a Twitter or other social media handle where you would like people to follow you?  

CYNTHIA: Yes. All of the above:  

Website and Reel: wwwcynthiashaw.us

Twitter: @CynthiaSings

FaceBook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cynthia-Shaw/140563899305264?ref=hl#

YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/singersoprano?feature=mhee,

IMDB Page: IMDB Page - www.imdb.me/cynthiashaw

Thanks, CYNTHIA! You can view Cynthia’s performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances. Shift the sort function from “Most Recent” to “All.” Industry may request contact with her there. 

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: JAMES ELLIS

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

JAMES: I started acting when I was around age eight and performed in various acting troupes. I then found my way onto sports fields and this took me away from the stage for most of my adolescence. I was thrown back into the acting arena after finding my way onto a few movie sets and falling completely in love with the entire energy that makes up a film set. I have been pursuing acting as a career for almost a year. 

What has inspired me throughout the years would be great actors I have known personally, as well as actors whose work has moved me in some way. I was always inspired growing up by my older sister who was an amazing thespian all throughout high school. Her friends as well, who were a pretty talented bunch from a former Miss America contestant to someone who can be seen performing on Broadway today, have all helped to inspire me throughout the years. 

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

JAMES: My scene dealt with a bickering political feud at a family dinner, so I had to put myself at that dinner table and try to find what my emotional state would be during that argument. Once I was at that place emotionally I was able to listen to what my family members were probably arguing about and from there respond with the dialogue given to me, that I truly enjoyed and couldn’t have said any better myself, on the audition page.

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

JAMES: I have done mostly Indie work to date. Independent sets are a great way to cut your teeth in this industry. I have been a photo-double and stand-in on numerous Television and Major Motion Picture sets and I’ve been able to see first hand the speed at which shooting onthese sets moves along. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to be a principal actor at the Indie level while I was learning the ropes so that I ambetter prepared for shooting days on larger budgeted sets.      

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

JAMES: “This award is for all the individuals who truly believed in me throughout the years. I would not behere tonight without each and every one of you… My cup runneth over…”

Or the ’06 Clooney Oscar speech, yeah that’s probably way manlier. 

STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?

JAMES: I have had a little taste of both but I don’t like to dwell on either for too long because I like living in the moment a whole lot more than living in the past. I am an avid golfer though, and one thing I have brought over to acting comes from Tiger Woods. He has said before that after a bad shot he allows himself ten paces to get mad before moving on to the next shot and I try to do the same with setbacks… it’s not always easy but it does work.

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

JAMES: I have attended multiple programs from the Chez Group in Atlanta (Ric Reitz taught the hands down best crash course to this business andthe same process that I use today was taught to me by Shannon Eubanks years ago). I have also taken from Shira Sandler who is an absolutely brilliant teacher. Shira transformed my audition technique and way of thinking. Aside from those already mentioned I have attendeda few other regular classes in the area. I am currently researching schools inthe NYC and LA markets.

In my opinion there is nothing more important than class work for beginning actors. It helps with all parts of your craft especially confidence which can at times be one of the most important tools a budding actor can have.

If you are in a market that does not offer classes I highly recommend finding a group of individuals like yourself and meet once a week and just do scenes together. You can also as a group find instructional books and go through them together.  Last thing comes from my last coach, Vince Pisani, and it is to read fictional books constantly. It feeds your right brain which is critical to the acting process…

STARCAST: What are yourfavorite actors’ services and resources?

JAMES: StarCast really has been a cool service that I am so glad to have found. I’ve enjoyed all of the feedback I got from my previous auditions. I also really like reading BackstageNY/LA. There are also a few local mixers where you can get to know others in the industry and get to hear their stories. Aside from that there are also numerous books I have read that are great resources but are far too many to list. To mention a few key books; “The Artist’s Way”, “No Acting Please”, Anything Sanford Meisner related, “The Screenwriter’s Workbook” (even if you are not a writer as an actor it gives great insight into where the screenwriter is coming from).

