Tag Archive for: portrait

Housing

Our Housing Options

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, everyone wants to see the “Hollywood” sign. Many people describe getting goosebumps upon seeing the worn, omnipresent sign. Most agree there is no place quite like Hollywood.

Hollywood offers the ever-present California sunshine and fair weather, a wonderful choice for shopping, and a variety of activities. On a more practical side, an aspiring actor or actress also needs to look at housing, which is why we suggest the Loews Hotel. Some of the conveniences it offers as far as housing for actors include: 

AMENITIES & SERVICES

  •  Business Center: An onsite FedEx Office ( a must-have for daily information regarding auditions, call-backs, and agent). 
    • High-speed printing, including fast business-card printing.
    • Twentyfour hour access to self-service computers and printing with your room key.
    • Fast, easy fax service.
    • Essentials, from chargers and electronic adaptors to business supplies.
  •  Fitness Center: Found on the fifth-floor, appreciate free access during your stay. You’ll love the new equipment and tons of windows with great views.
  •  Internet: Offering guests free wireless high-speed Internet access for up to 3 devices. You can connect from your guestroom, the pool terrace, and all public spaces.
  •  Parking: Offering valet and self-parking at Loews Hollywood. For valet parking, please allow 20 minutes for the retrieval of your vehicle.
    • Valet Parking is $46 + tax per vehicle, per day (includes in-and-out privileges)
    • Self-Parking is $17 per vehicle, per day (does not include in-and-out privileges)
  •  Pool: Located on the fifth floor is the outdoor, heated pool where the views are spectacular.
  •  Yoga Studio: Located on the 5th floor, the yoga studio will transport you into your ultimate yoga experience. Poolside Yoga is available.

Other amenities include Babysitting, Catering and Conference Facilities, Dry Cleaning, Room Service, Safes and Safe Deposit Boxes.

Visit Our Loews Hotels Blog for more Hollywood Itinerary Ideas. You can also ask the concierge for a list of all the amazing things there are to do in Hollywood. 

CGTV takes every measure to ensure you are satisfied with all your high-level TV, film, and entertainment program needs and will do whatever it takes to earn your business and remain lifelong clients. CGTV has been forming exceptional talent in the Los Angeles area; we pride ourselves on being large enough to provide professionalism and reliability, yet small enough to provide personalized service. To discover more, please visit our website today or call us at 818-206-0290. Like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on current events, tips, and specials. 

Sources: 

https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/ways-prepare-big-move-la-4739/

https://www.tripsavvy.com/hollywood-sign-directions-best-views-hikes-4071327

https://www.loewshotels.com/blog/locations/hollywood/

 

Improving Your Improv Delivery

Life is improvisation. And scripts are improvisation from our characters’ lives. If you embrace this, you’ll realize the roles for which you audition are just moments in the lives of the characters. This means they’re improvising their way through a movie and we are just flies on the walls of their lives. Taking this into consideration, you’ll see how the following can help improve your improv delivery and enhance your auditions.

Take Classes

Some people are born with a natural stage presence. Most aren’t. But that doesn’t mean you can’t learn the skills necessary to be an awesome improviser. And as an added bonus to taking improv classes, agents and casting directors often scout at places such as UCB, The Pit, Magnet, National Comedy Theatre, etc.

Listen and Be Supportive

As simple as this seems, it is probably one of the most difficult skills to master. Listening will free you from having to think of what you are going to say ahead of time. Assuming you have listened, you will be able to agree with what was said AND add information (“Yes, And.”). The agreement is what allows a scene to progress!

Don’t Try So Hard For Laughs

The hidden riddle of improv is that the harder you try not to be funny the funnier your scene is going to be. Why? Because the very best kind of improv scene you can do is an “interesting” scene, not necessarily a “funny” one. When you do an interesting scene, a very surprising thing happens…the funny comes out all by itself. The best ways to go are to stick to your character, stick to the story that is being told, and to stay within the reality of the scene you are playing.

Understand Your Character

Be sure to read all the material that is provided for you so you fully understand what is happening and what your character wants. Familiarize yourself with the sides and script to better understand the relationship between the characters, as well as your characters’ backstory.

Have Fun

Even if the scene starts taking a weird turn, just relax, have fun, stay in the present, and go with the flow!

CGTV is a high-level TV, film, and entertainment program designed to help connect talent with some of the top agents, casting directors, and managers in Los Angeles. Learn more about the services we provide by visiting the CGTV website or calling 818-284-6689.

