Thursday, September 2, 2010

Going in for a callback for "September Morning"! Guess my southern accent paid off! What an honor to go back in for this film! Director asked what my experience was working on a longer term film- Hopefully this is a good sign!

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Today will go down as the ultimate Crazy day! I have 4 auditions and my friends, it is officially GO TIME!!!!!!!! Yeah buddy!!

1. September Morning @ Film Independent: This is an independent film being made by director, Chris Eska (August Evening). I got to use my southern accent (or what I have of one). This is a feature film that takes place during the civil war and I was glad to have the audition because the preparation stretched me in a way that most auditons don't.

2. Disney 365- I don't know how many times I will audition for Disney hosting spots...This the 3rd one that I've been on this year! Hopefully this one'll book!

3. Rush Audition @ John Frank Levey Casting...I was a little pressed for time during this one and I'm not sure if I made the best impression...but I did my best but had to get out t0 go to the next!

4. Bojangles Restaurant @ Ross Lacy Casting: I have always wanted to get into this office! I've done a few drop-offs but this was my first call in and I have a feeling a callback is on the way!

When I got back to my apartment, I made a big thing of Mac & Cheese for my residents, just cuzI love em that much

Friday, August 20, 2010

While I was getting ready to drive to SAC-town for my uncle's 30th Wedding Anniversary (Congrats Uncle Llyod and Auntie Paulina), I got a call from my agent about a last minute audition.

Internet Video @ Armstrong Casting. In & Out like a jar of skippy peanut-butter in my cabinet! Hopefully, I'll book! Not too sure if there are callbacks

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

In House Voice-Over for McDonalds offering Coke Zero!

It seems like McDonalds had made it a goal to employ every other black male...aside from me! I am no longer standing for it!

I demand to book a voice-over McDonalds Commercial!!!

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Today was a FRESH day- I auditioned for a project in the 48 hour film festival last week but they weren't sure if they were going to need me...Got an email this morning and it's sounding like it's "go-time" baby!

The title of the film was "Film De Thumb" and it was fun to play a character for a chance! My character's name was Thumbasaurus Text and I sported a big afro and bike shorts (say what????) Anyway it was fun to play a character! I lost my voice during filming and hope that the film was turn out awesome as a result! lol

Great cast and crew!

Friday, August 13, 2010

A Day of Voice Over Auditions! Hopefully I'll book one soon

Georgia Lottery times 3!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Yo! So I just found out that I booked a part on a Spike TV Sketch....

But I have RA Training today and wasn't able to get out of it! But I recognize this as a tradeoff and even though I had wanted to film the segment, my position as a Resident Adviser means more to me...

Maybe, I'll have the chance to work for Spike again : )

Friday, August 6, 2010

Resident Adviser training just started and I feel extremely blessed to be one of the 12 RAs in the "most happening" (do kids still use this phrase? or am I getting extremely old for 20?) residence hall: TROY HALL! However, I got a call today that I booked a role on a Spike TV show that I auditioned for way back when...YAY!- Wait...? I have training next Tuesday....Yup, so I had to decline....but I trust that everything always works out for those who put their faith and trust in God...so my friends, I will do just that.

Audition for "The Defenders" @ Felicia Fasano Casting in Studio City (CBS Radford Lot). This audition was relaxed and I didn't feel pressured....Of course, I had been up two nights previous researching the show and the characters. It surrounds two Las Vegas Public defenders who use not so "normalized" ways to defend their clients. Seems like a great cast with great characters.

I auditioned for the Co-Star role of a young guy, Jerome McKee, who is in need of someone who believes in him and his case.

Went great and Ms. Fasano is so nice!

Leaving it in my Father's hands : )

Wednesday, August 4, 20101

Wow- sure has been a minute since my last bloggin'! I actually just got back from Ghana and I'm feeling pretty funky FRESH! I had the most amazing time with family, friends, and value my culture and heritage so much more now that I am older. This is my 6th time having been to Ghana but it feels like my first! I had the opportunity to work on some short documentaries with my brother, David on the topic of skin bleaching as well as spirituality. Two things that the country of Ghana is very familiar with.

More pics coming soon- Anywho I am ready to get back on the audition wagon today! Audition #1- 48 hour film festival in Culver City. This was cool- had a little time to do some cold reading and met some cool filmmakers.

Audition #2- So this is how funny God can be: I am driving to my voice-over agent's to just let them know I am back in town and drop up off some gifts from Ghana. When I get in, I have a great conversation with my agent and BAM!--> He tells me to go in for an audition for AT&T. Gotta love God's work in my life!

In addition, I decided to stop by my theatrical agent's and do the same thing (let em' know that Funky Fresh Nathaniel Simons has just parted with the mother-boat and is ready to get down to audition busiNASSSSSSSSS!) And BAM: They tell me I have an audition for Friday evening for "The Defeneders" (a new legal dramedy with Jim Belucci, Jerry O'Connell, and Jurnee Smolett)

Audition #3- Disney Host @ M3 Casting off of Alameda- This went aiite...but I'm starting to feel I'm a little too tall/old compared to everyone else who is under 5'9" and is probably younger than 14... Maybe I'll just bend my back down a little? Who knows...

Thursday, July 1, 2010

A day of voice over auditions and OHHHHH baby, I'm loving it!

I'm not gonna even lie to you...I woke up this morning and drank a strong drank of Procrastination...I might have even got a lil tipsy on this Procrastinated juice. The reason: I was supposed to go to the gym at 7am...What time was I in my apartment till: 1:15pm.

