Many men in the opening night audience were attracted to see “King James”, a two act play by Rajiv Joseph, running now through November 24 at GableStage in Coral Gables, because the title suggested the story would be about basketball superstar Lebron James and about the sport of basketball.
However, the play is neither about the life of James nor about the sport of basketball, but James and basketball loom large in the creation of the friendship between Matt (actor Gregg Weiner) and Shawn (Melvin Huffnagle). The premise of the introduction of Matt and Shawn in 2004 was initiated through Shawn wanting to buy a pair of tickets from Matt to see young rookie Lebron James play for his beloved hometown Cleveland Cavaliers.
There comes a point in every actor’s life where they start thinking about getting an agent. Or is it a talent agency? They might sound like the same thing, but they are not. A talent agency is a business that represents and finds entertainment gigs for hundreds, if not thousands of actors in their database. Whereas, an agent is someone who exclusively represents you (and maybe a few others), but they are personally invested in your talent and your success. So which one should you get? Well, that’s up to you! But here are a few things you should know about each in order to make your decision.
How to get started? I get this question a lot. I know the entertainment industry can seem intimidating, especially when you’re first starting out. Whether it’s theater, film, modeling, or TV, there are some basic guidelines that will apply to all! Here are my 5 audition tips for beginners.
The ending of something sweet is always bitter. As The Full Monty comes to a close at Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, I take time to reflect being part of this wonderful show. This was definitely a show to remember for so many reasons, the biggest reason is I’ve never been in a show where actors get naked on stage every night! If you’re familiar with the story of The Full Monty, then you know how funny it can be, but to those who don’t… it can be rather jaw dropping. That was the most enjoyable part for me as a cast member, watching people experience The Full Monty every night.
This year has come full circle for me as I am ending 2022 where it started. This time last year, I got my dream role of “Sandy” in Grease with MNM Theater Company at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. Fast forward to 2023, I am in the middle of rehearsals for The Full Monty at Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. Same venue… different show… different year… still doing what I love!
I thought it would be fun to look back at all of my theater achievements in 2022 and write down my hopes for the new year.
Since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a performer. It came quite naturally, as it does to those who truly have a passion for the arts. My parents recognized that, so they put me in all the classes they could! Dance classes, acting classes, singing classes, and the list goes on and on. As I grew older, my passion for the arts did not waiver. I was committed to being an actress, so I did the next best thing. I got a Bachelor’s Degree in Musical Theater! Then I was off to the races and started auditioning for EVERYTHING in my area, near and far. Then I asked myself the question that every actor faces, can I make a living out of this?
Theater has officially made its comeback since the pandemic and that means auditions are in full swing. This is what every actor, singer, dancer and director has been waiting for… including me. I was ready to give it my ALL at these auditions and I did… but that doesn’t mean it was easy. This audition season was probably the hardest one in a very long time. The highs and lows of audition season are just part of the industry. One moment you can feel so confident walking out of an audition room. The other moment you can be crying in your car questioning your worth for not getting cast.
It’s just another show day as I sit in my dressing room. Our room is filled with laughter and music as we get ready for our show. It’s one hour before show time and emotions are high. We are in the middle of a run and I feel really good about my performance and show so far. Our stage manager calls five minutes to sound check, then SUDDENLY, someone yells, “REVIEWS ARE IN!” Anxiety, excitement, and fear are the three emotions that come to mind. Did they LIKE me? Did they HATE me? Did they NOTICE me? I think to myself… oh gosh, this is my first big lead and these reviews could make or break me. What if I get a horrible review, will I ever be cast again? Or am I finally going to be recognized for all of my hard work? Should I read this before my show? Probably not the best idea because it might mess with my performance… but one little peek won’t hurt.
Welcome to my first official “Off The Record” blog, written by me, a fellow actress and friend. This blog will provide a free space for actors to share their thoughts and opinions about the theater industry. Each month there will be a question or topic posted on my personal instagram (@jessie_dez) where actors can anonymously take part while having their identities protected. As an actress myself, I want to give my theater community a place of no judgment and no matter what your opinion is, just know I will understand where you’re coming from. Just as you confide in me, I will confide in you and if you’re still skeptical then let me earn your trust. Again, this is a safe place for all of YOU, my lovely theater community.
