What’s it like to star in a short film that’s completed in only 8 days?

We rounded up a talented bunch of thespians – Lee Shorten, Alex Barima, Jerome Yoo, Lorne Cardinal, Brad Duffy, Denise Jones, Lee Majdoub, Scott McGrath, Brendan Taylor, Darien Provost, and Peter New – to talk to us about their experiences in this year’s Crazy8s films.

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Lee Shorten of Anh Hung

Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and the Crazy8s film you are acting in?

I’m Lee Shorten. I’m a former lawyer from Australia and I’m playing Tuan in Anh Hung. Anh Hung is this great coming of age story that centers on a Vietnamese Canadian family. I don’t want to give too much away but it’s inspired by actual events and offers a snapshot of the Vietnamese Canadian immigrant experience. 

What kinds of preparation did you do to get into the role?

I read as much as I could about Vietnamese culture. I also looked into Taoism and researched Vietnamese gang life and gang culture. I managed to track down some old interviews with Vietnamese Canadian immigrants and gang members which was really helpful in rounding out my understanding of that experience, books can be a little clinical sometimes. I was insanely lucky in that I got to grab dinner with the guy my character is based on and he was incredibly generous with his time and insight. I also worked with him on the accent and learnt a little Vietnamese as well. I tried to prep as much as possible, but sadly 8 days is not a lot of time.

What was the most memorable moment for you in this production?

No one thing per se. But it was Athena Ho’s, who plays Jenny (my character’s sister), first role. So just watching her grow over the 3 days was really wonderful and I’m honoured to be a small part of her journey.

What would your advice be for actors who become part of a Crazy8s film in the future? 

Accept the nature of the challenge. You only have 3 days to shoot, so do as much prep as you can and come to set with as many ideas as you can. But when you get there, be willing to compromise and be willing to play. The pace is fast and the work is challenging for all involved. You might only get a single take, just roll with it.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far?

If (and only if) you have done the work, then trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to voice your opinion. You’re not always going to be right but some of the best moments are born from conflict and compromise. The director should have the best grasp of the overall story but you should have the most in depth understanding of your character. But again, I can’t stress enough, you might not always be right but it’s usually worth a conversation. 

Recommended Reading You Can Act On Camera Click a cover for more details The Art of Voice Acting Secrets of Screen Acting Recommended Reading You Can Act On Camera Click a cover for more details The Art of Voice Acting Secrets of Screen Acting

What books have been important for you as an actor so far in your career? 

Oh man, tough question, there have been so many! The Art of Acting by Stella Adler, True and False by David Mamet, Stanley Kubrick: Interviews by Laurence Knapp, A Life in Parts by Bryan Cranston and The Conversations: Walter Murch and the Art of Editing Film by Michael Ondaatje.

What other projects are you working on and where can we find out more about you?

You can catch me as Sergeant Yoshida on Ridley Scott’s The Man in the High Castle and sometimes I hang out with Crowley on The CW’s Supernatural as well. If you really want to find out more about me, I guess you could follow me on Twitter @lcshorten.

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Alex Barima and Jerome Yoo of Cypher

Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and the Crazy8s film you are acting in?

Alex Barima: My name is Alex Barima. I’m originally from Montreal, and I’ve been acting in Vancouver for the last 5 years. In Cypher, I play the role of Thello, the young rival of protagonist Jay. Our two characters resolve their personal issues through their connection to hip hop in the late 90’s.

Jerome Yoo: My name is Jerome Yoo and I’m an actor/writer. Prior, I was a Science student at UBC before I decided to pursue acting full-time. I’m a part of this year’s Crazy8s film Cypher and play the role of Jay, the timid Korean high schooler trying to deal with the lingering tensions between the Korean and African-Americans, 5 years after the LA riots. Entranced by the rap legends of his day, he finds himself drawn to LA’s underground rap scene where he must find the resolve to step up and confront his past to hopefully bridge the misunderstandings between the two communities.

What kinds of preparation did you do to get into the role? 

Alex Barima: We had a few rehearsals before the shoot with Lawrence, our director, to build and explore each character.