But see, maybe it is a good thing that I stayed in...I got an unusual call from DPN (my voice-over representation) saying that I was needed in house and I jet setted!

3 auditions today (I guess we're trying to get em' in before the July 4th weekend)

1. McDonalds- Went great! I read with a scene partner and felt really good about our take.

2. McDonalds again! Got this in one take- signal of improvement and I was happy!

3. Announcer for a Dance Movie- Interesting read...I've never had a copy like this before...I basically had to scream at the top of my lungs. Not too sure it was my best audition ever..but I WILL be ready next time!

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

I think I forgot to mention this...but you know that Tru TV spot that I auditioned for a while back???

Well I booked it!!!

Shooting was today and it was quick and painless- I have no clue when it will air, but I'll let you know if it does/when it does!

Friday, June 25, 2010

Voice over-auditions:

Man, I am soooooooooooooooooooooooooooo (oooooo....ooo.oooooo and ...ooooo) ready to book a voice-over. I need to keep on doing tongue twisters to better enuciate my words

1. McDonalds- Fun stuff...I got to do a Chris Rock/Will Smith over-exaggeration kind of voice and have some fun with this

2. McDonalds- A little more difficult- I messed up a couple times on this one. I was reading with a partner and think I got a little nervous. I got to play Bacon...The chill urban guy until he realizes there is steak on the grill right next to him....STEAK!

Yes sir! McDonalds does love some black folk!

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

On Monday and Tuesday of this week, I had the opportunity to volunteer under CBS Casting Vice-President Fern Orenstein and help cast their Diversity Showcase. It was so FunkyFunkyFresh (I had to throw an extra Funky on that!) to see other actors act out their one minute monologues and gauge if they would be right for parts on "The Young and the Restless" or "The Bold and the Beautiful". Although sometimes it seems elementary to say- "It is always important for everything we as people do to reflect the people that we inherently are". Even when playing a different character, I think we as actors are are doing the character a disservice if we completely seperate ourselves from the character.

What about a character resonates with who we are? (Sorry for getting SuperDuperMario Philosophcal/Psychological on you...but I wonder)

Audition for MANswers/ SPIKE TV...Hahaha- If anyone has never seen this show, it is a testosterone driven-beach babe-show on Spike! Audition went well- not really an audition...more of an interview. Did a little improv, but not much

Print Go-See @ Alice Ellis Casting on Melrose. The Look for this was college/edgy/fashion...I did my best!

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Voice- Over Auditions for Western Union:

1) Banking service- ahaha. This was fun- I got to use the voice of an energetic-affable-happy-go-lucky-club-goer chillin out with his nerdy friend.

2) Western Union- I think I need to work on my enunciation a little more...I never noticed how hard it is to say "Western Union"

Monday, June 14, 2010

Callback for Horizon! Awesome! I got to meet David Cage, the creator of Heavy Rain and audition for him. He told me to try it a different way and I did my best to adjust what I had rehearsed. This would be a really fun project- I mean, what actor wouldn't want to play a character in a video game?

Audition for a promo for Tru TV @ Orly Sitowitz and Stacey Pianko Casting- this was fun! I got to be interviewed about how much I love chocolate and how much I need affordable insurance- VERY REAL! : )

Friday, June 11, 2010

Sooo...My mom's birthday is tomorrow- Happy Birthday mom!!! But I have an audition....UH OH- Fortunately the casting director is allowing me to send in a video-tape. The project is for a feature film called "Punch Buggy" about an Iraq war veteran suffering from post traumatic stress-disorder. Hopefully, I will get a callback

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Audition for "Horizon", a new video-game by David Cage, the creator of "Heavy Rain". This is probably the "most-like-a-theatre" (see how I tried to make that an adjective) that I have ever had. I did some intense preparation beforehand and felt really good about the direction that I was heading. At the audition, I realized "Hey...I left my binder with headshots 30 minutes away...at home". Luckily, I keep a few extras in my car. I did however, have to drive to Kinko's and print some resumes. As soon as I ran up the stairs to the audition, duh duh duhhhh- it was my turn.

Even though I was a little out of breath, I put a smile on and did my best to "Make it Happen-Captain". Through God's favor, I hope to be back for a callback!

2nd audition for a feature film entitled bro @ CBS in Studio City. I did my best to prepare for this as well. I spent some time just listening to some gangster rap to get an "I run things and don't look at me attitude"...Told you I'd be back in for another gangster role. This audition...uh, "not so much".

May 25, 2010

Voice-over audition in-house

Things have been kinda slow lately...Let's see if things pick up in June

Saturday, May 29 2010

Audition in Santa Monica "White Space" Poetry. This project is about a deaf poet who has a tremendous heart and does his best to reflect his art. I auditioned for the role of a poet- not too big of stretch (I've been writing a lot lately). Fun audition - got to read one of my new poems.

After the audition, I drove to Crenshaw to help Mr. Reggie Jones-Sawyer campaign for State Assembly person.

Friday, May 21, 2010

V.O. Auditions in-house for Universal Studios and Pepsi. The Universal Studios commercial was for the voice of a 40-year old man. It was cool because I got stretch my muscle and see how I could manipulate my voice to sound older, yet still natural. The Pepsi spot was fun! I got to play the voice of an over-excited-cool-hip-guy...The over-excited part comes pretty natural to me...But I'm still working on the cool-thang (is saying "thang" cool?) and trying to get down with my inner hippness (which is officially not a real word- but it should be!)

