Advice

Insane Choice, Sane Output

We can't wait for the mood to strike or inspiration to kick in, because we have deadlines and opening nights. We have to figure out how to rev up our imaginations on command.

It's Showtime

I can hear the assistant director intone into the walkie-talkie: "This is now a 'closed set.'" In movies, closed sets happen when nudity is involved. In this case, mine.

Changing Your Look?

"I open someone's headshot online and I see a multitude of hair colors...and I don't know which girl I'm bringing in," says longtime L.A. casting director Ava Shevitt.

Classes, Classes, Classes

I've been taking this scene study class for about six months. I really like it, but lately I'm not sure if it's worth my money.

Talkin' Jazz With Ben Vereen

A master interpreter of Fosse's style of Broadway jazz dance, Ben Vereen is also an accomplished singer and celebrated dramatic actor, perhaps best known for his performance as Chicken George in television's "Roots."

Give Me Your Height, Not Your Cooties

I don't want anything smacking us in the face or taking away from your performance. You don't want to have something on your T-shirt while you're reading, because that's going to be distracting.

Leonard Zimmerman

On Jan. 11, Leonard Zimmerman went on an unusual audition. It all happened fast: He saw a casting notice for 24DP Commercials at BackStage.com, immediately submitted his headshot and résumé.

Should Clients Produce Their Own Work?

"In Hollywood, a talent can be waiting forever to get a callback. Everyone and anyone, including the gas station attendant, is in the biz. The competition is fierce." -- Daniel 'Big D' Mahan

All Alone

Solo theater is not standup comedy. Solo theater is acting. You take the emotional journey—as every character in the play.

Forget the Unions, Make a Film

I want to share ideas about movies in an economy that has failed us all. The unions may find my ideas controversial; but with a weak economy, something has to give.