Jerome Yoo: Rapping. A lot of rapping. I watched an unhealthy amount of battle videos on Youtube, and spent hours in front of a mirror rapping along to Hip Hop greats. I also tried to write a verse everyday. Here’s one: Yo, I’m a savant, working in a restaurant. Here’s your croissant, so can I have your number, nonchalant? Worst pick-up line ever, haha…

What was the most memorable moment for you in this production?

Alex Barima: Filming the last scene was an experience I’ll never forget; it happened to be the last scene of the shoot, and everyone there gave it everything they had. 

Jerome Yoo: So many! I think I shed some manly tears when our DP, Leo Harim, pulled me aside and told me the entire crew had my back on the first day. It meant a lot to me. Our director Lawrence Le Lam announcing that I booked the role of Jay at our first production meeting was also a pretty sweet moment. 

What would your advice be for actors who become part of a Crazy8s film in the future?

Alex Barima: Bring a lot of care and dedication to your work because it’s all that holds these projects together, and they are definitely worth it. 

Jerome Yoo: Do another hour of table work and analysis! I wish I had another hour…

What’s the valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far?

Alex Barima: To never take for granted what I accomplish in this business, and always keep looking ahead. 

Jerome Yoo: Don’t eat chili on set and use the restroom while your lav mic is on.

What books have been important for you as an actor so far in your career?

Alex Barima: Unfortunately I’m not much of a reader. 

Jerome Yoo: One Piece. 

What other projects are you working on and where can we find out more about you?

Alex Barima: I’m currently doing Voice Over work for an animated Netflix series. You can follow me on Facebook or IMDB.

Jerome Yoo: Back to the drawing board for me! Find me on social media @jeromeoyoo.

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Lorne Cardinal, Brad Duffy, and Denise Jones of No Reservations

Lorne Cardinal’s Photo Credit: Shimon

Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and the Crazy8s film you are acting in?

Lorne Cardinal: No Reservations is a comedic spin on the pipeline issues happening across the country today. A what if…story.

Brad Duffy: I’m a Vancouver-based actor who moved here from Alberta about six years ago to transition my acting career into more of a film focus. I’ve seen Trevor Carroll (the director) in the casting room for years but this is the first time I’ve been able to work with him personally.  He’s a pretty cool dude, for the record. I also do a lot of improv around the city.  No Reservations is a satirical take on the pipeline issues we’ve been having in BC, but has broader relevance.  I’d say it’s funny enough to be entertaining, while true enough to be poignant.

Denise Jones: My name is Denise Jones. I am a stage and film performer in Vancouver and the current Artistic Director of Vancouver TheatreSports League. I play the role of Marilyn Whiteman in No Reservations. It’s a fun satirical take on current pipeline protests.

What kinds of preparation did you do to get into the role?

Lorne Cardinal: Just read the script a lot, looking for rhythms & places where setups and payoffs can happen. Also being familiar with the story to allow for spontaneity and improvisation to happen.

Brad Duffy: The preparation was pretty standard: memorize the lines, look up what the material was referencing, and try to figure out the tone it’s going for.  We had a meeting where Trevor talked us through some of the beats where he needed something specific.

Denise Jones: I had been an avid watcher of the coverage of the protests at Standing Rock, so was pretty in the loop on the material. As far as prep for the role, I showed up ready to play. The cast assembled was so funny and talented it was so fun and easy to step into.

What was the most memorable moment for you in this production?

Lorne Cardinal: Seeing people I’ve worked with before and feeling welcomed into a highly dedicated group of creative beings. All I had to do was not screw up.

Brad Duffy: The most memorable moment was probably hitting Lorne Cardinal in the face with a beach ball; there he is being so professional, and my mind is just saying, “please beach ball, don’t make this guy get hit in the face 17 times, fly true.”  I’ll also remember Denise Jones cracking me up all weekend.

Denise Jones: We were shooting an idyllic look at the main married couple’s lives when out of nowhere a massive rainbow appeared and the whole cast hustled to move the entire camera set-up and video village to  accommodate it. It was insane.