2nd audition for a feature film entitled "The Perfect Man" @ CaZt Studios with Paul Hannah/ Keena Ferguson casting the film. The film is being shot ala David E Talbert (First Sunday) and Tyler Perry. I considered myself very fortunate to have been invited to audition. I went in for the role of a young college student trying to grasp the rationale behind his parents breaking up as he leaves for college. This character hit home with me and I hope I did it justice.

Going home this weekend for my neice's 12th birthday- she is growing up so fast and is becoming more a more beautiful, caring, child of God everytime I see her- it is her weekend to be spoiled by her uncles and grandpa! I'm also making din-din for my mom tonight to make up for not being able to make it home for Mother's Day. I don't know how good it will be- but it's the effort that counts, right? Yeah- that's what people say when whatever was supposed to be done sucks! Oh-well... "It's the effort that counts"

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Audition for the host of "ABC Family Lounge" @ Liz Boykewich casting (short spots about movie updates and interviews with stars). Funny thing is I auditioned for this same spot last month but through a different casting director...??? Don't know how it happened but I was happy to be there!
I made the copy my own by changing a few of the words. Not too sure if this paid off as much as I hoped it would. We'll see!

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Finals are officially over!!!!!! Yeah boi! If you could see my face right now you would be embarrassed for the way I just jumped on top of my twin sized mattress and nearly hit my head on my short ceiling toppling over my already defaced and decrepit laptop- but it's all good finals are over!!!! (jumping on top of twin sized mattress, yet again)

Audition for "Cool Kids Go to The Movies" through Lodger Films. This is an interesting promo for the movie "The Last Airbender" in 3D. During the audition, I had to act as if earth, wind, water, and fire were jumping off the screen of a theater as a I wore my 3D glasses. This was a family spot and I would be playing the older brother. I think I appear a little older than 16 and I think they may be going for a younger look.

2nd Audition for "Lost Tapes" on Animal Planet @ Michael Donovan Casting. This was too much fun! I got to basically bite myself while swirmming on the floor like a dolphin out of water-sort of....

I was going in for the role of a zombie so I started the audition with a less exaggerated zombie walk kinda like the Michael Jackson thriller and then after I got shot ( in the audition) I feel to the floor and had to break free of handcuffs using my teeth- Fun Day!

Monday, May 10th, 2010

Audition for a short film @ Film Independent entitled"Change". The role was for a tough bad boy of a gang with a wild streak...Interesting! Gradually I think I'm learning to better prepare for auditions and it felt good to be prepared...However in the spirit of preparation it will forever noted that preparation of scripts should be done according to page number....

LESSON LEARNED

Anyway, I believe that I did the best I could at the audition

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Tonight- I felt honored to attend the screening of the USC 310 Class's semester films at USC's Norris Theatre. It's so inspiring to think that a film starts with an idea. This idea turns into a script with actors, a crew, props, equipment, and Kraft Services (a.k.a. the good stuff-food). All of these students produced, directed, edited their own films. To see people who are the same age as you accomplish the goal of making their own films is truly inspirational.

I feel blessed to be a Marshall Business student and a Cinematic Arts minor. Sometimes I wonder, what if I had chosen a more creative major- Production/Theatre/Critical Studies of Film. Would I be happier? Less stressed? Probably not- who knows? But then I remember and trust that God has put me right where I am for reason- everything that I have been through and am going through is not in vain but rather the construction of the foundation for my LIFE. Are there things in your life that you once questioned but now recognize the significance of? Is there a certain trial/tribulation/ or turn that yout thought shouldn't have happened? Are there people that keep on reoccuring like that pesky Mr. Flanders from "The Simpsons" or those meddling kids and Scooby Doo to distract a specter? Find their significance and think about it

Wednesday May 5, 2010

Oh Accounting- you never seem to add that extra kick to my day! Final is done!

V.O. audition @ In-house for McDonalds! They were looking a Will Smith-teasing Carlton about being black/optomistic/confident voice? I didn't quite know what that meant- but I tried my best!

Monday, May 3, 2010

In the scorching-hot-smoldering-withering-back-burning to an extra dark crispy KFC burnt Drumstick (wait-where am I going with this?) kinda time, a.k.a finals season, I'm doing my best to keep a positive attitude and look UP! I think I'm officially an actor now because I've managed to stretch a few words into a dramatic monologue! Anyway- yes friends, it's finals season but I'm not going to let that keep me down- I'm going to stand up tall and say "NO SLEEP"! lol Just kidding-

Audition today for a student film-"My Brother's Keeper" at CAZT studios off of Santa Monica Blvd. What I really like about CAZT is that you get an email after your audition asking if you would like to pay a fee to see your audition....UHhhh-what abnormally (meaning all) self-conscious young actor getting his feet wet wouldn't? This one did! And I didn't feel all that confident with my audition. The role was for a gangbanger/older brother/mentor role? And I'm doing my best to distance myself from the characters that I auditon for/play because I natrually SMILE...A LOT... Like you know the Happy Face Cookies from Smith's Bakery? (Bakersfield represent!!!) Or the permanant Cheesing Face of Tony the Tiger? I just can't help it sometimes and unfortunately it affects my audition process....Especially for the role of gangbanger/thug. Well I'm working on it! I'm sure this won't be the last gangbanger/thug audition I get...

Thursday, April 30th, 2010

Got back from the library at 3:00am this morning but felt good about staying up late to do some finals studying. Went to the gym at 9:30 and came back to hear a message from my voice-over agent that I was needed in-house asap.

I debated whether or not to take a shower for a couple minutes and decided I probably should because it's been a couple/3-4 days and I might want to spare the environment the trouble. I also had to get ready for a casting internship interview later and another audition.

