Savvy Resource Center
HOW TO USE THE RESOURCE CENTER
Here is our list of Savvy resources, compiled over many years of trial and error. These are NOT advertisers, but the real scoop on highly respected people in our community. You are your own business, and it is of the utmost importance to have a team of people around you that you trust.
Response Key: JB = Jodie Bentley, KU = Kevin Urban, DS = Doug Shapiro
Click on a panel to expand it.
Accountants
| JB: I have been using Don since 1997. He is a fabulous performing arts accountant and has a great system to help you do your taxes much easier When I got married I made my husband switch to Don, and he loves him too! |
Accompanists
| JB: Darrell is an excellent accompanist. He really listens and follows, and he has played for me many times. He also plays for all of Richard Sabellico's classes. Did I mention he was excellent? Seriously, he couldn't be a nicer guy and just great at what he does. He is also a vocal coach. | |
| JB: John was just our rehearsal accompanist for a show I just completed. He is wonderful! Such a great guy and a truly great accompanist. He is also a vocal coach and does private lessons, and he is a musical director too. I have yet to use him in that capacity, but when I will do I will let you know! | |
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Matt Eisenstein
917.797.8906 |
KU: Anytime I ask someone for an accompanist Matt’s name comes up. I worked with him at the Barrow Group and he's in my list of accompanists. He is also a working Broadway Musician. |
| KU: Zac can play anything and transpose on the fly. He’s worked the pit of Broadway and Off-Broadway shows and is very talented. I did a musical improv with him on the fly during a class. Call him if you need to go over something. | |
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Jana Zielonka
917-903-0002 |
KU: Jana was the musical director for “I Love You Because…” among other projects. Jana also plays auditions. I coached with her one day on a song and found out she was accompanying my audition the next day. SCORE!!! DS: Couldn't agree more! |
| JB: Brian played for a class I had, and my goodness this guy is talented! He can play ANYTHING! I was highly impressed with his skill, professionalism, and he's a nice guy. He is a vocal coach too. I think this guy will be big someday soon so use him while he's available! | |
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Chuck Sachs
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JB: Chuck was our accompanist in our Hit Your Mark class recently and he was just wonderful! He has had parallel careers as a theater composer/arranger, singer-actor-dancer, choreographer/dance-captain, director/producer and because of all this he is able to create a safe environment for the performer because he gets what we go through. |
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Michael Gacetta
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DS: I sat in on an EPA for which Michael was the accompanist. This man expertly sailed through everything thrown at him from Gershwin to Sondheim to Jason Robert Brown. The actors were raving about him all day. Michael is also a vocal coach, arranger, and transcriber, though I have yet to work with him in any of these capacities. |
Acting Coaches
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Cheryl Stern
212-541-8911 |
KU: I’ve worked with Cheryl for the last two years. She is a working actor and a great comedian. I go to her for both singing and straight auditions and she has helped me focus my work and get the callback. She is great as a second pair of eyes.
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| JB: I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend Michael Perreca. He is a truly wonderful and gifted actor, director, teacher, and human being. He has directed me in a few shows over the years and I can't wait until we can work together again. Michael is amazing at focusing on the journey, the specificity of the character, and delving into the truth of the moment, in monologues, sides, or song -- he just gets it. He was the Artistic Director of Bristol Valley Theatre for years, and was just the Producing Director/Other Stages Producer at Barrington Stage for the past two years. He is as versed in new works as the classics, and in theatre as well as musical theatre. The best part, is he is an all around truly nice person and really cares about achieving your best performance. | |
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JB: Kathryn actually directed me in a show a few years back and I have one word to describe her: AMAZING! She is an actress/ writer/ teacher/director whose career has spanned two coasts-- from Broadway to feature films. She is also an adjunct professor at NYU and Marymount Manhattan. If you have sides to work on, a monologue, or need to work on acting your song, Kathryn covers it all. She has a great eye and a savvy sense of what works and what doesn't. She has also has been teaching an ongoing acting class for the past 11 years.
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Angela Pietropinto
917-903-2761 |
JB: Confession--I have never been coached by Angela. My husband is an actor and a director and has always coached me! However, I had a dear friend get called in for a sitcom audition, had 15 pages of sides to learn in a day and a half, called Angela, and was on cloud nine after their coaching. She felt confident, and ready to tackle that audition because of Angela's intelligent and precise direction. Next time my husband is out of town, I am calling her!
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Acting Schools
| JB: Weist Barron has been helping build acting careers for over 50 years! They definitely know what they are doing, and Valerie, who runs the place, couldn't be nicer! They have some really great classes and honestly, their agent/casting director seminars are the cheapest around at $25! They are totally known for their commercial and on camera training and highly recommend taking class there. We are actually teaming up with Valerie and she is hosting our Business Seminar! | |
| JB: I studied at Stella Adler through NYU. I LOVE their program. The technique is solid and the teachers are top notch. Their conservatory program is definitely worth checking into! |
Acupuncture
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Seanna Sifflet, LAc
Official Website |
JB: Seanna is a god-send. As you can see from the posts below I have in the past always used students when getting acupuncture. Recently, I've been wanting someone I could be consistent with who knew and understood my medical history. Seanna has been amazing. She is highly attuned to what an individual needs in treatment and goes above and beyond to make sure your symptoms are alleviated and you feel taken care of. I HIGHLY recommend her and now wouldn't see anyone else. She also takes the Equity health insurance as well as many others. Call her today!
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JB: Acupuncture can be VERY expensive. I stumbled across this place and was a little freaked out by having students work on me. But I have to say the sessions here have been wonderful.
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Yu Wen |
JB: Although I have never used this clinic, it is a part of the Swedish Institute and I have used their massage clinic which is wonderful! (You can read about that under Massage). I do know this clinic is run pretty much the same way. Here you must download an application online and mail it to them with your payment up front. They hold sessions every season. The cost is $325 for 12 sessions. |
Allergist
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Dr. David Mazza
212-677-7170 |
JB: I recently visited Dr. Mazza and I have to say, he is truly a nice person and really listens to what your problem is. Their office tends to be busy, but you are treated wonderfully, and he doesn't overprescribe medication.
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Alexander Technique
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JB: While studying with Belinda, Alexander finally made sense to me! She is a wonderful woman and a brilliant teacher. Classes are reasonably priced and even my Virgo self managed to find release and good posture without holding.
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Attorney
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JB: Julie Hyman heads a boutique firm specializing in Divorce and Entertainment law, and she is truly an amazing individual. She understands actors because she was an actor as a child for years and she is a former National Board Member of Screen Actors Guild (1999 – 2002). Julie is a member of SAG and AFTRA, and also a member of the New York Women’s Bar Association, where she currently chairs the Press/Publicity Committee. She has offices in the Bronx, Manhattan and Englewood. If you need an entertainment lawyer, Julie should be your first choice.
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Body Work
| KU: A great class to learn how your body, you instrument works. Carol creates an open supportive class to learn about your tensions and how to release them. It is a hands on class that will improve both your body and mind. |
Blogs and Podcasts
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Daily Actor
Official Website |
JB: Daily Actor features acting news, columns and interviews with some of the best film, TV and Broadway actors working today. Edited by Lance Carter, he brings a working actors perspective to a website has been mentioned in the New York Times and Backstage! This blog rocks and we HIGHLY recommend checking it out! |
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Showbizzle
Official Website |
JB: Committed to "Making Hollywood User-Friendly", L.A.-based showbizzle.com is a digital showcase for emerging talent and a network of opportunities and resources for young creatives trying to break into the world of entertainment. They are WAY than just a blog - definitely check them out for more inside scoop on LA. We love what they got going on! |
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Broadway Blogspot
Official Website |
JB: A Theatrical Resource website that gives viewers an inside look at what really goes on onstage and behind-the-scenes on Broadway! The site features 3 ongoing video series: "Broadway Backstage" Series- featuring backstage tours of Broadway’s legit theatres and interviews with the creative, dedicated professionals who work behind-the-scenes. "The Glamorous Life" Series- an inside look at what it’s like to audition for and pursue a musical theatre career in NYC. Attend auditions, get advice from working actors, casting directors, agents, musical directors, etc. It's everything they never taught you in school! "Broadway Encore" Series- special videos featuring charitable organizations working with Broadway shows, celebrity interviews, personal backstage stories, etc. A great resource for NYC actors! |
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GigSmacked
Official Website |
JB: GigSmacked.com is the premiere straight from the hip performer's blog by American actor/writer/gig-doctor Kahlil Ashanti www.kahlilashanti.com and Vancouver talent manager Justin Sudds www.slfa.com. Kahlil and Justin have collaborated on several projects taking actors and live performers from obscurity to international financial success and GigSmacked.com is your free peek at how they did it. Their purpose is to eliminate the sharp learning curve actors and performers from all genres experience when they realize that this is a business first. Their secondary goal is to encourage performers to empower themselves with knowledge and responsibility for their own careers and stop waiting for the phone to ring. We think they're awesome! |
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JB: Darbi Worley is the creator of this podcast and she is truly a dynamic and talented individual. Her podcast is a must for actors. Much like us, you get tips and information but from those professionals on the other side of the table. Tune in!