Improv Delivery

Sources:

https://cgtv.la/

https://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/backstage-experts/11-improv-audition-tips/

https://www.backstage.com/backstage-guides/everything-you-should-know-about-improv/

https://www.google.com/search?biw=1583&bih=758&tbs=sur%3Afmc&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=T0VfW_TJO8KZjwSrmp-QDw&q=improv&oq=improv&gs_l=img.3..0i67l3j0j0i67j0l5.59043.60296..60632…0.0…72.355.6……1….1..gws-wiz-img…….35i39.3owkHzEL98E#imgrc=xi862c2XCSM5QM:

https://www.google.com/search?biw=1583&bih=758&tbs=sur%3Afmc&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=T0VfW_TJO8KZjwSrmp-QDw&q=improv&oq=improv&gs_l=img.3..0i67l3j0j0i67j0l5.59043.60296..60632…0.0…72.355.6……1….1..gws-wiz-img…….35i39.3owkHzEL98E#imgrc=z3yuvFbMLdEb3M:

 

Jackson Robert Scott

CGTV is Proud of its Many Success Stories

As painful as it is to admit it, sometimes, individual dreams of stardom remain just that; only dreams. But with the proper guidance and support, those dreams become easily attainable and become reality. This is what happens when you have a qualified, encouraging, and knowledgeable resource like CGTV. Several of our clients have gone on to have successful and lucrative careers in the entertainment industry. Here are a few success stories of our many standouts that, like you, are doing what they love and making a huge impact in the world of entertainment.

RJ Cyler

RJ CylerRJ Cyler featured as one of Forbes Magazine’s hottest young talents under 30 in their 30 under 30 list, is a name that is certainly going places. After landing a lead role in the hit Indie film “Me, Earl, and the Dying Girl,” Cyler next used his talents as the coveted blue Power Ranger in the recent big screen hit. As if you needed another reason to binge TV, he can be seen in Brad Pitt’s “War Machine” on Netflix.

Rebecca Taylor-Klaus

Rebecca Taylor - KlausIf you are a fan of action movies then you are familiar with Rebecca Taylor-Klaus, who starred with Vin Diesel in The Last Witch Hunter. It’s such a joy to see Rebecca kick butt not only on the screen but in real life. We can’t wait to see what she does next.

 

Jackson Robert Scott

Jackson Robert ScottDid you happen to catch the Stephen King’s IT in the theaters last year? If you did, you know that the movie starts out with the haunting scene of little Georgie being tormented by the evil titular clown. Well, if you HAVE seen that movie, then you know Jackson Robert Scott, who played Georgie in the successful film!  Scott has also been seen in commercials for Kay Jewelers and an episode of Criminal Minds-there is no doubt that he has a bright future ahead of him.

These and other of CGTV’s success stories started out with big dreams; Become one of our many success stories and contact CGTV today. Our rigorous curriculum, which covers everything from audition techniques to marketing tips, is designed to help connect young talent with the agents, managers and casting directors that will let their career take off. We’d be honored to help you advance your career in the entertainment business. Call us today at 818-284-6689 or email hollywood@cgtv.la to set up your first appointment.

First Audition

Approaching Your First Audition

Acting may be an art, but being an actor is a career. And, like any career it takes practice, resilience, passion, and more practice. As you head out to the first of hundreds, if not thousands, of auditions, there are a few things every new actor should know.

Understand the Role

Instead of looking at the audition through your eyes, as an actor – try seeing it from the perspective of the casting director. By understanding what they want and tailoring your audition technique to helping them get that, gives you the best chance at making sure they remember you.

Come Prepared

The only thing you can influence in auditions is your own readiness. So be prepared. This is the number one way to stand out from the crowd and show respect for a casting director and their project. Yet, there are still countless numbers of actors who turn up to auditions unprepared. Don’t be one of them. The more prepared you are, the more relaxed you’ll be – and this means you’ll be able to let loose and show off your skills.

Be Ready to Improvise

During the audition you may be asked to do something completely different, in which case you’re going to want to do it completely differently. What you did first no longer matters. All that matters is that you do exactly what you’re told, and to the best of your ability. And don’t be shy. Go for it.

Believe in Yourself….and Breathe

One of the most important things about preparing for an audition is your mindset. Why? Because nerves and losing faith in yourself will show to the people you’re auditioning for. Take a deep breath, think positive thoughts, and believe in yourself. In response, you’ll walk into the room looking as confident as ever – and there’s no way the casting directors won’t believe that you belong there. You got this!