What would your advice be for actors who become part of a Crazy8s film in the future?

Lorne Cardinal: Don’t stray too far from set, save your energy when not working and nap when you can.

Brad Duffy: Just come ready to work, and to enjoy the work.

Denise Jones: Come prepared for anything. Know your lines backwards and forwards as time is VERY VERY limited. Know that it’s going to be a great time as awesome things happen under pressure.

What’s the valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far?

Lorne Cardinal: Always be learning from everyone and respectful to who you’re working with, especially crew members.

Brad Duffy: “The irony of commitment is that it’s deeply liberating — in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around like rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life.” – Anne Morris

This quote really helped me.  I’ve also learned how to let go after auditions better than I used to, which is largely due to repetition, (and maybe that Bryan Cranston on acting video you should look up).

Denise Jones: Don’t be an asshole.

What books have been important for you as an actor so far in your career?

Lorne Cardinal: The works of William Shakespeare. He shows what the power of words can do.

Brad Duffy: Impro for Storytellers by Keith Johnstone first ignited my passion for improv which has heavily influenced my career.  You Are Not So Smart by David McRaney helped me get ahold of my ego.  Books and graphic novels by Neil Gaiman have also been instrumental in keeping me filled with a sense of wonder and possibility: a necessary tool for any actor I would say.

Denise Jones: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle.

What other projects are you working on and where can we find out more about you?

Lorne Cardinal: Currently working on Corner Gas animated series, the never-ending auditions and looking forward to the releasing of a few projects I’ve been working on, should happen very soon. Find our more at facebook.com/lornecardinal or lornecardinal.com.

Brad Duffy: Right now you can regularly see me performing in various improv shows throughout the city, primarily with Instant Theatre, the Rookie League at Vancouver Theatresports, and Sin Peaks the Improvised Soap Opera opening up at the Revue Stage on March 7th.  I have a fan page on Facebook, “Bradley Duffy”, where I regularly post about my film and TV projects, but should probably work on a website.  Thanks for reminding me!

Denise Jones: I am currently directing an improvised stage production called Western World at Vancouver TheatreSports League. Check me out at www.vtsl.com or IMDB!

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Lee Majdoub, Scott McGrath, and Brendan Taylor of The Prince

Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and the Crazy8s film you are acting in?

Lee Majdoub: Hi, my name is Lee Majdoub, and I play Amir in The Prince. The film tackles Islamophobia and what it means to be Middle Eastern-Canadian.

Scott McGrath: The film I’m in is titled The Prince, and it’s about a young dancer and her Uncle dealing with what it’s like to be Middle Eastern post 9/11.  It struck a cord with me as an actor because I feel as an actor it’s important to be truly connected with yourself and the characters we play.  It’s my job as an actor to affect change and push if necessary current issues to the front line even if these issues are difficult to discuss or view.   Films and events like Crazy 8’s allow us to stop and reflect on the choices, opinions we have currently and hopefully create an outlet to make things better.

Brendan Taylor: The Prince deals with a young Muslim man and his dream of being actor, but facing challenges of racial and religious stereotypes in this modern world. He and his family have an encounter on a bus with an intolerant person and he has to decide how to react to him.

What kinds of preparation did you do to get into the role?

Scott McGrath: Well, because of the serious nature of the film it was hard not to feel compassion for the lead but the important thing for my scene was to be light natural and not think anything I was saying was offensive or inappropriate . Just everyday set talk between costumer and actor.

Brendan Taylor: I play the role of the instigator on the bus. It’s important to try to understand the perspective of someone who is intolerant or openly racist, that it comes from a place of fear or ignorance. Then, we as humans portray all kinds of behaviour to cover that up, often resulting in anger and frustration. I explored the many ways this person could have acted towards this family.

What was the most memorable moment for you in this production?

Lee Majdoub: It’s hard to whittle down this project into one most memorable moment. So many people came together and volunteered their time to tell a story they believed in… that they felt needed to be told. That, to me, is most memorable as a whole. So much work was put into The Prince, from all sides of film-making. It was inspiring.