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Jim Caruso's Cast Party
Official Website |
JB: Not only is Cast Party an open mic at Birdland every Monday night, Jim also does a podcast which is GREAT! You can download it on itunes for free. But also check out the Cast Party website and go on Monday nights, it is always a treat! |
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Leslie Becker |
JB: We share a lot of Leslie's philosophy and principles, and her podcast is wonderful and full of useful information for the working actor. It is a paid subscription podcast. |
| KU: Jeff’s blog is a great resource for musical theatre performers. Jeff is both a brilliant actor/singer (Damn Yankees, How To Succeed) and songwriter. Each episode showcases a performer singing one of Jeff’s songs. Before they sing, they dish on the Musical Theatre Industry. Talent ranges from up and coming to current Broadway Talent. It’s also a great place to hear new songs to add to your audition book. I highly recommend his blog. You can join the Jeff Blumenkrantz Songbook Podcast on iTunes. |
Career Coaches
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JB: I met these folks back in 2004 and they helped me in so many ways that I can't even put it into words. I was at a funk in my career, not sure why things weren't working, went to their free seminar, and immediately signed up for their 3 day course. That was one of the best decisions I ever made, and they were the starting point for all the success that has poured into my life since. They are life coaches essentially but gear it all towards your acting career, and having both been actors (Michelle still is), they understand where you are coming from and all the thoughts that go through our heads. The tools you walk away with and the discoveries you make about yourself are incredible! If you are an actor in NYC, you owe it to yourself, your peace of mind, and your sanity, to take their seminar. They do private coaching as well and I coach privately with Michelle on and off, when I need a refresher. DS: I couldn't agree more! |
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Penelope Brackett
Official Website |
JB: Penelope is truly an amazing woman. The mission of her company The Creative Seed is to inspire creation, and that is precisely what she does. No matter where you are in your career Penelope can and will help. She possesses such clarity, and precise tools to get you where you want to go, whether that is with her group coaching, private coaching, or my favorite the Fearless Foursome. It is partner coaching with 4 other actors in the community and it is very powerful. I have taken it twice. |
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JB: I am completely serious when I say coaching with Jessie changed my career. Literally in 5 weeks, I signed with a legit agent through her precise and personalized coaching. Her strengths are goal setting, planning, creating your own personal systems, and helping you develop a language to use with agents and casting directors. If something isn't coming together in your career, Jessie will pinpoint what that is and guide you to change it. Plus, she is a very talented professional actress and practices daily what she preaches.
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KU: They provide a great way to create a personalized goal system. The whole staff is great and on point. We are big fans of them and how they do business.
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| JB: Gary John has over 25 years of experience in the business as both a (former) performer and a director/choreographer. He has directed me in a show and I think he is just wonderful! From discussing agent representation, to improving your headshot and resume, to making the leap from callbacks to booking the job, he loves helping actors motivate their careers - no matter what level they are at. He has a wealth of resource materials available including thousands of cast albums, songbooks and monologue books and industry & trade publications available to you. He can definitely help you to be a better, more confident performer or help you to direct your own career. | |
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Guy Olivieri
Official Website |
JB: Kevin and I have never used Guy as a coach but as we have gotten to know him as a person and as a business owner, we have to pass on this great resource to our actors. His aim is, first, to explain to actors what the business is actually like: where work comes from, how their unions work, what an agent is for, etc. Secondly, he helps the actor come up with a solid marketing strategy to optimize the opportunities available, and create new ones. His goal is to help you carve out a living in the industry, and to minimize the anxiety most actors feel that they are never going to make it. |
Career Organizing Software
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iPerform
Official Website |
JB: iPerform is the online personal assistant for all performers! Brought to you by Protalent Software, building your career and your industry contacts easier! iPerform tracks every detail of your career from auditions to classes, contacts to finance, scripts and even does some of the work for you. We offer our trusted Savvy Actor database of nearly 800 NYC agents, assistants and casting directors as an optional service exclusively for iPerform users. And with our automatic weekly updates you'll never have to search for address or contact changes again. Login safely and privately 24/7 from any browser, any computer, any Smartphone (including iPhone, BlackBerry and G1) -- so you have everything you need at your fingertips. An optional iPhone App is also available. Get the organizational edge you need so you can focus on your art, not paperwork - all for less than the cost of a movie ticket.
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JB: This is the best software, hands down, for being in control of your acting business. It tracks every audition you go on, what you wore, all your contacts, which headshot you used, what you sang, who you auditioned for, all submissions, callbacks, what you book, expenses, classes, it even prints labels and much more! It is absolutely imperative in keeping organized and managing your career. The best part is I bought the software to include my PDA so I can enter the info right into my Palm Treo at every audition--now that's brilliant and savvy! A tool every actor must have!
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Catering
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Cunard Catering
212-946-5076 |
KU: Started working with Cunard and have had a great experience with them and the people working for them. |
Chiropractors
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Dr. Karen Wright
212-286-2013 |
DS: For several years, I was wearing wrist splints for carpal tunnel syndrome. After a few sessions with Dr. Wright working with my shoulders, I threw the splints away. She is excellent and has a large artist clientele. |
Classes - Commercial
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KU: Brooke and Mary are casting directors at House Productions, a NYC casting house. This class was a lot of fun. They work with cue cards and invite two commercial agents to the last class. DS: I couldn't agree more! |
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Barry Shapiro
Official Website |
KU: Barry is a casting director at Herman & Lipson Casting. He gives a great class and taught me how give a full smile that doesn't’t’ feel cheesy. Usually teaches at Actors Connection so that is the contact info provided. |
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Nadette Stasa
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DS: I was working with Nadette in Boston when I booked my first national commercial. She has more than 15 years of experience as a casting director, and 12 years of experience coaching and teaching commercial acting. Nadette is a top-notch teacher and a great deal of fun. This class is suitable for seasoned professionals who want a refresher, commercial actors who are not familiar with her approach to commercial work, actors seeking a basic commercial class and non-actors who are interested in doing commercials. |
Classes - Dance
| JB: I have never taken Tracey's class, but I don't frequently call myself a dancer. I am an actor who moves well! However, Tracey is a very kind individual, who is a performer as well, and who promised me she teaches all levels! If Broadway Dance or Steps seems too intimidating, and you really want someone who cares to help you progress, give Tracey a call. | |
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Kat Wildish
Official Website |
KU: Kat is a ballet teacher at Broadway Dance Center and she is well versed in technique. |
Classes - Film/TV
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JB: First off, Jonathan is the head casting director of Law & Order SVU. He only teaches at TVI which is the contact info, and his class was the BEST Film & TV class I have ever taken. You will learn and be prepared for every kind of on camera audition- from the interview, the U/5, the Day Player, the Guest Star, multiple character scenes--you name it! Jonathan covers everything, he is very knowledgeable and a great person to have in your corner.
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Bob Krakower
Official Website |
KU: Bob teaches at One on One and that is the contact info I have for him. Simply the Best Class I’ve ever taken in the city. People have compared him to liquid Krak – you just can’t get enough. His technique is very practical, but takes practice. He teaches sporadically but every time I take his class, I book something…come to think of it, I need to schedule a class.
