‘It’s all about who you know.’ That’s something we hear all the time when it comes to finding a job of any kind.  There are always those stories you hear about people who meet in elevators and end up with a job, or certain persons who had a friend of their cousin’s mom help them find a job. Even though these things definitely happen, sometimes you have to work a little (or a lot) harder to find that perfect opportunity you’re looking for.  This is where networking comes into play.  Networking is just as important, if not more important, for an actor or actress as it is for someone in another career.  Here are 5 helpful tips that will help actors and actresses differentiate themselves from the crowd.

1.      Find a Way To Break the Ice: It is never easy to just strike up a conversation with an unsuspecting person in an effort to network.  So, find a way to break the ice and start the conversation.  There is always something in common between you and the person you want to (and need to) talk to, even if it isn’t obvious at first. Find that commonality, and push forward.

2.      Always Follow Up:  So, you start the conversation and you end up meeting someone for coffee to chat as a way to make them aware of what you can do. Try your best to get their contact information--if you do, follow up afterwards.  It takes five minutes to send a simple email to say ‘Hi Again: This is Vanessa, and I just want to touch base and thank you for talking with me yesterday about the different opportunities I can take with my career--I really appreciate your expertise and the guidance you gave me.  It was a pleasure meeting you and I look forward to speaking with you in the future.’ A simple communication like this really says a lot about yourself and your character. Do not be afraid to relate to something they said over the course of your correspondence. People tend to react positively to others who take interest in their work or hobbies.

3.      Create Lasting Relationships: Doug Shapiro, professional actor and career coach, believes one of the biggest mistakes an actor can make when networking is only talking about themselves and neglecting to show any interest in the person you are talking to.  Yes, you are selling yourself, but just giving information about yourself to another person does nothing to help you build a lasting relationship with him or her. Relationships are a two way street, and you need to make sure you have done all you can on your end to build the foundation for a strong professional relationship.

4.      Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone: Networking takes courage.  Things will not always just fall into your lap--you may have to go seek out opportunities to network.  So, if you know of an industry ‘hot spot,’ where you know you will have the opportunity to meet people who could help you further your career in some way, try making weekend plans at this place or event instead.  You never know what could happen if you find yourself in the right place at the right time.

5.       Use Social Media: Doug Shapiro also recommends using social media to further your networking efforts.  He, however, recommends tailoring your presence and talk about other parts of your life rather than just your career. This allows for people to get a sense of who you really are as a person.  When you do mention your career, he recommends you do so by holding others up.  Let’s say you post on Facebook twice a week.  The first time, you post about something you love to do outside of your career.   Now the second time, you post about something career related.  When you do so, make sure you hold up others in the process.  For example, Doug provided an example with mentioning a director of a production you are in, and how you respect their work and can’t wait to work with them.  This alerts people to what you are doing, but in a way that is not just bragging about yourself. People will be more receptive to positive comments like this when it comes to networking, and it will help them to remember you down the line.

And there are 5 Tips for networking for the actor. Make sure to submit questions if you have them for next month!  

Auditioning is a must for any performer—you unfortunately won’t have an opportunity to perform on the stage without first going through the nerve-wracking audition process. Because the audition process is so prevalent for any performer, I thought heading into the New Year with some few helpful audition tips is never a bad idea.

With any audition, being as prepared as possible is key.  First, know what is required of you when you at the audition.  For example, Star of the Day is holding auditions for their Repertory Company this month—at this audition, each performer will be required to sing 16-24 bars of two contrasting songs and perform a one-minute monologue. You would not want to show up at this audition with two ‘modern’ songs, even if they vary in tempo.  For example, you could choose something like a slow Rodgers and Hammerstein song and an upbeat song from a more contemporary show.  Taking the time period a song was written into account is very important, in addition to thinking about tempo.  The length of an audition piece is really important as well—16-24 bars means 16-24 bars.  This applies to monologue time limits as well.  There are many directors who will cut you off after the time limit has expired regardless of whether you have finished your piece or not. Most casting director will see this as ill prepared.

Before you arrive at an audition, be sure you can commit to the dates required for the rehearsals and performances.  Anyone who has ever had to cast a show can tell you, casting is not an easy task.  If they choose to cast you, there’s something about you they really like.  It wouldn’t be in your best interest to audition for a show knowing full well you can’t commit to more than 50% of the project.  

