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Back In the Game was HUGE!

Thanks to all who participated in the Back in the Game workshop. The consensus was it was a BIG success. iActor was demonstrated, and, oh the joy, the speed, the ease.  iActor is an actor’s best bet to get in the driver’s seat and take charge. Throughout the day we had a terrific photographer on site taking headshot photos for $50 bucks a session. I don’t know about anybody else, but mine came out great, the best I’ve had in years. We had “Mr. Voice,” Bob Green, get us up-to-date on the latest VO technology, and Mari Ferguson helped us see what a good demo reel should look like. We also had a most informative panel of casting directors, including Beth Sepko, Dolores Jackson, and Karen Gorme explain what they look for in an audition and offered ideas on how to improve our prospects. Finally, we capped the day with a discussion from our AFTRA and SAG execs and former President John Borrowman about why unions are more important than ever for actors. Sure, it’s getting like the Wild West out there as more and more cheap productions go non-union, but that’s all the more reason to stick together, stay the course, and become a force for change. Oh, and did I mention the food? Jason’s Deli catered and we had great food out all day. A tremendous thanks is owed to the committee that put this all together, including Bonnie Gallup, Cynthia Mitchell, Sonny Opiela, Michelle Robertson, Robert Nelson, and our fabulous execs, Linda Dowell, and TJ Jones.

The enthusiasm was so high we’re already talking about more events that will help us all become players again. June 8 is the next meeting of the AFTRA and SAG boards and we’re inviting anybody who’d like to come to bring their two cents. Details on the where, when, and what will follow.

Jim Huston