I would like to say that "as you know, I've been in LA" but since this writing slacker hasn't updated since last year, there's really no way you could know that. But hey, guess what? I finally went to LA! And to say that it was life changing would be an understatement. And no, I didn't get "discovered" by some shady producer promising to make me a star.
What did happen was that my quasi-goal of moving to La La Land was solidified. Yup, it's official. My husband and I are doing it. Well, we're starting the process of applying for visas anyway. But our goal is to be down there with paperwork in hand in two years.
Are we excited? Oh yes. Are we terrified? Hell yes. But we know that the potential that being in LA holds outweighs all of that. We know we're guaranteed to be starting at the bottom (again) in terms of building a strong LA-based network. That we won't be on set as much as we are right now as soon as we get there. We know that. But we also know that for our goals, we need to do the hard (and expensive) thing and get down there. Luckily, we both have work that we can do from anywhere. As an actress, I'm extremely happy that I already am building my Arbonne business now so that when I need it to fully support me in the USA, I'll have it. And in two years, my little part time business will be more than capable of doing that. So cheers for not having to take a serving job and not having that money related stress!
What has really surprised me is what having a set-in-stone goal has done to both of us. Having a clear vision of where you are going most definitely helps with daily motivation! I've learned that it's one thing to be inspired. It's another to be motivated.
So here's to motivation, daily tasks, and going after what you want!
Happy creating!
Showing posts with label acting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label acting. Show all posts
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Friday, June 14, 2013
Musings from a (formerly) Silent Actress
All right, full disclosure: I've been silent since my last blog post. And I mean silent. Right after that long ago post in March, I woke up sans voice. First thought, laryngitis. But then it didn't go away after a week, two weeks, a month. So off I went to the specialist who diagnosed me with a paralyzed left vocal cord. And while the kind doctor assured me that it really wasn't as traumatic as it sounded and up to two thirds of patients recover fully, my natural dramatic tendencies kicked into overdrive. Paralyzed....PARALYZED!?! As in, nothing-you-can-do-about-it paralyzed? The cause was unknown which is normal with this condition and treatment options were limited. Really, the only treatment available in Canada is injecting a substance (it has a long and complicated medical name that I don't even begin to remember) into the affected vocal cord and even that doesn't make the thing move, it just helps eliminate some of the symptoms. But doing something, anything appealed to my Type A personality. So while the thought of having a needle put through my throat caused some panic attacks, I had to do something.
I'm not a huge fan of not having control over my life and career. Yes, that seems to be at odds with my career choice but for all rights and purposes, I believe that actors do control their careers. There is always something we can do to be working. But this condition suddenly brought to light that there are some things I don't and never will have control over. And it terrified me. Beyond the obvious lack of being able to audition well, any parts I was offered through my wonderful film family, I had to turn down. I didn't know from one day to the next whether my voice would be kinda OK or not at all. In no way did I want to be responsible for possibly lessening the quality of their finished products. I began to question my abilities and inevitably, my thoughts turned to possible career changes. Which, of course, nearly killed me. I'm an actor. I love acting. How could I possibly consider doing anything else? I had one spectacular breakdown caused by simply booting up Netflix to watch Arrested Development. Needless to say, I wasn't a happy camper.
Slowly but surely over the course of three months, those close to me kept insisting that my voice was sounding better. I refused to believe it, figuring that my right vocal cord was just getting used to compensating for the lazy left one. But then one day, when I was home alone, I was able to sing. It wasn't great and it was no where near my usual range but music came out of my mouth. I nearly cried. That's when I started to hope. I had already been doing visualizations of energy running through the nerves of my vocal cord (no one told me to do this, I just figured it couldn't hurt) so this spurred me on to do it more. It's amazing what even a small shred of evidence of progress can do to a person.
Fast forward to the day I was booked to get the dreaded needle through my throat. Not only was I scared out of mind (I'm OK with needles, I'm just not OK with needles going through my throat) and nervous about the cost (FYI: not everything is free in a universal healthcare system), I was stressed that I would be doing this procedure every three months until I either healed or they would have to do surgery. The doctor had explained this wouldn't get my voice back, it would merely make it stronger. But still my voice was sounding better. I could get through a day without devolving into silence by five. So imagine what happened to that small glimmer of hope when I opened my mouth to say hello to the doctor and his immediate response was, "Your voice is better"; it erupted into a full-fledged inferno. One scope look later pronounced me almost 100% better, no injection required. The left cord is still a little slow and lazy but it moves. Trust me, I saw it on the nifty video. I happy danced and high fived my husband all the way out of the hospital.
So things are looking up. As one of my besties said when I joyous called her with news, no career change needed. Call it the power of prayer, visualizations, karma, or whatever, I've woken up each day since sending off oodles of gratitude to the universe. Cuz, really despite of it all, life is just plain fantastic. And I'm telling everyone!
Happy creating!