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

JAMES: That is a really tough question I don’t have just one, so if you’ll forgive me I’ll give a few. Darcyin Pride and Prejudice, Rick Blaine in Casablanca, and any role in anything written by Sorkin.

Two of my favorite actors came about from watching their episodes of Inside the Actors Studio (where I’d give my left arm to train); George Clooney and Bradley Cooper. They are both incredible actors and what I respect most about them are the choices they make. As far as actresses that I admire would include: Rooney Mara, Natalie Portman, and Shailene Woodley.

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

JAMES: I am currently in the Atlanta market and while this market is starting to really explode I would love to open up the LA and NYC markets in the near future. I will be seeking representation in both markets and from there just keep training as much aspossible and moving forward. 

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

JAMES: It sounds funny and if you’ve never acted you are about to have absolutely no clue what I’m about to talk about, but simply being a part of a story is what always brings me back. As actors we’ve all had those moments on set when the director yelled ‘Action’ and you and the character are one and you get so lost in the scene that the next thing you know you hear ’Cut.’ In those moments you’re not acting you are just being. That is what keeps me motivated and it is the most addictive feeling I’ve ever felt. I’m also seriously motivated by great scripts. 

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

JAMES: Accents: I don’t speak withone day to day but I was born in Mississippi, grew up in Alabama, and went to high schooland college in Georgia… believe me I can do a Southern accent.

I also played football in college and my position was as a Long Snapper. Google it. Your only job is to be able to throw a football 15 yards between your legs. I think that qualifies for both special and funny.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

JAMES: Don’t give up, don’t ever give up. The toughest distance an actor can face is the six inches between theirears. Don’t let the ‘No’ inside your head ever win. Keep trying, if you don’t get it this time try that much harder next. Every ‘No’ is just that much closer to a ‘Yes’. Lastly, hard work always wins. If you work harder than the actor across from you eventually you will win out. To quote the legendary College Football coach Bear Bryant, “I’m no miracle man. I guarantee nothing but hard work.”

I wish you all nothing but success! Thanks, James Ellis

STARCAST: Do you have a website, YouTube channel or reel you would like us to post? And do you have a Twitter or other social media handle where you would like people to follow you?

JAMES: My website is www.JamesEllisActor.comand my twitter handle is @NotThatJimEllis ß There is a car dealer with seven dealerships in Atlanta named Jim Ellis that I get asked all the time if,”I am that Jim Ellis…” I’ll let you guess the answer.

Thanks, JAMES! You can check out James’ StarCast performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances. If you don’t see his video, shift the sort function from “Most Recent” to “All.” Industry may request contact with him there. 

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: CHRISTINE CHAN

Best performer and funny girl Christine Chan drops a whole bunch of wisdom…on focusing on the craft rather than fame, staying in the moment, Asian stereotypes and a whole bunch more. Read on!

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

CHRISTINE: Since freshman year of college, so just a few years ago. I was, at the time, a lost and confused chem. major and forced myself to take a basic acting/improv course for a semester, because I really wanted to “let go.” I wanted risk, adventure, and I wanted to feel. I had convinced myself, even before the first day of class, that the more you let go here, the better grade you’ll get. And thus, the less you let go, you’ll just fail. Logic. Now THAT’S the kind of urgency I wanted; I wanted my GPA hanging by a thread.

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

CHRISTINE: First, I make sure to pick the best script for me. I’ll read through several different scripts briefly to listen for the one that comes out most natural.

Then, I get a snack….or some meal/carbs. It’s important to eat. Food. Then, I pump up some jams and get myself psyched. I’ll try not to record more than a couple times to keep the audition funky fresh. I also realize that being able to record an audition, in lieu of auditioning in person at an open call, is a luxury. If I get tired in between takes, I’ll eat again. That’s why I look pretty jolly in my videos.

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

CHRISTINE: Local theater. I’ve been Cow Girl #2 or #3—don’t remember. I’ve been Jewish and engaged. I’ve sung and danced seriously about jewelery.  

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

CHRISTINE: Any acceptance speech during which Kanye West interrupts you is my kind of acceptance speech. It’s a very fine level of fame that I’m aiming for.

STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?