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Tiffany Little Canfield
Official Website |
DS: Tiffany teaches an excellent class. She is just the right combination of laid back and no-nonsense. Her critique is succinct and effective and you'll be able to see the results on the tape that you bring with you. She is also a casting director with Telsey + Company and brings the experience of someone currently casting in film, television, and commercials. She teaches out of Actors Connection. |
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Geoffrey Soffer
Official Website |
DS: I just took an intensive with him through The Network and he is planning to teach more this summer. Very good man with an incredible eye for detail and a clear way of expressing the different techniques needed for sitcom vs. single-camera comedy/drama. He is also a casting director on several big projects. |
Classes - Improv
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Eliza Skinner |
KU: Eliza is an amazing musical improv teacher and performer. Her Improv group, I Eat Pandas, performs regularly in the city and around the country. If you want to do something both scary and exhilaratingly freeing, take a musical improv class with Eliza. |
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Upright Citizens Brigade
Official Website |
KU: Also known as just UCB. A great place to start improv. It helped me book my commercial auditions.
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Classes - Musical Theatre
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JB: I can't say enough wonderful things about VP. He is smart, direct, funny, and all right I'll say it--he knows his shit! I have taken his Musical Theatre Forum Class and it blew my mind. He is an excellent teacher and communicator and he offers many audition prep classes. In the one I took you actually audition for top industry casting directors, but he has a Build Your Book class, and a brand new Audition Freedom Workshop which sounds absolutely incredible. If your musical theatre auditions need help, then you need VP!
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| JB: Jamibeth is wonderful! I took her three week musical theatre workshop and loved it! She has 12 years of casting experience in the city and is also a director, so she truly gets this business and her feedback and coaching is invaluable. She is so accessible and really cares about her students which is evident in her going the extra mile of offering song suggestions and giving us all her email! The format of the class is great, one week you sing a traditional song, one week you sing a contemporary song and the third week she assigns you a show that is right for type to audition for, and you audition for an agent! If you need an agent and want an excellent director to coach you on your songs - Jamibeth is your gal! | |
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Kimberly Vaughn
212.340.9598 |
KU: Kimberly was one of my first musical theatre teachers here in NYC. In her Audition Technique class, you select your material and each week a different accompanist will play for you. Kimberly draws from a very talented pool of accompanists - many of whom you'll see in the audition room. Kimberly works with people of all vocal levels and has a talent for honing in on performers strengths and bringing out the best on them. I also have to say that my musical theater network grew as a result of the people I've met in her class. |
| JB: If you're looking for a safe space to hone your audition technique, the Feedback Forum is it! I have heard incredible things about this class and it is the next class I will be taking! Jaron and Stephanie run it, and they stress the importance of giving constructive feedback to our peers in order to better understand what we like and don't like about our own audition technique. While they moderate the feedback and structure the class quite efficiently, there are no teachers, allowing you to make mistakes and fall flat on your face with no penalty or judgment, which is fantastic! Their Newbie class introduces their method of structured feedback (super simple and really positive!) and features 5 weeks of different challenges (EPA cuts, Comedy songs etc). Keep in mind they also let you make the class what you need for whatever auditions/calbacks you have coming up. Check out their FREE Salon/Open Mike night once every two months at a restaurant in the East Village! | |
| KU: I’ve heard great things about the gym and have personally worked with John Ruocco on my Monologues. He’s a director and very smart…always with good ideas and instincts. I really enjoyed working with him. The gym was started by John and Georgia Stitt who is a Musical Director and Composer. The use Broadway Musical Directors as accompanists for the class so you get great musical insight. | |
| JB: I was referred to Richard a few years ago when I felt nothing was clicking in the audition room, and things definitely started clicking after this class. He calls his class audition therapy and that is exactly what it is. He deals a lot with the mental prep going into the room, and works your songs in such a way, that you have to be focused and in the moment so the external doesn't matter. If you feel stuck in auditions, take Richard's class. He also gives you 7 new songs that are tailored to you specifically. His knowledge of songs is strongest in the traditional musical theatre realm. | |
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Jen Waldman
Official Website |
KU: This class is on my must take. I haven’t taken it yet, but enough people have recommended it to me that I am excited to work with her.
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Classes - One Person Show
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The Art of the
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JB: I will say I have not taken Kathryn's one person show class. The idea terrifies me! But I know so many of you are interested in developing your own work and taking your career in your own hands. Let Kathryn be your guide. She directed me years ago and this woman is just brilliant. Shows from her workshop have been performed at the NYC Fringe Festival, The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Seattle Fringe Festival and through out Canada in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. From these festivals they are now being booked around the country in various venues, including summer festivals and colleges. |
Classes - Pop/Rock
| JB: Sheri Sanders rocks! If you need someone who just gets pop/rock music and can offer you song suggstions take her class. She is also a truly dynamic actress and taking her class would be a huge benefit to anyone. Go get a slice of Sheri! |
Classes - Scene Study
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The Barrow Group
Official Website |
KU: I highly, highly, highly recommend the training at the Barrow Group. Their Scene Study intensive is unique one of the my favorite classes I've taken in the city. Three different teachers teach the class using the same language and exercises. They teach you how to self-diagnosis adjustments in scene work. |
| KU: Lynn is my mentor. She is one demanding teacher, but she knows what she is talking about. Her scene study class will prepare you for what it takes to be a professional in the theatre. I can't say enough about this dynamic woman. She leaves her mark on every one of her students.
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Classes - Soap Opera
| JB: Tori is a casting director at One Life To Live. I took this class through Actors Connection so that is the contact info available, but I believe she might teach elsewhere too. All I have to say about this is take it! Tori is such a delightful human being, and if you want to do soaps, take her class. Let's just say a couple months after taking her class, I booked 3 U/5's on One Life to Live. So yes, the class is a good investment! |
Demo Recording
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JB: I have to confess I have yet to use their service, but I cannot wait to record with them! I am including it because I know MANY people who have recorded and what they offer is amazing. And just FYI, the music industry is cracking down on the use of copyrighted music. It is a matter of months before the songs I recorded last year will be deleted from MySpace, I'm sure. Everything you record with Broadway Demo is fully legal, they have the rights! And with their prices you better jump on it now because they will explode soon. Kevin and I both will be recording with them in the next few months. DS: I second that! I do use their service and it is an incredibly easy way to direct people to your vocal tracks. |
Demo Reels
| JB: I have known Kristina, the owner of Latour de Force productions for many years now. She just did my reel and it is amazing! Their work is impeccable, creative, and a standout in the industry. On top of that, they keep an archived version of your reel in their files for future editing sessions. What's better than that! I highly recommend Latour de Force for their integrity and quality. |
Dentists
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Dr.Cynthia Fazekas
(212) 867-1669 |
JB: I was actually just referred in the past year to this dentist by a performer friend of mine. I love Cynthia and I love my friend! She is a wonderful dentist, and her dental technicians are great as well. Plus, her office is in the top of the Chrysler Building--how NY! |
Dialects & Speech Coach
| KU: Lynn is my mentor and I already mentioned her amazing Scene Study class. She is one demanding teacher, but she knows what she is talking about. I can't say enough about this dynamic woman. She leaves her mark on every one of her students.
