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The Business of the Acting Business Consultations!!!

Chapter 1 May '93 to Mar '02	Chapter 10 Nov '05 to Feb '06
Chapter 2 April '02 to Feb '03	Chapter 11 March '06 to April '06
Chapter 3 Mar '03 to Jan '04	Chapter 12 May '06 to May '06
Chapter 4 Feb '04 to Aug '04	Chapter 13 June '06 to July '06
Chapter 5 Sept '04 to Nov '04	Chapter 14 Aug '06 - Aug '06
Chapter 6 Dec '04 to Jan '05	Chapter 15 Sept '06 - Sept '06
Chapter 7 Feb '05 to April '05	Chapter 16 Oct '06 - Nov '06
Chapter 8 May '05 to July '05	Chapter 17 Dec '06 - Feb '07
Chapter 9 Aug '05 to Oct '05	Chapter 18 Mar '06 - April '07

SEPTEMBER 1st '04*YES!!  Callback "Toyota" @ Cathi Carlton Casting.  It wasn't the same director that has hired me before, but that's okay I'd be happy to work for him too!  It goes well, I feel, so time will tell.

SEPTEMBER 2nd '04*Audition "Saturn" @ Ross Lacy Casting.  Gee, Ross calls me in quite often and I would really like to book something through his office......soon.  This audition goes really well I feel.  I booked a "Pizza Hut" spot there several years ago, but that was several years ago.  Time for some new fresh stuff!!

Tonight's rehearsal was a lot of fun.  I wasn't scheduled to be there, but decided to attend anyway.  I ended up getting to work quite a bit in a different character.  The rehearsals are a great workout and I am the company of some really talented people.  I am so glad I am a part of this production. 

SEPTEMBER 4th '04*Today is, most likely, going to be one of those days.  I can feel it.  It was two years ago today that I demanded that my mom go to the hospital for a medical check up.  She went in that day and the next day she was admitted to the hospital.  Little did I know that she was suffering from pancreatic cancer and we would lose her in two months.  So needless to say this is a not a great memory for me.  I still can't believe she's gone.

This was not the best of days for me at rehearsal.  We did dance/movement today for 4 hours.  First of all, I am not a dancer and I don't move particularly well.  So I have that baggage with me most of the time.  The problem was that the choreographer and the percussionist were speaking two different languages.  Not literally, but the choreographer was speaking in "counts" i.e. "and 1 and 2 and 3 and.....and 8" whereas the percussionist was speaking in "beats of the drums".  They didn't match up.  Well after about 30 minutes of miscommunication from them I was pissed and tired.  I don't get riled up too often but I was PISSED, I even had a little outburst if you can imagine that.  I don't expect them to hold my hand through the whole thing, but at least give me clear direction.  After rehearsal a couple of them pulled me aside and let me vent.  I explained my frustrations and told them I would keep doing my best to keep up.  This same thing happened with the show I did in NYC, I'll get it eventually.

SEPTEMBER 7th '04*Another day of drop-offs.  From Culver City to Burbank and Studio City to Paramount Studios.  It never ends and it was hot as fire today.  I'm so thankful for my newer car.  I can't imagine doing this in my old car, but I did it last Summer.  

Sometimes it seems so easy.  I went to a place in Culver City and walked right into the production office and handed my photo to a very willing employee.  She said "oh, this is for Donna.  I'll take it right to her" and proceeded to do so.  So that photo went straight to "Donna" "out of context" meaning out of the hustle/bustle of a typical submission.  Now I don't expect to get seen for the project, but who knows, maybe I will.

Last month one of my agents informed me that she's leaving the business to be a full-time mother to her new baby.  I am so sorry to be losing her as one of my representatives, but I can't think of a better reason to go.  I am very, very happy for her.

When she informed me that she was leaving she also told me that the dynamics of the entire agency was going to change, but she wasn't sure how.  The owner of the agency, Erin Connor, was going to hire a new agent, bring in a new partner or merge/be merged with another entity.  I wasn't sure where all of this would leave me.  You never really know in these situations.

THE MERGE/THE PURGE

Today on my home machine I had a message to call Erin at the office.  I don't get many calls directly from Erin so I admit I was a little nervous.  I didn't think it was a booking, because I hadn't read for anything in the last week or so and if it was an appointment she would have left it on my answering machine.  I wondered if this was how it's going to go down. Would she say "Stephon, were sorry, but we've decided to go in a different direction and unfortunately we have had trim our roster............."  I returned the call and both agents were tied up on other calls.  I hadn't heard anything back 90 minutes later so I called again and they were still tied up.  I could tell that things were happening, but I didn't know what.  My heart was beating, I mean REALLY beating.  I've kinda had my game face about the notion of getting dropped since I first heard the news last month, but the reality of the actual call is another thing.

Finally the agent who is leaving, Kelley, called me and gave me the news.  Badgley/Connor is merging with Schiowitz/Clay/Ankrum & Ross.  Each agency is bringing clients with them and each agency is leaving clients behind.  THAT was my next question.  

Stephon:  "Wow, okay..........uhh.......alright.......so what about the purging?" 

Kelley: "Yes, the purging.  Erin is taking you with her".

Stephon: "Cool, I feel quite fortunate". 

Kelley: "Yeah, there are many that won't be making the transition with her. 

Stephon: "Wow, this is weird.  It's been six years Kelley.  I always tell people that I have 7-8 fabulous women representing me and I love it.  Now I have to deal with men?  I'm kidding.............."

So that's how it went down.  I'm still with Badgley/Connor, but I'm also repped by SCA&R.  It's sort of a merging of the each agencies list and the names will be combined in some way as well.  I have only heard great things about Josh Schiowitz & David Ankrum.  I'm excited about the future of this. 

If I had to get out and look for new rep, of course I would have done it, but there is a lot going on in the agency business and I would not want to be on the market right now.  WHEW!     

SEPTEMBER 8th '04*YES!!!  Callback "V-8" @ Craig Colvin Casting.  I felt like this callback went really well.  Of course, I would love to book this, but we all know how that goes.  You just have to move on.........see ya.

Audition: "Jack-in-the-Box" @ Alyson Horn Casting.  I've booked through this office before and it's time to do it again.  This one goes really well too.  Callback?  We'll see.

Drop-offs in action!  Yesterday I dropped of at a several casting offices all over town, one was Kevin Scott Casting.  Kevin cast UPN's "Half and Half" and ABC's "My Wife and Kid's".  I did a general drop with a post-it attached. 