So, what are you waiting for?! Once you get the audition the role is just sitting there waiting for you to take it. So, congratulations! Go make that character your own.

CGTV is a high level TV, film, and entertainment program designed to help connect talent with some of the top agents, casting directors, and managers in Los Angeles. Learn more about the services we provide by visiting the CGTV website or calling 818-284-6689.

First Audition

Sources:

https://cgtv.la/

https://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/backstage-experts/7-tips-approaching-every-audition-performance/

http://www.projectcasting.com/tips-and-advice/impress-casting-directors

https://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/backstage-experts/21-things-make-casting-directors-happy-audition-room/

https://pixabay.com/en/chromakey-shooting-film-movie-2698664/

Kelley Lucas

Kelley Lucas

Kelley LucasWhen it comes to pursuing an acting career, it takes a lot more than talent and looks. It takes persistence and a can do attitude in order to conquer the beast that is Hollywood. Take a look at Kelley Lucas, a graduate of CGTV, and hear how she got to the top!

In 2016, Kelley got a call from CGTV stating that they had seen her ads and work and thought that their program would be a perfect fit for her. She was ecstatic to learn about the audition, and despite her butterflies, she went and knocked it out of the park! She said that she got to meet Matthew Timmons, Adrian R’Mante, and Matthew Timmons and were all extremely sweet and approachable!

After the audition, Kelley was filled with energy and self-confidence! She felt she had done a great job and was one of the selected few that got to participate in the CGTV program. Kelley says that she invested in he program because it appeared to be a great opportunity to jump-start her career and was an amazing way to mentor with someone she grew up watching.

When Kelley arrived to camp, she got more than she bargained for, gaining valuable knowledge for her acting career, tools that are necessary to build a resumé, and new friends for life that share the same goals as her! While she is wating to do her live ACME performance, she has already gotten attention from multiple agents from her showcase and has even been contacted by Lisa London

What made the difference when it came time to perform? Kelley believes it was the valuable knowledge and training given by television celebrity and former educator Adrian R’Mante and his team. She says specifically that their help and 1-on-1 attention given throughout the course is what made all the difference for her performance.

We finished the interview by asking what Adrian R’Mante and his team did for Kelley and whether she would recommend anyone she knows, she responded with this,

They inspired me even more to pursue my dreams and to never give up. They also taught me some very professional acting tips on how to express a monologue in a certain way. It really improved my acting skill. Mathew Timmons and Adrian worked with me on my monologue as soon as we started practicing and it meant a lot.

I would recommend it because, it is overall a surreal experience and it really motivates you. It can really improve your acting level and help you to come across as more appealing and professional to the industry. No matter what comes out of this experience you will get to meet creative and talented people.

Raising a Child Actor

Tips for Raising a Child Actor

There are many aspects of acting that may draw children in, such as the costumes or getting the chance to play a character that’s different from themselves. But there are also many things that parents need to keep in mind if their child is serious about pursuing a career in acting. Here are a few tips for parents to keep in mind when raising a child actor.

  • Training is a Must: When you’re child is in competitive sports, most parents are diligent about not missing a single practice. However, when it comes to acting, most parents don’t have the same mindset. In order for children to stay on top of their talent, they need to practice and always attend their acting classes.
  • Don’t Rush It: Some parents push their child into acting classes, get an agent, and start sending them to auditions without even understanding if the child is emotionally invested yet. Don’t push your child into something they don’t like, especially as something as daunting as acting.
  • Treat Each Audition as a Success: Auditions are scary, there’s no doubt about it. So no matter what happens in an audition, celebrate your child going in there and giving it their all. It can take a number of auditions before you’ll finally book a job, so remind your child to stay confident through the whole process.
  • Keep it Positive: The whole process of practicing for an audition, and going to the audition is extremely stressful for children. If you’re stressed, try and not show it to your child. It’s important for them not to feel guilty about something they’re passionate about, even if it can be stressful.
  • Remember That You’re Part of a Team: Just because you have more knowledge of the process, or have gained more experience does not mean you can now manage or control your child’s career. Let your child grow into their acting career and cultivate relationships with agents, directors, and other actors.
  • Trust Your Child: When your child finally knows their skill set, and the ins and outs of acting and the process, then they finally know the business their getting into. Trust them on this. They’ll know what’s best to wear for an audition and how to prepare. And as hard as it is to let go, remember to stop coaching them.