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Paige Clements
Official Website |
KU: I learned how to approach learning dialects from Page. She is a great teacher. Her vocal instruction is greatly influenced by the works of Patsy Rodenburg, Edith Skinner, and Kristin Linklater. |
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Barbara Rosenblat
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DS: Barbara has been called the Meryl Streep of audiobooks and is known for her facility with dialects. She coaches one-on-one for specific assignments, such as a side with a specific dialect that you need for an audition. |
Digital Accompaniment
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Audition Trax
Official Website |
KU: I got my music Friday night for a Phantom audition on Monday. I was able to get the melody and accompaniment from this website on Friday night. |
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Singers Musical Theatre Anthology with CD's
Savvy Reading Room |
KU: Totally worth the money! I have the men's series on my iPod and use it all the time. Check out our Reading Room for more info and to actually purchase a copy for yourself! |
Discount Tickets
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Theatre Development Fund
Official Website |
JB: If you are not a member of TDF, go join now! This is the BEST discount ticket site and company. You have to fill out an application online and qualify. It is an annual fee of $27.50, which is nothing! And to get Broadway tickets for $28-$32 it is so worth it! |
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TKTS
Official Website |
JB: TKTS is run by TDF actually, but here you get in line on the you want to see a show, and you get to buy tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway musicals and plays at up to 50% off. Not every show is offered everyday, so if you have a specific show in mind TDF itself might be your best bet, but they always have a lot of shows for sale. |
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Broadway Box
Official Website |
JB: I LOVE this site. You actually get discount codes distributed by the show producers. These Broadway theater discount codes provide heavily discounted tickets for the shows of your choice, on your preferred date, in advance, from your home. There are ALWAYS discount codes available. |
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TheatreMania
Official Website |
JB: With this site you have two options. You can sign up for the TM Insider Club which is free and you get unlimited access to theatre discounts or you can sign for the Gold Club which is a yearly membership and you get FREE tickets to a lot of Off-Broadway, Off-Off Broadway and Broadway previews. The Gold Club is a good deal actually and will make you see a LOT of theatre. |
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Audience Extras
Official Website |
JB: This site is similar to the TheatreMania Gold Club. I haven't been a member yet, but again you sign up for a yearly thing and get free tickets when a show is in previews, under-publicized, expecting a reviewer or celebrity to attend, or would like the benefit of a full house. |
Financial Advisors
| DS: Shawn has experience working with actors in order to help create their financial plan. Friends have come to me amazed that they've paid off their debt and are actually starting to save. You can have a savings account and still have credibility as an artist. Shawn is also my husband. |
Financial Seminars
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The Millionaire
Mind Intensive by T.Harv Eker Official Website Use referral code 457227 and receive 2 discounted tickets! |
JB: I have done the Millionaire Mind Intensive twice and it is incredible!! I was having such mental blocks about making money as an actor, but they are all gone now. I went the second time to go with my husband so we could be on the same page with our finances. Literally, after I finished the course we bought our apartment and I started booking commercials! Definitely read the book at least, but if you get a chance to go to the 3 day seminar it is so intense and well worth it. It's funny some people think being an actor is just studying acting, but it is so much more than that. It is treating your craft like a business, yes, but it is also treating yourself with respect and giving yourself the knowledge to be the best you you can be, because that is when excellence will occur all around. Kevin has also taken this extraordinary seminar. |
Financial Tools
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Scott Trade
Official Website |
KU: $7 stock trades. Read Rule #1 that we talk about in our Reading Room and learn how to invest in the stock market. Its part of becoming financially free to pursue your career.
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Options Xpress
Official Website |
JB: I do love Scott Trade but I actually use this web broker instead. I enjoy investing in stocks, but I still like investing in funds too. Options Xpress allows you to invest in both and through your IRA, which is key! Check them out! |
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Quicken
Official Website |
JB: Not only should your career be organized but your finances as well. Don't wait until you get in a Broadway show or land a pilot to organize your money. Organize it now, create a habit, and you will be a savvy investor and money manager in no time! I use Quicken and I LOVE it. |
Fitness Trainers and Classes
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IntenSati with Erin Stutland
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DS: The practice of intenSati offers a training for your body and your life. The greatest power to influence our life, our health and our happiness is our thought power or our spiritual power. So, in class, we simultaneously work through challenging aerobic exercise and spiritual yoga while voicing our goals to cover mind, body, and spirit. Erin is a working actor and incredibly inspiring teacher. |
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Jeff Pierce
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JB: Jeff is a NESTA and NASM certified trainer with over ten years of experience getting people in top shape. A good friend of mine is his client and she looks amazing! He trains people on a freelance basis at his home gym in Washington Heights or at your home if you prefer. The great news is he is expanding his client base in Manhattan and the South Bronx and for a limited time offering a special introductory rate of $50.00 per hour. If you start at this rate, the fee will not increase. The first session/consultation/assessment is free! What's better than that! |
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Golds Gym
West 54th Street 212-307-7760 |
KU: Kenny is a great trainer. He’s tough, but also knows what he’s doing. He’s been named trainer of the Month for the last several months at Golds. Kenny focuses on training and encouraging you to change your diet to support your goals. I’ve seen Kenny’s work personally on me and my Girlfriend. |
Gynecologists
| JB: I used Dr. Meimaris for years and she is such a fabulous person and a great doctor. She makes you feel so comfortable, she is very thorough, and her office is simply gorgeous. Unfortunately, they stopped taking my insurance but I still highly recommend her. |
Hair Salons
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Devachan
212-274-8686
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JB: This salon is a haven for curly heads!! Melissa is my gal down on Broome Street and they are the experts in everything curly! If you have curly hair - GO, GO, GO!!! Their No-poo and Conditioner rocks my world! |
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Cabellos Hair Salon
212-447-4568 |
JB: I have been going to Cabellos for quite awhile now - Reinaldo has been my hairdresser for years, and he does an amazing job with my color. Yes, I am not a natural redhead--fooled you though didn't we! |
| DS: Jennifer is a professional hair/wig/makeup artist and knows how to work curly hair very well. She helped me with the Groucho Marx look every night when I was performing in OF THEE I SING and is in the city several times a week. |
Headshot Photographers
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Laura Rosa
Official Website |
JB: My most recent photos are with Laura Rose. She is freakin' fabulous. Great personality, wonderful photographer, and she really listens to what it is that you sell and your brand. |
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Jordan Matter
Official Website |
KU: Jordan was great to work with and I loved my shots. In my opinion, he photographs red-heads brilliantly. |
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Chia Messina
Official Website |
KU: I took my old headshots with Chia, but I also think she is a brilliant comp card person. |
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Hoebermann Studio
Official Website |
JB: My headshots with them I was able to use for over 5 years! They are brilliant! I started freelancing with 2 commercial agents and a print agent from blind mailings with my pictures from them. Yes, they are very expensive but they are doing something right! |
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Joe Henson
Official Website |
DS: I just finished my third go-round with Joe Henson. He is always keeping up with the latest technology and is incredibly receptive to your needs. He is especially good with men. |
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Reproductions Directory of Headshots
Official Website |
KU: Browse Headshots on line in the comforts of your own home. Use it to help narrow down headshot photographers. |
Health Care
| JB: I have been lucky to be insured for the past few years, but in wanting to provide a comprehensive resource page I discovered the Al Hirschfeld Free Clinic which is part of The Actors Fund. The Actors Fund is a wonderful organization, and they helped a dear friend of mine pay for a surgery she could not afford. The clinic sounds like a great place to get quality medical care when you have no insurance. This is the clinic that gives the flu vaccinations at the AEA Health Fair in the fall. Do check out their website, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements to be treated. | |
| JB: This was the place I used for years before I had health insurance. They have three locations in the city now. The great thing is what you pay is based on your income. You have to bring in pay stubs, or your tax return, and depending on your income you pay on a sliding scale for your medical visit. I believe at the time I was paying $70 a visit, that always includes lab work or x rays as well. I know $70 a visit seems high, but compared to the alternative, it's not. I was able to see a gynecologist, an eye doctor, and get treated whenever I was sick. If you have no insurance, and you are not eligible for the Free Clinic above, please go here and keep yourself healthy. | |
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Atlantis Health Plan
Official Website |
KU: The least expensive health insurance I’ve found by far and it’s the Brooklyn Cyclones Health Insurance! They are partners with Healthy NY and though you have to meet certain eligibility requirements, the price and the benefits are pretty phenomenal. If you don't have health insurance PLEASE check them out. |
Housing
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ActorSublet.com
Official Website |
JB: We both really like this site to find housing because this company was created by an actor who truly understands an actor's need for quality temporary housing. They will offer a direct connection to either permanent or temporary housing opportunities for the transient artist. Performers were once limited to their friends or unreliable services for help with their unique subletting situation, but not any more! ActorSublet.com will extend beyond these resources and bring an entire community of performing artists together, allowing them to directly connect to each other for their subletting needs.
