Kid's Top Hollywood Acting Coach

Moving your Kid's and Teen's Acting Career Forward

How does a fashion model do a full turn ?

 

A turn which is visually alluring on the runway is the model’s full turn. It makes the clothes appear as if they are wafting in air and can make a dress appear magical. Here is model Marissa demonstrating how to do a full turn.

 
Runway modeling is a specialty all its own.  Runway models have to enjoy performing live and have some acting skills. The best runway models know how to to conjure up the right attitude to match the mood of the the outfit they are wearing. Runway modeling has all the glamour and excitement of a Broadway show. Runway shows are almost always fully choreographed from the opening scene to the grande finale. Models quickly enter, rapidly move down the catwalk, perform several pivots, turns, assume various poses and exit gracefully.

 

The full turn can be used in many different ways. It can be performed at the top middle or end of the runway and is mostly seen done in the middle of the runway. When and where ever a model chooses to do a full turn, it always delights.

 

I remember in one fashion show I was performing a full turn and I stepped right out of my shoe. I worked with taller models who had larger feet than me. The fashion coordinator would use larger sized shoes and have the smaller feet models stuff them with tissue. I knew I HAD to put the shoe back on so I gracefully picked up the shoe gave a little smile and away I went down the runway. Modeling is so much fun! Even if you lose a shoe!

 
At 3-2-1- Acting School in Los Angeles, we teach runway modeling, which includes learning the model’s full turn. Come and join us in a free trial class and you too can learn how to walk like a model. See you in class!
 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

From your Top Hollywood Acting/Modeling coach for kids,

 

Ms. Mae Ross

www.321talentshowcase.com

How should a model/actor prepare for a “Fitting?”

 Fitting and Fashion Show Etiquette

(Even though this post is directed to models, actors should abide by these rules too!)

Congratulations! You have gotten a job in a fashion show. You’ve worked hard, done everything right and now is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Now there are certain things expected of you in your professional life. Your conduct at fittings, shows how prepared you are for any situation and your behavior is noticed by your employer, the designer, the fashion coordinator etc. If you learn the proper procedures, you’ll be ahead of the game. Clients will respect you want to hire you and recommend you for more modeling jobs.
 

Fitting Etiquette

 
1. A model always arrives 15 minutes early before their fitting time. Never more than this or you could be in the way: NEVER BE LATE.

2. A model arrives for the fitting freshly showered, wearing a light                          unscented deodorant, NEVER wear white heavy anti-perspirant it will get on the garments. If you perspire heavy you need to bring dress shields.

3. A model always shows up wearing light makeup and has perfectly groomed hair.

4. A model checks in with the fashion coordinator immediately.

5. If you are over 18 you always go to the fitting alone. NEVER bring your family or friends. Under 18 bring only ONE PARENT.

7. A model always wears sparkling clean lingerie.

8. A model never chews gum , smokes or drinks-EVER!

9. A model is happy and enthusiastic with each garment given to them to try on. Let the fashion coordinator decide what you can and cannot wear. DON’T express your opinion unless it’s asked.

10. A model always hangs up the garments, NEVER throws them on the floor!  Be good to the clothes, they are not yours and most are going back on the rack.

11. A model never steps into a skirt or dress, ALWAYS over the head so as not to tear a hem etc.

12. A model uses a scarf or makeup/hair hood. The clothing must be protected from stains.

13. A model NEVER sits in the merchandise.

14.  A model always checks with the coordinator to see what accessories, shoes etc. she should include in her tote bag.

15. A model always thanks the coordinator for the time spent with her.

 

I have had the pleasure of producing many fashion shows. When hiring models, I would observe first if they had a great attitude and second if they handled and treated the clothes with extreme care. Those models who did not show up well groomed who stepped into skirts, who didn’t wear a makeup hood to protect the clothes from stains, did not get hired for my next show.

 
Remember these rules and you will be a hit on and off the runway!

 

Come learn how to model and learn what it takes to be a professional model .Visit us at our acting/modeling school in Los Angeles for kids, teens and young adults. We offer a complimentary class!
 
Thanks for stopping by!
 
From your  top Hollywood acting and modeling coach for kids!
 
Ms. Mae Ross

www.321TalentShowcase.com

 

 

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What is an actor’s demo reel?

What is an actor’s demo reel?

An actor’s demo reel is a compilation of the actor’s work. It is a video resume that showcases all of the actor’s best performances. The actor’s demo reel is like a movie trailer—not a short film. It is enticing, concise, shows various emotions and scenes, and convinces a casting director to want to see you!