I'm not a huge fan of not having control over my life and career. Yes, that seems to be at odds with my career choice but for all rights and purposes, I believe that actors do control their careers. There is always something we can do to be working. But this condition suddenly brought to light that there are some things I don't and never will have control over. And it terrified me. Beyond the obvious lack of being able to audition well, any parts I was offered through my wonderful film family, I had to turn down. I didn't know from one day to the next whether my voice would be kinda OK or not at all. In no way did I want to be responsible for possibly lessening the quality of their finished products. I began to question my abilities and inevitably, my thoughts turned to possible career changes. Which, of course, nearly killed me. I'm an actor. I love acting. How could I possibly consider doing anything else? I had one spectacular breakdown caused by simply booting up Netflix to watch Arrested Development. Needless to say, I wasn't a happy camper.
Slowly but surely over the course of three months, those close to me kept insisting that my voice was sounding better. I refused to believe it, figuring that my right vocal cord was just getting used to compensating for the lazy left one. But then one day, when I was home alone, I was able to sing. It wasn't great and it was no where near my usual range but music came out of my mouth. I nearly cried. That's when I started to hope. I had already been doing visualizations of energy running through the nerves of my vocal cord (no one told me to do this, I just figured it couldn't hurt) so this spurred me on to do it more. It's amazing what even a small shred of evidence of progress can do to a person.
Fast forward to the day I was booked to get the dreaded needle through my throat. Not only was I scared out of mind (I'm OK with needles, I'm just not OK with needles going through my throat) and nervous about the cost (FYI: not everything is free in a universal healthcare system), I was stressed that I would be doing this procedure every three months until I either healed or they would have to do surgery. The doctor had explained this wouldn't get my voice back, it would merely make it stronger. But still my voice was sounding better. I could get through a day without devolving into silence by five. So imagine what happened to that small glimmer of hope when I opened my mouth to say hello to the doctor and his immediate response was, "Your voice is better"; it erupted into a full-fledged inferno. One scope look later pronounced me almost 100% better, no injection required. The left cord is still a little slow and lazy but it moves. Trust me, I saw it on the nifty video. I happy danced and high fived my husband all the way out of the hospital.
So things are looking up. As one of my besties said when I joyous called her with news, no career change needed. Call it the power of prayer, visualizations, karma, or whatever, I've woken up each day since sending off oodles of gratitude to the universe. Cuz, really despite of it all, life is just plain fantastic. And I'm telling everyone!
Happy creating!
Monday, February 25, 2013
One Small Choice
Recently, I went out for coffee with a friend I haven't seen in fifteen years. While even just the fact I can say that I have friends that I haven't seen in over a decade is mind-boggling (aren't I still sixteen?), it came to light during our discussion that one of my biggest regrets in life could have been a huge opportunity. Let me set the stage:
I'm fifteen and accompanying my then boyfriend to an audition in Toronto. This is HUGE deal because we are from a super small town and he has an actual agent and is being sent on actual auditions. So cool, right? We have both been acting in our community theatre for years so this sort of thing is amazing to us. He's excited and nervous but really wants to break into musical theatre. Like a good teen girlfriend, I helped him with his sides. Quite frankly, I thought it was the weirdest thing I've ever read, all chock full of mutant teenagers or possibly aliens. But preparing is preparing.
So I'm sitting in the waiting room and the casting director (or possibly assistant. I was fifteen and didn't really pay attention to anything but my teenaged angst) comes out of the audition room. She stopped and looked at me for a moment before asking if I wanted to audition. I giggled nervously and assured her that I was only an amateur actor doing community theatre. So no auditioning for me. I was just waiting for someone.
And that was that. I've often wondered where my life would have ended up if I had said yes to that casting director. Would I still be acting? Would I have met some of my dearest friends? Would I have met my husband? But mostly, I shrugged it off as a learning experience.
Turns out that audition for something I thought was kinda weird? It was for a huge franchise. I'm talking huge. They're still making movies for it. Fifteen. Years. Later.
New lesson for me: I said "no" to something because I didn't know what it was and I wasn't sure of myself. By saying "no" to it, I passed on something that could have been life-altering. I'm not saying that I would have gotten a part but imagine if I had. Or imagine if I had started along the professional acting path almost a decade sooner than I did. Would I be in LA now? I'm not saying it's probable but I am saying it's possible.
So here's the moral of the story. Don't say "no" just because you don't get it. Definitely don't say "no" because you don't think you can do it. Just say "yes" because you never know what mutant franchise starring future Oscar nominees you might be cast in.
Happy creating!
I'm fifteen and accompanying my then boyfriend to an audition in Toronto. This is HUGE deal because we are from a super small town and he has an actual agent and is being sent on actual auditions. So cool, right? We have both been acting in our community theatre for years so this sort of thing is amazing to us. He's excited and nervous but really wants to break into musical theatre. Like a good teen girlfriend, I helped him with his sides. Quite frankly, I thought it was the weirdest thing I've ever read, all chock full of mutant teenagers or possibly aliens. But preparing is preparing.
So I'm sitting in the waiting room and the casting director (or possibly assistant. I was fifteen and didn't really pay attention to anything but my teenaged angst) comes out of the audition room. She stopped and looked at me for a moment before asking if I wanted to audition. I giggled nervously and assured her that I was only an amateur actor doing community theatre. So no auditioning for me. I was just waiting for someone.
And that was that. I've often wondered where my life would have ended up if I had said yes to that casting director. Would I still be acting? Would I have met some of my dearest friends? Would I have met my husband? But mostly, I shrugged it off as a learning experience.