CHRISTINE: No. I’ve had no successes. But setbacks, yes. Well, “perceived” setbacks. I thought going to college would be a MAJOR setback. I wanted to start off this career in performance as young as possible. Every time a birthday would go by, I’d be like, “Dangit, I’m already 12. I’m old. I’m getting old. Britney Spears was 11 when she appeared on the Mickey Mouse Club. 11!” College would just add even more years.

But school was probably the best thing for me. It made my work, any acting I did, so much more profound and meaningful. I wasn’t just a young lil’ somethin’ trying to get on TV. Though there’s nothing wrong with being a young little Britney, school actually made me not want that. It made me not care about fame. I was humbled. I gained insight into the experiences of others by going to school—something which I thought was going to be a burden. I’m still learning. 

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

CHRISTINE: Just that one semester of improv in college. I plan to take more. Hone your craft people! Don’t be too proud to take classes. Don’t be afraid that once you start taking classes you’ll no longer be able to say, “I’ve never had training! This is ALL raw talent.” It’s okay to be trained. But seriously, take them. If you get a good instructor and you’re open, it makes you a better person. Play.

STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

CHRISTINE: Finding casting directors’ Gmail addresses and spamming them. Just kidding. StarCast has actually been the most reliable so far. 

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

CHRISTINE:  A role that I wrote for myself. I don’t fit many mainstream roles currently out there; I’m a little difficult to typecast. Asians have been portrayed, in American cinema, as high school sidekicks and confused, foreign comedic relief. Kung Fu. Geisha. Submissive and weak. 

Linsanity. I want to be the Jeremy Lin of acting, except with better knees and a little more longevity. Steve Carell, Conan O’Brien, and Kristin Chenoweth are real artists to me. Zooey Deschanel and that girl in HBO’s “Girls.” Very talented. The Fempire.

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

CHRISTINE: Get going on some more acting classes and maybe making another Best Performance video.

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

CHRISTINE: That one acting class I took my freshman year of college.

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

CHRISTINE: I like to rap but not in the funny way. I just like to rap. I sing (alot) and took Hip Hop dance for a number of years. I play instruments. I do a mean impersonation of Cher’s “Believe,” Shakira, Fat Albert, Fran Drescher, Celine Dion, Macy Gray, any kind of raspy hipster singer out there. 

I keep an old CVS receipt in my bag that I take everywhere with me and written on the back of it is a list of my go-to karaoke songs. Some gals can’t go anywhere without their bronzer or fragrant lotion; I need my karaoke songs.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

CHRISTINE: Stay present during the audition. Don’t look back, don’t look forward.

STARCAST: Do you have a website, YouTube channel or reel you would like us to post? And do you have a Twitter or other social media handle where you would like people to follow you?

CHRISTINE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVpnrQ1R9ldZ3ZUt41ze7OQ

Thanks, CHRISTINE! You can check out her StarCast video at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances. Shift the sort function from “Most Recent” to “All.”

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: SUNNY KELLER

Our interview with the ridiculously adorable Sunny Keller. Watch her performance and try not to smile – we dare you!

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

SUNNY:  I’ve been acting for 5 years now and my Dad inspired me because he’s written a few short-films.  

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

SUNNY:  I watched the other actors perform on your site.  I watched how they felt and the expressions on their face.  I tried to stay in character including dress.

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

SUNNY: I have been in school plays at Carpenter Community Charter School.  I also have been in a few of my Dad’s comedy shorts.  I’ve done a bunch of voice overs for cartoons, too.  I really love doing that.

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

SUNNY:  I’d just like to thank my Dad and everybody for encouraging me. 

 STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

SUNNY:  I take comedy classes at Studio LOL, an improv place for kids. That has made me less scared to be on stage.

STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

SUNNY: This one.

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

SUNNY: I would like to sing the theme song for any show. I would also like to star on a Disney Channel or Nick show. 

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

SUNNY: I’ve had a lot of call backs, but haven’t got anything…yet!

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

SUNNY:  Each time I do an audition I get more confidence.