Scott McGrath: The joy I felt in the trailer prior to our scene where everyone of many different ethnicities were laughing and truly enjoying each other’s company.  Non-competitive,  non-judgemental, a genuine spirit of love and support.  This support was across the board from the producers Danielle Stott-Roy and Robin Nielsen, the Director Kyra Zagorsky (who I learned much from) and all the cast from make to wardrobe and everyone I encountered that day on set.

Brendan Taylor: Well, to be honest, amidst the seriousness of the storyline, there were many lighter moments, that were necessary to break the tension: one of them being, I was sitting in my seat on the bus drinking water, and I went to get up, and being a taller man I often bump my head (I don’t fit on buses to begin with), and I bumped my head on the roof handrail, with a mouthful of water. It squirted out like a super-soaker on an unlucky background actor! 

What would your advice be for actors who become part of a Crazy8s film in the future?

Scott McGrath: Savor every moment and realize your part of something magical. Be grateful and enjoy the ride!

Brendan Taylor: Follow the Crazy8s, get involved, go to readings, contact the filmmakers, and even submit a pitch yourself! 

What’s the valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far?

Lee Majdoub: A valuable lesson I’ve learned in my career so far? That’s a tough one to answer. There are so many. I would say learning to let go of control is a huge lesson. There are so many things I’m not in control of in life… and career. All I can do is work hard and be ready for every opportunity that comes my way.

Scott McGrath: I believe it’s important to have wonderful, harmonious relationships with the people we encounter, where on both sides there is caring and mutual respect.  I believe it’s important to let my heart be open so that. Have space within me to grow learn and give back unconditionally.

Brendan Taylor: Definitely persistence. I’m fortunate to say this is my main source of income right now, but it was not a smooth road. So many reasons to give up along the way. But I always train, or do a play, or do something to keep my art alive. But it’s what I love doing, and that’s a good test. You have to love it undeniably. 

What books have been important for you as an actor so far in your career?

Lee Majdoub: I’ve found a lot of books that have nothing to do with acting have helped me on this journey. I think living life and learning as much about oneself as possible is the greatest thing you can do for your acting. I’ll list a few that have helped along the way and no two are similar.

The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

The Crossroads of Should and Must by Elle Luna

Notes to an Actor by Ron Marasco – I really recommend this one if you want a book on acting. It’s very different from other acting books.

Love Anthony by Lisa Genova – personally, a tearjerker. 

Scott McGrath: By far the greatest tool I have used is a marvelous toolbook titled AuditionCraft For Film & TV – The Craft, The Mastery, The Reality By Linda Darlow.

Best advice … “Keep stretching and growing, and remember to always be willing to learn, no matter how often you work, or how long you’ve been in the business”.

Brendan Taylor: Uta Hagen’s Respect for Acting, Sanford Meisner’s On Acting. Learn from the greats. Start there. And watch, read, or listen to interviews and biographies to be inspired.

What other projects are you working on and where can we find out more about you?

Lee Majdoub: I’ll be appearing in a few episodes of the new season of Prison Break, which begins airing in April.

And, I start work on the third season of Zoo very soon.

Scott McGrath: Other projects I am part of is the new web series “Inconceivable” where I get to play the Step Dad Terry in a wonderful new comedy.  Check it out – http://www.facebook.com/thisisaspoon/

I also have been fortunate enough to be part of some fun Music Videos:

Check out Hey Ocean’s “Make a new Dance Up”

A Wallace – “Shake it Out”

And lastly, my website where I get to play my favourite character… SANTA with my Elf Spandy Andy: www.hireanelf.com

Brendan Taylor: Currently about to shoot another short film called Pearly Nights, and I have an episode of The Magicians airing March 29th! You can follow me on Twitter and Instagram check out brendan-taylor.com for past work! 

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Darien Provost of The Undertaker’s Son

Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and the Crazy8s film you are acting in? 