Turns out that audition for something I thought was kinda weird? It was for a huge franchise. I'm talking huge. They're still making movies for it. Fifteen. Years. Later.
New lesson for me: I said "no" to something because I didn't know what it was and I wasn't sure of myself. By saying "no" to it, I passed on something that could have been life-altering. I'm not saying that I would have gotten a part but imagine if I had. Or imagine if I had started along the professional acting path almost a decade sooner than I did. Would I be in LA now? I'm not saying it's probable but I am saying it's possible.
So here's the moral of the story. Don't say "no" just because you don't get it. Definitely don't say "no" because you don't think you can do it. Just say "yes" because you never know what mutant franchise starring future Oscar nominees you might be cast in.
Happy creating!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Shameless Self Promotion
It's time for a little bit of sharing! I did this short film at the end of 2011, against the very lovely backdrop of High Park. I love this film for a number of reasons: 1) it was the first time I worked with Jay Clarke, the writer, director and producer. Jay is fan of all things horror and thriller and is a practical institution on the horror scene here; 2) I got to work with my husband again. We met originally on set so whenever we film together it's like we're recreating that first meeting; 3) my character is something entirely different from what I usually play. For those actors out there, you know how awesome that is. Quite often we are cast by our type (read: first impression). This script let me play outside that boundary. And I loved it. And you know you rocked it when your agent gets so into it, she calls your character a name!
Anyway, enjoy Orange!
Happy creating!
Anyway, enjoy Orange!
Happy creating!
Monday, August 6, 2012
The Big Overhaul
You know those moments that just inspire you? From watching almost instant photos arrive from Mars to crying over this kid's greatness, life can just rock. For those of you who have been following along either here on the blog or on Facebook or Twitter, you know I'm a pretty positive person. That's how I choose to live my life. The key word there is "choose".
Now why is that? Well, I wasn't always this positive and some days, I'm still not--I'm an actor, for goodness sake. I've posted before about life changes and people always ask me how I do it. It's simple: I made a choice. A choice to not be stuck doing a survival job while waiting for my agent to call me with work. A choice not to make someone else's dream come true but to focus on mine. Instead, I work alongside my agent to find new work (PS: it's my career so I better be responsible for it). I work (although work is the wrong term for something I enjoy so much) my business just a little everyday. I do it for me and the future me. 'Cuz I sure as hell don't want to wake up one day wondering what if. That is more terrifying for me than taking a huge risk. I have only two true regrets in my life and I vowed to never have any more of those.
So I choose to create a life of abundance and one that is mine. And what really rocks about it, is that after a few months of consistent effort on that front, it's starting to pay off exponentially. That's right, my life doesn't add, it multiplies. And that includes financially, artistically, and awesominity. See? I even get to make up words.
So please, do yourself a favour: ask yourself where you want to be in five years and if what you are doing right now will get you there? If it will, that's amazing. If not, change something. Start putting yourself on that path now. You don't want to regret not doing now. And while I have been fortunate enough to make big changes in my life, you don't have to do it that way. Small things in the nooks and crannies of your day multiply (there's that word again) into huge results.
Take the first terrifying step and repeat until it's not scary anymore. It's so worth it.
Happy creating!
PS: I'm going to be an aunt (again!) this week!!! Can't wait to meet and spoil the girls...yes, plural!
Now why is that? Well, I wasn't always this positive and some days, I'm still not--I'm an actor, for goodness sake. I've posted before about life changes and people always ask me how I do it. It's simple: I made a choice. A choice to not be stuck doing a survival job while waiting for my agent to call me with work. A choice not to make someone else's dream come true but to focus on mine. Instead, I work alongside my agent to find new work (PS: it's my career so I better be responsible for it). I work (although work is the wrong term for something I enjoy so much) my business just a little everyday. I do it for me and the future me. 'Cuz I sure as hell don't want to wake up one day wondering what if. That is more terrifying for me than taking a huge risk. I have only two true regrets in my life and I vowed to never have any more of those.
So I choose to create a life of abundance and one that is mine. And what really rocks about it, is that after a few months of consistent effort on that front, it's starting to pay off exponentially. That's right, my life doesn't add, it multiplies. And that includes financially, artistically, and awesominity. See? I even get to make up words.
So please, do yourself a favour: ask yourself where you want to be in five years and if what you are doing right now will get you there? If it will, that's amazing. If not, change something. Start putting yourself on that path now. You don't want to regret not doing now. And while I have been fortunate enough to make big changes in my life, you don't have to do it that way. Small things in the nooks and crannies of your day multiply (there's that word again) into huge results.
Take the first terrifying step and repeat until it's not scary anymore. It's so worth it.
Happy creating!
PS: I'm going to be an aunt (again!) this week!!! Can't wait to meet and spoil the girls...yes, plural!
Friday, July 20, 2012
From Audition Machine to Booking Maniac
Yeah, baby. It's music to an actor's ears when that phone rings or email pings with booking news. I'm so excited to be working on two projects before July ends. Both will be a different challenge for me as I've never worked in these formats. Am I being vague? Yes, sorry but until everything is OK for release, I can't spoil anything!