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

SUNNY:  I play ukelele, I’m good at make-up, love dressing up and I love to sing.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

SUNNY: Be brave, have confidence, and don’t give up.

STARCAST: Do you have a website, YouTube channel or reel you would like us to post? And do you have a Twitter or other social media handle where you would like people to follow you?

SUNNY: I wish! But you can see me in the opening scene in one of my dad’s films at https://vimeo.com/22733348. Also, I star in this series of cartoons http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwZgD7V8myE. I’m the “What did you THINK was going to happen!” girl. It was fun.

Thanks, Sunny! You can check out Sunny’s great performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances. If you don’t see her video, shift the sort function from “Most Recent” to “All.” 

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: KATY DORE

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

KATY: Don’t want to start off too maudlin, but as a kid I did a lot of clowning around and “acting” as a distraction to some difficult issues at home. It became my therapy in a way. I started doing theater as a kid and continued that until I had a career and kids of my own. Once my kids got older and my career starting making me crazy, I shifted to TV and Film acting. It was a trickier transition than I thought. Film acting and acting on a stage are absolutely different skill sets. I love doing both. 

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

KATY:  I have the good fortune of being happily married but I have lots of friends in their 40’s and 50’s in the “dating scene.” Just hearing their stories gave me lots of good material for emotions for the “Cheap Orange Juice” scene. Whenever I’m preparing for an audition, I concentrate more on the emotion than the words. You have to be fairly accurate with hitting the lines, of course, but a well-memorized recitation is never as good as a truthful telling of the emotion behind the story.

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

KATY: I started off in theater and moved into TV and film about four years ago. Initially I did lots of student films to get me feet wet, learn the lingo and get comfortable with a different skill set (film instead of stage). Since then I’ve done TV co-star work, and played both leads and supporting roles in independent films.

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

KATY: Ha-Ha! Get outta my head! No one is supposed to know about my fantasies! I figure my words will be forgotten but I want to come up with a memorable pose like the recent Angelina Leg!

STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?

KATY: There isn’t an actor out there who hasn’t had setbacks. 

I had a manager who treated me terribly and it took me a long time to stand up to her. I’m naturally a trusting person, so I need to be careful with how much I allow someone else to influence my career. 

On the positive side, I’ve had some truly generous people help me out along the way. The relationships with these folks are so valuable to me.

Be proactive. Don’t wait for the jobs to come. Write material for yourself, work on your craft, start a webseries, post something silly on YouTube. Just do stuff. By being involved and active you’re telling the world, the universe, the industry that this is what you do. The rewards of that will come. 

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

KATY: I’m constantly training, taking classes and trying to improve. I do a lot of workshops, too. I’ve enjoyed classes at the Upright Citizens’ Brigade, The Groundlings, and through acting coaches. I have to say that the way I have learned the most is by working with other actors either on set or in a class. We all have so much to teach one another! I’ve found that the better the actor, the more generous he or she is with sharing skills and ideas. A great actor wants you to be great too.

STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

KATY:  StarCast, of course! In addition to that, I like and use Actor’s Access, IMDBPro, LA Casting, The Network Studio and Actor’s West. 

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

KATY: I want to be cast as Meryl Streep’s younger sister, Sean Penn’s older sister, Ryan Reynold’s naughty professor and George Clooney’s love interest. But not all in the same film.

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

KATY: Before this year comes to a close, I want to book four co-star and two guest star roles on TV shows I love. I’ll be in three films (which have distribution), and at least two national commercials.

My goal is for my career to be both fulfilling and lucrative for me and my management team.

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

KATY:  I can’t NOT do it. It’s an infection…a good one. But there’s no cure. You just treat the symptoms by performing.

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

KATY: I can play Yankee Doodle on the piano with my nose! I have a couple whacky faces I pull now and then. I’m getting older but still athletic (I was a Division 1 high jumper at Stanford). I love stunt work and do it pretty well. I’m an excellent marksman with a rifle.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

KATY: Enjoy it! Really. I try to think of each audition as a chance to perform—which I love to do. Getting caught up in the “why didn’t they like me?” thing is destructive. For me personally, it’s been good to start my career, ahem, later in life. In my twenties and even early thirties, I think hearing “You’re too heavy, you’re too thin, you’re too tall, we’re looking for a red-head,” etc. etc. would have given me such self-doubt. At this point in my life I have so much more confidence that who I am—just as I am—is pretty great. I may not be right for the role, but ME, I’m still “right” as a person and actor. A project may or may not be a good fit for me.