Be on time to your auditions so that all of that hard work preparing isn’t wasted.  You only have so much time to impress the director and you do not want being late to result in a flustered audition.

Finally just be you.  There is nothing someone on the other side of the table would love more than to see a real genuine person standing in the room ready to give 100%.  It will make them happy—if they’re happy behind the table, you will feel more comfortable and have a much better audition.

Best of luck during this audition season!! If you have any other tips you want to share, or experiences you think would be helpful to readers, by all means share them in the comments section!

Don’t forget to submit your questions for February!

I recently read the saying above on the "fortune" in my fortune cookie, and it reminded me of other similar sayings, such as "Actions speak louder than words" and "You are what you do." All of these sayings boil down to the same simple truth: We show the world what kind of people we are by what we do. Literally. How we treat others, how we look, how we manage our time are some ways, to list a few. Our behavior gives powerful non-verbal messages to others that tell them what to think about us. After all, they may say, "Never judge a book by its cover," but we all make assessments and judgments based on the available evidence before us. Knowing this can help us shape how others perceive us.

Our attire and our personal hygiene send strong messages. People may not consciously note that you look clean and neat, but they definitely notice when you are sloppy or otherwise not well-groomed.

How we manage our time sends a powerful message too. When we are on time, we are showing others that we are ready and eager for our appointment. Whereas when we are late, we may give the impression that we do not value other people's time, and we are not responsible. This may not be true, but it leaves a lasting impression.

When we are kind to others and offer them care and concern, our actions reflect kindly upon ourselves, and when we speak about others behind their backs, it says to others that we probably talk about them behind their backs as well.

How do you perceive yourself, and how do you want to be perceived by the world? Think about that. Think of ways to behave that promote that perception in yourself and in others.

Robert Curtiss always dreamed of becoming an actor and singer, and was in all of the plays and musicals throughout his school years in Massachusetts. He moved to New York City after college to pursue an acting career, and after many years of struggle and very little momentum or measurable success, he decided to go back to school to become a psychotherapist. While attending graduate school, Bob met his husband, entertainment manager John Essay. Together they decided to write a book to help actors navigate the confusing paths of show business, with information provided by John about the business, and information from Bob about maintaining a healthy mental equilibrium while pursuing the acting business. Over the next ten years, the “book” became a website – www.TheActorsGuideToEverything.com – and their dreams of working together were realized. Bob gave up his psychotherapy practice and started working for John full time.

First and foremost, I'm an actress and singer.  I started Star of the Day as a way to continue my quest to work in the industry.  I read a lot of articles to help me out with those goals.  I read this article recently and thought it is perfect for anyone in any industry.  If you are doing business - whether as an independent actor or small business owner - what you put out there is important.  I hope you enjoyed this article as much as I did!

I have been asked by many people "What made you become an entertainer?"  I recently found an article in Backstage, an entertainment industry publication, that focuses on that question.  
Much like the 12 questions below, I have also asked myself similar questions.  If you have the ability to answer them honestly, you may surprise yourself.  My answers are in red.  And I clearly am ready and able to have a career in the entertainment industry.  Enjoy!

Think you have the temperament and business sense to survive in the entertainment industry? Take Lana's self-evaluation quiz and see how you score.

1. Is acting the only career that will make you happy? Would you be miserable if you only pursued acting for fun? Entertaining keeps me alive.  It is the air I breathe.  I can't imagine doing anything else.  It's the first thing I think about when I wake up and the last thing I think about before going to bed. It's my life.

2. Are you comfortable not knowing where your next paycheck will come from? Or realizing that it may depend on something as arbitrary as your looks or the way you deliver a line? Does security sound like death to you? I wasn't at first.  Not knowing whether or not you can pay the bills is the scariest feeling on earth.  But, like anything in life, if you want it bad enough you find a way to make it work.  As for my looks being the make it or break it, I know.  But I know where I fit in the industry.  I would never submit myself for a role that wasn't for me.  If they are looking for a tall, blonde bombshell...I'm going to stay home that day. But if they are looking for someone who is saucy and sassy with a larger-than-life personality..I'll be first in line.  You have to know who you are and where you fit.  Being honest with yourself is key!