I took about a 2/3 minute shower grabbed my stuff and hit the road- only to be stuck in traffic for 25 minutes. Anyway the audition was FRESH- I got to use my poetry skills for a pretty interesting spot. Afterward, I drove to Valley Village to meet with for casting internship for this summer.

Then back to Hollywood for an audition for Student thesis film about mercenaries...SAY Wahh? Anyway- got some pretty good feedback. Let's hope for a callback!

Monday, April 26, 2010

Audition for State Farm @ France-Selkirk Ackerman Casting. Cool. Tip: Always be prepared to read for the roles of other characters. I was called in for "Greg"- the hipster black guy, but read for a different role. Still had fun though!

Friday, April 23, 2010

Yeah...so last night I told myself that I was gonna make it to the gym in the morning...Didn't happen. I also said I was going to eat a healthy Breakfast- I had Choc. Chip Pancakes. I also said I was going to start studying for finals...Didn't happen. Procrastination sucks monkey!

Audition for webseries at Space Station Casting. This marks my fist audition for a webseries! Awesome! It was also more comedic- which I'm not use to- but I had fun!

Thursday, April 23, 2010

Callback for Hosting a Talent Competition in June. Went Well, but in & out!

Monday, April 19, 2010

If only I had read some wise words by a wise servant of God this morning...He sent an email in regards to trying to control everything, rather than allowing God to take control as He should.

Monday morning and guess what? Yup? I'm doing homework- what time Monday morning? About 4:30am....Goodness...

I had a in house V.O. audition for a Lottery commercial this monring. Fun stuff! I got use my Chris-Rock-I'm-gonna-make-you-roll-on-the-floor-and-die-of-laughter-voice! Awesome!

After this-not so awesome. The previous night I had found out that I had gotten an audition for a Nickolodeon show through a self-submission. Yay! Not-so-yay. I had called my agent to let him know that I had a scheduling conflict with class. He said try to see if I could get in earlier. I said "cool". However, the role called for a character with an abnormally deep voice. I'd like to think I have a medium deep voice (not a Barry White-I'm-gonna-make-love-to-you-voice). I wasn't sure if should go or not. After my V.O. audition, I called the casting director to see if I should still come to the Nickelodeon audition, even if I had to make my voice forcibly deeper. No one picked up.

So I was like, "Cool"- I'll peace back home and have time to prepare for my presentation and do my project in business class. When I got home- I listened to my messages and the casting director said to come and audition. So I drove back from the way I had come, knowing that I would be late to the class I had a project for. The audition was at Paramount Studios on Melrose in Hollywood. I made the huge mistake of only skimming the script. When I was called into the audition- I flopped! Not just I think I tripped over a stair flop. I seriously fell out of 25 foot building and had a concussion flopped! The script had dialogue that I hadn't been aware of- I have never had an audition like that...EVER!

After realizing that, I called my brother David and- thank God for his reassurance, I began to calm down. However, I was 30 minutes late to my business class. Small problem- I had the password to a group project that we had to start in class. My team members had been texting me but I could not get the right password! Whilst everyone else had started, they were waiting on me! I felt so bad- I hate letting people down.


What a day! God still has mercy on me and I know that things can only get better.

Friday April 16th, 2010

Good Morning God! V.O. audition for Pepsi. And found out I was released from the previous job that I was on-hold for...It's all good! My agents told me that they were impressed and I want to keep on heading in this direction.

Tonight I attended a panel discussion hosted by the African American Cinema Society. Tonight's guest was director, Mr. F. Gary Gray, (Law Abiding Citizen, The Italian Job, Be Cool, Friday, TLC- Waterfalls video).

I feel truly blessed to have seen the documentary about this man and hear him speak. He is extremely sincere and welcoming. He was cracking jokes the whole time! He talked about his journey from da' hood and also his inspiration to make the best films possible.

Thursday April 15, 2010

Thursday- Thursday! What mighty and blessed day! Today reminds me of mint-oreo-shake with Skippy Peanut Butter, caramel, hot fudge, and chocolate chip cookie dough (otherwise known as diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol)- just such a SWEET day!

Today, I hosted a program for my residents in my building. We went to go see a new pilot for CBS entitled "Mike & Molly"! Hopefully this one will get picked up! I think/ hope everyone had a blast! Afterward, we went to SOI 56- a Thai restaurant in Hollywood. Thai Ice Tea- not quite a peanut butter shake-but close enough!

During dinner, I received an email from my agent at DPN (voice over agency) saying that i had been put on hold (as a backup for one of the V.O. auditions I had). Everything in V.O. commercials happens super fast! My first on-hold! Say Wahhhhhhh!? Oh baby! I was juiced! I will find out tomorrow or not if I am booked!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

V.O. audition in house for a cell phone company. Today I had the blessed opportunity to paired with a scene partner. His name- Mr. Obba Babatunde. He has to be one of the hardest working actors out there and you may remember him as the father on the UPN show "Half and Half", Principal Howard on "Dawson's Creek", Dr. Haskins in "The Eye", or you name it- and he was probably on/in it! He has numerous credits and also starred on Broadway as the original C.C. White in "Dreamgirls".

Mr. Babatunde was extremely sincere an committed to making our audition the best possible. While Robert, our session director was getting set up, I asked him for some words of wisdom for a young actor. He humbly replied that life/ your career is like a piggy bank. You continuously put effort in and save up. One day you get to the point when you put the last coin in and you can't put anymore in. You've worked hard you've achieved something great- you now break the piggy bank. He said that some people stop here- thinking that they've made it. Many actors do this. He said that it is important to keep progressing and what matters most is what you do with all that has been saved up. You take what you have learned and channel that towards continued progress. WISE WISE WORDS

After some raindrops of wisdom from a seasoned actor- we read our lines and final take was the best!

