13 posts tagged “hollywood”

List of my profiles ;)

Nov 8, 2008
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This is a list of the sites I am on:

Elite Casting Network Exposes The Latest Entertainment Frauds & Scams

Jul 8, 2008
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As the number of entertainment scams targeting aspiring actors, singers, dancers and models escalate, and scammers become more sophisticated in their methods, it can be tricky to identify the difference between a scam and a legitimate opportunity. In response to the growing number of modeling scam victims, Elite Casting Network ( www.EliteCastingNetwork.com ), in addition to becoming the number one casting website, has also become the leading provider of up-to-date information on the latest entertainment industry scams. Elite Casting Network educates users on how to spot a scam; actively monitors all site activity to prevent members from becoming the victim of popular internet scams; and encourages members to report suspicious activities and warn others if they’ve uncovered a scam.

“Our members use our site not only because they know they’ll get access to valuable casting opportunities, but also because they know our website is a safe environment that’s actively monitored to prevent scammers from taking advantage of them,” says Jonathan Parker, CEO of Elite Casting Network, Inc. “In addition to making sure that the site is safe, we also try to educate our members on how to spot a scam. Many Internet users think that if a site or service charges money that it’s automatically a scam, but this is one of the most misleading pieces of advice circulating the web. More accurately, if the site or service asks for money but only accepts cash or money orders, that’s an immediate red flag.”

The staff at Elite Casting Network is very knowledgeable of scamming trends and it’s this knowledge that helps to keep the site and its members safe. Elite Casting Network staff members regularly and routinely updates its members on the latest industry scams. When members log in to their website, the Entertainment Scam Alert section provides instant updates on the most recent scammer activity targeting aspiring actors, dancers, models and actors. Additionally Elite Casting Network staff members post information about these scams in the site's forums to make sure members are informed and aware of potential scams. Many of these posts occur within 24-48 hours of the scam’s first appearance on the internet.

In response to escalating Internet scams, the staff at Elite Casting Network monitors all of the messages on the site regularly to ensure the safety of its members. Additionally when members access their messages, Elite Casting Network provides their members with an option at the top of each message to flag the message if they encounter spam or abuse.

Elite Casting Network members also work to keep the site safe, and to keep fellow members from falling victim to Internet scams. Elite Casting Network members are encouraged to post information about acting scams in the site’s forums if they encounter a scam or have become the victim of a scam. The forums are also a great way for members to learn more information about how to spot and avoid popular scams & frauds.

All of these measures combined help to combat over 90% of scam attempts on the Elite Casting Network website. For more information on the latest entertainment industry related scams, log on to http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com visit the online community for up-to-date, comprehensive information, tools and tips on how to avoid and spot modeling scams today.

Step It Up: How To Pick Up Choreography Quickly

Mar 27, 2008
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Untitled Often when dance auditions are posted, the casting notice will include a list of requirements. Requirements may be related to age or height and often you’ll have to know a particular style of dance like tap or hip-hop. One of the most common requirements included in dance casting notices is that the dancers must be able to pick up choreography quickly.

Dancers who are able to pick up choreography quickly are most likely to be hired for jobs. Directors and choreographers prefer to save time (and money) by working with dancers who are fast learners. Both new and experienced dancers often struggle with choreography, so if this is a problem for you, don’t feel that you’re alone.

Here are a few tips that dancers often use to help them overcome this common problem:

-Visualize yourself performing the movements as the choreographer runs through them. Repetition is the key to learning new moves, and doing them in your head repeatedly can be just as effective as physically performing the routine over and over again.

-Give each step a name. Creating a name for each move often helps dancers remember the steps more easily as well as anticipate the next move as they’re going through a routine.

-Imitate the choreographer using small movements as he or she goes through the routine. By imitating the movements as soon as you are shown the steps, you begin acclimating your body to the moves, which can also help you remember them better when it’s time to perform them.

-Pay close attention to how the choreography relates to the music. If the choreographer inserts a jump at a point in the song when the singer sings, “jump back” or something similar, those keywords can be a big help.

Lots of dancers create their own techniques for helping them pick up choreography. By talking with other dancers, as well as teachers and choreographers, you can find out lots of creative ways to help you learn choreography more quickly as well as become a better dancer overall.