Well guess what?  Today they called my agent and asked if I would audition for the role of the "FedEx guy".  It was 3-4 lines and my agents did not think it was a good idea.  I knew they were right, BUT I had a different angle on the situation.  I rarely if ever read for UPN or WB shows.  Meaning that I don't get many calls for those shows; sometimes but not often.  Most of my appointments are for really mainstream projects, not too urban not too ethnic.  So why not take the chance and see what happens?  Great question right?  Well here's a great answer.  Because I need to be more selective with these smaller roles if I am going to do them at all.  It should, at least, look like it's going to recur or some other really good reason.  Of course movies are a little different.  I'm trying to move up the food chain and I believe there is some power in politely declining.

THIS is one of the major things I need my agents for and they are there in my corner.  In all honesty if the casting office would have called me directly I most likely would have auditioned for the role even though I know I shouldn't have.  I'm an actor and I wanna act.  They left the final decision up to me, but let me know what they thought.  They never turn anything down without running it by me first.  In the end I decided not to audition for the role.  It felt good to do that even though I would have loved to get a chance to book and work in front of the live audience again.  On to the next........

SEPTEMBER 10th '04*Today I went in to the office to say goodbye to my agent Kelley; I damn near teared up.  I mean she was the first person I saw at the first meeting I had when I flew to Los Angeles from New York.  She was an assistant then and I just a great woman.  I always hear horror stories about agents and I am happy to say that I have only had great experiences.  Even when I was in New York freelancing with half of the town I always worked with good people. 

Anyway, I am really happy for her and excited about what the future holds with my new agency configuration.

Two weeks and counting until previews for "For The Love of Freedom" things are getting more serious at rehearsal....sometimes a little tense, but it's looking really good.  There is a lot to do to get things right before we present ourselves.  I think the show is going to be incredible.

SEPTEMBER 11th '04*Here we are again, the 3rd anniversary of a terrible human tragedy.  I think it's one of those times where most of us will remember exactly where we were or what we were doing.  I know I do.

SEPTEMBER 12th '04*YES!!!  Today I went to the AMA Motocross Championship at Glen Helen Raceway in San Bernardino, CA.  Since I don't have a wife or kids yet, this is my passion.  I am such a fan at these races when I get to see the top guys, I'm like a kid in a candy store.  I even missed rehearsal today.....oooops!

SEPTEMBER 13th '04*Today is the first day of the new merger situation with my agency.  BINGO!!  I get two calls for theatrical auditions.  I hope this is a sign of things to come.  They really seem like they have it all together, I am excited about the new set-up.    

SEPTEMBER 14th '04*Audition: "Still Standing" @ Deborah Barylski Casting.  Ms. Barylski cast me in the pilot of "Life With Bonnie" in 2002 without going to producers.  The "Still Standing" read goes okay.  Deep, deep down I think I know why and I'm okay with it.

Audition: "Hyundai" @ Michael Sanford Casting.  This was a last minute call and it goes well. 

SEPTEMBER 15th '04*Audition: "Center of the Universe" @ Valko/Miller Casting.  This office cast me on "Ally Mcbeal" in 2001.  They received a postcard on the right day at the right time and brought me in to audition and I got the role.   The audition goes well, I think I could have done even better.......of course you get great ideas 'after' you leave the room.  About 10 minutes after I leave the room my agent calls me with a callback @ 12:30.  Cool!!  The give me a note of adjustment.

The callback goes well.  I really think that Casting Director Ken Miller was pulling for me, maybe it was my imagination.  I think I am really right for this and it seems that it would be recurring.  We'll see!

Tonight at rehearsal we run the first act of the play all of the way through.  This cleared up some things for me, because I have been so confused as to who I really am.  This helped a lot, but I sure have some work to do on those dance/marching steps.

SEPTEMBER 16th '04*Audition: "Tyco" @ Toni Cervantes Casting.  This audition goes well and I think I am right for it.  Call me back!!

I stopped by the new location of my theatrical agency today.  I wanted say hi to my long-time agent Erin and meet Josh Schiowitz, David Ankrum and Michael the wonderful assistant.  I wanted to bring something to the office that they could use; so I brought a huge box full of 10 reams of paper.  That's a lot of paper and it's really heavy too.  I think it weighed more than me!!  Anyway, they all got a kick out of that.  Josh is in New York, but I did meet David.  He seemed like a great guy and greeted very warmly.  It's only been 4 days of the new set-up and my phone hasn't stopped ringing.  I could get used to this.  

SEPTEMBER 17th '04*Audition: Producers for "The O.C." @ Patrick Rush Casting.  Patrick cast me in an episode of Jennifer Love Hewitt's "Time of Your Life" several years ago.  It's time to strike again!!

Well, the audition went well.  I had a couple of laughs with Patrick and the two writer/producers in the room.  Several hours later I get the call that I book the role.  YES!!!  It was cool to talk to my agent about money and billing.  It still another "co-star" role, but she inched my quote up a little and made sure I am the first "co-star" listed in the credits.  It's all about making progress.  I think I may take some of the other co-stars off of my resume and keep the highest regarded/most current shows.  It won't be easy because I have been fortunate to work on some really good shows.

SEPTEMBER 18th '04*Okay, today was the first day of rehearsal in the actual space that we will be performing in.  Since we are performing downtown the adventure started for me before I even arrived at the theater.  

I am exploring options for parking since we are in downtown LA and parking absolutely sucks.  I digress.  I weighed my options other than driving and decided on mass transit.  Today was my first day riding the bus today.  It would have been much easier to drive and pay $3-7 dollars to park, but it also would have been much more boring.  So I took the route less traveled.

It worked out quite well; it took about 35 minutes and cost $1.25 each way.  I don't know that I'll do it everyday, but the option is there.  

Rehearsal, it was a long day.  Productive, but long.  These dance/marching moves are kicking my ass to say the least.  I just cannot dance to save my life.  I am pretty even-keeled and don't get frustrated by too many things, but this is just killing me.  I might be a little hard on myself, but it drives me crazy.  I have to say that I have received quite a bit of support from the other cast members.  I feel like I'm started to whine about it and I have to stop it and use that energy to concentrate and get the routines down.  I do not want to be the weak link, if there is one.

I have to say that I am really working with some wonderful, talented and interesting people.  I'm really trying to make it a point to sit down with everyone, even if just for a moment, and learn something about them.  People come into your lives for a reason.................right?

Anyway, the bus ride home was a little more interesting.  A man who had had a little bit too much to drink chose to sit really, really close to me on the bus.  I thought we were dating!!  It so reminded me of being back in New York it wasn't even funny.  I didn't know if he was trying to pick-pocket me or what.  "Good luck; I have very, very little money I thought".  He kept apologizing to me, finally he got off at his stop.

Some of the sights were a bit depressing downtown.  There are so many people who look as if they have such a hard life.  It really reminds me of what I have to be thankful for.