And all of this to be followed up by a short film in August! So I guess the web series (both of 'em) that I'm developing are going heading to the back burner again for a few weeks. I swear, they will be filmed and posted someday in the near future!
Happy creating!
And all of this to be followed up by a short film in August! So I guess the web series (both of 'em) that I'm developing are going heading to the back burner again for a few weeks. I swear, they will be filmed and posted someday in the near future!
Happy creating!
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Your Agent Doesn't Hate You
I read this awesome post in Backstage and loved it. Secret Agent Man is pretty straightforward. Read why
Your Agent Doesn't Hate You . In fact, they probably like you quite a lot. What they don't like, is what is known in this industry as flakiness. And yes, everyone experiences it in every walk of life but actors are a special brand. You would think that in a field where the competition is so intense for so few jobs, we'd be the most reliable people on the planet. But we're not. And we give a bad name to ourselves because of it.
I first ran into this problem, actually, outside of the film industry. I was interviewing at a temp agency for that ever needed survival job (see My Other Job as to why I don't need to do that anymore) and when the question of acting came up, it was like something the size of the Berlin Wall sprang up. My interviewer's face became cold and our rapport immediately fell flat. She resolutely told me, "We don't work with your sort of people". I remember a moment of silence and then some awkwardness as the interview came to it's obvious end. And when I got home, I got mad. You don't work with my sort of people? You. Don't. Work. With. MY. Sort. Of. People. Well, screw you. Not all of my people are like that. Some of the hardest working and reliable people I know are actors and film industry people. Who else willing works 14 hour days for a teeny tiny bit of money (if anything at all) for months at a time and loves it? No one, I say, no one.
But as I've gotten to know more people in this industry, I see where this stereotype comes from. And it sucks. We are flaky and it's just not fair to those on our teams. Our agents, managers, publicists, favourite casting directors go to bat for us everyday. They depend on our performance for a living. Maybe we owe it to them to man up and treat this like a career. You know, one where you actually have to be disciplined and show up. And then, maybe you'll stop wondering if your agent hates you.
Happy creating!
I first ran into this problem, actually, outside of the film industry. I was interviewing at a temp agency for that ever needed survival job (see My Other Job as to why I don't need to do that anymore) and when the question of acting came up, it was like something the size of the Berlin Wall sprang up. My interviewer's face became cold and our rapport immediately fell flat. She resolutely told me, "We don't work with your sort of people". I remember a moment of silence and then some awkwardness as the interview came to it's obvious end. And when I got home, I got mad. You don't work with my sort of people? You. Don't. Work. With. MY. Sort. Of. People. Well, screw you. Not all of my people are like that. Some of the hardest working and reliable people I know are actors and film industry people. Who else willing works 14 hour days for a teeny tiny bit of money (if anything at all) for months at a time and loves it? No one, I say, no one.
But as I've gotten to know more people in this industry, I see where this stereotype comes from. And it sucks. We are flaky and it's just not fair to those on our teams. Our agents, managers, publicists, favourite casting directors go to bat for us everyday. They depend on our performance for a living. Maybe we owe it to them to man up and treat this like a career. You know, one where you actually have to be disciplined and show up. And then, maybe you'll stop wondering if your agent hates you.
Happy creating!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Be The Heroine in Your Own Life
With the passing of Nora Ephron, one of the greats left us this week. Of course, as a woman in the film industry, I am mourning the loss of one of trailblazers, one of the few women who helmed studio pictures, who successfully navigated the world of Hollywood with a capital "H"; but more than that, I mourn the loss of a great storyteller. Ms. Ephron could capture people and write the poetry of their souls. Furthermore, her characters were quirky, unreasonable, and a little insane. Just like the rest of us.
The worlds she created for us have been stamped upon our pop culture lexicon. It only takes someone to quote "I'll have what she's having" or paint the image of two strangers meeting atop the Empire State building for us to know what the reference is (and if you don't, go brush up on your rom-com classics, kids). And that is a remarkable accomplishment, right up there with "Feel the force" and "We're gonna need a bigger boat".
But as I've been reading the articles on her life and her legacy (with multitudes still to appear in the coming days, I'm sure), I've been struck by her thoughts on the rest of the world and how many of them so firmly resonate with me. She was someone who took control of her life and lived it. And as someone who chose to live as a creative person, that is incredibly rare. How many people give up? How many times did Ms. Ephron almost throw in the towel? I'm sure it's too numerous to count. But she didn't and that is more amazing than memorable lines and scenes.
So rest in peace, Ms. Ephron, safe home and thank you for the inspiration.
“Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.” - Nora Ephron
Happy creating
The worlds she created for us have been stamped upon our pop culture lexicon. It only takes someone to quote "I'll have what she's having" or paint the image of two strangers meeting atop the Empire State building for us to know what the reference is (and if you don't, go brush up on your rom-com classics, kids). And that is a remarkable accomplishment, right up there with "Feel the force" and "We're gonna need a bigger boat".