3. Can you face rejection after rejection and still retain hope? Are you happy to attend dozens—even hundreds—of auditions without getting cast? Will your belief in yourself be enough to buoy you through the hard times? I don't mind hearing the word 'No' because it only means someone is going to say 'Yes.'  I know I am not perfect for every show and I know there is a lot of competition.  I also look at every rejection as a part in God's plan for me.  He'll put me where I'm supposed to be. 

4. Are you comfortable with your physical appearance? We’re all too tall, too short, too hairy, not hairy enough, the wrong type, the wrong sex or the wrong ethnicity at some point. Are you self-confident enough to cope with this kind of scrutiny? Of course not but I'm not going to hide away in my house crying about it.  I watch what I eat and I try to get out and move. I know I can do more about it and I will but I also don't use it as an excuse NOT to audition.  I know there is a place for me in this industry because I have been working non-stop since 2008.  And it's my confidence that lands those roles.  Own who you are!

5. Are you emotionally healthy? Show business can be a breeding ground for drug abuse, eating disorders, and depression. If you’re already dealing with personal issues, better to seek help before diving in. I'm as emotionally healthy as the next person.  No one is 'normal'. I have my own hang ups and so doesn't the rest of the world.  But I'm a strong person and I have always been able to overcome my shortcomings in order to forge ahead.

6. Are you prepared to work long hours, at times for no pay? Can you work evenings, weekends, early mornings, and sometimes even in the middle of the night? This made me laugh.  I already do this owning my own business.  So I guess the answer is YES YES YES!

7. Do you have a positive attitude? Are you persistent, adaptable, and willing to go the extra mile? Sure do.  You cannot be a 'oh woe is me' person and be successful at anything really...well, at least that's what I believe!

8. Are you committed to constantly improving your craft? Do you always seek ways to develop your skills and learn new ones? I am committed.  I'm constantly taking classes in NYC or reading articles online or talking with others in my industry about the shifts in trends, etc. It's the only way to stay in the business and get work.  

9. Do you enjoy a myriad of interests and activities that not only make you a unique and well-rounded person, but also clear your mind and refresh your spirits for acting? Let's see...I love reading, watching movies, sewing, writing music, running, drawing, watching documentaries, traveling, and shoe shopping...that clears my mind...keeps me sane...and the shoes make me tall!

10. Will your loved ones encourage you when times are rough and cheer for you when they’re good? Will they understand when your schedule renders you unavailable, or when it’s difficult to make ends meet?  I have the most amazing support system.  I think it's so important.  When you don't have a strong support system, it's difficult to stay confident.  When you can feel the love it's easier to continue pounding the pavement and making great strides toward your ultimate goal.

11. Are you organized? Can you be counted on to keep track of paperwork, arrive on time, return calls promptly and follow through on commitments? In my home...NO. In my businesses...YES.  Go figure!

12. Are you willing to invest in your career, even if funds are tight? Yes.  Even when there is nothing but pasta and peanut butter in the house.  It's a sacrifice but sometimes ya gotta do what ya gotta do!

The more YES answers, the more you may be suited to the pressures of professional acting. Ten to twelve is a high score.

If you answered YES to eight or nine questions, better work on your NOs, before making any drastic decisions like dropping out of law school to enroll in an acting program.

If you answered YES to seven or less, you may want to adopt a more informal approach and regard acting as your creative outlet--not your vocation. You’ll be happier in the long run.

In any case, don't quit your day job! You’ll need the cash flow not only to pay your bills, but also to finance your acting endeavors.

A version of this quiz appears in Lana’s Tools for Actors weekly newsletter.

Casting Director Lana Veenker began her career in London and, upon returning to her Northwest roots, founded one of the top location casting companies in the country.

She currently casts for TNT’s “Leverage,” with 64 episodes under her belt, and NBC’s “Grimm,” now in its second season. Gus Van Sant, Robert Benton, Guillermo Arriaga, Catherine Hardwicke, and Tim Robbins figure among past film clients. Commercial accounts include Nike, Apple, and Nintendo, and international campaigns from Shanghai and Santiago.

Lana is a member of the Casting Society of America and the International Casting Directors Network. She frequently lectures across the U.S. and abroad, most recently at The Actors Platform in London, IfiF Productions in Vienna, The Acting Studio in Berlin, Studio Bleu in Paris, and Prague Film School.