Sunday April 11, 2010

YAHHHHH! It's raining it's pooring, this young black man should be in bed snoring! Still a little under the weather today and it decided to rain...

Ironically...on the day that we needed to reshoot a night scene from a short film I had the fortune to be in- "A Fire in Dovecot". This thesis film is being directed by a super-hardworking and talented director from dare i say- ucla (not capitalized). Anyway, I was featured in a short scene that we filmed in December when it was like 35 degrees outside and we had to act like it was a hot summer night.

ACT like it's a hot summer night!? I don't know about you but me and my African Brothas prefer our summers with warmth!

We were able to get the shot but right after it started raining like hail! We were shooting in Watts (107th and Grape). Fun stuff!

Friday, April 9, 2010

Woke up feeling a little under the weather- but tis all gravy because I'm healed in Jesus's name!

Audition @ Kelly Casting on Santa Monica Blvd. for a Kellie Pickler music video...In & Out in less than a couple of minutes

Drove back to USC to attend a panel featuring USC Alumni John Singleton (Baby Boy, Four Brothers) and Tim Story (Barbershop, Fantastic Four). If that's not inspiration, I don't know what is!

Thursday April 8, 2010

I decided to vamp up my hosting skills and submit for a Hosting job for an Agency Showcase taking place in June-

Audition on Wilshire = Cool- All Improv

2nd Audition of the Day was @ Zane/Pillsbury Casting. I had the opportunity to read for this office last year (almost a year ago exactly) for a pilot called "Fish Tank"...Well I thought I tanked that audition- I was still a student at UC Riverside and got to the audition super late because I had to get off of work and drive in traffic...And when I got there I found out I read the wrong script. Instead of asking for more time- I was like PSSSSH- I got this. NOT SO MUCH- I didn't feel very well about it and I thought I would never be called into this office again.

But God works in mysterious ways- And I felt blessed to be at the audition. This a small co-star spot on ABC Family's new show, "Pretty Little Liars. I got to read for the role of an extra horny jock- I think I had a little too much fun with this one! Let's hope the fun pays off!

Now back to campus to anchor Platforum: USC Issues on Trojan Vision (USC's own station)

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Audition for AT&T Industrial @ DB Casting in Sherman Oaks. All Improv- Went alright- could of spent a little more time with the improvisation.

Monday, April 5, 2010

It's another midterm today but I'm coming back with a vengeance! Operations Management/BUAD 311, you will NOT get the best of me this time!

After getting up at 5am to go over some last minute questions and pay a visit to my Professor at 8am, I jetted off to Beverly Hills for a In-House Voice Over audition for a "Status of Force Agreement" advertisement. I got to use my obnoxious-I'm gonna make you tell me what you know-and then tell you that you're wrong-black-guy voice....Diggin' IT!

Midterm= MEH...

OH baby- DUKE takes the NCAA Championship!!!

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Happy April Fools!!! Audition for "America's Most Wanted" at Billy Damota Casting in Sherman Oaks. Went well-but I don't think I look very much like the character that I would be reenacting.

Wednesday, March 31st 2010

So...Today- Wednesday is supposed to be a normal/casual day for class...I'm strolling with my usual 5-10 minute grace-period (Code word for LATE) and I remember that the Black Entertainment and Theatrical Association is hosting a panel tonight with inspiring black entertainment professionals...so I made the abrupt decision to forgo class (Sorry Mr. Block) and attend the event.

Being late is a horrible habit- I show up 30 minutes late and there is a sign on the door that reads, "Please keep the door closed. We are over capacity". UGGGGH...I decide to campout in front of the door and post-up (Not taking "NO" for an answer this year). A friend walks out and says she has to go to class. Instead of using logic to rationalize the situation and think...."HMmm...one person walked out- maybe there's ONE more seat" ...I sit near the door bewidered wishing for a seat to open up. A random guy comes into the entrance of the foyer and casually opens the doors and walks into the theatre where the panel is being held and sits down...SAY WHAT? There was an open seat...DUH!!!

Anway after waiting a loooooong while- I decided to make it all or nothing and go in! Chris Tucker (Rush Hour 1-3), Bradon T Jackson (Tropic Thunder/ Roll Bounce), James Avery (Uncle Phil from Fresh Prince of Bel Air) , Anne Marie-Johnson (1st VP of SAG), and Twinkie Byrd (Casting Director: "Notorious" and "Stomp the Yard") were all there. They shared stories of inspiration and defeat.

Chris Tucker was really sinceree and said "You need people to believe in You. Don't go for defeat. Depth only adds to a character". Powerful words Carter! He also talked a lot about Faith. You rarely hear anyone in Hollywood talk about Faith- People will talk about a UFO made of choocolate that runs on oreos and is inhabited by giant marshmallows before mentioning the word GOD. I was humbled to be able to listen to wise words

Tuesday March, 30th 2010

After a little bit of a break- things are back to a grind! Took some time during spring break to visit the old man and the rest of my wonderful fam BAM up north-

Today I had a hosting audition for ABC Family @ Krisha Bullock Casting! Funny thing- I've been in to this same office 2 times before (last year). Once for "iCarly" and another time for "Victorious" (both on Nickolodeon). I felt blessed to be back in this office again because I know Ms. Bullock is always casting Nickolodeon shows and every audition is an opportunity- not only for the current project but future ones as well!