But as I've been reading the articles on her life and her legacy (with multitudes still to appear in the coming days, I'm sure), I've been struck by her thoughts on the rest of the world and how many of them so firmly resonate with me. She was someone who took control of her life and lived it. And as someone who chose to live as a creative person, that is incredibly rare. How many people give up? How many times did Ms. Ephron almost throw in the towel? I'm sure it's too numerous to count. But she didn't and that is more amazing than memorable lines and scenes.
So rest in peace, Ms. Ephron, safe home and thank you for the inspiration.
“Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.” - Nora Ephron
Happy creating
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
First Quarter Fun...
Yeah. I know. Get it out now. Nothing since February. Sorry. But! I have my reasons! One of which I've posted below. It's a great little film adapted from a Tobias Wolf short story. Adapted for the screen and directed by the uber talented Shane Belcourt, I hope you enjoy "Say Yes".
One of my many roles is manager of a dance company and our big production just went up last weekend. And yes, while it was full of the usual pre-show stress and jitters, the performance itself was stellar. I'm stoked by how well it was received and the awesome attention it has brought upon the company.
So now those projects I've had bubbling away on multiple back burners can finally be attended to. I can't wait to dig into them again. From writing to producing to acting projects, I get to wear my many hats over the next couple of weeks. Oh and don't forget international business woman as well. Yup, my at home biz has crossed a border!
So, my first quarter of 2012 was awash with great success and I can't wait for the next one! Anyway, enjoy "Say Yes"!
Happy creating!
One of my many roles is manager of a dance company and our big production just went up last weekend. And yes, while it was full of the usual pre-show stress and jitters, the performance itself was stellar. I'm stoked by how well it was received and the awesome attention it has brought upon the company.
So now those projects I've had bubbling away on multiple back burners can finally be attended to. I can't wait to dig into them again. From writing to producing to acting projects, I get to wear my many hats over the next couple of weeks. Oh and don't forget international business woman as well. Yup, my at home biz has crossed a border!
So, my first quarter of 2012 was awash with great success and I can't wait for the next one! Anyway, enjoy "Say Yes"!
Happy creating!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
A Little Gratitude
So I had a day of gratitude yesterday. Yes, I know, I should have those everyday but yesterday in particular, I was especially thankful for everyone and everything I have in my life.
What brought this on you may ask? Well, partly it was because I learned that a friend from university passed away suddenly just before the holidays. And while it's horrible when anyone dies suddenly, this one in particular hit me hard. She and I worked together on her third year directing project and she was honestly one of the sweetest people I met while at school. Her passing just brought home how fleeting life can be and it's something we take for granted. We assume that everyday will unfold just as the day before but that's just not true.
Now this isn't the first time I've had this wake-up call. When my father passed away unexpectedly five years ago, I had a similar experience. His death is what pushed me into professional acting. Before then, it was something I only talked about, something I was going to someday when the time was right. But guess what? The time was never going to be right and if I waited then, I would probably still be waiting. So while I still miss my dad everyday and wish he could see my life now, I'm grateful that his passing prompted positive action on my part.
So thank you for reading, for chatting on either my Facebook or Twitter account, watching my videos, and just plain ol' being around. I'm truly grateful. Now go call your mom, sibling, best friend, lover, or agent and tell them that you are happy that they are in your life.
Happy creating!
What brought this on you may ask? Well, partly it was because I learned that a friend from university passed away suddenly just before the holidays. And while it's horrible when anyone dies suddenly, this one in particular hit me hard. She and I worked together on her third year directing project and she was honestly one of the sweetest people I met while at school. Her passing just brought home how fleeting life can be and it's something we take for granted. We assume that everyday will unfold just as the day before but that's just not true.
Now this isn't the first time I've had this wake-up call. When my father passed away unexpectedly five years ago, I had a similar experience. His death is what pushed me into professional acting. Before then, it was something I only talked about, something I was going to someday when the time was right. But guess what? The time was never going to be right and if I waited then, I would probably still be waiting. So while I still miss my dad everyday and wish he could see my life now, I'm grateful that his passing prompted positive action on my part.
So thank you for reading, for chatting on either my Facebook or Twitter account, watching my videos, and just plain ol' being around. I'm truly grateful. Now go call your mom, sibling, best friend, lover, or agent and tell them that you are happy that they are in your life.
Happy creating!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
A Few of My Favourite Things
No, this isn't going to end up with me handing out cars to anyone--Oprah already did that. This is more of a reflection of what I enjoy so much about what I do. It's really the people. I love the meeting of minds, the sharing of experiences, and the reassurance that we're all going through the same thing.
I met a friend of a friend recently for the first time and we had a blast chatting over coffee about acting, the entertainment biz, skin care and the constant struggle finding the right stuff, and the joys of mixing traditional employment with creative endeavors. Even though we had never met in person before, sharing our common experience was amazing. We laughed over the craziness our chosen path creates and all the things we have to do to work in this field. Like I said, it was a blast.
But besides that, it was just great connecting with someone else who gets it. To many people, what we do as entertainment business professionals seems either confusing, glamorous, or downright crazy. I enjoyed just chatting with someone who knows all the weirdness but loves it regardless.
So cheers, my new friend! Here's to more chats over coffee and laughs about what we put ourselves through everyday, just so we have the pleasure to call ourselves actors!
Happy creating!