To discuss techniques with other Star Search Casting members who are pursuing careers in the field of dance, log on to http://www.StarSearchCasting.com. Our community forum is a great place to trade tips and get great insights into the industry. Don’t forget to check out our auditions for upcoming dance opportunities near you.

Putting Yourself In The Character’s Shoes… Literally

Mar 21, 2008
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If there was such a thing as an actor’s toolkit, what do you think would be in it? Of course all actors need a headshot and resume. A Star Search Casting membership is another essential item that every actor should also have. Some might say that every actor should prepare and have committed to memory a song that they can sing well to audition for roles that require both acting and singing. And for actors who are interested in musical theater and audition frequently, a pair of character shoes is a must.

When auditioning for musical theater, many casting notices specify that actors must bring character shoes for their audition. Character shoes are named for their use in theater because they are worn when actresses and actors are performing “in character.” They look very similar to tap shoes, and some actually can be ordered with taps. Character shoes typically come in tan or black, with leather soles, and are designed for rigorous movement and dancing for long periods of time. Directors and casting professionals also prefer character shoes for actors because they provide a sense of uniformity. Character shoes, especially for men, may also be referred to as jazz shoes.

If you’re purchasing a pair of character shoes for the first time, here are a few tips you may find useful:

- Although character shoes are sold widely online, you may consider visiting a retail establishment to try on a few pairs to determine which style you prefer. You can then comparison shop for the same brand and style online.

- Character shoes for women are made with varying heel heights. Be sure to pick a height that you’ll be comfortable with.

- Break your character shoes in by wearing them around the house.

- Wipe the bottoms of your character shoes (if worn outside) before dancing on wooden floors

Character shoes are available at a variety of price points and can range from $30 - $130. One of the most popular brands of character shoes is Capezio, however there are lots of consumer reviews online that can also help you decide which brand would be best for you.

Feel free to discuss brands, prices and the best retail stores and websites to purchase character shoes on our community forum. Log on to http://www.StarSearchCasting.com today to talk to other singers, dancers, actors and models about career related apparel, supplies and more!

Should You Go To Modeling School?

Mar 13, 2008
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Many aspiring models have signed up for modeling classes only to discover they’ve been the victims of a scam. This is unfortunate because there are actually a number of reputable modeling schools that have successfully helped many new models sharpen their skills and approach the industry with confidence. While modeling school does not guarantee your success in the industry, it can be a helpful stepping-stone for many aspiring models who are new to the industry.

In addition to researching the modeling school before you sign up or pay any fees, it’s also important that you learn about the school’s curriculum. To make sure that you benefit from the experience, you want to be sure that you’ll learn valuable information about the industry and helpful tips that can help you secure jobs in the future.

A reputable modeling school should help you to:

- Develop good posture

- Learn the fundamentals of walking on the runway

- Learn how to apply makeup and take care of your skin

- Develop poise and self confidence

- Adopt good nutritional habits

- Learn how to model for the camera

Modeling schools can be extremely helpful for models who are new to the industry and want an opportunity to learn about the industry in a comfortable, nurturing environment.

You should not sign up for modeling schools that require you to pay for photo shoots with specific photographers. Additionally, you should not sign up for modeling schools as a requirement for being signed to an agency. These are common tactics used by disreputable agencies.

Additionally, a reputable modeling school should give you a realistic assessment of your modeling potential. If a modeling school promises you work based on enrolling in their school – it may be a scam.

Are you interested in talking to other aspiring models who have enrolled in modeling schools? Visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and post your questions in our community forum to learn more about other Star Search Casting members’ experiences in the modeling industry.

Broadcast Yourself – Using The Internet To Generate Exposure

Feb 18, 2008
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Jonathan Parker

Chris Crocker scored more than 8 million web hits and exposure on some of the most popular television shows when he posted a dramatic video on You Tube begging the media and the public to, “Leave Britney [Spears] alone” just after her much talked about performance on the MTV Video Music Awards. Whether his rant left you intrigued or simply annoyed, the attention he got landed him what most actors would give their left arms for – his own television show. Crocker, admittedly an aspiring actor, signed a contract with Blue Productions to appear in his own reality show. The actor had been posting videos to the web for six months and he’d begun developing a substantial fan base. In addition to the famous rant that helped him secure a television deal, his You Tube page included more than 60 additional performance pieces.