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| JB: This website is why my husband and I were able to buy a 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment in Manhattan. There has been such an influx of housing developments in NYC and this site is virtually an untapped resource. Most new buildings being built in NYC, for tax purposes, are offering 20% of their units to middle to low income individuals and families for rentals. The other new buildings which are condos to buy, 80% of their units are going to middle to low income people at way below market value. Whether you are interested in renting or buying, check out this website and have them send you emails when new buildings become available. Everything is a lottery process but I can't tell you how many people I know who rent in midtown in a luxury building for $500 a month! |
Life Coaches
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Joan Katz
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DS: I have used and highly recommend Joan Katz. She steered me towards a volunteer job that I have had for several years and adore. Wonderfully centering individual and great at cutting through the "noise" to get to the real issues that need addressing. |
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Bernie Siegel
Official Website |
DS: I have not worked with Bernie personally, but when he found out I was joining up with Savvy Actor, he insisted I come to his office so he could offer some of his expertise. That's the kind of guy he is. Bernie is also the president of the Personal Certified Coach International Coach Federation. |
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Jonothan Moon
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JB: My friend Dorothy had such an amazing experience with this life coach so I had to include it. These are her words: "Jonothan is a certified student of Maria Nemeth "The Energy of Money". With Jonothan I have learned how to identify my "monkey mind" (Buddhist term for that constant crazy chatter that can go on in our heads! Especially when we embark on anything new.) I have learned that if I turn the volume down and go ahead and take small authentic steps in any area of my life - financial, career, personal, physical, it transfers into the other parts. I have also had the courage to take amazing risks in my career that have pushed it forward and I have become financially responsible and a successful entrepreneur." |
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Andrew Frank
Official Website |
DS: Andrew is also an excellent lyricist whose work has been produced Off-Broadway and I have only worked with him as a singer of his work. But I enjoy him greatly and he has a wonderful business mind. Andrew is definitely worth checking out. JB: I have known Andrew for many years on the acting side of things, but just got wind of his life coaching business and I am VERY impressed with what he does and the company he created. He is a member of The International Association of Coaching (www.certifiedcoach.org) and has coached hundreds of artists in NYC. I think the life coaching work he does is a lovely complement to the focused business building we do at The Savvy Actor. |
Make-Up Artists
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Kerry-Lou Brehm
Official Website |
DS: Kerry-Lou was the makeup artist for my most recent headshot session. She uses this really cool airbrush tool for the base and stayed the duration to help me look my best throughout a long day. |
Marketing Tools
| JB: All this information you can find on our mailings page, but I had to include it here because before I shared it with all of you I was just a customer using the service. I can't say it enough, if you want to to simplify your mailings, be more creative, actually send your thank you cards, and get better results, you have to use our cards and postcard service. It will change the way you market yourself and how you feel about your mailings. Most importantly it will save you time and money! Sign up for your free gift account and try it out. | |
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MailChimp
Official Website |
JB: This is hands down the best newsletter software I have found. Intuitive, easy to use, and much more affordable than it's competitors. Staying in touch with your fan base has never been easier and never looked more professional. |
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Actors Access
Official Website |
JB: If you are not Actors Access you need to stop reading this resource page, click the link to the left and SIGN UP! It is free, and it is a part of Breakdown Services, and every actor needs to be on it. Breakdown Services is where the agents get their "breakdowns" from everyday. Some of these casting notices are made public to actors via Actors Access, and you can submit yourself electronically for the projects you are right for, for a fee of $2.00. Considering what we pay on headshots, postage, envelops, resume paper, etc, that's a good deal. If you want an even better deal read below about Showfax. Also, if and when you have an agent, you can add them to your profile so they can submit you electronically for projects as well. |
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ShowFax
Official Website |
JB: Showfax is also a part of Breakdown Services. It is where all the audition sides are posted for all the auditions on Actors Access, for pilots, musical theatre, theatre, TV, Film, etc. Here's the deal, signup for a 1 year subscription to Showfax for $68.00, then you can access all the sides you want for FREE, and all your submissions on Actors Access are no longer $2.00, but FREE. Doing this is a must- especially if you are in theatre. If there are long running shows you know you are right for and will be auditioning for--go download the sides and see what the audition material is and practice! It is time to be proactive with your business and Showfax is a great tool. |
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NY Castings
Official Website |
JB: I was a member of NY Castings for awhile and honestly I just canceled my service. I will say however that the page they let you create has the best layout of any self submission site and you can include audio. The issue I had was most of the jobs to submit for were non-union and I am in all three unions now, or all the union listings were for very specific types. So if you are a non-union actor, this site is a must. There is so much to submit for, seriously, and so many people I know who have booked work. You can either pay your membership by the month or by the year, and the pricing is very fair for what they offer. |
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Casting Networks
Official Website |
JB: I had a commercial agent of mine set up an account for me on Casting Networks. At first I loved this site and it was completely free, but then they started charging $5 a month for submissions and $5 a month to add unlimited photos. Now, these are not bad prices by any means, but $5 here, $10 here, it adds up! This coming from someone telling you need to take all these classes and sign up for all these services, I know, I know. But I will say though, that you do need to pick and choose priorities for your money, again you are running a business. Now that my NYCastings is canceled I am going to sign up for the $5 a month with Casting Networks and report my new experience at a later date! |
Massage
| JB: Pam Christenson is heaven sent, and that is no exaggeration! In my years of getting massages, she is the best Massage Therapist I have ever used. Her ability to pinpoint and focus on areas of tension and REALLY release them is astounding. She does deep, effective work, without pain - if the body is in pain, it tenses up; the opposite of letting go. She is present, focused, an excellent listener, and wants her clients be active players in their own health care. This may mean body homework with stretching, postural adjustments, and becoming aware of movement patterns. She keeps accurate and up to date files on each client and checks in to see how you feel a day or two after the first treatment so she can plan accordingly for your next session. What I also love about Pam is you can tell that she truly cares about her clients! I HIGHLY recommend having Pam on your team in taking care of yourself. If you mention SAVVY your first massage is 10% off! | |
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P.H. Ling Clinic
Official Website |
JB: This is one of the best kept secrets in NYC. It is part of the Swedish Institute and it is a clinic where their students work on you. You can get 6 sessions for $150 or 12 sessions for $250. Go to the website and you will find calling instructions where you have to leave your name and address. You will get a form mailed to you when they start their next rounds. You HAVE to fill it out right away and mail it in with your payment, it is a first come first serve basis. I have done 2 rounds with them and it was FABULOUS! They also have an acupuncture clinic too! |
| JB: This is place is just down the block from AEA on 46th Street and I discovered it last year and right now this is the only place I go! You can get an hour massage for $60 or a half hour for $35 and they are excellent! It is a great pick me up between auditions and you can't beat the half hour price in midtown. They are wonderful ladies who run the place. My husband swears by the half hour foot massage. They also do facials as well. |
Monologue Coaches
| KU: Lynn is my mentor and I already mentioned her amazing Scene Study class. She is one demanding teacher, but she knows what she is talking about. I can't say enough about this dynamic woman. She leaves her mark on every one of her students.