 

What should be included in an actor’s demo reel?

The purpose of the actor’s demo reel is to showcase his or her acting. In your demo reel, you want to include scenes that really show what you can do! Including a variety of scenes—comedic, dramatic, heavy, light—will not only show your depth as an actor but also capture the viewer’s attention.

 

How is an actor’s demo reel used in the industry?

Casting directors and agents uses actor’s reels when finding talent. When actors are submitted for jobs, the casting directors not only sort actors by their headshots and resumes, but they also go through their reels to get an idea of their on camera presence and skill level. The demo reel is usually the deciding factor for whether an actor will be asked to audition. Sometimes, after a casting director views a demo reel, he or she will ask the actor to come in for a call back and skip the initial audition. When meeting with a talent agency, they will also want to see your reel because it is the tool they will be using to find you jobs.

 

What else should actors have besides their demo reel?

Because casting directors have to go through hundreds of reels, which is very time consuming, sometimes a clip will be requested instead. If a clip is requested, the casting director is looking for someone who has already played the type of character in casting director’s project. For this reason, it is good to have a couple short clips, 10 to 30 seconds. An actor should have a dramatic clip, a comedic clip, a commercial clip, and a hosting clip.

 

 

In our showcase class, we create an actor’s demo reel for each of our kids, teens, and young adults. Because most of our actors are starting out and breaking into the industry, they do not have professional footage, so we create a high quality, beginners’ reels for them.  It’s so important to have something professional that shows casting director’s where you’re at as an actor! To learn more about what should be in your actor’s demo reel and its format, read our Top 10 Tips for Actor’s Demo Reels article.

 

If you or your child is interested in working in the industry, come to a free introductory acting class at our studio in Los Angeles, 3-2-1 Acting Studios. Come see why so many of our students are booking jobs and working in the industry!

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

Your top Hollywood acting coach for kids, teens, and young adults,

 

Ms. Mae Ross

 

http://www.321TalentShowcase.com

 

What is a PSA? (SAG)

What is a PSA? (SAG) PSA stands for public service announcement.  A PSA is a short commercial that touches on a serious topic, like underage drinking, domestic violence, or teen pregnancy. The United Way or the Cerebral Palsy Foundation create PSAs to ask the public to get involved and help with their cause or to donate money for their cause. For example, if a company does a non-smoking campaign, their goal is to raise awareness of the harmful effects of smoking and guide smokers to a resource where they can find help to quit.

 

Children and teens are also needed in a PSA. 3-2-1 Acting Student Adelaide Lawren recently played a teenage girl in a PSA for StayTeen.org. The goal of this PSA was to raise awareness of teen pregnancy and encourage abstinence. There are many PSAs for teenagers that have to do with not texting while driving,  drug and alcohol use, and even daily exercise.

 

Usually, for a PSA, your child will be paid for the day’s work. This is called a buyout. A day’s pay for a SAG PSA is currently $592.20. However, many actors volunteer their time to make a PSA. Being a part of a PSA is a great way to use your talents to help a cause. PSAs are seen by large audiences and can help shape the public opinion.

 

If you or your child would like to prepare for commercial work and start auditioning for commercials, come to my studio for a free trial class to see how we can help you not only bring your winning personality to an audition but also be professional and effective on set.

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

Your top hollywood acting coach for kids and teens,

 

Ms. Mae Ross

 

www.321TalentShowcase.com

How to Turn at the End of the Runway

 

Like many young girls I dreamed of becoming a fashion model, but it was in the 7th grade that I thought I might really get to be one. Why? Well for one thing, I was 5′ 7″ tall and weighed  105 lbs. and I loved clothes! I would spend hours putting together outfits and viewed each day as an opportunity to “show-off” my personal sense of style.

Speaking of “showing off” this is exactly what a model does when she is strutting down the catwalk. In our modeling video lesson, our 2 models Marissa and Lauren are demonstrating  how to perform the “T” turn at the end of the runway so they can turn around and return to where they began.

If you want to learn visual poise and runway modeling come visit us at 3-2-1-Talent Showcase Acting School for children, teens and young adults in Los Angeles.  We offer a free trial class.

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

Your top Hollywood Acting Coach for kids and teens!

 

Ms. Mae Ross

www.321TalentShowcase.com

Should I memorize my lines at a cold reading?

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I would not recommend fully memorizing your lines at a cold reading. If your audition becomes about retreiving words you are no longer expressing yourself through the character because you are too concentrated on getting the words right. Acting is NOT just about reciting words, it is about you bringing life, breathe and emotion to the words.