STARCAST: Do you have a website, YouTube channel or reel you would like us to post? And do you have a Twitter or other social media handle where you would like people to follow you?

http://www.katydore.com

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3643886/

#TweetKatyDore  (but don’t hold your breath on getting tweets…haven’t really embraced it yet…does any one out there want to know I just made an outstanding lemon curd? Hey, if you do, I’ll share)

Thanks, KATY! You can view Katy’s StarCast performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances. If you don’t see it, shift the sort function from “Most Recent” to “All.” 

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: NICK JORDAN 

Great advice from StarCast best performer and singer/song writer Nick Jordan. Read on!

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

NICK: I’ve been acting for pretty much my entire life, but I would say I only really knew what acting was once I went to school and started studying it. I prefer to call it playing, not acting, because that’s really what it is to me, or at least I try to make it playing. I have always been drawn to it by the storytelling aspect of it and the challenging nature of communicating who someone else is through your own words and actions.

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

NICK: I thought back to when I was in middle-school, or high-school, or even college just hanging out and chatting with friends. And how there is always that one sassy, sarcastic person, so I tried to channel some of that. Otherwise though, I just tried to have fun with it, because the characters says a lot of things that I would never even dream of saying in real life.

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

NICK: I did a bunch of theatre in college, and since then I’ve had a commercial and an industrial in Nashville. I’ve been auditioning for roles in the region and am really trying to build a resume and make contacts in the industry.

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

NICK: I can’t believe that I’m winning this right now, because I know there are tons of people out there far more talented than I am, so thank you God.

STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?

NICK:  I’m still so young that it’s hard to claim anything as that notable, but I think it’s important to realize that things don’t happen overnight, and that you have to be able to deal with failure and criticism and persevere. The hardest thing is not mixing the personal aspect of acting and the professional aspect of acting, because you fail a lot in it, and if you let affect who you are as a person, you lose the fun of acting.

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

NICK: Classes are important because like anything you do, you have to be in practice and training. I remember my first audition after not being in class, and it felt so unnatural. Using your acting muscles constantly is important because it frees you and helps you. You can learn so much also by just watching people and repeating what they do in your apartment or even across a coffee shop from them, but you have to have the tools which means training and discipline.

STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

NICK: Backstage, Actors Access

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

NICK: My dream role is probably something on serialized TV. Something fun but also with a serious element. I love Kyle Chandler on “Friday Night Lights”.

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

STARCAST: I’d like to become SAG Eligible and have some small TV/Film credits in the near future.

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

STARCAST: Not mixing the personal with the professional, and the playfulness of it. Also, the ability we have as humans to relate to each other through storytelling. The thought that my performance can affect someone else is important.

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

STARCAST: I don’t know if it’s special or funny, but I’m also a singer/songwriter. You can find my music on iTunes if you look hard enough.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

STARCAST: Don’t say anything until you feel it inside you first. And make strong choices. That and be yourself. Make the words your own.

STARCAST: Do you have a website, YouTube channel or reel you would like us to post? And do you have a Twitter or other social media handle where you would like people to follow you?

STARCAST: Well, a lot of my social media is music based, but my YouTube channel is MusicByNickJordan. Also, my twitter handle is @nickjordanmusic and I’m also on facebook.com/nickjordanmusic. 

Thanks, NICK! You can check out Nick’s performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances. (If you don’t see it, switch the filter from “Most Recent” to “All.”) 