Here at CGTV, we want your children to succeed in their acting career. Give us a call today at 818-284-6689 or visit our website to learn more about how we can help you child achieve their goals in the acting world.

Raising a Child Actor

 

CGTV graduate

Celebrating the Silver Screen Debut of a CGTV Graduate

At CGTV, one of our greatest thrills it to see former students live out their acting passions. With that thought in mind, we are excited to announce that CGTV graduate, Jackson Robert Scott, is part of the cast of the September 8th release of It.

About Jackson

Jackson started his acting career at the young age of five when he began the CGTV program. His training allowed him to work with other successful child actors from the likes of Nickelodeon and Disney. He also got personal training from Adrian, the founder of CGTV.CGTV graduate

Breakout Roles

After his training at CGTV, Jackson was discovered by a top LA agency where he began auditioning for a variety of commercial, television and film projects. His breakout credits include television commercials for K Jewelers as an episode of Criminals Minds.

In his role on the fourth episode of Criminal Minds, season 11, Jackson played Cole Vasquez who is kidnapped by the episode’s anti-hero, William Duke Mason. The show first aired on October 21, 2015.  

Silver Screen Debut

In addition to his small screen successes, he has also made his way to the silver screen in the remake adaptation of Stephen King’s: It. In the “creepy clown” horror movie, Jackson plays Georgie who is the younger brother of the film’s main character, Bill. The show will make its theater debut on Friday, September 8, 2017.

If the trailer views of this thriller are any indication, it should be a box office hit. According to Variety, the It trailer set a record for most online views in a single day, with 197 million views in just 24 hours and 246 views 36 hours after its release.

This is our goal at CGTV – to help young talent get discovered and reach their full potential. We offer a demanding and robust curriculum that is designed to do just that. CGTV has connections with top agents, casting directors and managers. We offer our students workshops in improvisation, techniques for the perfect audition, marketing tools and other information to help them get a foot in the door. In addition, our students learn from the very best in the business, including actors from top network stations. For more information on how to enroll in CGTV, call us at 818-284-6689.

Successful Child Actor

What Makes a Child Actor Successful?

Certainly your child has what it takes to be a star; passion, drive, natural acting ability, charisma. However, it is likely that others competing for the same role, possess the same winning qualities. So what is it that sets one actor apart from another? What does it take to make a child actor successful?

Self-Confidence

Self-confidence is defined as a feeling of trust in one’s abilities, qualities, and judgment – a positive

Successful Child Actor

belief that one can accomplish what he or she set out to do (not to be confused with self-esteem, which is an evaluation of one’s own worth). A person can increase their self-confidence from experiences of having mastered particular activities. Acting can boost the self-confidence of child performers if they show up to auditions, interviews, and jobs fully prepared. Parents can help their child actors confidence levels by remaining supportive and available.

Positive Attitude

It’s a given that parents want their children to have a positive attitude, but teaching them how to adopt this way of thinking might not be so easy. When a child develops a positive attitude early on, positive thinking becomes a habit that will help them thrive and succeed in all aspects of their life, especially in the sometimes-cruel world of acting. It’s important to try and encourage your child to always focus on the best possible outcome rather than the worse. Ultimately, choosing to have a positive attitude will be more beneficial and help them get through difficult or testing situations.

ResilienceChild Actor

Unfortunately, rejection, jealousy, self-scrutiny, obsessive thoughts, and the need to be perfect can come with the territory of acting. A young actor will have to face being told “no” – and it is how he or she responds that is important. A child performer’s first thought should not be to quit when things become challenging. He or she must keep an optimistic outlook and try another audition. And another. No one is right for every role, and there are many possible reasons why someone does or doesn’t get cast. Understanding that “it’s not personal” teaches a child actor persistence.

Positivity, confidence, and resilience are needed every step of the way on the road to stardom. By providing your child actor with lots of love and praise, you help encourage positivity. Kind words, hugs, kisses, high-fives and special treat days out every now and again are sure to keep everyone feeling upbeat and optimistic.

CGTV is a high-level TV, film, and entertainment program designed to help connect talent with some of the top agents, casting directors, and managers in Los Angeles. Learn more about the services we provide by visiting the CGTV website or calling 818-284-6689.