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The Barrow Group
Official Website |
KU: I highly, highly, highly recommend the training at the Barrow Group. Their Scene Study intensive is unique one of the my favorite classes I've taken in the city. But their monologue workshop is amazing as well! A necessary workshop to get your monologues up to speed. |
| JB: I worked with Gary John as a director on PRELUDE TO A KISS a few years back, and I have to say it was one of my most rewarding theatrical experiences. Gary John is so specific, and worked us and each moment so hard that the show just blossomed into pure magic. I have yet to work with him on monologues, but include him here because of how brilliant a director he was and still is. Check out his website-- he works EVERYWHERE ALL THE TIME! Definitely somebody who should know your work and will help you get a truly wonderful performance with your pieces. | |
| JB: Kathryn directed me in STAR SPANGLED GIRL years ago and I have one word to describe her: AMAZING! She is an actress/ writer/ teacher/director whose career has spanned two coasts-- from Broadway to feature films. She is also an adjunct professor at NYU and Marymount Manhattan. If you have sides to work on, a monologue, or need to work on acting your song, Kathryn covers it all. She has a great eye and a savvy sense of what works and what doesn't. And she knows funny! | |
| JB: I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend Michael Perreca. He has directed me in a few shows over the years and I can't wait until we can work together again. Michael is wonderful at focusing on the journey, the specificity of the character, and delving into the truth of the moment, monologue, or song -- he just gets it. He was the Artistic Director of Bristol Valley Theatre for years, and was just the Producing Director/Other Stages Producer at Barrington Stage for the past two years. He is as versed in new works as the classics, and in theatre as well as musical theatre. The best part, is he is an all around truly nice person and really cares about achieving your best performance. He also has an amazing Songs & Monologues class that I am hoping he will do soon! I'll keep you posted! | |
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Cliff Goodwin
212-982-5291 |
DS: Cliff is a true gentleman of the theatre. He is insightful, talented, and will work on a sliding scale. Cliff comes with plenty of experience as a Broadway actor, director, and casting director. There is also a discount available if you mention my name. I swear by this man. Note: if you have a problem with cigarette smoke, he is not the coach for you. I feel it is completely worth it. |
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Tina Marie Casamento
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DS: Do you want to coach your song AND your monologue? Tina Marie is the one for you. Even better, her husband David Libby will accompany (incredibly well) so she can concentrate on your acting and vocal technique. I have been going to her for years. |
Networking Facilities
| JB: What is so great about The Network and Paul Michael, who owns the facility, and staff is that they really nurture their actors! They help actors build careers. When they have industry guests signed up to do seminars, they find out what the guests are looking for, and if looking for your type, The Network will call you. So simple, yet so brilliant! I did their agent showcase awhile back and happy to say I got signed from doing the event. I highly recommend them - and sign up for their mailing list! | |
| JB: What I love about One on One is you can sign up for their seminars online for a specific audition time - no waiting around for 2 hours to get seen. No other networking place does that. And it is the only networking facility where you have to audition to be a member. The caliber of folks at One on One is amazing and over 60% of their students have representation. What keeps them coming back is their top notch Film/TV classes of which Kevin and I have taken many. There is a one time membership fee of $50 if you are asked to be a member after you audition. I highly recommend them! |
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| JB: I have only done a couple of seminars here, but the one I did for a theatrical agent I got called in to audition for the whole office! All in all, the atmosphere is very professional, but relaxed and they have some great classes! I highly recommend them - sign up for their mailing list. They just launched a drama school as well. | |
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Weist Barron |
JB: Weist Barron has been helping build acting careers for over 50 years! They definitely know what they are doing, and Valerie, who runs the place, couldn't be nicer! They have some really great classes and honestly, their agent/casting director seminars are the cheapest around at $25! They are totally known for their commercial and on camera training and highly recommend taking class there. We teach our Turn Your Craft Into Your Business Class at Weist Barron. |
| JB: I used Actors Connection for years and had some success there. When using Actors Connection make sure you do your own research on the seminars and people you sign up for beforehand. Have your targeted list of people ready to go. Because they have so many seminars it is easy to get that 'kid in a candy store' mentality - I want it all! Know who you need to meet for your business. | |
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The York Theatre
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JB: Some of you might be wondering why this critically acclaimed Off Broadway theatre is listed under networking facilities. Well, pat yourself on the back because you just discovered a gem in NYC!! Yes, The York is an Off Broadway theatre, but they have a new series called the Neo Spotlight Concert Series which features new, emerging, outstanding musical theatre songwriters. Now, if you are a musical theatre person in NYC, you NEED TO KNOW COMPOSERS!! The York gives you a place to see who is on the rise and actually meet them. They also have a Developmental Reading Series which is FREE that does readings of up and coming new musicals as well. I have even been in a few! The York is a goldmine to meet composers, writers, directors and other theatre professionals from our industry. YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU WILL MEET THERE! The only thing I can say is go, go, GO! |
Nutrition
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JB: I have yet to take part in James' counseling, but one look at him and I know his system is serving him well! The nutrition counseling he does is a low-glycemic eating and exercise plan to help people be their healthiest. He has had great results and here is a testimonial from a client of his-"James’s enthusiasm is what kept me committed… I'm very enthusiastic about my results and have stayed on the supplements and am really careful about what I eat and am now exercising regularly!".-L.Gold
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Organizational Books
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Getting Things Done |
JB: My husband first introduced me to this book, and my first thought was , "Well, I already get a lot of things done, and I am a naturally organized person, I don't need that!". My goodness was I wrong!! This is the BEST organizational book out there to be more productive, organized, and less stressed. As actors, it is indispensable to be organized and maximize your time. Read this, it will change your life. |
Otolaryngologists
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Dr. Rosemary Desloge
212-717-2700 |
JB: I LOVE Dr. Desloge. My voice teacher Andrew Byrne swears by her as well. She is so thorough and knowledgeable about the voice and has many Broadway clients. |
Personal Assistants & Organizers
| JB: This company is run by Jaye Maynard, a wonderful friend and an amazing individual. Her motto is if she can't do it, she will find someone who can. However, I am 100% sure Jaye can do anything you need her to. Here's a sampling of what she does: errands, packing, office and clerical management, skilled telephone answering, hostess and catering, personal shopping, driving, transporting, bid seeking, on site supervision, expert animal care, house-sitting, interior tropical landscaping, retail sales, trade show assistance, organization, yoga instruction, event coordination and production, research and development, eldercare, teen chaperoning, childcare. TV Documentary Production Assistance, Customized Tour Coordinator and Manager, Theatrical production and Direction, art exhibit installation. Whatever you need help with, call Jaye! |
Personal Development Tools
| JB: I have a few CD's from this company and always listen when I need them. One thing as actors or as people we need to realize, is it is okay to ask for help and get the help we need. I was stuck in my middle class mentality--I wanted abundance in my career, my relationships, money, but it never seemed to happen. These CD's helped me shed some of that. They combine neuro-linguistic programming with accelerated learning strategies and have some very powerful CD's that will help change your life for the better. Now I am a happily married homeowner waiting for 4 checks from commercial work I booked to come in the mail! I am not saying it is all because of their CD's, but when you have a goal in your life and you want to achieve it, won't you do anything to get it? | |
| JB: This company has created a meditation CD called Holosync. I was introduced to Holosync by Robert & Michelle Colt who you can read about under Career Coaches. I would try to meditate on and off for years, but I could never fully release into the process until this CD. It helped me focus, not get stressed or frustrated, and even aided me in my creative processes for what it stimulates in your brain. The whole science behind what they did REALLY makes sense. The founder of the company even wrote a book called "Thresholds of the Mind" which is a very interesting read. Read about it on their website and you can request a free demo of the program. | |
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Subliminal Power
Official Website |
JB: This is a software program you can download directly on your computer, and it is so much fun! Everyday we are bombarded by subliminal message to buy products, eat at certain places, drink Coke, drink Pepsi, and they work. This software flashes subliminal message on your computer and comes preprogrammed for many different needs, i.e. losing weight, self esteem booster, release your past. You can click on the category you want or you can create your own messages to flash. How nice to be told everyday subconsciously--"You are a Broadway star", "You are grounded and carefree at auditions", "You always book jobs easily."! |
Primary Care Physicians
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Dr. Albert Levy
212-288-7193 |
JB: My husband and I have been going to this office for years now and they are really great. They also accept a lot of different insurance plans. Dr. Levy's practice was named in the New Yorker as one of the best physicians in Manhattan. I always see Dr. Margaret Kearns-Stanley when I go, she has helped me through many a cold during shows! And for you ladies who like a one stop shop for everything, she also does your gynecological check ups as well. |
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Dr. Stephen Dillon |
DS: My husband and I have been going to him for years. He is a great doctor (and person), easy to talk with, and very gay-friendly, should that be a concern of yours. |
Psychotherapists
| JB: Clyde specializes in working with actors and all creative beings. He is dear friend with a huge heart who has mastered the art of being natural, powerful and present; and that is the state of being he wants us all to achieve. Being a working director and actor, he directly understands the world in which we all live. I have yet to use Clyde's service but with over 15 years in the arts and a private practice for 13 years, he can help you navigate through the tricky, practical and emotional waters in being an artist. He has a Masters in Spiritual Psychology, and the work he does centers around listening to your soul's voice, honoring your truth and manifesting your desires. As a result of this work, his clients enrichen their skills as they make deeper contact with more aspects of self and allow the raw animal to emerge. He has both an uptown and downtown location, with very flexible hours. He can even do sessions over the phone if you prefer. |
Puppets
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Jarrod Boutcher Puppets
Official Website |
KU: Jarrod made my friend Alyssa’s Puppet Panina. Simply the best puppets I have seen. Take a tour of his work. He even made puppets for an Avenue Q giveaway. His Bart Simpson is amazing….and unfortunately, not for sale. |
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Monster Puppets
Official Website |
KU: Pierre made my puppet Mookie. I love Mookie!!! And Pierre had Mookie delivered to me in less than a week. |
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Project Puppet
Official Website |
KU: Project Puppet provides puppet construction techniques for the aspiring puppeteer. |
Reflexology
| JB: As actors we can definitely get stressed out! A non-invasive way to alleviate stress and promote relaxation is reflexology. The basic principle is that every organ, gland and part of the body is reflected on the feet and hands. I can totally attest to this, because when I have a headache and Mireille works on my hands, the pain is virtually eliminated. It still blows my mind how it works, but it does! Mireille is state and nationally certified in reflexology and works as a freelance reflexologist for St. Vincent's hospital. She has worked on hundreds of feet and has received an overwhelming positive response to her practice of reflexology. So if you want t get relaxed, get reflexologi-sed! |
Sheet Music
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Michael Lavine
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KU: I went to Michael when I was looking for new songs. Michael has a huge arsenal of songs at his finger tips. I suggest going to him with a list of your favorite musical theatre composers and the shows they wrote. I came away with like 20 new songs that I love and that are not overdone. |
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NY Performing Arts Library
Official Website |
KU: It’s a great place for sheet music at $.20 a copy its less expensive purchasing sheet music.
