Lazy Actors Need Not Apply

I've had the opportunity to be a director this year on a few occasions and I'm noticing a common theme with actors: Laziness.  Maybe that's too harsh of a word, but actors are simply not putting in the work.  With being an actor myself, I'm trying to make sense of this.  I understand the hustle part of this business.  Especially in NY and if you don't have an agent. You're always running around looking for the next gig, months go by...no gig...submit like crazy...still no gigs.  Then all of a sudden you book multiple gigs and of course they all go up or shoot around the same time.  We wouldn't dare turn down any opportunity to work so we say yes to all the gigs that come our way, forgetting that each gig requires it's own 'time'.  You gotta prepare for these roles! Or at least you should.  As an actor I understand not wanting to turn down gigs, believing that I'll have the time to put in for each role, but as a director I could care less.  All I know is that you're showing up unprepared, constantly on your phone, not fully committed, haven't made not one solid choice for your character and/or you get a simple direction and you're completely thrown off.   I'm not thinking about all the other productions you have or how many "hats" you chose to wear.  All I know is that I most likely wouldn't have you on any production I'm a part of in which I have a say in who is cast. I now fully understand why directors work with the same people.  It's a trust factor.  I'm an actor first, so I know what it is to get a direction that may not resonate with me, but I respect the director and find a way to make it work.  Depending on the relationship I may respectfully explain where I was coming from in hopes of finding a common ground. If that's not an option, I suck it up and do everything I can to give the director what he/she wants.  Maybe I'm just making this a way bigger situation than what it really is.  Maybe the business has moved into fully accepting mediocrity (thank you reality tv).  Whatever the  case may be, I'm not going to accept that for my own work ethic. I will continue to treat every project like I'm getting paid the big bucks, so when I finally do get those dollars, I won't be thrown off by the work needed to be put in.  

Not really feeling you...

Man oh man! It's been an interesting couple of months. I've learned a lot.  I had an agent and a manager, dropped both and ended up with a new agency.  That whole process was such a learning experience.  It taught me about myself, what I want for me and my career.  I learned that it's imperative that I'm mindful about the team I'm building, even at this level.  The agent that I professionally parted ways with had no idea of my work, didn't ask for a monologue and refused to submit me for theater.  I said o.k., like 99.9% of actors would because we just want to say we have representation and hope by some miracle the auditions will start flooding in.  I'm glad it was just a verbal agreement to "test" the waters, so that's why I said yes, lets try this out. I mean no contract was signed.  But deep down down inside I knew he wasn't the kind of agent that screamed longevity.  I felt like I was there to just meet a quota.  I actually decided to part ways about 3 months in, when I actually forgot that I "had an agent".  That's never a good sign.  So I politely sent an email, he responded politely and that was that.  Now for the manager...we never met in person.  He was so busy with pilot season...I get it.  So we had a phone interview. He was very...what's the word...can't think of a single word so how about a phrase: He was very "you need me in order for your career to go anywhere".  That's never a good way to come at this actor.  I asked a simple question about my reel.  Sometimes as actors we think our package is awesome, and then someone else looks at it and gives up tips to make it better.  So I figured, why not ask someone who I might possibly work with what he thinks.  Because after all, I want to make sure I'm doing everything on my end to make sure I'm a bit easier to talk up to the CD's to give me a chance.  He proceeded to "lecture" me about how actors need to have more confidence in themselves and all this other crap.  Dude, I just asked for your opinion about my reel.  Whatever. I was ready to end the conversation with a thanks but no thanks when I was completely thrown when he asked us to freelance.  Am I bugging?  Were we on the same awkward phone call in which you talked and talked, asked me a question, cut me off and proceeded to talk some more?  You talked down to everything I was doing in my power to get ahead as an actor with no representation.  You were feeling yourself from beginning to end.  I think I said o.k. out of pure shock.  I remember ending the call thinking "WTF just happened".  But I never reached out again other than to tell him professionally that we need to part ways...a month after the phone interview.  I actually met my current agent at a seminar.  I know...I know.  Those pay-to-meets bring up all types of feelings.  But nevertheless, we met, had a meeting at her office a few weeks later, then we both agreed to work with each other.  It was very eye opening.  It let me know that there are agents who view actors as people.  Yes,  we are all out to make money, but freakin' treat me as a human being...please.  So there you have it folks.  Patience is key in this business.  Knowing what you want is key in this business.  Knowing your worth is key in this business! Until next time...stay focused and encouraged! 