Successful Child Actor

Sources:

https://cgtv.la/

https://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/backstage-experts/thing-makes-child-actors-successful-attitude/

https://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/backstage-experts/3-essential-traits-child-actors-need-succeed/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/in-the-trenches/201106/the-child-performer

http://www.youryoungactor.com/2011/10/23/what-do-talent-agents-look-for-in-a-child/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/snow-person-girl-winter-35632/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/adult-baby-blur-child-532389/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/attractive-boy-fashion-guy-269393/

Living

Making a Living as an Actor

Making a living as an actor can be challenging due to the realities of the industry. Varying assignment durations, income instability, and intense competition make a career in acting both exciting and unpredictable. For those who feel a passionate calling for acting, the stimulating challenges and ongoing learning involved in acting can be intensely rewarding. Accepting the nature of the industry, being flexible, and budgeting wisely all help successful actors cope with the highs and lows their profession entails.

Living

Accepting the Nature of the Industry

Accepting the reality of the industry can help actors plan for alternative streams of income during dry spells. Earning a living from acting alone, while possible, is rarely a lifelong or stable situation, even for famous actors. TV and theater shows can be canceled. Many acting assignments are of short duration, such as commercials or seasonal performances. Freelance work, teaching classes, or lower-stress, flexible jobs can help actors while they audition and hunt for their next gig.

Thinking Outside the Box

Actors already think outside the box each time they step into a new role. Diversifying your repertoire and being flexible about the types of acting you do can land you more roles, as well as more opportunities to get your name out there. Commercials, print modeling, acting jobs at theme parks and on cruise ships, and even making your own YouTube series are all ways to keep acting, gain experience, and make valuable connections.

Making Connections

Signing with a reputable agent often leads to landing more work. After all, they only get paid for their work when you do! Good agents should also be well-connected and get your name out at important events.

Networking with other actors and those working within the stage or production industry can lend insights into valuable leads and information. Stay in touch with people you work with even after a show or assignment has ended.

Budgeting Wisely

Preparing and budgeting for bouts of unsteady employment and income can help avoid the temptation to live beyond your means during high-income periods. Don’t forget to set aside some of your earnings to invest in staying competitive in your craft, including in the areas of promotion and continuing education.

For more great tips on how to make a living as an actor, including how to deduct certain expenses of your craft from your taxes, see here!

Being an actor requires a lot of hard work and perseverance. CGTV’s program, from its curriculum to rehearsal videos, prepares young talent every step of the way. To read testimonials, success stories, and to learn more about our program, please visit https://cgtv.la/ or call (818) 284-6698!

Self-taped Audition

How to Create a First-Rate Self-Taped Audition

Standing out in the mind of a casting director requires attention to detail, technical skill, and having the right combination of exactly what they are looking for. A self-taped audition allows an actor to get in front of a director in a more controlled audition setting. Creating the right tape is crucial in catching their eye and getting a coveted callback.

  • Technically perfect – Even the best acting can be upstaged by poor lighting, bad sound quality, a poorly framed video and technically sub-par footage. If the director needs to adjust their computer or television to hear or see your audition, they may just move on to the next actor’s tape.
  • The right equipment – In order to create a properly executed self-taped audition, there are a few pieces of equipment that are necessary. A quality camera with a good microphone is a must. Use a tripod so that your footage is steady and find an area with good lighting (or invest in lighting). Additionally, choose the background carefully. A busy or loud color can be very distracting to the viewer. Finally, take some time to pick out your wardrobe. Make sure it does not clash with the background or wash out your skin tone.
  • Know your part – While it is important to have your part memorized, it is also important to keep the script close by. Your part is a work in progress and is not a fully developed character yet. Having the script in-hand speaks to your ability to flexible and adaptable as an actor.
  • Skip the slate – Using a slate will make your tape look amateur. Unless you are asked to use one in your audition self-tape, plan to go without it.
  • Do as you are told – The quickest way into the trash bin is not following instructions. Self-tape requests often come with very specific details regarding what is expected by the casting director. A good rule is to do everything that is asked, no matter how silly it might seem. Failure to follow directions is the easiest way to get your tape rejected.
  • Preparedness – No matter what, being prepared for that moment, is ultimately the only thing the artist is in control over. How well you prepare prior to the actual tape is extremely important.
  • Keep your reader close – Keep your reader just off camera so that they are not seen, but their lines can be heard on the tape.

If you need more tips on how to create a call-back quality self-taped audition, Check out the CGTV website for helpful tips.  

Self-taped Audition