Even the Ford Modeling Agency is turning to the web to generate more exposure for their agency and their models. The agency has produced more than 1,000 videos for the web featuring their models during photo shoots, backstage at fashion shows, and even at the gym. You can view these videos on the web, including on You Tube. Some videos have garnered more than one million hits.

Did you know that with a Platinum or Diamond membership on www.StarSearchCasting.com, you can post video files to your profile? Chris Crocker – though a bit quirky – and the Ford Modeling Agency are great examples of how you can use the internet effectively to generate valuable exposure. Whether you have a video from a previous staged performance, or you’ve recently self-recorded an audition piece, adding a video to your Star Search Casting profile is a great way to showcase your talent to casting directors and other industry executives and show them that you really do have what it takes. A picture’s worth a thousand words, but a video clip seals the deal! Just ask Chris Crocker!

To upgrade your membership so that you can add video clips to your page, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and click on ‘Membership Levels.’ Remember, before posting any original material to our site, or any other site, make sure you’ve gone to the proper channels to have your work registered and copy written.

How To Avoid Choosing The Wrong Audition Song

Feb 16, 2008
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Jonathan Parker

If you’ve checked out our auditions lately then you may have noticed that there are several musicals seeking talented men and women to join their casts! Theatrical classics like Show Boat and Hair and two original musical films are just a few of the posts perfect for Elite Casting Network members who are great at both acting and singing!

Have you ever auditioned for a musical and afterwards you think to yourself, “Why on earth did I pick that song!” Selecting a song for an audition can be a challenge - especially if you’re new to auditioning. Here’s a checklist that you can use to eliminate song choices so that you don’t make the costly mistake of picking the wrong song for your musical theatre audition.

Don’t choose a song…

…If it doesn’t resonate with you. You should really like the song, and enjoy singing it in order to perform it well.

…If portions of the song are out of your range. If during practice you can’t consistently hit all of the notes, pick a new song.

…If it’s not in a key you can sing in and you aren’t able to have it transposed. Don’t assume that the pianist at your audition can transpose music on sight.

…If it doesn’t show off your vocal talents.

…If you have trouble remembering the lyrics.

Once you’ve eliminated songs that aren’t a good fit, begin keeping the songs that are well suited for your voice and for musical theatre auditions in a well-organized notebook. You can also keep your headshots and resumes in the notebook so that you’re always prepared when you arrive at your audition.

Ready to sing your heart out? Visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com today and check out some of the auditions that we have posted on our website. You can also connect with other members in our community forum to discuss other helpful audition tips. Good luck!

How To Avoid Choosing The Wrong Audition Song

Feb 16, 2008
Post a comment

Jonathan Parker

If you’ve checked out our auditions lately then you may have noticed that there are several musicals seeking talented men and women to join their casts! Theatrical classics like Show Boat and Hair and two original musical films are just a few of the posts perfect for Elite Casting Network members who are great at both acting and singing!

Have you ever auditioned for a musical and afterwards you think to yourself, “Why on earth did I pick that song!” Selecting a song for an audition can be a challenge - especially if you’re new to auditioning. Here’s a checklist that you can use to eliminate song choices so that you don’t make the costly mistake of picking the wrong song for your musical theatre audition.

Don’t choose a song…

…If it doesn’t resonate with you. You should really like the song, and enjoy singing it in order to perform it well.

…If portions of the song are out of your range. If during practice you can’t consistently hit all of the notes, pick a new song.

…If it’s not in a key you can sing in and you aren’t able to have it transposed. Don’t assume that the pianist at your audition can transpose music on sight.

…If it doesn’t show off your vocal talents.

…If you have trouble remembering the lyrics.

Once you’ve eliminated songs that aren’t a good fit, begin keeping the songs that are well suited for your voice and for musical theatre auditions in a well-organized notebook. You can also keep your headshots and resumes in the notebook so that you’re always prepared when you arrive at your audition.

