The Stage, Screen and Television Actors' Conference (in San Diego!)

Last year I attended the inaugural Actors’ Conference. The afternoon turned up several incisive presentations, coaching sessions and lectures.
Photo: Marcia Ross

As a kid, Marcia Ross, V.P. of Casting for Disney Theatrical Film, rode the commuter trains alone into Manhattan to see Broadway shows. I identified with her practice in adventure, only I took the Greyhound bus from Cleveland to the half price ticket booth in Times Square. She started a Show Business career in New York as a stage manager. Ross eloquently expressed her love of the Theatre, for actors and the meaningfulness to get actors jobs.

After various epiphanal anecdotes from her career as a casting director, Ms Ross boiled down casting categories to: a) great actors, b) serviceable actors and c) types. Sobering stuff, huh?

Listening to the pros (you’ll recognize the names of keynote speakers from opening film credits) give the “411” on Show Business (and the business of show is emphasized) will make you run out and get your 8x10s or decide to get that certificate in Culinary Arts you’ve been considering.

The two days are invaluable for any actor, student or professional, especially the student. Actors in training will get the rare inside look at the practicalities of Show Business procedures, etiquette, rules and traditions, plus there are golden opportunities to make your contacts.

This year’s Keynote Speakers are:

• Mary Jo Slater C.S.A., New York & Hollywood, "Reality and Practicality"
• Gary Zuckerbrod C.S.A., President Casting Society of America – Hollywood, "Being a Professional Actor"
• Justin Huff C.S.A., Telsey + Company Casting, New York "Preparation, Reality & Love"

The presenters include:

• Frank Catalano, Professor of Theatre Arts, University Of Southern California
• Justin Huff, Casting Director, Telsey + Co. Casting
• Troy Magino, Director & Choreographer
• “The True Story of Commercials – What you need really need to know about the Commercial Business"
• Terry Ross, Owner/Director, Acting Professionally
• Elana Dvorak, “What Does a Manager Do,” and “How to Find the Right Manager for You"

Locals include:

• Robert Smyth, Producing Artistic Director, Lamb's Players Theatre
• Nanci Washburn, President and Founder, Artist Management Agency
• Sam Woodhouse, Artistic Director, San Diego Repertory Theatre
• Stephen Elton, Casting Director, North Coast Repertory
• Candis Paule, Casting Director, Stu Segall Productions

Actors, save yourself countless months of frustration and check this out.

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The main stuff:

Saturday April 25, 2009 & Sunday, April 26, 2009, Location: San Diego State University Extended Studies Center

http://www.actorsconferences.com/info.htm