SEPTEMBER 20th '04*Audition: Producers for "Less Than Perfect" @ Mossberg/Anthony Casting.  I auditioned for the pilot of this show a couple of years ago.  Another one that didn't go all that great.  I don't think I made a strong enough choice.  With the really small roles you know it's not about you, but you're still a presence and you need to be there.  They are getting harder for me to do.

Audition: "CBS Showcase" @ CBS/Fern Orenstein Casting.  They want a 1 minute monologue. ARGGGHHHHH!  I hate doing monologues!  I'm gonna embrace it and try to do the best I can. 

True to form.  I started out pretty ok, but then had a sizable "hiccup" and sorta recovered.  Anyway............. 

Audition: "Fun With Dick and Jane" @ Debra Zane Casting. YES!!  They are giving me another shot!  I auditioned for this film a couple of months ago and obviously didn't book.  Ooops, this appointment was postponed.  I sure hope it's rescheduled in the near future.

I have to admit that every time I see an "Ocean's Twelve" ad, and I see a lot of them these days, it gives me this feeling I can't quite describe.  Ugh!!  I mean I see stuff all the time that I auditioned for, but knowing that I was actually chosen by Steven Soderbergh and it didn't happen.  No, I'm not bitter.  Ha!!  Anyway, I kinda think these things are a sign that I am on the right track.   I'm sure most of the working actors today have some sort of story like that.  I am so fortunate that CD Debra Zane and Associate Tannis Vallely haven't forgotten about and bring me in every chance they get.  Ugh!!  There is another "O12" poster.................

YES!!!!!  I think I had a breakthrough tonight at rehearsal with the dance/marching steps.  The wonderful choreographer, Ayana Carr, pulled me aside as soon as I walked in and gave me the special attention I need.  It really boosted my confidence.  I'm still goofy as hell, but I am much, much more on the right track.  No, I'm not goofy, I just have two left feet when it comes to dance.

I am so fortunate to be a part of this production in the company of all of these talented performers from all over the country and world.  I look at them and just in awe of many of the performances.  It is really a whole new group of people that I didn't know previously.   Many of them have done a lot of theater and I haven't so that is probably why our paths haven't crossed for the most part.  This won't be the last show I do in Los Angeles.  Hopefully next time it won't be as an understudy, I don't think I am too crazy about the understudy thing. 

SEPTEMBER 21st '04*Audition: "The Island" @ Lisa Fields/Alison McBride Casting.  This a huge Michael Bay-directed film starring Ewan McGregor & Scarlett Johansson.  This audition went really well, I think.  I would really like to work with the legendary Michael Bay.
 
SEPTEMBER 22nd '04*Today is the 11 year anniversary of taking my first acting class.  Wow, I'm still here.  I'm not surprised, but it's still kinda surreal to me.  I think about all of the experiences I've had and it really puts a smile on my face. 

Sometimes I sit and look at my screensaver which has 300-400 pictures.  A lot of has to do with my experiences in the business.  I've met some really special people along the way as well.  I look forward to that continuing and I also look forward to having more of a connection to people outside of "acting stuff".  I think that might be why this play is so intriguing to me.  It's something that really happened and the people involved are really invested in it.....and I'm still performing.  For some reason I feel that 2004 is setting me up for something.  I'm not sure what it is, but I'm going to ride with it.     

DAG!!  This rehearsal schedule is getting the best of me.  My usual staying up until 5am is rapidly changing because I am so exhausted after going to the gym, doing drop-offs, auditioning and trying get these dance/march steps correct.  It feels goods though, because I'm doing what I moved here to do.

WHAT!!!!  I cannot believe this.  I got a callback for the "CBS Showcase".  Yeah, the one I did the "hiccuping" monologue for.  I can't believe it, I thought that train wreck was over.  Oh well, I'm going to go in there tomorrow and try to kick the door in with a new commitment to the material.  I know, I should have done that first time.  I tried, but you it's always better in the car on the way home.

SEPTEMBER 23rd '04*Callback!!: "CBS Showcase" @ Fern Orenstein Casting.  Yeah!!  it went pretty well, I think.  I did what I wanted to do in the room.  Regardless of what happens it was a big confidence booster for me.  Dag, what if I am chosen for the showcase?  Hmmmm............

It's getting ready to get "down and dirty" with the play.  We are heading into "tech week".  I'll pretty much be there everyday for the next 11 days and I am ready to rock and roll.  I still have work to do on my marching steps.  I have to get out of my head and stop over-thinking the routine and feel it.  It's hard for me, but I'm getting a lot better.....I think......I hope......I better.  11 days and counting.......... 

SEPTEMBER 24th '04*Fitting: "The O.C." Dag!!  The traffic to Manhattan Beach is always a lot of fun, but there is a Costco near there and you know I am a big fan of Costco....polish sausage and a drink for $1.62....including tax......can't beat that!!

Anyway, they had some really cool shirts set up for me.  They even told me that I am going to have two assistants in the scene.  The said I shoot Monday in Malibu, but I haven't heard anything from production yet.

Audition: "Best Buy" @ Craig Colvin Casting.  It audition for Craig pretty often, usually get callbacks, but have never booked.  One day I am going to get in there.  This one is for a "nerd type" so it's right down my alley!  It goes really well and I am right for it, I think.  Next step: callback.  Ha!!!

SEPTEMBER 25th '04*REHEARSAL, REHEARSAL and more rehearsal.  The zero hour is rapidly approaching and the production shaping up.  The director, Ben Guillory, seems to be happy with our progress, but has a firm hand under our asses to keep us in line.  He doesn't hesitate to let us know what he thinks.....good or bad.  It's a huge show with a lot of people, lot of props, accents, fight choreography, music, dance, etc.  I think it's going to be great!  

After 9 hours of rehearsal I attended a party with some of the other cast members.  It was organized by people of Haitian descent some of which will be seeing the show.  It was a little weird knowing that they are the direct descendents of the characters that they play is about.  We introduced ourselves to the party guests; I think they will enjoy the show.

SEPTEMBER 26th '04*Today we had our first full run through.  I felt like it went pretty well considering it's still a work in progress.  My marching is coming along, but I still have work to do.  There is one scene where my character, a soldier, is really drunk.  I thought this was funny when the director gave me the note.  Ironically, I've never had beer, wine, liquor or coffee in my entire life.  It will definitely be one of more fun scenes for me in the play.  A nice surprise for the entire cast was that we have Monday off because of Equity rules.  Works great for me because I am shooting "The O.C." tomorrow.

SEPTEMBER 27th '04*Shooting "The O.C.".  My call is @ 9am at Zuma Beach. I thought this was a good sign because it was where I shot 1 of the 4 days on the "Honda/Japan" commercial. 