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: PAUL PRESTON

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

PAUL: Is the sentence “I began acting in the third grade” used too much?  Because I began acting in the third grade.  I was in a production called “Tommy’s Adventure” where I played Tommy, and I buried my schoolbooks and all the creatures of the forest came out of the woodwork to tell me how wrong that was.  And quickly I learned the meaning of an education.  No surprise this production was mounted at a SCHOOL.  I’d love to tell you that Ian McKellen’s riveting Richard III drew me to the theater, but I believe all my sense of adventure, performance and creativity was instilled by “Star Wars” and Indiana Jones.  After the high I got WATCHING movies, T.V. and stage work, I wanted to be a part of it……….plus I really lack any other skills.

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

PAUL: After studying Stanislavski, then improv, I’ve jumped deep into Meisner, so I brought a lot of what I’ve taken from those classes to my StarCast piece.  I did basic preparation as far as my history and relationship with who I was speaking to (my sister).  Tried like hell to leave myself alone and not bring any “actor-y” thoughts into the read and just play the intention.

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

PAUL: What do you need?  I’ve done it, from dues-paying gigs (my apologies to murder mysteries and Renaissance Fairs) to great commercials for Toyota and Acura and T.V. shows like “No Ordinary Family” and “General Hospital”.  

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

PAUL: “Whoa!  This is heavier than I thought it would be!”  Unless someone’s already said that.  Has anyone ever said that? 

STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from? 

PAUL: Don’t. Waste. Time.  Sadly, after festering in many gigs (I’d say “jobs” if they paid) that didn’t advance my career, I’m a little more particular about where to focus my talents.  The idea that “you just need to be seen” wears thin the third or fourth time you find yourself working far too hard to achieve someone else’s dream.

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

PAUL: I can’t speak more highly of The Meisner Technique.  It’s been transformative for me.  Turns out I’ve been “winging it” for ten years or so and didn’t even know it!  Also improvisation classes are crucial.  Improv skills have helped me in commercial AND theatrical auditions for jobs I’ve booked.

STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

PAUL: ActorsAccess and LACasting have rendered some decent jobs, but you have to whittle through a lot to get to quality jobs that pay.  I like the SAG Foundation for their CAP and Conversations programs.  I also LOVE the SAG-AFTRA Film Society. 

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

PAUL: Just ‘cause I’m sure I’m not on anyone’s radar for this role, I’d love to play Frank-N-Furter from “The Rocky Horror Show” and surprise some people. I miss Mel Gibson.  He dug DEEP into some seriously dark areas and gave performances no other major Hollywood star could.  His Hamlet, Martin Riggs, and his performances in “Ransom” and “Signs” showed tremendous gravity.  There aren’t many big-name marquee actors today who could pull off those roles.  ”Signs” as a film is a little flawed, but Mel’s final conversation with dying wife is crazy powerful.  Please come back, Mel.

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

PAUL: I need a manager.  I tend to do a solid job turning opportunities into work.  I need more opportunities.  I think the first step is a manager who can help me assemble a good representation team. 

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

PAUL: As I said before, I really lack any other skills.

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

PAUL: I’m a movie fanatic.  I run a comedy website, podcast and live comedy show at The Second City Hollywood all about the movies.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

PAUL: Pretend you won’t have another audition tomorrow.  That’ll help you focus on the present.  Also, you may not have another audition tomorrow.

STARCAST: Do you have a website or reel you would like us to post?

www.prestonandvolpe.com (A website that promotes myself and my wife, Karen)

MY REELS: http://prestonandvolpe.com/demos.html

MY PAGE: http://prestonandvolpe.com/paul.html 

www.themovieguys.net

http://www.lacasting.com/PPreston

http://resumes.actorsaccess.com/PPreston

Thanks, PAUL! You can check out Paul’s performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances (Go to the sort function and hit “All” from “Most Recent”) 

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: SADIE MAY

We caught up with Alabama transplant and StarCast best performer Sadie May to discuss her experience, advice – and aspirations to play characters who kick some butt!

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor? 

SADIE: I always used to put on plays in our garage as a kid. I would build little sets and dress up my brothers and friends and give them lines. It wasn’t until I got out of Alabama 2 years ago to pursue modeling that I really developed my passion and confidence to pursue acting.
 

 

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

SADIE: I just read over the character background info and the scene and then tried to perform it like I was actually having that conversation with my best friend Brittany.
 