I met a friend of a friend recently for the first time and we had a blast chatting over coffee about acting, the entertainment biz, skin care and the constant struggle finding the right stuff, and the joys of mixing traditional employment with creative endeavors. Even though we had never met in person before, sharing our common experience was amazing. We laughed over the craziness our chosen path creates and all the things we have to do to work in this field. Like I said, it was a blast.
But besides that, it was just great connecting with someone else who gets it. To many people, what we do as entertainment business professionals seems either confusing, glamorous, or downright crazy. I enjoyed just chatting with someone who knows all the weirdness but loves it regardless.
So cheers, my new friend! Here's to more chats over coffee and laughs about what we put ourselves through everyday, just so we have the pleasure to call ourselves actors!
Happy creating!
Friday, January 27, 2012
My Dreammaker
Yeah, I probably made that word up. At least, most spell checkers don't recognize it. But it's mine and it describes so much of what I've doing during this period of relative blog silence.
While I can't say that Steven Spielberg finally called and offered me a fantastic part (PS: I'm waiting, Steven, FYI), I have been doing some serious work on making my dreams come true.
Like most actors, aside from those of gracing the stage at the Oscars and being part of well-received, widely released films, my day-to-day dreams are actually quite small. What most people my age want are to be able to afford a house, have kids, and maybe get a dog. OK, we have two cats, so I guess we have some of that. But those aren't far fetched dreams for a lot of people I know. They can be made reality with just a small amount of effort. But for a two actor/writer household? Those are practically akin to aiming for moon during the Middle Ages.
Don't get me wrong. I love our apartment. I love being creative in how we figure out the eternal storage dilemma. I most certainly love our cats. But just sometimes, I find myself looking at real estate postings for condos and houses and dreaming.
OK, Tonya, you could go out and get a job that pays you more and then you could do all that. Don't worry, I hear that voice too. But often with those jobs, you sacrifice flexibility and as you actor-types know, having flexibility in your survival job is the Holy Grail, especially when that audition notice comes for tomorrow and it's 7pm. And you have 6 pages to memorize and a lead character to develop. And the audition is at 9am. Across the city.
But this post is about my dreammaker, not my dream destroyer or, at least, not my make-your-dreams-almost-impossible-to-achiever. So what has that been lately? I'm building a business from home. Something that I run and organize in the hour or two a day I can spare. In other words, I fit it around my acting, writing, producing, exercising, cooking, survival job, and time with my family and friends. And it's working. Slowly but surely, I'm beginning to see the results from my barely part-time job time commitment. Not bad, huh?
So for those of you who wonder how it can be done, if it's something you love, you will make it happen. The key is making sure that everything else you do allows for your passion to flourish. And if what you do on the side is something you are also passionate about, then congrats! Your life is pretty darn great!
Happy creating!
While I can't say that Steven Spielberg finally called and offered me a fantastic part (PS: I'm waiting, Steven, FYI), I have been doing some serious work on making my dreams come true.
Like most actors, aside from those of gracing the stage at the Oscars and being part of well-received, widely released films, my day-to-day dreams are actually quite small. What most people my age want are to be able to afford a house, have kids, and maybe get a dog. OK, we have two cats, so I guess we have some of that. But those aren't far fetched dreams for a lot of people I know. They can be made reality with just a small amount of effort. But for a two actor/writer household? Those are practically akin to aiming for moon during the Middle Ages.
Don't get me wrong. I love our apartment. I love being creative in how we figure out the eternal storage dilemma. I most certainly love our cats. But just sometimes, I find myself looking at real estate postings for condos and houses and dreaming.
OK, Tonya, you could go out and get a job that pays you more and then you could do all that. Don't worry, I hear that voice too. But often with those jobs, you sacrifice flexibility and as you actor-types know, having flexibility in your survival job is the Holy Grail, especially when that audition notice comes for tomorrow and it's 7pm. And you have 6 pages to memorize and a lead character to develop. And the audition is at 9am. Across the city.
But this post is about my dreammaker, not my dream destroyer or, at least, not my make-your-dreams-almost-impossible-to-achiever. So what has that been lately? I'm building a business from home. Something that I run and organize in the hour or two a day I can spare. In other words, I fit it around my acting, writing, producing, exercising, cooking, survival job, and time with my family and friends. And it's working. Slowly but surely, I'm beginning to see the results from my barely part-time job time commitment. Not bad, huh?
So for those of you who wonder how it can be done, if it's something you love, you will make it happen. The key is making sure that everything else you do allows for your passion to flourish. And if what you do on the side is something you are also passionate about, then congrats! Your life is pretty darn great!
Happy creating!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Screw You, New Year's Resolutions!
Happy creating and go kick 2012 in the butt.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
It's the Most Wonderful Time of Year!
Well, 2011 is wrapping up and I'm looking forward to a great 2012. This past year has seen some amazing career changes for me. My life has evolved and my dreams have morphed into obtainable goals. I can see those not-so- elusive goals hovering just on the horizon and I can't wait to run to catch up to them.
