12 posts tagged “model”
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.
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!
www.EliteCastingNetwork.com members are becoming increasingly diligent about researching agents, managers and other entertainment industry
professionals before establishing business relationships with them. In
cases where Elite Casting Network members are uncertain about the
legitimacy of an agent or manager, they often post their questions to
the community forum where the Elite Casting Network staff and other members are quick to assist.
Most recently, a Elite Casting Network member was invited to an audition by Model Management Inc. in Los Angeles. While the member reviewed the company’s website, she still wasn’t sure if the company was a legitimate business. So she posted the name and address of the agency to the community forum to get feedback from the Elite Casting Network staff and other members.
When we researched Model Management Inc. we discovered that there were no complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau against this company, nor were there any complaints on the web. However, there was not much information available about the company at all, other than the company’s website, Myspace.com profile and posts on sites like Craigslist.org.
When we called the company’s Los Angeles office number, we got their voicemail. When we called their toll-free number, we also got a recorded message. In researching the Los Angeles address that the company included in their email to the Elite Casting Network member, we found that the company rents an HQ Global suite. HQ Global is a leading provider of virtual offices and small business suites. According to the company’s website, they have offices in San Diego, Las Vegas and Salt Lake City.
None of the information we uncovered indicates that the company is engaged in fraudulent activity. However, we always recommend that if you’ve diligently researched a company and you still have reservations, feel free to call and ask a few questions if it will make you feel more comfortable.
Not every agency or management company will be a huge enterprise with a full staff and a fancy office. That doesn’t mean that the company isn’t capable of helping you to reach your goals as a model, singer, dancer or actress. In fact many smaller agencies are able to provide their clients with more personalized service. Explore all of your options, both small and large agencies, and then based on the information they provide, decide which option is best for you.
For more information on entertainment industry scams, or to ask questions related to companies that have contacted you, log in each day to http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com and review our community forum and our Scam Alert section.
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.
HOLLYWOOD – Elite Casting Network (www.EliteCastingNetwork.com) members who’ve taken advantage of the site’s upgrade specials have already gotten tremendous results. A growing number of models, dancers, singers and actors are discovering that Elite Casting Network’s Gold, Platinum and Diamond memberships are the key to launching a successful career in the entertainment industry. By increasing their membership level, thus increasing their exposure, they are now being contacted for more industry gigs than ever before.
Elite Casting Network, the industry’s leading casting website for more than a decade, helps actors, dancers, singers and models get access to invaluable casting leads, dispelling the myth that aspiring entertainers can’t succeed in Hollywood without an agent. Members at all levels are finding success on the website, but actors, singers, dancers and models who have recently upgraded are having record success. Lynette Thomas, a Elite Casting Network member from Memphis, Tennessee is a perfect example. “I have been getting jobs and calls everyday since I upgraded,” says Lynette. “I just got another call for a print modeling job. I love this site.”
Lindsay MacDonald, another Elite Casting Network member from Rhode Island who recently upgraded to a Diamond membership is experiencing the same success. “I've had a Elite Casting Network membership for awhile now but I just upgraded to a Diamond membership and my views are increasing,” she said. A one-year Diamond membership, only $199.95, is a great way for actors, singers, dancers and models to showcase their talent to casting directors, talent scouts and other entertainment industry professionals who visit Elite Casting Network every day to search for new talent.
Elite Casting Network members who upgrade their memberships can upload up to 100 photos as well as video and audio files. Additionally, members who purchase a one-year membership will also get the same level membership for the entire year at Star Search Casting (http://www.StarSearchCasting.com). With two memberships from leading casting websites, actors, dancers, singers and models will not only get more exposure, but also have access to unlimited casting opportunities and resources.
“I have been trying to find jobs for awhile now and it's been hard to do so without paying lots of money,” said Elle Viane from Washington. However once she learned about Elite Casting Network and signed up, she not only found an affordable resource, but she also landed a role in a film that begins shooting this summer.
For more information on joining the tons of actors, singers, dancers and models experiencing record success at Elite Casting Network, visit www.EliteCastingNetwork.com. Sign up or upgrade your membership today!
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.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!
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!
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!
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!!!