Strategic patience

I can't believe that it's seriously November...tomorrow :)  Time has flew by.  This year has absolutely opened my eyes about the business side of things.  It's all about having a strategy, and having patience.  Two things that I did not have.  I'm not afraid to admit that.  I thought that having talent was enough.  Unfortunately, there are a lot of super talented people who aren't and will never be working actors.  That's the harsh reality of this business.  I love attending workshops with guest speakers who have the career that I'm striving to achieve.  Their stories are motivating and definitely have a similar tune.  Most, if not all, had experienced that time in their career where they were just about to give up.   They talked about the times in their journey where nothing, and I mean NOTHING was happening for them.  They would audition time after time and still nothing.  And I'm not just talking about months, for some there were years that went by and nothing.  It's crazy, but in a few stories they talked about being in those dull periods, being offered work, and turning down the work.  Now you may be thinking, 'Why the hell would an actor turn down work"?  Not until this year, did I understand why they did it.  They were trying to re-brand themselves.  It's the difference between only being called in for co-star roles to being called in for series regular roles.  If you keep accepting day player roles, that's all everyone will see you as.  And because they stood firm, and knew what they wanted out of their career, they are now reaping the benefits.  It's about having a plan and sticking to it.  It's about taking control of your career.  It's about having patience. I believe that having patience is easier when you have a plan in place.  Because you know that you're working, planting seeds day in and day out and it's just a matter of time before things begin to happen.   I'm determined to finish out 2015 strong and looking forward to 2016 and all of its many blessings!  Until next time...loving Jesus, life and every opportunity.  Follow me on Twitter & Instagram - @ShashoneLambert

Staying true to me!

It's been an interesting year to say the least.  Not in a bad way.  It just seems like nothing is going how I had planned.  Which is not a bad thing, it's a mind opening thing.  This thing called life is unbelievably unpredictable.  And not letting it get in the way of you reaching your goals is a fight, I will admit.  I'm pleased that I haven't let anything stop me from reaching my short term goals which are getting me closer to my long term goals.  Happy to say that I'm working with an agent now.  Praying that everything works with that.  However, agent or no agent my "hustle" is still the same.  I'll never feel comfortable putting my career in the hands of someone else.  I've realized that it's all about strategy and doing what works best for me.  I'm narrowing down on my "type" which is a word that quite honestly is very annoying to me.  Because everyone seems to have an idea of what an actors type is.  But, that's the business for you.  Everyone is going to have an opinion, but what matters is what you're comfortable with.  And ultimately I'm learning to keep my feelings out of things.  There's no room for feelings in this business.  I know that sounds terribly bad, but it's so true.  I guess what I'm trying to say is that I'm now understanding the business side of acting more and more.  I wish I could give a defining moment when everything just clicked for me, but I can't.   I just now understand when people say  that talent is just not enough to make it.  It's all good. I used to be worried about how long it would take me to "make it".  Now...I'm just enjoying the journey.  Until next time...Loving Jesus, life and every opportunity.  Check me out on twitter & instagram - @ShashoneLambert

The fear of greatness

So I had the pleasure of seeing my work screened at an amazing theater (pictured below) as part of a film festival.  I didn't produce it but I did write it and was part of the cast.  It was kind of a surreal experience.  Granted it was only a 15min film, but the fact that something I wrote was now being screened in the type of theater where you'd see major blockbuster type films...it was so...scary.  I know that wasn't what you were expecting me to say.  It's the realization that I have more power over my career than I previously perceived that makes the experience scary.  I have the power and the ability to write something, give other actors opportunities, have someone who believes in my work that's willing to put money behind my words...isn't that what people dream about?  I absolutely never, EVER, wanted to be anything except an actor.  Just let me audition, book the role, get my call time and do what I do!  I guess God has other plans for me.   A strong passion for writing has started. Not just writing but producing and that's a whole other ball game.  I realized that the fear of success is and can be very crippling.  The fear of, "Oh crap, this might actually work and I've had no formal training or anything!" is...well it could really stop you from moving forward into your greatness.  And even though it sounds silly, there are plenty of people who have unknowingly sabotaged their own dreams because they weren't able to admit that yes, they have a fear of success.  I guess it's having some knowledge of what comes along with success; the expectations placed on you by yourself and other people, people depending on you for their own well being, wondering how long this success will last, etc. that perpetuates the fear.  But never fear, I'm a fighter.  Not like that...well...I can be if necessary lol, but my parents instilled in me a crazy work ethic.  They've instilled in me never to give up on your dreams no matter how scary or impossible it may seem.  So a new journey has began.  Although I don't know how I'm going to get there, as long as I keep God first, I know success will be my destination. Don't forget to follow on Twitter and Instagram - @ShashoneLambert