My name is Darien Provost, I’m sixteen years old. I have been acting since I was four years old. I have done various TV shows and Movies but my role as Christopher in The Undertaker’s Son is one of my favourites. The cast and crew were amazing. The set and script made my job much easier due to the realism.

What kinds of preparation did you do to get into the role? 

I would talk to my fellow actors and rehearse lines. I’ve always found it useful to listen to music and read over the script. It helps me get into character.

What was the most memorable moment for you in this production?

The most memorable moment for me was on the last day when we shot the opening scene for the film. I loved watching all the components of the set come together to make for an amazing scene.

What would your advice be for actors who become part of a Crazy8s film in the future?

My advice for actors who become part of a Crazy8s film is to show up with your lines fully prepared and practice being able to get into character quickly. There is not much time to spare on these shoots so it is important that everything moves smoothly.

What’s the valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far?

The most valuable lesson I have learnt in my career so far is don’t pretend to be the character. You must become the character and add your own personal twist.

What books have been important for you as an actor so far in your career?

The most important book I have read so far is No Acting Please by Eric Morris. The book teaches you to be present in the moment rather than mechanically act.

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Peter New of Woodman

Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and the Crazy8s film you are acting in?

My name is Peter New and I played the Woodman in the film Woodman.

What kinds of preparation did you do to get into the role?

I had a 3.5 hour long makeup application in the morning which was a useful time to gradually purge my silliness. The more our talented makeup team applied layers, the more trapped I felt, which is exactly the state the character lives in. By the time they were done I felt transformed.

What was the most memorable moment for you in this production?

There are so many memorable moments to choose from! I think I’ll never forget being on set, with my prosthetic nose being supported by three people, prop shears, fishing line  and a great deal of hope that it won’t collapse into its three component pieces between ‘frame’ and ‘action.’

What would your advice be for actors who become part of a Crazy8s film in the future?

Don’t write yourself into a part that traps you under a heavy typewriter while attaching your face to a 600ft tube thus pinning you to a chair and restricting your movement for hours and then drink many coffees because your makeup call is at 5:30 am. It’s a smidge uncomfortable (but 100% worth it).

What’s the valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far?

Keep moving, keep doing. There’s no value in fame, only in work.

What books have been important for you as an actor so far in your career?

True and False: A Practical Handbook for the Actor by David Mamet.

What other projects are you working on and where can we find out more about you?

I’m a voice on My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. Find me on Twitter @actorpeternew and on Facebook and Instagram.

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Thanks to Lee Shorten, Alex Barima, Jerome Yoo, Lorne Cardinal, Brad Duffy, Denise Jones, Lee Majdoub, Scott McGrath, Brendan Taylor, Darien Provost, and Peter New.

You can see all them on screen at the Crazy8s 2017 Gala on Saturday, Feb 25^th. For ticket information please visit Crazy8s.film!

The post The Biz Interview: Crazy8s 2017 Actors appeared first on Biz Books.

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Can you start by telling us a little bit about you and The Merry Widow?

I am a Vancouver-based TV, film & theatre actress and filmmaker, as well as a soprano, dancer, and pianist. I have a voracious appetite for learning new things, and the thing that thrills me most is getting a full new script and juicy role to sink my teeth into. Most recently, I have discovered how much I love to sing, dance, and act at the same time! So after doing straight plays for years, I’m debuting with my first operetta, in the title role in The Merry Widow. It runs May 19th-29th at Presentation House in North Vancouver. Here is a 1 minute audio clip that I sing in the show with ensemble and orchestra:

The Merry Widow is a comedic operetta, with gorgeous music by Franz Lehar, and internationally loved since it premiered in 1905.  North Shore Light Opera Society (NSLOS), which has produced 68 years of musical comedy on the North Shore, placed the show in their season after Stage Director, Edette Gagné, and Music Director, Stephen Pickett, were inspired by a 2015 production starring Renée Fleming at The Metropolitan Opera.

How did you become involved in this production?