While in make-up I met Alan Dale who plays "Caleb Nichol" and he was very nice to me and quite funny.  The production van took us to the location where we would be actually shooting.  It was "Caleb's Mansion" and can you say "unbelievable?"  I had never seen anything like it.  In real life it belongs to a former NFL player.

My shot was first up so we started rehearsing right away.  That is when I met Melinda Clarke who plays "Julie Cooper-Nichol".  She was very nice, funny, professional and quite pretty.

Next I met Nicholas Gonzalez, he plays "D.J." on the show.  Another really great, funny and intelligent guy.  We actually had lunch together and chatted about things other than acting.  I must admit that I wondered WHY is his character a "pool boy/lawn guy" whatever.  Is it because he's Mexican?  Stereo-types I guess.  Couldn't he have been anything else?  Anyway, he's working and he's quite talented.  I expect to see big things from him.

Teen star of the show Mischa Barton who plays "Marissa Cooper" was late because she was shooting 2nd unit stuff at another location.  When she arrived she seemed a bit frazzled, but pleasant.  After working on "Good Morning, Miami" I saw first hand a lot of what is expected of the stars of a show.  When she saw that I was in the scene with her she very nice to me.  I can't believe she's only 17 or 18.  She is very, very pretty in a natural kind of way.   

I was a photographer taking a photograph of the family at the mansion.  My character even had two assistants.  They were really cool and I hung out with them most of the day.  It was a great day in Malibu!!

SEPTEMBER 28 '04*Audition: "Best Buy/Virgin Mobile" Industrial @ Cathi Carlton Casting.  The audition goes well, we'll see.

Rehearsal tonight was a really tough one; we are still making the adjustments working on the set and some things are a little confusing.  The was no question that the director is expecting more from us and I am sure we will deliver.  My frustrations come from the percussion beats that we march to.  Part of it is that fact that I don't move all that well, but that has improved a lot.  The things that the beats are not set in stone.  It's like a moving target with soldiers doing one thing and the drummer doing another.  It absolutely drives me crazy.  It's like two moving targets just hoping to match up and that's not going to work.  One group, either the choreographer or the rhythm section has to set it and the other HAS to match it.  That way there is much less room for error.  I have no problem admitting I screwed up, trust me, but if the rhythms changes every time I do it what the heck am I supposed to do.  Ugh!

SEPTEMBER 29th '04*Audition: "Untitled Comedy Central Project" @ Pamela Azmi-Andrew Casting.  I had a great audition for this one.  I don't know if I'll get a callback, but it was a lot of fun.  I felt like I made a strong, committed choice.  The character was a DVD reviewer who broadcast his show from a brokedown van in downtown Los Angeles.  The DVD's are bootlegs that he gets from movie theaters.  It's great timing since I am riding the bus downtown to rehearsal everyday.   

SEPTEMBER 30th '04*Audition: "My Wife & Kids" @ Kevin Scott Casting.  This is the same office that called me in from a drop-off about a month ago and I didn't go in on my agents advice.  It went really well.  It was a couple of lines and I felt like I brought something to the table and left feeling good about it.  Kevin seem really happy too.  He's doing two shows right now so hopefully he'll call me in for "Half & Half" again too.  

Rehearsal tonight really popped, I think we had a real breakthrough.  It felt so good for me and I was feeling it from everyone else.  In doing such a large production it is truly a collaborative effort; we all need each other.

Today, my agent left a message with another producer session for "Still Standing" @ Deborah Barylski Casting.  I returned the call and told her that I decided to decline the appointment.  It's one line and I have to be more selective.  Several weeks ago they brought me in for a larger role and hopefully they will again.  I mean if it was booking maybe I would do it, but I didn't want to audition for it.  They say there is power in saying no..........I sure hope so.

OCTOBER 1st '04*WE DID IT!!!!!!  Yup, "For The Love Of Freedom" Part III: Christophe (The Spirit) Passion and Glory" is officially open.  After 7 weeks of rehearsal we are out for the world to see and it felt good.  Actually, it felt great!!!!  There are still some things to tweak, but we were on fire.  It was like everyone had 15-20% in reserve to unleash when the butts were in the seats.  It truly felt like an ensemble, we were all there for each other and more importantly the Haitian people. 

I am so honored to be a part of this production.  These artists, in front of and behind the scenes, are amazing to say the least.  I have had so many incredible things happen for me in my years in the business and this is without question another one.

After the performance we had a reception that sealed the love and commitment to the piece.  There was so much support in that room that we could tell that people were moved.  It will only get better from here on out.

OCTOBER 2nd '04*Tonights performance went even better than last night.  The show is just getting better.  It's cool to watch different things happen from night to night.  It's truly a live performance, you never really know what is going to happen.  After the show me and several cast members along with the writer, Levey Lee Simon, went to The Downtown Standard for drinks.  Well, they had drinks.  I had "two eggs, any style(scrambled) and an english muffin".  I have to say it was one of the most interesting evenings that I've ever had..........ever.  Did I say ever?  Yeah, ever.

OCTOBER 3rd '04*Of the 3 shows we've done today was the most spirited.  They were really, really listening and following the story.  Several were of Haitian descent and were really moved by the story.  Afterwards we had a Q&A with the audience.  I have heard rumblings of a condensed version of the trilogy in the future. 

OCTOBER 5th '04*Audition: "IAMS" @ Ross Lacy Casting.  Will I ever book for you again Ross?  I sure hope so.  You call me in more than anyone else and I can't seen to close the deal again.  The audition today went pretty well, I think. 

I was a bad boy in the waiting area.  I saw a guy I hadn't seen in a long time and I was running my mouth and didn't fully read the storyboard.  When I got in the room I wasn't sure what was going on.  Actually, I think it worked in my favor because I totally committed to whatever it was I did.  I was probably either really right or really wrong?

I have to say that I miss doing the show, although it's nice to have a break from going to the filthy downtown LA area.  I am trying to get back on track with my drop-offs and the like.  Running around during the day and rehearsing at night has definitely taken its toll on me.  I'm exhausted.  I need to get some rest and start fresh.  I feel myself not getting things done, I have to find my center again.  I really want to round out 2004 in a very strong way.  I have to keep moving forward.

I find myself missing my mother often these days.  It's hard not to think about what I was going through exactly two years ago.  I was home in Virginia getting ready to go to Japan and my mom was slipping away.  I was coming to the realization that she was, most likely, not going to survive.  She was so happy that I was going that I thought for a moment that she was going to get better.  They say its gets easier with time and it has, but when it hits me it hits like a ton of bricks.  I feel like such a baby at times.