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Colony Music
Official Website |
JB: They tend to be a bit pricey, but they've got everything! They are better for vocal scores then individual sheet music, but if you need something right away it is a great place to go. |
| KU: Both are online sheet music sites and worth checking out. Limited online catalogue, but good sometimes in a pinch and you can also change keys and hear the song played. Especially good for current songs.
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Speech Pathologist
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Dr. Amanda Hembree
212- 262-4444 |
DS: I was starting losing my voice whenever I sang for long periods of time. Dr. Hembree provided me with simple vocal exercises that helped me to build back my vocal strength. |
Tech Stuff
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PDA- Palm Treo
Website |
JB: Though slightly jealous of Kevin's iPhone because let's face it, it's cool. I am utterly happy with Palm Treo 755. If you use this device properly with all the organizational features it offers, it is like a mini business office in your hand. That is exactly what we need as actors on the go. I sync it with Outlook and I am good to go. And I can cut and paste text--take that iPhone. |
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iPhone
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KU: I love my iPhone. I can carry my address book with me, check my email and speak hands free when using my earphones (which hold a small microphone). I can’t say how much I love it. I highly recommend. DS: I couldn't agree more! |
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iCal /Mail/Address Book Microsoft Entourage
Palm Software Bento |
KU: Software to manage your email, calendar and address book are crucial to you as a small business owner. I'm a Mac person so finding software that works and sync's with my iPhone is important. That's why I use iCal/Mail/Address to manage my contacts email and email. I've used all of the software programs listes and find them fairly similar. It really depends on your preference. I recommend reading Getting Things Done to give you ideas as to how to incorporate this software into your routine. |
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Sony Mini Disk
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KU: I love my Sony Mini Disk. It records professional sound is battery operated. My lessons sound like they’ve been professionally recorded. You can then use iMic to import your music into your computer. |
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Jawbone Bluetooth Headset
Website |
JB: This is an excellent bluetooth headset with a noise shield. I never get complaints that people can't hear me, and I always hear people loud and clear even walking down the streets of NYC. |
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Sibelius
Photoscore Finale |
KU: Scan your music and Photoscore will read it and place each note on the staff-which you can hear, as well as, then import into Sibelius. It's a quick fix if you need to prepare something and can't get in to see an accompanist before an audition and perfect for making audition cuts and raising and lowering keys. I only recommend this for tech savvy people, because of the cost and the learning curve. Finale is the other product similar to Sibelius. |
Temp Agencies
| JB: This midtown temp agency specializes in legal staffing, so if you do word processing or proofreading, this is a good place to start. Their friendly staff tries hard to get you work, and they do offer positions at all sorts of firms. They also offer free training in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc. | |
| JB: Suzanne's is a small boutique temp agency, with only 4 or 5 employees. But they give you what most of the larger agencies don't - the personal touch. They only work with a certain number of clients, all the jobs they send you on are first vetted by one of their staff, and they're always in nice offices. Plus, you will know everyone there by name. | |
| JB: Tiger is very professional and somewhat upscale temp agency. They not only cover all areas of temping, but offer direct-hire and temp-to-perm. The friendly staff wants you to succeed - they offer free training and courses. If your skills aren't quite up to snuff, they'll assign you a one-on-one meeting with a trainer to help you get where you need to be. | |
| JB: This downtown agency specializes in financial and legal services, and is well-connected to the Wall Street-area market. If you're looking for financial work, or legal, this is a good agency to call. But they also cover a wide variety of positions, from admin. to executive. |
Theatrical Resources and Support
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Theater Resources Unlimited |
JB: Do yourself a favor and check out Theater Resources Unlimited: education, information, networking and support for producers, theater companies and self-producing artists. Programs include monthly business of theater panels, an annual Audition Event for actors, TRU Voices New Plays and Musicals Reading Series, the Producer Mentorship Program, scholarships to the Commercial Theater Institute and more. Sign up for their monthly community newsletter of services, jobs, opportunities, theater events and discounts! An excellent resource for artists. Kevin and I are both members! |
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Fractured Atlas
Official Website |
JB: They really empower artists and have many services and resources to support artists and companies as well. Do yourself a favor and check them out! |
Trade Publications
| JB: Backstage is THE premiere trade paper for actors. Especially if you are non-union and starting out, this paper will be your bible. Backstage is an official sponsor of The Savvy Actor, so click the discount link for a huge savings on both their online and print subscription. |
Trade-Shows & Promotional Work
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Productions Plus
Official Website |
JB: My husband worked for this company for 6 years doing trade show work for Nissan. It was a great second job for him, he made a lot of money, and got to travel! A lot of actors do this kind of work, gigs can last anywhere from 3-10 days, and the compensation is very competitive. You just have to be a good talker! |
Transposers
| JB: Casey is a working actress who is also an accomplished pianist and music preparer. If you need a song in a new key for an audition the next day, she can often work with you on a rush order--she creates clean, easy-to-read cuts for audition purposes--she's even happy to give you songs in multiple keys for the same price (maybe a bit lower for those crack-of-dawn auditions, and a bit higher when you know you can soar!) She also transcribes--meaning that she can create sheet music from a recording. The best part may be that she can do the entire process online--email her your music as a .pdf or .jpg file, she'll email you the finished product as a .pdf, and you can pay her through paypal. Now that's savvy! Oh, and 10% discount on your first song - just mention The Savvy Actor! | |
| JB: Not only is Andrew my voice teacher and coach, he is an incredible arranger. I had a pop song I REALLY wanted to sing but the accompaniment was horrible. Andrew created a new accompaniment for me and arranged it all beautifully. The best thing about arranging is your audition song is unique to you! Andrw rocks! | |
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David Libby
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DS: Again, Tina Marie Casamento and David Libby are one-stop-shopping. David can transpose and arrange your music with a quick turn-around. |
Trapeze
| KU: The trapeze is hung from a single point and hangs roughly 5 – 6 feet above the floor. It is a way of exploring movement in ways that we are not accustomed to when our feet are planted on the ground. |
Unions
| JB: We both have been union members for awhile now. And since this is purely an information category, I will take a moment to say get involved in your union. It is so easy to sit aside and complain. Be proactive, get on a committee, and let's make some changes for the better. | |
| JB: I won't preach again, but I will say make sure you take part in AFTRA's Open Door. Some members forget about it or don't utilize it, but it is a great thing they provide for their union members. Once a year, they hold an appointment lottery to sign up and meet casting director and agents. It can be very beneficial and it is FREE! | |
| JB: One great thing about SAG is it's iactor, where you can upload your headshot, resume, and audio/video clips for FREE on their online casting database. Every union should have this. SAG also has seminars, workshops, and panels with casting directors for their members for FREE! |
Vocal Coaches
| JB: I have been studying with Andrew for almost 7 years now. He is both a voice teacher and a vocal coach, so yes I will list him twice because he is PHENOMENAL! As a coach, Andrew has a knack for helping you get to the heart of the song, and he really makes sure your acting choices match the musicality. He is very smart and honest, and he has many clients on Broadway or in Broadway tours. | |
| JB: Jeff is a coach and musical director and he is just brilliant! He musical directed me in a show, so I decided to coach with him and I am so glad I did. He really helped me interpret my songs in a clearer and precise way, and dig deeper into the emotional life of the pieces. If you have some tired old material that you still love, Jeff will help you infuse it with new life. | |
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Tina Marie Casamento |
JB: Tina Marie just musical directed me in a show and I have to say I LOVE this woman! Now her name is popping up everywhere with other actors I know saying how much they love coaching with her. An actor herself, Tina Marie just gets it. She can help you tap into the truth and the underlying core of a song, and help you truly act your way through the text of the piece. She also has classes that I have been told countless times now are a must take! DS: I couldn't agree more! |
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Jeff Blumenkrantz
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KU: Jeff is an amazing actor, singer, comedian, and Song writer….oh and did I mention accompanist. He’s a lot of fun to work with. I first saw him perform when he was Smokey in Damn Yankees. I made a mental note to myself that I wanted to work with him. 10 years later I do.