 

 

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

SADIE: A few commercial and music video gig. The one I’m most proud of right now is the Bassnectar ft. Lupe Fiasco - “Vava Voom” music video. I got to play guitar and smash it at the end.

 

 

 

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

SADIE: This is so worth the spaghetti o’s and ramen…

 

 
STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?

SADIE: A huge success for me was just making the move out to LA. Once I was actually out here it was the much more real and the opportunities and doors continue to open out here.
 

 

 
STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

SADIE: I honestly haven’t had that much training, but the few classes and experiences I have had, have made a world of difference. I definitely look forward to learning and growing more with some professional training.
 

 

 STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

SADIE: Psh starcast! I also use lacasting, nowcasting, actorsaccess, and even craigslist from time to time.

 

 

 

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

SADIE: My dream role would probably be to play some bad-ass spy…or just something where I get to kick some ass. Yes, Johnny Depp, Sally Field, Angelina Jolie, Sandra Bullock.

 

 

 

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

SADIE: Right now my focus is on getting some professional head shots, finding some really good acting classes, and getting some representation.
 

 

 

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

SADIE: This is it for me. I left school, friends, and family to come out here and pursue this career and I won’t stop doing what I love. There are those rough patches…but a little phone call to my Mom alwayyyssss does the trick.

 

 

 

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

SADIE: I play guitar, and put on a pretty believable fake bare knuckle boxing match with my little brother.
 

 

 

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

SADIE: RELAX- breathe (in through your nose, out through your mouth) and chamomile tea.

 

 

 

STARCAST: Do you have a website or reel you would like us to post?

SADIE: www.blazeyourownpath.info - this is how I got out of Alabama and on the road to pursuing my dreams

Thanks, SADIE! You can check out her StarCast performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: THOMAS DOLAN

We caught up with seasoned stage actor and StarCast best performer Thomas Dolan to discuss his experience and advice for fellow actors. Read on!

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

THOMAS: After I picked the script, I just read it over and over in many different ways.  Once I decided on how i would represent the role, I practiced several times until I felt comfortable with the dialog.

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

THOMAS:  I have been in over 30 stage productions at our community theater- mostly in comedies and musicals  I have been in 8 independent films playing a variety of roles- mostly dramatic; Had an award winning entry in the 48 Hour Film Project in Paducah, KY and had a role on an episode of MonsterQuest on the History channel.

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

THOMAS: I first want to thank my wife and sons for their immense love and support throughout my acting career…

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

THOMAS: I took a few classes in college, but the biggest part of my experiences have been on the stage and in front of the camera.  It’s a continuous  learning experience.

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

THOMAS: I’ve always wanted to voice a cartoon character in a major Disney or Pixar film. Paul Newman has always been one of my favorites, as well as Meryl Streep.

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

THOMAS: To continue to enjoy the roles I can get and to keep on acting- maybe one day landing that special role.

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

THOMAS: My love of acting and the feedback I get when I finish a show or a film.  It’s a great thing- applause.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

THOMAS: Be natural.  The camera sees everything- don’t act- BE.

Thanks, THOMAS! You can check out his StarCast performance at www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances — you may need to set the filter to “All” from “Most Recent.”

SPOTLIGHT ON BEST PERFORMERS: ERIN COOPER

We caught up with StarCast best performer Erin Cooper, who was just signed by a LA talent manager through StarCast— all the way from NYC. Read on to learn about her experiences and advice for fellow actors. 

STARCAST: How long have you been acting, and what inspired you to become an actor?

ERIN: I have been acting professionally for about three years now.  I had always wanted to become an actor ever since I can remember.  I remember practicing my Oscar acceptance speech in front of the bathroom mirror with a shampoo bottle as a placeholder. I was always the little girl with the wild imagination that reenacted every single scene from her favorite movies much to her mother’s anguish.

However, the first film that really inspired me to become an actor was Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.  That movie really made me see film in a whole new way.  When I saw Kate Winslet’s role as Clementine in that movie, I was so awe struck at her ability to be so fearlessly vulnerable on screen. In that moment, I knew I wanted to be an actor.