Last year, I started studying opera with my incredible voice teacher, Marisa Gaetanne. I sought her out because one of my theatre roles (Angelique in Moliere’s The Imaginary Invalid) demanded that I sing a couple of numbers. One day, on the fly, she mentioned that North Shore Light Opera was doing a production of The Merry Widow and were still looking for a Widow. I watched a YouTube production of the show and was enchanted! I auditioned without expectations and was thrilled to be offered the role of the Widow. I have been in sheer heaven ever since.

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What should audiences expect to see on stage?

Audiences can expect a great energetic show with a huge cast of twenty-six and a live orchestra – all with immense talent!  There’s some stellar singing in this show!  There’s a moving romance set amidst the clashing of cultures, political intrigue, marital affairs, gender wars and money issues.  We’re using Jeremy Sams’ very witty and snappy English translation, and our fabulous Stage Director, Edette Gagné, has created detailed, motivated and entertaining staging.  Oh and original choreography!  My co-lead, Carlos Vela-Martinez, and I have been training in Viennese Ballroom Dance with choreographer, Dominic Boyer, for the last couple of months.  And with my background in Ukrainian dance, I choreographed the folk dance numbers.  Lots of variety and family friendly, with a few subtleties for the adults!  It’s a lovely show and I am super proud of it.  Tickets can be found at nslos.com.

What was your creative process like for getting into character?

As a second generation Ukrainian prairie girl, I can relate to the character of Hanna!  She is an Eastern European farm girl who suddenly becomes one of the richest women after her 70 year old ultra rich husband dies on their honeymoon.  OK, maybe not the last bit!  But Hanna is definitely a fish out of water in a new environment, as she tries to navigate the unfamiliar high society world around her.

As Hanna spends nearly 80% of her time onstage with her romantic interest, Danilo, it has been fun mining every moment with my equally passionate colleague, Carlos.  We have put a lot of thought and effort into getting deeper with motivations, psychology, tactics, objectives, and subtext to bring Hanna and Danilo and all of their exchanges to life.  It has been a thrilling ride!

What was the biggest challenge for you with this role and how did you deal with it?

When I was first offered the role of the Widow, I went through a period of self-doubt about whether I could pull it off.  This was my first operetta role, and the role of Hanna is huge!  Could I get through a two week run of singing eight vocally demanding numbers?  Also, five months ago, I was a mezzo-soprano, squeezing out Gs and As.  Hanna is a soprano role with many As, Bs and even a couple of high Cs.

So what to do?!  I accepted the role! Then I plunged into a daily practice of body and vocal exploration and working on my role.  I ramped up my kundilini yoga and studies with my opera instructor, Marisa.  I was vigilant about getting to bed at the same time each night, and eating healthy food.  I felt as though I were training for a marathon!  And I still do, as it’s not over yet, thankfully!

Bit by bit, my range opened up.  My voice shifted into soprano territory and is literally growing by the day – I have recordings of my lessons over the months to prove it!  And now, with the show opening a week away, I am confident in my role and cannot wait to share it.  This brings to mind a quote by Lemony Snicket: “If we wait until we’re ready, we’ll be waiting for the rest of our lives.”

I was extremely lucky to have this opportunity, and that Edette and Stephen believed in me the whole way.  I could not have done it without my amazing family – my husband and two preschool daughters were champions with their busy mama.  And it was also great to have an extremely supportive and awesome agent, Esther Cohen, at Carrier Talent.

What’s the most rewarding element for you about performing?

The most rewarding element of performing is feeling the energetic magical exchange between performer and live audience – when I am so fully present in my role and can feel the audience right there with me alongside my character’s journey.

What’s the most important advice that’s ever been given to you about your career?

A few years back, one of my acting teachers said to our class -“Everyone has access to their own unique personal charm, and there is nothing holding one back from finding it except oneself.” It took me years to figure out exactly what that meant!  But last year, inspired by the book A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle and after increasing my own self worth and self esteem, I was finally able to give myself permission to be myself without apologizing to myself.  My attitude towards people and the world changed for the positive.  My career took off and I was booking professional TV jobs one after another. I made a decision to let out my voice, literally, with singing.  And here I am today singing this incredible role!