I got this...really I do :)

I so did not realize that it has been this long since I've written a post.  But here I am, in 2015, with a new outlook.  At the beginning of the year, I vowed not to do anymore non-union, non-paid work.  I'm proud to say that I have stuck to that thus far.  Yes, things are way slower, but somehow I feel more validated as an artist.  I don't have to say yes to everything.  It's alright to say my time and talent have value.  I'm back in class, which just enhances my passion for my craft.  And for the first time since I decided to pursue acting, I'm focusing all of my time and energy into it.  Prior years I've let my job, people, fear stop me from putting my everything into it.  Then I would sit back and wonder why I'm not further in my career.  That all stopped this year.  And I will say this: I will absolutely get an agent this year.  Not just any agent, but an agent who knows my work, believes in my work and can see where I'm going.  I'm sick of listening to everybody about what's "right", what "the rules" are. I can and will land an agent.  I finally feel like NOW is the right time.  I have a lot to offer.  I'm putting together my package (yes, I'm doing it the old school way...mailings...lol). I'm making sure that everything is up-to-date, including my social media accounts.  Uuugh...as much as I have a love/hate...really hate relationship with social media, I do know that it's important.  But I'm feeling good, and I look forward to posting updates about my "finding an agent" journey!!  Until next time: Loving Jesus, life and every opportunity!  www.ShashoneLambert.com / www.InvestmentsTheSeries.com

Black Theater...We have a problem!

I had the honor of sitting in on a conversation which focused on Black Theater.  I say it was an honor, because it really opened my eyes to see things for what they really are.  The people that were speaking had every right to voice their opinions because, not to give away their age but, they have been around this business for many years.  My jaws dropped when I was informed that some of the most prestigious Black Theater companies where not owned by black people.  Really?!! Are you kidding me??!!  It's just so hard to believe that we still rely on other people to give us permission to tell our stories.  I hear more often than not how we need fresh new stories about us on stage.  And I totally agree.  Not just because I'm a writer, but because I know of other writers who pen some amazing work that the actor side of me is just waiting for the opportunity to tackle. So why aren't these pieces going up?  Politics!  It all boils down to politics, which is such a shame.  So I immediately start thinking of what I can do to change this.  Many thoughts came to my mind.  As much as I would love to "just be an actor", I realize God is preparing me for bigger things, opportunities, titles.  What exactly is my plan?  Well, I can't tell you that. I mean I could, but I'd have to cause you bodily harm after! Just joking...somewhat :)  But I have to be honest with myself.  I'm a game-changer.  I would love to sit in the background and just complain but my conscience, work ethic and passion won't let that happen.  Now that it's out in the open, I have no other choice but to start building my foundation for changing the game!  As always: Loving Jesus, life and every opportunity!  Don't forget to follow me on twitter: @ShashoneLambert  and check out my Award winning webseries: www.InvestmentsTheSeries.com 

Male Actor Needed for NAACP Theatre Festival

African American Male Actor needed for the LA debut of “Last Call for Love” at the NAACP Theatre Festival. Performance date is Saturday, September 13th at noon and will be held at the Nate Holden Center in LA.  Only video submissions will be accepted.  Sides will be emailed.

Please send HS/Resume/Reels to LC4LCasting@gmail.com  Pay is $60.

Breakdown - AA Male, 20’s, college student, exudes confidence, determined, goal oriented, hopeless romantic

Finding balance

Whenever someone asks me what I do for fun I simply reply, "I work!".  Yup, this business operates 24/7 and  I try to operate the same way as best as humanly possible.  Now that may sound completely unhealthy and I'm not going to argue with you on that.  But in my defense when I'm on my computer for hours updating my reel, looking for casting notices, etc. it really doesn't feel like "work".  I enjoy it, I really do.  The feeling of being productive is what I like best and it fuels me to keep it going the next day, and the next day after that, and...well you get the picture.  I now realize that it's equally important to find some kind of balance in my life.  It's OK for me to go to the movies with friends, or even just hang out at a friends house and do absolutely nothing that's related to acting.  It's a hard thing to do though.  We always hear about missed opportunities and the old saying, "stay ready so you won't have to get ready when an opportunity presents itself."  That's what I drill to myself constantly, but lets face it, I'm no good if I'm burnt out.  So I make a conscious effort to just enjoy life and every part of it, whether it has to deal with the business or not.  I give myself permission to live.  I find that when I do this, I'm actually much more creative and much more present in my work.  So, take time out to live...and enjoy doing it!!  Until next time...Loving Jesus, life and every opportunity!!  Follow me on twitter: @ShashoneLambert  and my hit webseries @InvestmentsTV

Casting for my Short Comedic Play!