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Yup...you guessed it...It's midterms week....

Tests always seem to tests me in the wrong way...Never the way I wanted to be tested- but we're moving past that- Because today, I was filming a promo for ABC Family!!!

Last week I had gottten placed on hold but wasn't sure if I had actually been booked. I got confirmation earlier last week.

I had auditioned for the promo- way back in July when I was still a rookie to LA! The shoot was so much fun! I had a beautiful wife and awesome dog- Yup! That's right I said- WIFE! I guess I'm getting a little older now, right? Should I be thinking about marriage now----as Nathaniel casually shakes his head "NOOOOOOO". The shoot went on for about 14 hours and will be running around the 2nd week of April. It will be getting played about 40 times or so. Awesome opportunity and I hope more like this will come my way! Look out for it on ABC Family!

Saturday, March 6, 2010

I was hoping that I would have the opportunity to go kick it in Riverside today with my freshmen hallmates who I consider my extended family...but I realized I needed to do some heavy studying for this upcoming week. I also had an audition.

Callback for Bill and Melinda Gates foundation PSA- Wow! I've never had an audition like this in my life- It was great because it went on for about 3.5 hours and they kept bringing us back in to audition with different partners.

I got to use my poetry skills to recite and feel the words as I meshed with my partners.

Finally at 2:30- The casting director pulled me aside and told me that I could go home. Not because I was being cut- but because she believed that I had some raw talent and the only issue was finding a dad...a black dad...to play my father. Originally the spot was supposed to be with a Latino student named Jose- but I'm not Latino and I'm not too sure if I could pass for Jose or have a Latino father.

So they said they will contact me regarding what will be done. Looking forward to it! This seems like a great opportunity- I actually applied for a Gates Foundation scholarship when I was in high school- never got it...Maybe it's time to reconcile that with a booking? Yes!

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Voice over audition at the In-House Studio. Today I had a pairs audition- so I was paired off with another female actress and our audition consisted of reading lines for an outdoor goods store. It was pretty FRESH! Great partner.

Monday, March 3, 2010

On location Voice Over Audition today! California Lottery at Carroll Casting in Burbank- went well. I think I'm still learning how to best manipulate my voice to play the type of person that they are casting.

Monday, March 1, 2010

American Idol Promo Audition at Ian Royston in Santa Monica- I always tend to think I'm going to have more time to get to an audition than I acutally do- but I got to this one 15 mins early and had some time to spare! The aAmerican Idol Promo Audition at Ian Royston in Santa Monica- I always tend to think I'm going to have more time to get to an audition than I acutally do- but I got to this one 15 mins early and had some time to spare! The audition was quick and painless- really quick actually. How did it go? I'm still questioning if it even happened!? It was quick! udition was quick and painless- really quick actually. How did it go? I'm still questioning if it even happened!? It was quick!

Sunday February 28, 2010

I can't describe how happy I am today! There are so many things that God has blessed us with that we often take for granted. My sister, who lives in London had to make an impromptu trip to Sacramento to handle some business with our dad on Wednesday night. My family in Bakersfield and myself were planning on driving up to SAC-town the following week to go chill with her...But we found out she would only being staying a few days as opposed to a whole week. But something happened-God happened- because we were all able to free up our schedules and bring Anjali and my two nephews down from Sacramento to Bakersfield for the weekend.

I drove my Matrix up from LA. Some idiot hit my car and ran off on the way home- but that's a different story for different blog where profanity runs rampant! Anyway, I got there on Saturday and all my 5 brothers and sisters (Gloria, Bessie, Kobby, David, and Anjali) and my dad for the first time EVER were able to eat, dance, and have some Simons family fun today! In the morning we went to church were Pastor Ron preached about dreams- very ironic. He even gave me his notes after the service! We all shared our dreams, goals, and desires for the future and prayed with and for each other. This has to be the most beautiful day that I have ever had- but I look forward to more days like this. It's been a long time prayin'

I had to leave B-TOWN (Bakersfield) early in order to make it back to an R.A. event and I was a little late- but nonetheless there.

Wednesday February 25, 2010

Wednesday mornings are always interesting days---- Get up in the morning, (sometimes) brush my teeth- just kidding, chomp on a granola bar- which usually ends up crumbling to the floor on my way to class, race to class at 7:58am knowing that I'm most likely going to be late, and take my usual seat on the far right in Business Communications. This morning was no different except I probably left at 8:05am...

After class today- I had the opportunity to meet Katherine Bigelow! I drove to the Arc Light with a couple of the residents from my hall and went to a panel discussion and screening of "The Hurt Locker" for USC Cinematic Arts students! I even got to shake Ms. Bigelow's hand and have a 10 (maybe 12) second conversation with her! I'm not too sure if she wanted to shake my hand- but I stuck it out anyway! During the pannel, she, the writer, and other guests talked about the importance of this film at this given moment.

Unfotunately, we couldn't stay for the screening- had to get back to an R.A. meeting

Thursday, February 19, 2010

Woke up feelin good and thought I would have time to get an early morning workout in- but NOT today. I wanted to have some more time to go over the script for "14 Miles Out of Bosnia" (Chapman Student Film). I also wanted to make sure I was smellin' fresh and lookin' ALIVE for an important agency meeting about commercial representation.

I think spending the extra minute instead of my normal two minutes in the shower worked!!! WHy? Because they want to represent me commercially! I told the agent I needed some time to make sure I was making the right decision and she was cool about it.