Ready to sing your heart out? Visit http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com today and check out some of the auditions that we have posted on our website. You can also connect with other members in our community forum to discuss other helpful audition tips. Good luck!

New Year, New Agency?

Feb 11, 2008
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Jonathan Parker

Do you have representation but still don’t feel like your career is taking off? Often aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models are so excited to sign with an agency, but then the experience leaves much to be desired. There are many reasons why clients are dismayed by their relationship with their agency. Perhaps they are not being sent on auditions frequently or at all. Maybe, especially if they signed with a smaller agency, they don’t feel as though they are getting the personal attention that they expected or were promised.

Are you unhappy with your agent, but you’re simply not sure if you should leave the agency? Ask yourself the following questions:

Do you feel that your agent or manager has a strong knowledge of the business?
Does your agent or manager have good relationships with casting directors, producers and directors? Or is your agent actively trying to develop these kinds of relationships?
Does your agent send you out on auditions that you are well suited for?
Does your agent believe in you?
Is your agent or manager a skilled negotiator?
Is your agent or manager trustworthy?
Does your agent or manager make sure that you’re paid in a timely manner?

If you’ve answered no to several of these questions, then it’s probably time to start exploring other agencies. There’s nothing wrong with exploring your options if you’re unhappy with your representation, as long as you aren’t bound by contractual obligations. But it’s very important that no matter what, you try to leave your old agency without burning any bridges.

Before you do anything else, let your agent or manager know that you’re unhappy. Give him or her a chance to turn things around. Perhaps you somehow got lost in the shuffle and your agent just needed a nudge to give you the additional attention you deserve. If that doesn’t work and you’re still unhappy, be sure to tell your agent that you’re exploring other options before you begin contacting other agents. It’s a small world out there and you don’t want to be perceived by your old agent or a potential new agent as dishonest.

If in the end you part ways, it’s important to be as polite and respectful as possible. Don’t give your old agent any reason to say anything negative about you to others in the industry. Be sure to thank your old agent for the opportunity and any assistance they’ve given you.

If you’re looking for a new agent in your area, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and click on our 'Talent Resources' page to view the tons of agents in our database. Good luck!

Member Spotlight – Car’ynn Sims

Feb 7, 2008
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Jonathan Parker

While many of our Star Search Casting members may be small, they are no strangers to BIG success. Car'ynn Sims, originally from Dallas, Texas is just 10 years old, but she's booked more than two-dozen acting jobs, appearing in various commercials and television and film projects.

Car'ynn's all-American girl image has landed her on commercials for some of America's most popular brands, including Burger King, Southwest Airlines, Blockbuster and Oscar Mayer. In addition to her work in commercials, she's also been featured in print advertising campaigns, including the Fall 2007 campaign for American Girl.

Car'ynn has also booked roles on several notable television series. She's recently appeared on Cory in the House, the popular Disney Channel show. She's also appeared on Yes, Dear on CBS and Girlfriends on the CW Television Network.

Like many of our SSC members, Car'ynn has a long list of talents. In addition to acting and modeling, she also sings and raps with her sisters and has performed at Macy's Passport, one of the largest fashion events in the United States.

Car'ynn comes from a very talented family. Her first film was Choosing Your Course, which she appeared in along with her father, and her two older sisters. Car'ynn is currently filming the movie Angel Wishes with her sister Chris'tol.

While it's clear that Car'ynn is a natural, she's also taken a number of classes to sharpen her skills. She's studied acting with some of the industry's top coaches including actress and director Chip Fields. Additionally, Car'ynn has studied dance at Millennium Dance Complex where Wade Robinson and Shane Sparks, both choreographers for So You Think You Can Dance, teach classes.

That's quite a long list of accomplishments for such a young performer, isn't it? We'd like to congratulate Car'ynn and her entire family on all of their recent success. She's an awesome example of how you can achieve anything, no matter how young you are!!!

If you're a young performer and you're inspired by Car'ynn's story, we want to help you achieve the same level of success! Visit us online at http://www.StarSearchCasting.com to find auditions in your area and begin taking the industry by storm!