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| DS: Doug has helped me out in a pinch more than once. He is especially good with actors who want to learn to sing. | |
| DS: Chris is a wonderful singer with a phenomenal range and he can share his expertise with you. I have not taken with him, but have had the pleasure of singing with him and recommending him for gigs. He is especially fond of working with beginners. |
Voice Teachers
| JB: As a voice teacher, like I said Andrew is PHENOMENAL! My voice has grown so much studying with him it is unbelievable. He is so clear in his explanation of how the voice works and why, and he can pinpoint the exact problem or issue and immediately help you fix it. He is always educating himself about the voice and various techniques, and he is so eager to help you figure it all out. I love him! | |
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Andrea Green
917.887.3499 |
KU: Andrea has helped me extend my range by 3 notes. She is one of Joan Lader’s disciples, meaning she is a student of Lader’s whom Joan personally recommends. Andrea’s students are working Broadway Professionals. |
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Joan Barber
Official Website |
DS: Joan Barber! Joan Barber! Proceed immediately to Joan Barber! Priced very reasonably. She has great credits, will be wonderfully curious about your voice and will do the research to match your individual style. Joan has taught voice all over the country and is especially good with the anatomy of how sound is produced. |
| JB: Jeffrey is wonderful!! I have had to two lessons with Jeffrey and already I can feel and hear a difference in my voice. It is indeed soaring! His prices are extremely reasonable and he goes above and beyond in his lessons to challenge you and get your voice to the next level. Over the past seven years Jeffrey studied voice with Maestro David Jones in New York City. The technique he teaches is designed to balance the voice from top to bottom with no obvious breaks. The voice becomes fuller, richer, more flexible and certainly more powerful. Singing becomes effortless, which allows the singer to practice longer and also sing entire roles without exhaustion, or damage to the vocal chords. Ummm....every singer needs that! |
Voice Over Coaches
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JB: I had a free consultation on the phone and then one I paid for in person, and this woman is amazing and what she has to offer is priceless. I decided to hold off on pursuing a voice-over career because my commercial career was becoming very busy and my husband and I were in the process of buying an apartment. But my 2008 goal is to get my voice over reel together and Johnna will be hearing from me! She was a voice-over agent in the biz for years, knows what agents want, what they look for, and she helps you with a gameplan for who to target and how to land one. As far as I know, there is no one out there who can produce your reel, and coach you to the next level of your voice over career like Johnna does.
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Joan Baker |
JB: Johnna Gottlieb works with Joan and refers all her clients who need some technical work with copy and fully understanding the voice over world. Joan is the author of Secrets of Voice Over Success and probably the most highly respected coach and voice over artist in the business. She offers group and private training and if a voice over career is something you are going to pursue, Joan is a necessary component to your team.
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JB: I have never used Marla's service, but as I start making my way in the voice over world, hers is a name I hear over and over again. I have listened to some of her demos and they are AMAZING. A couple people I know who have used her, had such a great demo that that they got signed right away. I include her as another resource and once I learn more about her I will add it.
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Joan Bogden
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DS: Joan is an incredible one-on-one voiceover coach who only takes on clients who are signed with an agency. When I was finding myself pigeonholed through my voiceover agent, she helped me to expand my range and create a rough demo so they could hear a wider variety and now I am getting sent out for more spots. Great lady and still actively working as a voiceover artist. |
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Pete DeMeo
Official Website |
DS: As a twice Emmy-nominated voice over artist for over 16 years, Pete DeMeo's career spans all areas of the VO field: commercials (voice of Dr. Scholl's, Kohl's, Visa, Tylenol, Howard Johnson, Avis), promos (NBC, HBO, Turner, Fine Living) and over 300 documentaries (Discovery Channel, History Channel, National Geographic, TLC, Biography). Pete also offers private voiceover coaching and full demo production services by request for additional fees. Though I have never personally taken coaching with him, I repeatedly refer clients to him and all have given glowing reports. (Ask about the discount for mentioning my name!) |
Website Design for Actors
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JB: I have two things to say about Stephen – AMAZING and oh so patient! Stephen designed our brand new Savvy Actor website and we are just in love with his work. He designs everything from scratch – no templates, so you really get to see your vision come to life. His knowledge, creativity, and professionalism are top notch and he is just a really wonderful down to earth guy! Stephen is an actor as well, so he gets the biz and understands the importance of a brand, and will help make sure that your brand is represented in your website.
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JB: I have yet to use this service to design my website, I was lucky enough to have a fried design my acting website. I have many actor friends whose sites are from this company and they couldn't be happier. And you can't beat the price! I know the woman who runs ActorWebs, and she is brilliant and a genuinely nice person.
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JB: Not only is James a Nutritional Counselor but he is a phenomenal web designer. Again, I know many actors and businesses actually who are thrilled with James' work. If you go to his site you can see examples of what he has created. Actor websites can be tricky, they need to be EASY to navigate but show who you are and James accomplishes both! He is a tried and true entrepreneur and a wonderful person!
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| JB: Natalie is a really wonderful human being and with her business, she meets with every potential client on an individual basis for a free consultation. It is her goal to create a website for each and every person that is truly unique and expresses his/her own unique personality. Her design process is collaborative, so she'll check back with you at various points along the way, to get your input on how to get your website exactly how you want. She also does business card and postcard design - a one stop for all your marketing needs! You will receive 10% off when you mention The Savvy Actor! |
Websites
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There are so many resources to include so here is a list of other websites that we find helpful. Check them out! |
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audacity.sourceforge.net--Free digital editing software for mp3's. |
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www.backstage.com -- Up to date news, reviews, casting notices and more! An excellent go to source for actors at all levels. |
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www.broadwaystars.com-- A great resource, it consolidates the news from all the other websites! |
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www.broadway.com--Tickets and Broadway news. |
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Yoga
| JB: I highly recommend Alena! With ten years of experience in the entertainment industry as an Actress, Singer, Dancer, Teacher, Choreographer, and Associate Talent Manager, Alena understands the physical, emotional, and spiritual demands of show business. What's truly wonderful about her teaching style is it's tailored to suit an actors' need for strength, flexibility, and peace of mind... she gets us! She brings to the mat not only her knowledge of yoga, but her enthusiasm for the never-ending discovery of the mind-body connection. And she works on a sliding scale! | |
| JB: I have been doing yoga on and off for years and I recently found this place on west 24th Street and loved it. Your first class is FREE and the atmosphere is very calming. I did yoga in a gym for almost a year and never again!! Classes range from $8-$12. I have to say I loved the 90 minute class, they did a lot of meditation and a Type A personality like me needs that! I feel amazing after their classes and what they charge is a pretty amazing price too. | |
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JB: I studied here for awhile in the studio on Broadway and now they have an uptown location on 64th and Lexington as well. This place is truly amazing and intense. If you want to submerse yourself in the yoga world it is the way to go. Their classes are $20 for a single class but if you buy in bulk they get cheaper. Class size can be pretty large sometimes, usually after normal working hours. Go at off times and being actors that shouldn't be too hard!
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