OCTOBER 6th '04*The other day I saw something that kinda disturbed me a bit.  It was this: "'Fear Factor' Fives Nights a Week".  Yeah, I didn't expect to see reality in repeats or syndication.  I guess I should have known better.  I am guilty of watching a little of it myself.  I love "The Apprentice" and I enjoy "Top Model", but that's about it.  Beyond that it's "Nip/Tuck", "ER", "Cold Case", "Without A Trace", "NASCAR", anything of "The Discovery Channel" and of course my motocross racing on ESPN2.  Even just the two reality shows I watch prevent hundreds of actors from working in a given season, not to mention writers and directors.

This morning I read some encouraging news though.  There are several scripted shows that are doing quite well.  "Lost", "Desperate Housewives", "Joey" and "CSI: NY" seem to be doing quite well.  It's still early and some of the hype may be from networks themselves.  I hope they stay strong in the ratings.  That will hopefully lead to more scripted programming for actors in the near future.

OCTOBER 7th '04*Today we had our first matinee performance for LAUSD high school students.  There was one problem: only 11 out of 80 students showed up.  Something about them having a substitute teacher today and when that happens the kids skip school.  We got the word right before we went on and the show went as schedule.  It was a spirited performance for the kids especially.  Let me tell you, those 11 kids paid attention to the story let us know that they were really in to it.

This had my heart beating a bit.  10 minutes to places and one of the guys I am understudying wasn't there.  Oh sh*t!!  Am I gonna have to go right now.  At first I was a nervous, but then I stepped up and started getting my head right just in case it was really going to go down.  I think I could have gotten through it and brought something to plate.  I was ready!!  At the last minute my man Roderick showed up.  He had an audition and was running late.  Whew!!!

Audition: "Border's Books" @ Ross Lacy Casting.  This one goes well enough, so we'll see.  I mentioned this audition info to my buddy John.  He called his agent and got an appointment too.  I offered to watch his 4-month old daughter Hazel (I am her Godfather) while he auditioned.  Let me tell you it's amazing the way people respond to children, especially women!!  I should take her everywhere with me.  It might be for selfish reasons though.  

OCTOBER 8th '04*It looks this is going to be a really busy day.  No complaints, that's why I moved here. 

Audition: "Center of the Universe" @ Valko/Miller Casting.  I went to producers for this show about two weeks ago.  It went well that time, but I didn't book.  Again, it's a character that's looks like it could recur.  CD associate Peter Pappas takes me in the room and partner Nikki Valko is there.  The last time I read for the other partner Ken Miller.  The read goes really well and they ask if I can wait outside.  They finish with the rest of the other actors and bring me back in with news of a callback in two hours.  YES!!!  AND it doesn't conflict, time wise, with 3 other appointment I have today.

The callback goes really well too.  I would love to book this, but at minimum, Nikki Valko, Ken Miller & Peter Pappas know that I can come in the room and deliver the goods.  THAT is a good feeling.    

Audition: "The Suite Life" @ London/Stroud Casting.  I booked "Arli$$" through this office several years ago.  When my agent called she hadn't seen the sides and wasn't sure if I wanted to go in on it.  I checked the material and it looked like a character that could return to the show so I said "yeah".  She seemed a little surprised.  Maybe because I turned down an audition last week for a one line role.

This one went really well UNTIL I went in the room.  I don't know, I felt really prepared, but then I got in the room and kinda froze.  I don't think I made a fool of myself.  I just know that I could have done a lot better.  There was producer and director in the room as well.  The casting director was cool, but I didn't feel free for some reason.  Who knows, sometimes we are better than we think we are.  This kinda hurts because I think I was really right for it.

Audition: "Monk" @ CFB Casting.  This is like the fourth time I've auditioned for this show, one of these days I am going to book.  I promise!!!  CD associate Cheryl Kloner called me directly for this.  I felt a little young for this role as a doctor, but I went for it anyway.  I flipped the last line around backwards/forward, but I felt that character was there.  I don't think this will be the time I will score the show, but who knows.  

Audition: "Citizen's Bank" @ Ross Lacy Casting.  Sometimes I think Ross calls me in so often to see how many times I can audition for his office and NOT book.  It's the 3rd time this week I've been to his office.   This audition goes really well, but I think I am too young.

After these 4 auditions and a callback I make to my understudy rehearsal an hour late.  Yeah, understudy rehearsal.  It didn't really help me out too much, but I was there to try learn the blocking/lines of the characters I'm covering.  It's difficult because I am in the same scenes as most of them.  It was good for me though.

We've had two really good reviews for the show so far that we are excited about.  Tonight's performance had a weird little vibe to it.  I think the casts', me included, concentration was a little off.  This weekend we are sharing dressing rooms with several opera performers and they were doing their vocal warm-ups which kinda changed our prep.  Also, the house speakers so that we can hear the show in the dressing rooms were not working for some reason.  I felt we were a little disconnected.  All in all it was good, but not great.  After the show I met an actress from NY who I have communicated with online, but never in person.  She just moved to LA and came to see the show.  Thanks Pepper!!!

Afterwards, most of the cast went to a restaurant for drinks.  It's great getting to hang with everyone, I don't usually go out on the the town that often so it's a great change of pace.  This outing with the cast was nothing like last weeks at The Standard and that was probably a good thing. 

OCTOBER 9th '04*I'm so exhausted!!!  What the heck am I thinking??? 

THURSDAY:
a matinee performance, an audition and a workshop
FRIDAY:
4 auditions, a callback, an understudy rehearsal, a performance and going out with cast after the show
SATURDAY:
2 workshops, a performance and a get-together at one of the cast members apartment

I'm beat.  I'm also not complaining, just commenting.  I'm thankful that I'm tired from doing what I moved here to do.

Tonight's show kicked a**!!!  Yes!  We were on fire!

OCTOBER 11th '04*As I was leaving the theatre yesterday the writer, Levy Lee Simon, asked me if I was coming to the reading.  I didn't know what he was talking about, but he told me what it was.  I had two other things planned, but I figured I would cancel.  He said it was going to be readings of two one acts that he had written. 

I am so glad that I went.  They were so, so entertaining.  It was a full house at The Greenway Court Theatre.  Levy's writing had us laughing the entire time.  It was like a who's who of the LA Black theatre ranks.  I was honored to be there.  About half of the cast of our show came out to support Levy's work.  It felt great to be in the company of such talent.  I can't believe that a short two months ago I didn't know any of these actor's.  I even saw several people who I knew in New York that I hadn't seen in years. 

2004 has been a great year for me.  I haven't booked a lot of jobs or made a lot of money, but I have done gotten some important things done.  I guess like the heavy lifting.  Things that I may have been in denial about, but needed to get done nevertheless.....personally, privately, professionally, etc. 

One thing was doing theatre in LA.  This is such an amazing experience.  I can't really understand why so many fantastic things have happened for me on my journey.  I'm not questioning it.  I just feel so fortunate in my life and I need to say it out loud.  I am exhausted most of the time these days.....and why?....from rehearsing, audition and even working.  The things I moved here for.  Tonight was another great evening.