Casting for short comedic play "Set Up By Love" - A classic story of love, friendship & tampons. 

Written By: Shashone Lambert 
Directed By: Steven Strickland 

Performance dates: Saturday, March 29th & Sunday March 30th (Must have full availability on both days) 

Rehearsals: beginning immediately, 3 Rehearsals, Evenings, based on actors availability 

Pay: $25 Stipend 

 Audition: Sunday, March 16th 8:30pm - 10pm, midtown manhattan 

Submit HS/Resume to SUBLCasting@gmail.com 

Seeking(non-equity): 

Stacey - ANY ethnicity, 20's, loving, loyal, plans every aspect of her life & freaks out when things veer off, commitment freak 

John - ANY ethnicity, 20's, the comedian of the group...or so he thinks, smart yet refuses to do anything remotely resembling work, really does have good intentions 

Thanks for your interest & I look forward to your submissions.

Socially Anti-Social...

Network! Network! Network! That's all I keep hearing.  Along with, "It's all about who you know!" I get it, I really do.  But I have to be honest with myself...I suck at networking.  Not because I don't know how. I mean I've seen it done a million times both successfully & unsuccessfully.  However, it's just not me to walk up to someone I don't know, pretend I'm interested in anything other than if they have a project that I can audition for.  Let's face it, no matter how "cool" an actor thinks they are, you can smell their desperation with a touch of BS a mile away.  So what do I do? I use whatever my strengths are to network.  I am good at administrative things.  I also have great organizational skills.  With this, I may volunteer at a theater company, or film festival.  I may be a casting assistant or reader at auditions.  There's a number of things that I do that put me in front of people that I should meet, but in a more comfortable environment for me.  So I can be myself, strike up a conversation, all while working or assisting.  So they get to see my personal side as well as my business side all at once.  I must constantly remind myself that this business is not made for everyone to succeed the same way.  That's the beauty of it.  What works for one person may not work for me. I have to stay true to who I am, and trust that I'm working in a way that's best for me & my brand!  Until next time...stay focused and encouraged! Loving Jesus, life and every opportunity.

It's ME...not you - Headshot Drama!

Those were the words that I spoke to my manager when he called me in for a meeting.  I had the pleasure of meeting him at one of those pay-to-meet seminars. (I know, those are so controversial in the acting world) Anyhoo, he apologized for not getting me out more. Then he said something that didn't catch me by surprise, then again it did catch me by surprise. (Yeah I know, but I do have a point) He said that a few casting directors asked him who I was, because one week he submits me for one type, then the next week he submits me for another type.  My manager's defense is that he knows my range and believes I am capable of every role that he has submitted me for.  And that's why I am working with this manager.  He knows my work, he even came to one of my shows. So when he fights for me, he can do it with a clear conscience.  That's awesome and all, but lets face it, CD's don't really have the time to "think outside of the box". They look at a headshot & decide whether or not the actor fits what they're looking for.  So, it wasn't really the fault of my manager because I, as the actor, wasn't clear on how I wanted & should be marketed. There's no way that I would let my manager take full blame for my lack of auditions/bookings. I realized that my current headshot absolutely SUCKS!! And that has nothing to do with the photographer. She's actually great, and I am shooting with her again.  But this time I have a clear image in my head of who I am as an actor.  Headshots are so important.  As I surfed the web looking at many headshots, I can see the difference between those that book work and those that don't. It's time for me to take things that I can control into my own hand.  I am confident in my abilities as an actor, and that confidence needs to shine through in my headshot.  These CD's should look at my headshot and wonder why they've never called me in.  Sounds too much? Trust me, I've been on the casting side and a headshot makes a difference. I look forward to taking my new headshots.  I will definitely keep you all posted on how much of a difference my new headshots made.  Until next time...stay encouraged and focused!