 

The reason Showbiz refers to many auditions as a “cold reading” is because the actor either does not get the script ahead of time or does not get much time to prepare, before he must deliver the “stellar” cold reading performance. In addition, on a SAG Union audition the casting director may only keep an actor for 1 hour or else pay overtime audition fees. Which the production company has to pay. No casting director wants to burden their production complany clients with overtime payments to actors! So is best not to worry about getting the words exactly right.

 

Should you get as familiar with the material as you can? YES of course. However, casting directors, writers, producers and directors do not expect you to be completly memorized on the first read (audition). On the call back yes be memorized, but your job at the first cold reading is to create a believable character.

 

Cold reading takes skill. Lots of skill and requires lots of practice. You have to be able to quickly swoop down over the script grab your line fast, bring your face up and deliver your line to the other actor. You must keep your face up and stay focused on your scene partner until he says his line and don’t go back to your script until you have REACTED to his line!!  You cannot leave this type of skill to chance. At 3-2-1- Acting School in Los Angeles for kids, teens and young adults we practice cold reading EVERY class and every class is on-camera. This way you can watch yourself to be sure you are using the cold reading techniques we teach. The techniques which will get you a call back.

 

If you are ready to get started please sign up for our Free trial acting class which always includes a cold reading! Remember what your mom said and she was right… “Practice makes perfect.”

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

From your Top Hollywood Acting coach for kids,

 

Ms. Mae Ross

www.321talentshowcase.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What is an Infomercial? (SAG, AFTRA)

Infomercials are shot in a talk show format and are used to sell products. But what is an informercial exactly? Just like it’s name—infomercial—it’s a very informative commercial that can span the length of an entire television show.

 

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The product’s features are highlighted, the product is shown off and tested, and viewers can call in to purchase the product. For example, the Magic Bullet is sold through infomercials.  All of the features are highlighted in a breakfast setting with friends while one of the ladies shows how to use it.

 

Infomercials might not seem like they are for child actors, but there are dozens of infomercials that need children and teens. For example, if children’s clothing is being sold, they will want children modeling the clothing. Also, if toys are being sold, a child will usually be shown playing with it and talking about it’s features or how fun the toy is. Children are also on infomercials for cooking products, exercise equipment, like trampolines, and electronics.

 

Currently, infomercials are done with AFTRA and are paid on a half show pay scale.  Here’s an excerpt from their website.

 

Performers shall be compensated in accordance with the rate schedule set forth below for each infomercial in which the performer works:

On-Camera Performer or Hosts: $1,184.40 for the 1st day of work

$592.20 for each additional day

Five Lines or less (including models): $558.35 per day

Extra Performers: $132.85 per day

Off Camera Announcers: $592.20 per 4-hour session

 

With the SAFG AFTRA merger, the payment could change; however, it would not decrease.

 

My sister booked an infomercial as a hostess for a hand blender. She was flown out to New Orleans and stayed in the French quarter—all expenses paid, of course. Infomercials are a great opportunity to do what you love—act—and to work more closely with a certain product or brand. She loved the hand blender and was delighted to be given a few of them to take home.

 

If you or your child is interested in acting and would like to get into commercial work, please come to my studio for a free trial class to see if this is for you.  Professional actors who are currently booking commercials teach our classes, so your child will be very competitive when he or she gets to the audition room.

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

From your top Hollywood acting coach for kids and teens,

 

Ms. Mae Ross

 

www.321TalentShowcase.com

 

 

 

Image Credit: http://blogofbad.wordpress.com/2008/08/06/bad-business-infomercials/

How to Keep your Child Actor’s Resume up to Date

Your acting resume is an extremely important tool that will help you or your child get acting jobs. Keeping it up to date is essential because it keeps you competitive. Having your most current projects on your resume is a must.
 
Here is a sample child actor’s resume:
 
Child Actor Sample Resume 3-2-1 Acting Studio

Here are some tips to help you keep your or your child actor’s resume up to date:

 

  1. Add your newest project immediately. At the end of the day, the job you just finished should be on your acting resume. Some projects take months to release, and you can’t wait that long to add it to your acting resume. If you’ve done it, make sure it’s on your resume!

    2.  

  2. In emergencies, use a pencil. If you find yourself at an audition the day after a shoot that went late into the night and you didn’t get a chance to update your resume, grab a pencil and write it in! Then when you get home, get it on your resume.