OCTOBER 12th '04*Audition:  "Sprint" @ Gabrielle Schary Casting.  This audition goes really well. 

OCTOBER 13th '04*Audition: "Dr. Vegas" @ Shaner/Testa Casting.  I've been dropping off at this office for years it seems.....actually it's true.  Finally, I'm going to producers for something.  I met associate Alpha Tyler years ago and she always happily takes my headshot when I drop by the office.  Now it's time to go and deliver the goods.  I'm not trying to book the role just build up some trust. 

I'm not sure how this one went.  I was reading for the role of "Broker #1".  It even said on the sides to read "Broker #1".  BUT as the CD was taking me in the room for producers he said "we're having people read "brokers #1 & 2".  I stopped in my tracks and wanted more time.  Usually combining two characters like that isn't a big deal at all, but the writing need to be altered to have it make sense.  There were 4 people in the scene and they referred to each other.  My issue was: "do I change their writing?"  I kinda got in my head about that, I finally just said "whatever", it needs to make sense.   So I changed their words.  Of course I was wondering if they were offended by it.  Oh well, who knows.  I think I was right for the part.  Maybe a little young, but close enough.

I finally got my 215 postcards in the mail.  Thanks to "Mail Merge".  It would have taken me two weeks to get those out.  I remember life before "mail merge".  I used to type each and every address.  Ugh!

I bought the stamps at Costco.  I am a HUGE Costco fan as you can probably tell.  I absolutely LOVE going there to shop.  I look forward to getting married and having 20 kids so I can take the Honda/Acura minivan to Costco and buy all that we need for the family.  I even looked at wedding rings!!  20 kids?  Hmmmm......I better be pulling in some serious dough to afford that.  That means lots of drop-offs and lots of postcarding.  Some people like Macy's & Bloomingdale's.  For me it's Costco & the 99 cents store.  Well, maybe not 20 kids. 

I'm not sure what it is about Costco, it just seems like a really good company.  I like that the CEO says that he believes his employees should have health insurance and be able to afford a home.  I don't look at it in a socialist sorta way, but just treating people fairly and they will work hard for you.  Makes sense to me.

This afternoon I got a call from voiceover giants Kalmenson & Kalmenson.  I used to audition there quite often when I was repped by KSA for voiceover, but when top agent Pat Brady left for Cunningham, Escott & Dipene (CED) Kazarian-Spencer (KSA) closed the entire department.  I haven't had a voiceover audition in over 2 years, but I have one tomorrow.  YAY!!  Pat used to get me in for great stuff on a regular basis, but I never made her any money really.  I did book one of the first ones she sent me on, but that was back in '99.  She got me a couple of auditions after she went to CED, but I haven't spoken to her in a while.  I really appreciated her support because, although I did take a v/o class at K&K, I never had a CD to promote myself professionally.

OCTOBER 14th '04*Voiceover audition: "KFC" @ Kalmenson & Kalmenson.  Since they hadn't had me in for a while they asked if currently had a v/o agent.  I said no, but if by some chance I do book this commercial you can bet I'm going to have them call Pat Brady @ Cunningham, Escott & Dipene (CED) to do the deal.  It would be my way of paying her back for all of the support she gave me.

This audition went well.  Hopefully they will start calling me on a more regular basis.  I would love to book some voiceovers.  I would also love to throw a surprise booking to Pat @ CED.

While I was there I saw Dionne Lea.  I met Dionne Lea while doing the only other play I have done while back in New York.  It was great to see her, I hadn't seen since then which was '97.  

The matinee show today for the high school kids was okay, I felt.  The kids were really into it and paid attention which was a really good thing because it is a lengthy piece.     

OCTOBER 15th '04*Audition: "T-Mobile" @, guess?  Yup, Ross Lacy Casting.  Ross must have a lot of confidence in me.  I thank him for it because I haven't proven myself in quite a while in his office.  The audition goes well though.  We'll see. 

Tonight's show kicked A**!!!  I mean it.  We were on fire.  Movie star and co-founder of The Robey Theatre Company Danny Glover was in attendance.  I don't think most of the cast knew until it was over.  It was a really great night.  We hung out as a group afterwards.  I am really going to miss this when it's over. 


OCTOBER 16th '04*Audition: "Pastime" @ The American Film Institute (AFI).  This audition went really well, I felt.  I haven't done a student film in a couple of years.  It's time get back in that mix, maybe I can get some good tape.  The director gave me really good direction.  Concise and to the point.  The last thing they said was that "we'll be in touch".  Hopefully they will. 

I often talk about how this year has been a really good one.  I have a new project on my mind.  It won't sound like a big deal, but for some reason, for me, it is.  I think I want to move out of this apartment.  I've been saying it for years, but I always re-sign my lease.  At the end of this lease it will be 7 years in this same apartment. 

It's not a bad place, but it's small and seemingly getting smaller.  It's a studio without parking.  Of course, I 'd like to be able to buy a place, but that isn't in the cards at the moment.  My lease isn't up until the end of July.  Hopefully, by then I will have gathered the guts to at least entertain the thought of actually getting out of here.  I really like this Miracle Mile area, mostly because it is very centrally located.  I don't think I'd live in Santa Monica or Burbank just because it's so far on one side of town.  I drive so much doing drops and the like that want to be centrally located.  I even picked up an apartment guide to get me in the right space in my head.  At the very least I need to get on a month to month lease.  I used to think there was a reason why I've been here in this one spot so long, but there isn't any good reason.  Maybe it was after moving around so much in New York that I wanted to stay put.  I have to change my thought process about the whole thing.  I have to think that I can grow more if I have a little more room to grow.  

Tonight we put another spirited performance on the books.  The show just gets better and better.  I am learning so much as an actor from the cast.  Things like voice, diction, commitment, movement, etc.  It's been an amazing experience to say the least.  Afterwards we went to one of the cast members apartment to chill.  I got a chance to really talk to a few people that I hadn't previously.  It is a very interesting bunch of artists.  It's cool for me because it's a little break from the hustle/bustle business side of the industry to the creative/artistic side. 

OCTOBER 17th '04*After many positive reviews around town.  The question was posed to the cast today.  "Are you willing/available to extend for additional weekend of performances".  YES!!!!  I was honored to be the first one to sign my name saying "yes".  It seems like most people are willing/available to do it.  I sure hope it really happens.  I guess we'll know soon either way.

OCTOBER 19th '04*Audition: "Quintuplets" @ Rick Millikan Casting.  Rick hired me for "Sabrina, the Teenaged Witch" back in 2000.  I also auditioned for a series regular role in a pilot for him in 2002.  I obviously didn't book the regular role, but was offered a co-star.  I politely declined the co-star booking.  The pilot was not picked up.  Hopefully, I can make something happen today.