What books, and authors have been influential in your career so far?

So many books have been influential on my artistic career and life!

My most favorite are:

Gandhi An Autobiography by Monhandas K. Gandhi

The Art of Time and The Return of Courage by Jean-Louis Servan-Schreiber

The Story of Art and A Little History of the World by E. H. Gombrich

The Power of the Actor by Ivana Chubbuck

Story by Robert McKee

Self Management for Actors by Bonnie Gillespie (she is a wonderful person and has set up an incredible supportive community for actors)

What other projects are you involved with at the moment?

The Merry Widow has consumed nearly every spare moment at the moment! Though, a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to work on the NBC pilot, Miranda’s Rights, directed by Mad Men director Jennifer Getzinger. Once the operetta is done, I will go back to auditioning for TV and theatre (and likely musicals now!). I will pick up where I left off with some personal screenwriting projects. I have a short film (that made a shortlist for the Hot Shot Shorts Competition last fall) to shoot, and am working on a feature film as well.

Where can we find out more about you and The Merry Widow?

Olesia Shewchuk – Olesia.ca, IMDB, Facebook, and Twitter.

North Shore Light Opera Society – NSLOS.com and Facebook.

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Thanks to Olesia Shewchuk for speaking with us!

The Merry Widow is on now until May 29th at Presentation House in North Vancouver. Performances are on at 8PM Thursday to Saturday evenings along with matinees on Sunday afternoons at 3PM. Tickets are $20 to $30 and are available from PHTheatre.org

The post The Biz Interview: Olesia Shewchuk appeared first on Biz Books.

A graduate in acting and producing from Langara’s Film Arts program, Esther Cohen works with some of Vancouver’s brightest stars as part of the Carrier Talent family.

We spoke to Esther Cohen about her journey into the talent agency realm and some of the dynamics that go into the actor and talent agent relationship.

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Why don’t you start by telling us a little bit about you and what you’re up to these days?

I’m Vancouver born, and I grew up in a very artistic family. I’m trained in music, theatre, dance, the whole lot. These days, I’m spending my time riding my bike on the sea wall; in ballet classes; playing guitar and singing in Rock & Roll bands; competing in karaoke competitions; watching live music; painting abstracts on canvas; learning how to cook; doing photography; picking and eating berries; and watching a lot of sunsets. Aside from all that, I am a Talent Agent at Carrier Talent Management. Do I have to talk about work?! Work consumes 90% of my life, though as you can see, I make time for plenty of other interests.

What is a typical day like for you as an agent?

I arrive at the office, tea in hand. I open the blinds to sunshine pouring in through my windows and spilling all over my desk. Sounds nice, doesn’t it? Just wait.

Then I turn on my computer, where I am promptly bombarded with a hundred or so emails from clients, casting directors, breakdown notifications, actor submissions, etc. I spend the day responding to said emails, and the hundreds more that come in throughout the day. I answer phone calls, from all of the above mentioned. I submit my clients on breakdowns, and make my pushes to get them auditions. I phone & email out said auditions.

Then my associate and I have a pow-wow, where we discuss whatever the heck we want… work, or non-work related. Let’s call these ‘therapy sessions’. And I drink some more tea. I update my client resumes & sort through their new headshots. And I take meetings with new potential clients. But my day doesn’t end there.

After work, I’m usually out scouting talent at showcases, or at theatre shows. Or I’m out meeting industry folks (Directors, Producers, Actors and such) at events like Tuesday Night Live, Celluloid Social Club, Cold Reading Series, Raindance Vancouver, and going to Canadian film premieres hosted by the First Weekend Club. It’s all non-stop really. But I love it. It’s fun.

For actors who are seeking representation, what are the three most important things that they should look for in an agent?

Someone who they can trust enough to communicate openly and honestly with.

Someone who can share their vision & be on the same page with in regards to their career.

Someone who is excited about working with them… enough that they take the time to go out and see all their shows!! (I go to see all my clients whenever they’re performing anywhere!).

What do you look for in a potential client?

I look for all sorts of things.