Remember my goals from earlier in the year? Well, they are on track and speeding along in ways that I could have never imagined almost a year ago. I work on new acting projects basically every month. I've launched into producing. I'm writing more. I'm collaborating with amazing people from around the world who constantly inspire me. Heck, I got married to my best friend and got to wear a stunning dress while surrounded by my nearest and dearest. I'm not usually one to throw the word "blessed" around but I can't really describe 2011 in any other way.
There are exciting things coming, my friends and I can't wait to share them with you. This journey is going to be a great one. I can just feel it.
Happy creating!
Remember my goals from earlier in the year? Well, they are on track and speeding along in ways that I could have never imagined almost a year ago. I work on new acting projects basically every month. I've launched into producing. I'm writing more. I'm collaborating with amazing people from around the world who constantly inspire me. Heck, I got married to my best friend and got to wear a stunning dress while surrounded by my nearest and dearest. I'm not usually one to throw the word "blessed" around but I can't really describe 2011 in any other way.
There are exciting things coming, my friends and I can't wait to share them with you. This journey is going to be a great one. I can just feel it.
Happy creating!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Practice Makes Perfect--Ode to Professionalism
I've been talking a lot recently to different artists from all across the creative melieu. I should clarify that I've been speaking to professional artists. You know, the ones that seek to create and entertain beyond the level of a hobbyist. Their passion may have started as an extra-curricular love but that need to tell stories, whether through film, photography, words, or dance, has evolved into something bigger than a part-time commitment.
I've discovered that we all have something in common. True professionals are constantly practicing. They seek to continually improve, to jump to a new level of expression. Be it through formalized classes or just doing moves in the studio, on camera, over the mic, we work. We keep our tools sharp and at the ready by continually doing and realizing that we are forever students. To be honest, I'm not sure if I ever want to be a master at something. It implies that I've finished learning and I enjoy that process to damn much to end it. Being challenged rocks and nothing pushes me past a plateau of blah and safe better than a good challenge. To quote Timothy Findley, I kill my darlings to allow myself to discover new ways of bringing truth to characters.
So how are you evolving as a professional? I'd love to hear!
Happy creating!
I've discovered that we all have something in common. True professionals are constantly practicing. They seek to continually improve, to jump to a new level of expression. Be it through formalized classes or just doing moves in the studio, on camera, over the mic, we work. We keep our tools sharp and at the ready by continually doing and realizing that we are forever students. To be honest, I'm not sure if I ever want to be a master at something. It implies that I've finished learning and I enjoy that process to damn much to end it. Being challenged rocks and nothing pushes me past a plateau of blah and safe better than a good challenge. To quote Timothy Findley, I kill my darlings to allow myself to discover new ways of bringing truth to characters.
So how are you evolving as a professional? I'd love to hear!
Happy creating!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Zombies!!!!
See my description in About Me in my Twitter profile? Zombie preparedness is always necessary. You never know when this might happen:
Happy creating!...or clean removal of the zombie head to ensure a clean kill...whatever...
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Audition Issue
Hey actors! Have you read this yet? You probably should. Backstage has put together a great collection of articles about the mysterious process known as auditioning. And given that what we do is audition, it's well worth the click.
The Audition Issue
I read every article in one sitting and loved every one. There are great tips from working actors, producers, and casting directors alike. Key bit of advice? Get out of your head, stop beating yourself up, and just be you.
Happy creating!
The Audition Issue
I read every article in one sitting and loved every one. There are great tips from working actors, producers, and casting directors alike. Key bit of advice? Get out of your head, stop beating yourself up, and just be you.
Happy creating!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Goals and a Check In
So remember how I said my life had become incredibly busy? And that I would keep you posted? Notice how that was ages ago? Sorry about that but nothing much has changed in the ensuing weeks.
So here's the low down on what's been going on:
1) I worked on a TV show for Animal Planet. From what I understand, it will be released sometime in October in the US. No word on when myself and my countrymen will be able to see it up here in the Great White North. OK, so not snowy right now but you get the cliche;
2) I booked a feature film which is slated to start soon. I can't give you much more information than that as I signed my life away saying that I wouldn't. But it should be really cool once everything gets off the ground;
3) I've been thoroughly developing my web series while also helping other producers develop some of their own projects. Nothing like working with a community of like-minded people who just love film and telling stories to get you motivated!
There are more projects thrown in there as well but most are more personal and not the stuff to post online to live on ad infinitum. Needless to say, everything is connected to the goal of acting.
So what's coming up soon? Well, I get to work with one of my favourite directors and DoP's this week on-get this--an action comedy. That's all I'm saying but tune into Tom Antos' YouTube channel for more details. I'll post more when it's complete!
I hope you all are as busy as I am and loving every minute of it! I'm constantly grateful for the people who are supporting me in my efforts and giving me opportunities to do the thing I love.
Happy creating!
So here's the low down on what's been going on:
1) I worked on a TV show for Animal Planet. From what I understand, it will be released sometime in October in the US. No word on when myself and my countrymen will be able to see it up here in the Great White North. OK, so not snowy right now but you get the cliche;
2) I booked a feature film which is slated to start soon. I can't give you much more information than that as I signed my life away saying that I wouldn't. But it should be really cool once everything gets off the ground;
3) I've been thoroughly developing my web series while also helping other producers develop some of their own projects. Nothing like working with a community of like-minded people who just love film and telling stories to get you motivated!