The audition went okay, I guess.  I was the first actor to sign-in and right before Rick was ready to start reading us the associate put out revised sides.  To me, I thought it had a lot of potential to be a recurring role, but the sides didn't seem like it.  When they put out the revised sides, they seemed more like recurring role sides.  Anyway, I was the only African-American actor there.  I think Rick threw me in as something different which was really cool of him.  BUT I think the writers saw this character as Caucasian.  Obviously, I had to get past Rick in order for the writers/producers/director to see the possibility of seeing it another way.  Unfortunately that didn't happen.

OCTOBER 20th '04*It's official, the show will not be extended for another week.  The theatre that we are in is already booked and we have to be out so that they can move in.  I was really looking forward tot hat happening.

I got a call this morning from the stage manager saying that I may need to perform one of the roles that I am understudying for tomorrow's show.  The other actor, Roderick, is close to booking a commercial that's shoots tomorrow.  I hope he gets it, he's a great, talented guy.  Although, I love what I get to do as a soldier in the play, it would be cool do what I am understudying as well.

OCTOBER 21st '04*Unfortunately Roderick did not book the commercial he was up for, so he was at today's performance that we did for the area high school students.  He suggested that we switch roles anyway.  I am his understudy so I know a bit about his role, but I didn't feel as ready as I would have liked.  He really wanted to shake things up and do it, so we did.  So I'm trying on his costume and going through my script and a million people came to my assistance to make sure I felt great about what was happening.  Can I tell you that I love this cast?  These people are amazing and I will not soon forget them.  Every step of the way someone was there to make sure I was cool with everything.  It was a great time!!  We had a wonderful show for the kids today.  They were extremely present, commenting on everything we said. 

Also, I booked a role in the American Film Institute (AFI) short film that I auditioned for.  It's different role than I read for; a doctor.  It shoots November 1st.    

OCTOBER 22nd '04*Audition: "Mainstream or Bust" @ Ricki Maslar Casting.  Ricki hired me for a film back in Fall 2000 and called me for a staged reading while I was home over the Summer.  The audition with casting, producers/writers/director goes really well.  Ricki and her associate, Jay Michael Ferguson, greeted me like family.  At my last two theatrical auditions I have been asked what it was it was like to work with Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks.  Hopefully, I can gather more credits like that in the near future. 

Audition: "Honda" @ Ross Lacy Casting.  It goes well.

Tonights performance was really, really tight although the crowd was a little reserved.  We knew we delivered the goods.  After the show we went to our usual spot to hang out and celebrate one of our castmates' birthday. 

This is really funny.  A gentlemen approached me at the restaurant and said he really enjoy my performance in the march. I kinda looked at him thinking that he had to be joking.  He had already mentioned it to the fight choreographer, Yvans Jourdain and Yvans told him to tell me.  Needless to say I was completely flattered.  I explained to him how difficult a time I had in learning those steps.  Talk about coming full circle.

OCTOBER 25th '04*This evening I spoke to a group of New York-based actor's from www.actorsconnection.com that are considering making the move to Los Angeles.  I give them a taste of what to expect if they relocate to this market and answer a lot of questions.  My opinions, of course.  It goes well.  As usual, it's a group of performers from many different backgrounds.  They are all, at least, interested in exploring furthering their careers in Los Angeles.  That's a good thought I think. 

OCTOBER 26th '04*Rehearsal: "Pastime" @ AFI.  This is a project for directing student Cam Mason.  The rehearsal lasted about 20 minutes.  It was great, we improved the scene and discussed some direction to go in.  I really enjoy working with Cam.  Hopefully I can get a good piece tape and start some good relationships.

OCTOBER 28th '04*WHAT!!!  Today is the beginning of the end.  Yup, it's closing weekend for the show.  I am SO going to miss this group of people.  I hope that we will stay in touch and spend time together.  During this process I have taken over 1,000 photos......yeah a 1,000.  My screensaver will take me back to this experience on a very regular basis.  I hope the rest of the cast gets the same joy as I do.   

OCTOBER 29th '04*Audition: "Home" @ AFI.  This audition goes really, really well.  He said I would, most likely, hear something in the next couple of days.

OCTOBER 30th '04*Tonight's show rocked!!  Yeah, we put it down.........again.  I had a little extra fun myself.  In one of the scenes I have a "lady friend" that I am quite serious about.......in the scene.  There is a part where we are admiring the Kings' palace and I motion to her that one day we will also have a palace and children of our own as I rub her belly.  Well tonight I decided to do something a little different, I planted a big fat kiss on her lips.  YEAH!!  It was great to see her eyes light up.  Not that me kissing someone make them light up, it was just getting a little stale night after night and I wanted to shake it up.  I knew Mimi would be cool with it, she actually thanked me for stirring the pot a bit.  Now.....what about tomorrow night?  I don't want to do the same thing.......hmmmmm.

We had some high profile guest tonight, Barry 'Shabaka' Henley, CCH Pounder, Delroy Lindo and Angela Bassett.  It was great to see them in the house to support us.

Afterwards, we hung out of course.  It was our stage manager's, John's birthday.  He is a great guy who kept this ship of 40+ plus people on track.  THANKS John!!!

OCTOBER 31st '04*Tonight "For The Love of Freedom Part III: CHRISTOPHE (The Spirit) Passion and Glory" closed.  What a shame, I feel that we could go on at least 4 more weekends.  Well not really a shame, it's nice to go out on top.  We weren't able to extend because we have to be out of the theatre.  

I had another little surprise for "my lady" in our scene tonight.  Last night I gave her the big kiss, tonight I put a ring on her finger THEN gave her the big kiss.  HA!!  It was funny to see the look on her face.  It really added more texture for us in the scene.  I don't anyone else could tell what was happening, but it definitely gave the two of us a new different for the moment.  Geez, if we had another night who knows what've happened.  I would have come up with something. 

When the show was over it seemed like it took 30 minutes for everyone to hug each.  Many, many tears were flowing........from the women.  You could really feel the love from the fellas too.

The director, Ben Guillory, told me that "we are just getting started" and that "we will work together again".  I look forward to it.  This is the first time I've been on stage since 1997.  I was terrified of getting involved in some bad, boring production of something that didn't really matter.  This mattered, this totally mattered.  I picked a winner, or better yet a winner picked me.       

We had a wonderful wrap party that included a catered Haitian dinner, a DJ and a lot dancing.  I had goat for the first time, it was quite tasty too.  Some of us even went back onto to the set for one last time.  It was like we just didn't want to leave.  I am going to miss these people a lot, but I have a feeling that we will stay in touch. 