After the meeting, I raced to Chapman and the director spent a lot of time working with me and seeing where I could go with the character. Rarely will anyone do that, so I considered myself very blessed for being able to have the opportunity. I should find out by Wednesday

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

V.O. audition today for an Audio spot. I got to get my 17 year old b-ball playing voice on! Went well!

Really important meeting tomorrow : ) Then Callback for Chapman student film

Friday, February 12, 2010

I really LOVE LA Traffic- just when you think you've given yourself enough time to make it time and even added that extra cushioning...BAM!!! LATE- not late like a couple of minutes LATE as in an hour...or two.

This is exactly what happened today as I drove to Chapman University for a student film audition. Normally, I would of said-"GAS...as is im my GAS? Your trippin! I'm turning around! Right after I get a McFlurry : )" But this script was really amazing and the director was great at communicating- so I spent a couple of hours in traffic and got to the audition. I asked if I could read for a different role because I felt more of a connection with that character. And they were really cool about it.

The film is about the Serbian genocide during 1995 and the script is so FRESH!!! It's all in God's hands though : )

Happy Single's Awareness Day as well ... : (

And Happy Birthday to my pops- February 16th

Thursday, February 11, 2010

I feel so blessed to be where I'm at- I'm beginning to question, is destiny inevitable? God has truly orchestrated my steps to be in the city of Los Angeles and pursue this career while getting an education. I know it sounds complex, but I really believe that His plan for my life is so much bigger than I can even fathom. If you ask my parents, I was supposed to be the Pediatrician/Hospital Administrator in the family!

Tonight I had the opportunity to attend a private screening of "Precious" at the Pacific Design Center in Hollywood! What a blessing that was! The movie was extraordinary and really essential for black filmmakers to take the next step in showcasing the diversity of talent that we possess. Afterward, Gabourey Sidibe (lead actress) in "Precious" answered questions about her journey and how she got the role.
Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to take a picture, but I did have the chance to take notes!

She came out with quite an entrance but above all her personality and humor radiated. After having auditioned, over 400 other girls for the part, Gabourey went to an open call, just because. She had no intention of becoming an actress or even getting into the entertainment industry. She was studying Psychology in school. In the audition, she had no pressure- because unlike many actors who depend on acting for sustenance and future success, she had nothing to lose if she didn't get the part. In a matter of days- 3 to be exact, she got the part! They had been looking for the lead actress for years. What ultimately sold Lee Daniels (the director) was that she was not like the character at all. Gabourey said Lee did not want to exploit the situation in the movie. The other 400 girls who auditioned for the part of "Precious" were like "Precious" in real life, but Gabourey wasn't.

I even got to ask a question: "How do you feel about the roles available to young black actresses as far as pursuing roles with characters that are resilient and comples?"

Her answer was: "Hmmmm...(she took a second to think about it), I hope that this brings light to the different roles that we can take on- I hope I play a part of expanding the category."

In concluding, she raved about her excitement for an Oscar nomination and how she believes in DESTINY and how the most important thing about the film is not that there were black characters, but rather people- people with a story.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

V.O. audition at the agency. McDonald's! I really got to have some fun with this one!

Monday, February 8, 2010

You know that point in a person's life when they learn to find the balance between what they have to do and what they need to do? Yeah...I'm still trying to do that- BUT I WILL! Mark my words!

After a late night of peanut-butter, granola bars, and what seemed like a mountain of homework (maybe slept four a couple of hours), V.O. audition at the agency- McDonalds!!! I would like to think McDonalds keeps the black actor working- Went well though!

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Today was def. a blessing! Woke up to a jar of peanut butter and said "Oh baby"...just kidding...but today really was a blessing! I've never had 4 auditions in one day...until TODAY. My pops wasn't feeling too well last night so my brother David was up kind of late taking care of him in Sacramento- had us a little on edge- but through Faith comes conquership (not a real word).

Audition #1- Print audition for SAP computers at Ben Sealey Casting. This was pretty fresh- I got to wear some Ghanaian attire. After doing profiles, I had to talk about my first car...Those of you who knew me way back in the day know I had a lot to talk about: 91' Purple Previa with no air conditioning, only one functioning door, only one functioing window, and no radio- Good Times!

Audition #2- PSA audition at Eyes of the World Music for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This went really well- I got to recite a poem I wrote and got to spit some sides poetry style.

Audition #3- Callback at Music/Levy Casting for ESPN promo- I was kind hoping that I would be paired off with my pretend father and pretend grandpa this time but aside from that, this went well. They are either going to go black grandpa, son, and younger son or white grandpa, son, and younger son. Let's hope black is in this season! I think I'm right for the spot and hope that they will book me!

Audition #4- Callback at Cazt studios for a Coke Spec Commercial. This was a great way to end a long day of the auditioning game! Got to have some fun with a kind of interesting twist on your traditional commercial.


Off to go do some accounting homework now!

Thursday, February 4, 2010

So yesterday was a pretty busy day, but nonetheless a productive and good one! Feeling energized and pumped for the day, I started off with a workout and when I got back to my phone, BAM! Voice over audition! The KFC spot that I had originally auditioned with on Wednesday had been submitted and then I also did a McDonald's and a March-Madness spot. God has a plan! After meeting with some of the agents, who were extremely welcoming and nice I drove to West Hollywood to have lunch with a friend. It's always FRESH to be able to connect with people that you meet and keep building upon those friendships- After the subway tuna with "Oh-so-Sweet-Onion-Teriyaki-Sauce" (gettin in the Voice Over mood), I drove a couple blocks up the street to Sunset where I had a ESPN Promo audition at Exclusive Casting. It went great! Callback time!? Not in my hands- but felt good though!

