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

You're not gonna survive

Hey all. Well I have had several opportunities to work as a casting director. And one thing is certain: Actors can annoy the hell out of me. I'm not really sure how you have the nerve to come in extremely late for your audition and then ask to be accommodated because you have another audition to go to. Please realize that your attitude in the holding area also plays a part in whether or not you get cast. You never know who is watching or listening. As a fellow actor, my main goal is to make the actor as comfortable as possible and to provide them with the information that I would want to be provided with. WOW...how many times did I receive questions that were answered in the email I just sent out. Needless to say, I deleted those actors from the audition list. If you don't take the time to read a simple email in its entirety to see if maybe your question was answered, then who's to say that you'll take the time to read when the shoot dates are. I know...I may be over-exaggerating the situation. But keep in mind I don't know these actors. I know their headshots and resumes. I don't have time to just assume that you were in a hurry and just overlooked the information. I look for anything that may be a sign that working with you is going to be difficult. Sounds really harsh, but true. I've received 100's of submissions, and some came after the auditions were held. My goal is to find the best for the role, as well as the best to work with. When auditioning, it's not a matter of nailing it the first time which can be awesome. If you come in with a solid choice the first time, and the second time adjust to the directions that were given to you, that's just as awesome!!! So please, just realize it's the little things that can make or break you. Happy auditioning!!

Free Seminar

Free Seminar: Mailings- Faster, Smarter, Cheaper!
Cost: FREE
Date: Wednesday, June 24th
Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm
Where: Pearl Studios, 500 8th Avenue
RSVP: Please email us to reserve your spot at jk@thesavvyactor.com

Mailings are a very important part of our acting business. Yes, we know, they can be tedious, time consuming, and not always affordable. Most of us will do them without the consistency truly needed to both brand ourselves and maximize the effectiveness of our marketing efforts.

How would you like to....
• Send a 100 piece postcard mailing in less than 10 minutes?
• Send thank you cards with your headshot printed inside?
• Keep track of who you sent to, what you wrote, when you sent it and even be reminded to send your follow up?
AND... save time and money.We are ecstatic to share with you this amazing service where you can CREATE, PRINT, STAMP, and MAIL your personalized cards and postcards – at the click of a button! It is time to work smarter, not harder so come experience our free demo of the system. And you will learn marketing secrets for mailings that stand out and get you noticed.

Promotional Work

Looking for outgoing, energetic, and funny individuals to be part of the inhouse promotional street team. As a member of the street team, you will promote our comedy club by distributing flyers, water bottles, and various other promotional items. Dates: Starting in mid-June Schedule: Flexible, anywhere from 4 hours - 40 hours per week. Pay: depends on promotion. For sampling promotions, pay will be $20 per hour. For ticket sales, pay will be commission based - in the past, street teamers have made up to $100 per hour. In order to be considered, please email your photo and resume to comedystreetteam@gmail.com and tell us why you would make a great addition to our street team!

That's My Attitude

Attitude is a big thing. I came to realize this when I met with my teacher at college to discuss my final grade. For me personally, trying to juggle school and acting was a little difficult so I knew my grades wouldn't reflect what I was really capable of. Back to the story: My teacher went over with me my latenesses, absences, homework, and classwork and I was left with a C- (please don't tell my mom...lol), but because I had a great attitude she raised my grade to a B+. It really caught me off guard, but I happily accepted my final grade. As with a lot of my experiences, I try to see how I can relate it to my acting. It's amazing how much a great attitude can change the outcome of things. I've been told on numerous occasions at auditions that I have a "good energy" or a "good vibe". I don't always get casted, but I know that I've at least made another great connection that may come in handy in the future. So stay positive and keep that great attitude. It could be the very tool to raise your grade from being an extra to having a speaking role!!! Stay Blessed & encouraged!!

I'm every woman

Wouldn't that be nice to be viewed as being able to fit every role. Well it's not going to happen. I have totally come to grips with being labeled as the girl next door or the best friend. Which nine times out of ten, I'll be chosen to play the supporting role. That's cool, because I understand that I will definitely have to prove myself as myself before I start branching out and conquering roles that go against my norm. As actors/actresses we must learn to set aside our personal feelings and realize how they (casting directors, agents, etc) see us when we walk through the door. That doesn't mean to lose who we are, just accept that you may not be the model type that casting notices always have...lol. But please believe that I will rock the supporting role, get my experience, and still believe that I am the sexiest girl alive...LMAO!!!! Until next time...Stay Blessed and Focused!!!

Who needs you???

O.K. So here it is...we have Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, and so on. So as actors or performers in general, are they really useful? I've heard actors complain about these sites being a waste of time, a way for people you don't like to be in your business, and the biggest reason, I'm just being lazy. Alright, nobody would ever admit that, but that's pretty much what it means. You have more passwords to remember, more time spent checking your friend requests and figuring out if you really know the person. Yes, it can be very time consuming. But especially if you don't have your own personal site, these sites can be very useful. Personally, I've received casting notices, paying gigs, and even connected with some actors that I've worked with in the past that were working on projects and brought me on board!!! These sites, if used professionally can be great. Of course you must be careful and use common sense. No pictures of you with alcohol in your hand and wearing your underwear on your head!! Although that may be funny, I don't think it sends a good message. Be cautious about placing your telephone numbers or address on these sites (yes, I've seen it people) In the end, anything that can help people to notice you is always a good thing!!!