I am not sure how I seemed to get involved with such great people and projects.  I am not questioning it, just recognizing it.  I am so fortunate and 2004 has been an unbelievable year for me in many ways.  Two more months to go and I want more to happen to set me up for '05.  I have had more auditions than ever since moving to Los Angeles, I hope it doesn't stop because the show has closed.

NOVEMBER 1st '04*Shooting: "Pastime" @ AFI.  This shoot went okay, I guess.  I felt that the audition and the rehearsal went better though.  Hopefully it will come out good.  I really wanted one more take, but they had to move on.  Oh well.

NOVEMBER 2nd '04*Cool!!  I booked a role in that other AFI film I auditioned for, it's titled "Home".  It shoots in the next couple of weeks.

NOVEMBER 3rd '04*Audition: "Hertz" @ Francene Selkirk Casting.  The audition goes well, but I don't feel a callback.  I hope I'm wrong.

NOVEMBER 4th '04*Audition: "IBM" @ TLC/Loree Booth Casting.  Here is another chance to really "get in the family" @ Pytka.  I assume Joe Pytka is directing this commercial.  I booked for him several years ago and have gotten close a couple of other times.  He uses actors over and over again which is great if you are one of those actors.  I am trying to be one of those actors.  The audition goes really well and I think I am totally right for it.  I thinks it's time for Joe Pytka and I to work together again.  What do you say Joe? 

NOVEMBER 5th '04*Tonight I attended a birthday party of one of the cast members in the play.  Several of the cast members where in a attendance and it was great to see them again.  I know it has only been a week, but we really miss each others company. 

It's funny because during the production they saw a side of me that usually only my family at home sees.  In general, I'm pretty low-key, very quiet and a master at observation, but around them I'm border line out of control.  It's a side of me that is seen maybe 10-15% of the time, but they saw it 95% of the time.  So they really only believe that I am the "complete life of the party".  IT AIN"T TRUE!!!!  It's cool though, I'll wear the title proudly.

This really tripped me out.  Yesterday I met someone who highly recommended that I see the film "The Power of One" starring Morgan Freeman and Steven Dorff.  I said I would.  When I walked into Hollywood Video I heard dialogue that I'd heard before.  At that moment I didn't know where I'd heard it, but then found the cluster of TV monitors.  I looked directly at the screen and saw myself!!!  Yeah!  It was the episode of "Friends" I did several years ago.  Of course I didn't hear my dialogue because it was "left on the cutting room floor".  Still, quite trippy, being surprise by myself on the screen.  Then when I was paying for the rental I glanced to my left and saw the sign for "The Terminal" DVD release coming soon.  I thought to myself that I must be in the right business. 

NOVEMBER 8th '04*Today I was interviewed for a book about actors due out next Spring.  It was pretty cool.  It really made me think about my journey.  I almost started tearing up when revisiting some of my past.  We talked for about 90 minutes, but in reality it would take hours to REALLY hear it all.  I wouldn't put anyone through that....would I?....did I?......have I?...am I?

Tonight I attended the Los Angeles premiere of "Kinsey" in Westwood.  All that red carpet stuff is quite a trip.  Being a "nobody" is pretty cool.  The film was quite entertaining, it'll do well.

NOVEMBER 9th '04*Today one of my dreams came true.  YES!!!  I got a call this morning from one of the cast members who is a teacher.  She asked if I would participate in the "Speaker's Program" for the students at the school where she teaches.  I was a little reluctant at first.  Not because I didn't want to do it, because I wasn't sure what I had to offer.  I thought about it for a moment and said "Yes!!" 

Annika gave me the choice of this coming Monday the 15th or next Monday the 22nd.  I had one big problem.  I wanted to do it this Monday BUT this Monday is the 2nd anniversary of my mother's death.  I didn't know what state of mind I would be in.  I wanted to be fully available to the students.  Last year I was fine for most of the day and then became a complete wreck in the evening.  It was not a good day.  I thought about my dilemma.  How could I make it work?  Hmmmm........I got it.  I'll do it on the 15th in honor of my mother.  YES!!!  This is something she would do!! 

I'm a little nervous, but really excited.  I have always wanted to talk to kids, they are the future after all.  I can't wait.  This is truly a dream come true.

NOVEMBER 10th '04*I saw a screening of "Ray" tonight.  Incredible performances are everywhere.  The director, Taylor Hackford; stars Jamie Foxx, Regina King and newcomer Sharon Warren were there afterwards and did a Q&A for the audience.  It's always great to hear their stories directly from them.  Something that really stood out that they discussed is the power of fear.  Fear can be absolutely paralyzing.......if you let it.  In most cases it's not all that important that you may be scared, the important thing is "what are you going to do about it?"  Case in point, Sharon Warren, who is stunning as "Ray's" mother in the film crashed the audition and didn't even know what was being cast.  That isn't to say everyone should crash auditions, but don't be driven by fear.  She wasn't even in the union and has virtually no credits, but she booked this amazing role.

NOVEMBER 11th '04*This morning the director of the other AFI film I'm doing this weekend called to say that one of the other actors is sick and won't be able to shoot his scene.  So he asked if I could play that role as well.  Of course I'll do it!!  So now I am the businessman and the cab driver.  Cool!  That other actor must be pretty sick to know that he can't work 4 days into the future.  I hope he gets well soon.

This afternoon, Alicia, one of my wonderful commercial agents called with some interesting and good news.  To be honest, I was hoping she'd say I'd booked the "IBM" spot from last week.

Actually it was about a job I did more than two years ago for "21st Century Insurance".  I'm still a little confused about what happened.  Evidently, the job, which consisted of testimonials of actual policy holders was supposed to be nonunion.  Somehow, me and a few other union actors booked the job.  Anyway, there was a settlement (I really don't know who settled what) and I will be receiving an extra $500 holding fee.  Well I'll take that!!!  My spot never even ran, they held it for over a year and paid holding fees every 13 weeks.  I really wanted to see that spot because I got to rant about this other insurance company, that I won't name, that forged my name on some documents.  Yeah.  

NOVEMBER 12th '04*This morning I attended a screening of the AFI film "Pastime" that I did last week.  I was little concerned about my performance, but it came out well.  I don't really like seeing myself on camera, but it is necessary.  I learned at least a thing or two about my work that I need to work on.  I wasn't crazy about the angle that the scene was shot at, but it may have been a certain thing that the filmmaker had to do as a student of film.  

Audition: "Degree" @ (guess who?) yup, Ross Lacy Casting.  It goes well.  This was the 17th audition I have had for Ross THIS YEAR without ONE callback!!!!  What?!?!  Thankfully he is still giving me chances.  Ironically, the last callback I had for his office was exactly one year ago today for "Dominos".