I look at every submission that comes in. I’ll look at their resume to see what sort of credits and training they have. For me, someone who is continuously training in acting classes is my favorite. Because I know they are working hard, investing in themselves, and they’re constantly learning and improving their craft.

Other things I take in to consideration is what type of ‘look’ they have, and can I ‘sell’ them? And do they conflict with any of my current clients on my roster?

I’ll also take on people that have special skills. I’ve got a magician. As well as several musicians, who I’ve managed to get some really exciting roles on some major productions. This year I’ve gotten a couple musicians working with George Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio and Cameron Crowe.

What’s the most rewarding thing about being an agent?

Helping actors achieve their dreams. When I was training as an actor, I remember thinking “If only someone would just give me a chance, I know I could do it!” It can be tough for some people to find an agent who believes in them. But I might see something special in someone that nobody else sees, or that nobody else is willing to take a chance on. And now I am that person who is giving these people those chances. It feels good. I get just as excited as they do when they book a movie or TV show. It’s team work. It’s a win for both of us.

What’s the biggest misconception about being an agent?

That we’re all old stuffed shirts. Well, maybe some of them actually are – I don’t know! But it’s funny, when people ask me what I do, and I tell them I’m a Talent Agent, I always get the funniest reactions.

People are like “Really?! But you look so young, and you seem so cool! I always thought agents were like stuffy office people!”

Whenever I meet with new potential clients they always tell me I’m so down-to-earth and easy to talk to. And I am! I’m just a regular person like everybody else. I like going out and doing fun things. Just because I’m an agent, doesn’t mean I’m not allowed to have fun too!! But I work my ass off at everything I do. Including work.

What made you decide to get involved with the agency side of the entertainment industry?

Oh man, I get asked this question all the time.

Long story short, I was working part time in an agent’s office as an assistant, because I figured, as an actor (I had just graduated from theatre & film school), it’d be beneficial to learn what goes on behind the scenes with agents & casting directors etc.

So I did that for a year, at which point the company I was working for at that time (a different one than the one I’m with now), asked me if I’d be interested in working full time as an agent with my own roster. By then, I had seen enough behind the scenes to know how tough it can really be to make a living as an actor. And I’m not talking about having to work hard –I’m ok with working hard. I’m just talking about the nature of the industry. It can be done, but the industry is different now than it was 20 years ago. I was seeing people who had been at it for 15 years still struggling to make a steady living at it.

So at that point I decided to take the other route and become an agent. I have no regrets. I love my job. Ask me for the long version of the story when you see me in person. It’s much more interesting! Hahaha.

In your opinion, what is the current state of the Canadian Film & Television Industry? And where do you see it going in the future?

Well, we’ve got some pretty big productions in town right now. A lot of Hollywood A-listers are bringing their projects here. It’s pretty wild. That said, I wish we didn’t lose so many roles to U.S. actors. There’s plenty of great talent in this city.

As for the future, I hope I only see it grow. I feel like everything in this biz is somewhat unpredictable. It’s like gambling, really. But that’s what makes it exciting, I think. It’s always changing. But yes, I hope our industry here in Canada continues to grow. We have such a hard-working, passionate community of people in this industry. We have a lot to offer.

What books have been influential to you in your career thus far?

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. It’s about resistance, and breaking through those blocks that a lot of artists and creative people face.

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is another good one. It’s more of a workbook.

And then, all the plays I’ve read… there have been hundreds! Shakespeare, Neil Simon, Samuel Beckett. I love reading plays and scripts.

I’ve also done a lot of reading from Deepak Chopra & Eckhart Tolle, which helps with finding balance, calm, and peace, (amongst so many other things) which is so important, especially amongst the craziness that this industry can bring.

Where can people find out more about you?

Carrier Talent. Twitter. IMDB. Facebook. Instagram. MySpace.

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Our thanks to Esther Cohen for speaking with us!

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Recommended Reading

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Waiting for Godot
Samuel Beckett

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The Odd Couple
Neil Simon

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Hamlet (Illustrated)
William Shakespeare

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