She has been featured in The Hollywood Reporter, USA Today, MSNBC.com, MTV.com, AccessHollywood.com, and Wired, among others. Follow her on Twitter @lanaveenker.

 
TICKETS NOW ON SALE 

Star of the Day Event Productions is a full-scale live entertainment 
company whose mission is to entertain, educate and encourage 
community enrichment through music, theater and dance.

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

We are teaming up with Turning Point of Lehigh Valley to 
raise money to work toward the elimination of domestic violence;  increase community awareness of the problem; and empower victims of domestic violence by producing the show A...MY NAME IS ALICE, an all-female musical review that showcases strong female characters from all walks of life empowering each other.

How can YOU help?
* Buy a ticket  (Dinner/Show; Show Only; Group Tables)

OCTOBER 1, 2012 IS THE LAST DAY FOR DISCOUNTED TICKETS: 
CODE LVARTS

EVENT DETAILS:
$40 Dinner/Show - 6 PM: Full dinner buffet with coffee, tea, soda; 7:30 PM A...MY NAME IS ALICE performance 

$25 SHOW ONLY - 7:10 PM Doors open for SHOW ONLY ticket holders.; This option does NOT include dinner or beverages. There will be a cash bar available.



DOORS OPEN for Diner 5:45PM
BUFFET OPENS AT 6PM
BUFFET CLOSES AT 7PM
DOORS OPEN for Show Only 7PM
SHOW STARTS AT 7:30 PM
(Regular restaurant menu not available on 'Five')



Cash, Checks, and ALL Major Credit Cards Accepted

I always loved singing and being onstage.  But there came a time when I just phoned it in because I stopped caring.  Then tragedy struck...and the world around me started caving in.  I lost my best friend of 28 years to melanoma.  She was never sick a day in her life but what doctors originally thought was an innocent bout of bronchitis landed her in a hospital on a Wednesday.  She was transferred to a hospital in Boston 2 days later.  Diagnosed with melanoma two days later. And given 2 weeks to leave 1 day after that.  From diagnosis to death, Beth lost her battle with Melanoma in only one short week. It has not been easy. Even a year and half later I still try and wrap my brain around it all.  Now, I am trying to do what I know Beth would want me to - keep on keepin' on.  And suddenly my passion has come alive again and I know that this one life I've been given is fleeting and I have to take advantage of every breath I take.  

If I didn't believe that people's spirits stayed with us in some way, shape, or form before Beth's passing, I certainly do now.

The day of Beth's wake, which I could not attend due to contractual obligations for a production I was in, I kept receiving signs she was with me.

The first sign I got was inside a book Beth gave me for my high school graduation. It was a coffee table book: 125 Years of Broadway. I remember the book and even used it in college as a reference for research papers. What I never realized is Beth wrote a message to me in that book. Blue ink on blue paper.  It took 18 years for me to see that message.  I believe I saw the message when I was SUPPOSED to.

Seeing this reminded me of how much Beth believed in me and how she was always and will always be one of my biggest cheerleaders. I graduated High School in 1993 - 2003 has come and gone - and I can tell you I was NOT on the cover of any book, but I didn't become a professional actress until 2008 so I have until 2018 to get myself on the cover of a book. :) I'm working on it, Beth!

Every day I think of her and I miss her so much.  This evening while driving home from Pride in the Park in Allentown (a wonderful community gathering of love) I was thinking of her. Just as my eyes watered a song came on the radio which reminded me of her "Shuffle Off to Buffalo" from 42nd Street (Beth was a bad-ass tapping diva!) and I stared at my XM box in complete shock.  As I lifted my eyes I saw a hawk sitting atop a disabled vehicle on the side of the road.  During Beth's last week and the week of her services, there were many sightings of hawks by those closest to her.  They have become a loving reminder of her anytime one of us sees one.  

Even though she is not here with me in  the flesh, I know she is an angel on my shoulder.  When people close to us pass on we ask a lot of questions to which we will never know the answers.  For me, starting Star of the Day Event Productions answers an unspoken question.  It lies in my heart and soul and I know I'm doing the right thing.  

Until we meet again, Bethie Poo!