STARCAST: How did you prepare for your StarCast scene? What informed your performance?

ERIN: I prepared for my StarCast scene by preparing the lines in a very organic way. I try to let my memorization process happen naturally and over a course of a few days. I feel that if I allow the lines to slowly sink into my mental processes then I can recall them as if they were my own words. I also like to practice my scene a few times in front of the camera so that I can view what I need to tweak for the final performance. The scene I chose was for a young person in their teens, and I tried to place myself back in the shoes of my seventeen year-old self. This character was clearly tired of being pushed around by a school bully. What would be the natural response of a young girl that is at the end of her rope with a person that is not too nice to her? How would she handle finally being able to give this person a piece of her mind? How would she go about saying something that no one else has had the courage to say until now?

STARCAST: What kind of acting gigs have you had thus far, if any?

ERIN: I have worked on a number of independent films, and I have been cast in a couple of small commercials. I am also the host of an online web series, which focuses on pop culture.

STARCAST: We know you’ve fantasized about an awards acceptance speech. How does the opening line go?

ERIN: Oh. My. Goodness. I truly can’t believe I am standing here. This is a dream of mind that I have had for a very long time. I am absolutely honored and truly grateful to be standing here accepting this award.  I would like to thank my parents for their unwavering support and commitment to my success.  Thanks so very much, again.

STARCAST: Have you had any notable successes or setbacks you think other actors could learn from?

ERIN: Acting, for me, has come with a wave of successes and inevitable setbacks.  The one thing that I have learned is to try to take something from each success and each setback.  The attitude you take in approaching both the good and the bad in the acting world is really what is going to get you through the winding, weaving path to success in this industry.

STARCAST: Have you had any acting training, and can you speak a little bit to the importance of drama programs or acting classes?

ERIN: I actually feel very behind in my training in comparison with other actors my age.  I always knew that I wanted to act, but I didn’t actively start pursuing my passion until I was almost out of college.  So, most of my training is from workshops that I have attended outside of school.  For me, the first acting workshop that I took was a very cathartic experience.  Acting workshops, or classes, offer the actor a safe environment to make mistakes and really work on developing their craft.  I think that learning our craft is extremely important, especially if we want to continue to grow as performers.  I make it a point to find ways to study my craft even if I have limited means to do so because I genuinely want to be the very best actor I can be.

STARCAST: What are your favorite actors’ services and resources?

ERIN: Services like Back Stage and Actors Access really help aspiring actors find legitimate work in the industry, and each offer really insightful articles from CD’s and agents.

STARCAST: What’s your dream role, and do you have a favorite actor or actress?

ERIN: My dream role would be any role where I could work with my idol, Kate Winslet. I think that she is one of the best actors of our time, and I would absolutely love the chance to work with her on a film!

STARCAST: What are your short term acting goals?

I would really like to be signed with a talent agency or manager. [StarCast note: your wish is our command!] I would also love to join SAG-AFTRA in the near future.

STARCAST: The biz can be tough. What motivates you to keep at it?

ERIN: Because it’s my dream. I really cannot see myself doing anything else. It’s in my blood, so to speak, and there’s really not very much I can do to change that. In my heart, I know I am meant to do this.

STARCAST: Do you have any special or funny skills we should know about?

ERIN: I can touch my tongue to my nose. On a serious note, I am a singer-songwriter of folk tunes with influences like Feist, Cat Power, and Kate Nash.

STARCAST: Do you have any audition tips for your fellow actors out there?

ERIN: The tip that has really helped me came from a workshop I watched online with Michael Caine. He advised his actors that acting was all about relaxation.  If you’re able to relax on set then you open yourself to truly living within the moment of the script, and experiencing the feelings of the character you’re portraying.

STARCAST: Do you have a clip of you singing we could post?

ERIN: The sound quality isn’t very good, but it’s http://soundcloud.com/erincooper-1/to-let-go

Thanks, ERIN! To view her StarCast performance, visit www.starcastauditions.com/best-performances . You may need to set the sorting filter to “All” from “Most Recent”