There are more projects thrown in there as well but most are more personal and not the stuff to post online to live on ad infinitum. Needless to say, everything is connected to the goal of acting.
So what's coming up soon? Well, I get to work with one of my favourite directors and DoP's this week on-get this--an action comedy. That's all I'm saying but tune into Tom Antos' YouTube channel for more details. I'll post more when it's complete!
I hope you all are as busy as I am and loving every minute of it! I'm constantly grateful for the people who are supporting me in my efforts and giving me opportunities to do the thing I love.
Happy creating!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Audition Metaphor
Ask any actor: auditioning is a weird and difficult process. It's a constant question or string of questions. Am I the right type? Too short? Too tall? Do I go big? Small? And most importantly, am I telling the story I need to be telling? Sides are chosen for an audition for a reason. Usually, they are an important part of the character's story. This is especially true for leads. The CD and producers want to see how you handle the character, often at different points in the story. Auditioning for the waitress who makes a two second appearance halfway through the film? Guess what. That role is important too. Scripts go through so many revisions and characters are edited out and changed constantly. There is a reason why that waitress is there when she is there. Hint: check out what's going on with the main characters in the scene. Make your choices from there.
But what to do when you have to bring out your trusty ol'monologue? And yes, you should have one or two of those stored in the memory banks. And be out the look out for more as your type will change as you do. Sometimes, it's hard getting the story out with your monologue when you only have a couple of minutes and that includes saying hi to those in the room and doing some chatting. Joel R. Putnam really hits the nail on the head with what to do with shortened audition times and how to adjust your monologue accordingly. Like with almost everything in life, leave 'em wanting more. Check out his post below. It's a great read!
Audition Metaphor
Happy creating!
But what to do when you have to bring out your trusty ol'monologue? And yes, you should have one or two of those stored in the memory banks. And be out the look out for more as your type will change as you do. Sometimes, it's hard getting the story out with your monologue when you only have a couple of minutes and that includes saying hi to those in the room and doing some chatting. Joel R. Putnam really hits the nail on the head with what to do with shortened audition times and how to adjust your monologue accordingly. Like with almost everything in life, leave 'em wanting more. Check out his post below. It's a great read!
Audition Metaphor
Happy creating!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
The Audition Machine
My ramblings here have been more or less silent these last few weeks. It's not because I haven't wanted to write. Trust me. But you know when someone says be careful what you wish for: it might come true? That has been the definition of my life these past three weeks.
Besides my full time job (yes I still have one of those), I've been doing some serious auditioning. And then doing some more. As a friend so rightly defined it, I've been an audition machine. Thanks Joe. PS: you should check him out on Twitter. And his production company.
For those of you that know me and my schedule well, auditioning isn't out of the norm for me. I do it quite often, either on projects I've sought out or ones that my amazing agent has submitted me for. What has been different is the amount of callbacks I'm getting.
I'm walking around right now with a great big grin which just keeps growing with every callback I get. And what's really awesome is that I know why it's happening. I think every actor goes through a period when they just don't get there. They don't sparkle in the room. Nothing wrong with the read or the acting or the look. They're just not "it".
I've gone through a long period of this but did some soul searching recently and did some re-focusing on my priorities. I feel now when I get that call and go into that room, I've settled in. I'm me and it's great. Yes, I take my inspiration from a universe of sources--how can you not? Discovery says it best: the world is just awesome. But now when I audition, I'm just me. Goofy, geeky, cheerful, and able to get into a character in a flash. And it's paid dividends.
So to sum up, I apologize for the long silence. It's been a great few weeks, filled with great opportunities booked and others in the making.
Oh and if you want to hear more regular updates--you know the ones I can do from my smartphone while waiting to head into the audition room--check me out on Twitter or on my Facebook fan page.
Happy creating!
Besides my full time job (yes I still have one of those), I've been doing some serious auditioning. And then doing some more. As a friend so rightly defined it, I've been an audition machine. Thanks Joe. PS: you should check him out on Twitter. And his production company.
For those of you that know me and my schedule well, auditioning isn't out of the norm for me. I do it quite often, either on projects I've sought out or ones that my amazing agent has submitted me for. What has been different is the amount of callbacks I'm getting.
I'm walking around right now with a great big grin which just keeps growing with every callback I get. And what's really awesome is that I know why it's happening. I think every actor goes through a period when they just don't get there. They don't sparkle in the room. Nothing wrong with the read or the acting or the look. They're just not "it".
I've gone through a long period of this but did some soul searching recently and did some re-focusing on my priorities. I feel now when I get that call and go into that room, I've settled in. I'm me and it's great. Yes, I take my inspiration from a universe of sources--how can you not? Discovery says it best: the world is just awesome. But now when I audition, I'm just me. Goofy, geeky, cheerful, and able to get into a character in a flash. And it's paid dividends.
So to sum up, I apologize for the long silence. It's been a great few weeks, filled with great opportunities booked and others in the making.
Oh and if you want to hear more regular updates--you know the ones I can do from my smartphone while waiting to head into the audition room--check me out on Twitter or on my Facebook fan page.
Happy creating!
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