    3.  

  3. Keep all of your resumes up to date. This includes hardcopies to digital copies. Be sure that your extra copies in your car are always up to date. When you update your hardcopy, check it against your resume on acting websites and your own acting site. All of your copies should be the same.

    4.  

  4. Always print your resume on a separate paper. Because your resume or your child actor’s resume will change week-to-week or even day-to-day, you want to be able to update it constantly. However, if you print your resume to the back of your headshots, you won’t be able to update it. Print it on a separate piece of paper, so you can attach it to your headshot.

    5.  

  5. Staple your resume–don’t glue! Staple your resume to each of the four corners to your headshot. When you flip your headshot over, your resume will be on the other side. Avoid paperclips as they can fall off or snag to other resumes and papers. If you get a job before you use the 4-5 resumes that you printed, you can easily pull them off if they’re stapled. Then you can staple the updated resume copy to the headshot. This way you won’t waste any expensive prints!

 

In my showcase class, I teach all of my students or their parents how to make an acting resume. Then I proof their resume or their child actor’s resume and answer any of their questions. Because it is such an essential tool for the actor, I focus my attention on each student individually.

Shane Smith Prepares for Talent Agents

 

I am so proud to introduce to you 3-2-1-Acting School trained 10 year old actor  Shane Smith. In this video Shane is performing his SHOWCASE scripts; a TV commercial and then a monologue. Three times a year at my acting school for kids and teens in Los Angeles, I produce a Talent Showcase attended by top talent agents. I approve 25 talented students to perform. Not only was Shane approved to perform, but he was granted a full scholarship! The following is a review written by Shane’s dad Mr. Peter Mc Gowan:

 

“My son Shane started working with Ms. Mae in November 2011 and signed with an agent last week, March 2012. Ms. Mae and her staff are amazing people who care deeply about what they do. This is no ordinary acting school. They treat each child as an individual and guide them to their highest potential. My son loved going to class. We will continue to take classes at 3-2-1. Thank you Ms Mae for all that you do. ” Peter Mc Gowan (dad)

 

You can see by watching this video that Shane is ready to audition and work in Hollywood movies and TV. He signed with Clear Talent Group in Los Angeles and is working with longtime well respected agent Jody Alexander.  And I just heard a high caliber talent manager wants to interview with Shane too!

 

If you work hard in class like Shane does, you too can learn how to become a great actor. I invite you to visit our acting school’s website www.321TalentShowcase.com and check out our class description page.

 

We at 3-2-1- Acting school want to congratulate and wish Shane the very best as he embarks on his newfound acting career. Go get ‘em!

 

Why not stop by and attend our complimentary TV/Film Acting class.

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

From your top Hollywood acting coach for kids!

 

Ms. Mae Ross

 

www.321TalentShowcase.com

What is “Crashing” an Audition?

Signing in at 321ActingSchool- Acting classes 4 Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Signing in at 321ActingSchool- Acting classes 4 Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Ever heard anyone tell you that they “crashed” an audition? What is crashing an audition? Do you want to crash an audition?

 

Crashing an audition is a like crashing a party. You are NOT invited! So when an actor goes to a casting office for one audition and subtly signs in for another audition as well he is “crashing” the audition.  By doing this, some actors think that it will give them an advantage: a shot at landing another commercial. But it actually gives the actor an even bigger disadvantage.

 

There are only so many casting offices in Hollywood. Building a solid relationship with casting offices will help you to be their go to person. When a client is looking for talent, they know they can rely on you to deliver. If you crash auditions, you will frustrate a lot of casting directors, especially if you’re not right for the role and are taking up more of their time. An audition is already hectic enough for most casting directors without you trying to add to their schedule. If you want to be respectable and professional, don’t crash auditions. It’s simply not worth it. Don’t be known to casting agencies as an audition crasher.

 

You can also help casting directors by stopping other parents from crashing your or your child’s auditions. If you or your child has an audition, don’t tell other showbiz parents/friends about the specifics of the audition, like who the audition is for and where and when the audition takes place. Other parents and friends might use this information to go and crash an audition.

 

In my acting classes for kids, teens, and young adults, I teach my students to be professional. Before they go to their first audition, they already know what is expected of them and how they should behave. This is why so many of my students book. They look like they have already booked dozens of spots! If you or your child would like to learn how to act and get out there, come to a free complimentary acting class to see if this is for you!

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

From your top Hollywood Acting Coach for kids and teens,

 

Ms. Mae Ross

www.321TalentShowcase.com