As soon as I got back to campus, I rushed to Trojan Vision (USC studio) where I began my anchorship on Platforum: USC Issues. I had a blast we were getting all fueled up about jobs on campus (makes for a surprisingly interesting debate).

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Fun stuff, I went to bed at 12:30am and woke up at 3am in order to finish some homework...Only part was- I never went back to sleep! After I got back from class at 2pm, I rushed to Beverly Hills to meet with a very reputable voice over agency- who I will now be working with! Rushed back to finish TV station Management Homework. The guest speaker tonight was Marc Summers from "Double Dare", the best show on Nickolodeon. Mr. Summers is now a producer and still has that same great sense of humor. Side note: Man I miss "Rugrats"!

Callback Audition at Dede Tillie's Casting Office for "Black Butterfly" Trailer. It went well! Went through the script once and was asked to do it again in a different way. Didn't hear any feedback though : 0 You never know though : )

Vh1 "FAMOUS CRIME SCENE" (MICHAEL JACKSON)

DISCOVERY HEALTH "I DIDN'T KNOW I WAS PREGNANT"

If you are receiving this- it is because you have had, will have, or are having an impact on my life and I feel the least I can do is let you know what's going doing in my neighborhood. You can find previous email updates at http://nathanielsimons.blogspot.com/, If you would prefer not to receive these updates, please send me an email and let me know (no offense taken-It's all gravy, yams, and biscuits!)


2010!!!??? What? When!? So, in keeping the trend of delaying my updates (I might have to make it every year), I am extremely honored and humbled to share what is going on in my life with you. I also love hearing back from you, so please feel free to ask questions and let me know how you’re doing. God is truly at work in my life and I am learning to trust him with small, great, and “Houston, I think we have a problem” decisions. A lot has been going down (speaking optimistically, UP) with me, for me, and through me. I hope that you will find a comfortable futon, a relaxing bean bag, or a mound of marshmallows (wouldn’t that be FLY) to chill on while you read this. As you are accustomed, you may want to have a meal during the span of reading this email update (preferably a 2lb. jar of SKIPPY peanut-butter- “OH, baby!” as Nathaniel currently spoon-feeds himself a ladle-sized mound of peanut-butter). I hope that you will enjoy reading this as much as I did writing it! God Bless!!!
-Nathaniel


LIFE UNDER CONSTRUCTION:

…So-uh…Merry Christmas and Happy New Year? I guess I’m a little late, right? Well, please excuse my N/PCT (Nathaniel/Person of Color time) and think of it as an advance for 2010. After recuperating from my initiation to USC (Hard work should NOT equal mediocrity), I had the opportunity to go home and spend the Christmas in the 8th wonder of the world, Bakersfield, CA (Note: not sarcasm- TRUTH <–family and friends=joy) + Bakersfield now has a Super Target and a Super Wal-Mart. Also, I finally learned how to do the electric slide (a big thanks to my niece Grace-love and my sister-in-law Jessica)…It took about 3 hours 25 minutes and 14 seconds to teach me but I’m pretty confident that mine and my brother Kobby’s Electric Slide could most definitely generate enough electricity to keep you happy during a California black-out (I’ve been practicing too- normally while grocery shopping…people tend to look at me a little weird). I can’t wait till the next wedding I go to! I plan on charging my Electric Slide on top of the bride and groom’s table. I also had the opportunity to go visit the OLD-man in SAC-town. Coming from someone who strongly opposes the concept of a buffet, GOLDEN CORRAL is the best thing that has happened to Sacramento since Cesar Chavez’s Civil Rights March. Right before I left for break, I applied and interviewed for a position as a Resident Advisor (otherwise known as the no-fun-jerk that ends parties and the usage of ______). Well, can I get a “God is AMAZING”!? Seriously! ---- Come on, say it!!! Okay, now that we got that covered- I got the job! As soon as I got back to campus, I got to leave my often quiet and sometimes bland apartment with the yellow-tinted toilet seat and no air conditioning for a more spacious and FRESH apartment with a non-1-person-sized-kitchen (I make a mean BBQ-chicken pizza…It’s how I get the ladies-just kidding mom-kind of). Did I mention housing is now…paid for? And OHHH- so for my first program I decided to teach an Ab-Attack Class with free smoothies and granola bars…There are over 700 residents currently living in Troy Hall..guess how many showed up? 5- Nooooooooooooooooo, not 50 or 500 (I didn’t forget any 0s)…5 period --- (.) Not cool, right! In addition, to the RA position- I am BLESSED to be the new Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs for Undergraduate Student Government, an anchor on Trojan Vision’s own show Platforum, and once-again a volunteer tutor for The Chaka Kahn Foundation. And classes- I got my work cut out for me this semester…AGAIN. In other news, f your newspaper, television set, facebook, twitter, and best friend have all failed you- I am here to inform you that Pete Carroll is leaving USC (he might as well go to ucla -once again, please note how ucla is in a smaller & non-capitalized font when compared to USC). How do I feel about it? Well, Pete- “You go make your $32 million dollar/ 5 year deal- because after your done driving in your new Mercedes S550 while bumping your $500,000 BOSE-sound-system and listening to Kanye West and chilling in your new $10 million mansion with your fancy gold-plated toilet and your happy family and your…(wait, where am I going with this?) Uh- Congrats Pete (period)-(.)

ENTERTAINMENT ENDEAVORS:

Through reading a purpose Driven life by Rick Warren (still got 26 more chapters), I have a new outlook on the journey of actordom. Rejection=Direction. With every “NO” that comes my way (it happens pretty often) is another step in a direction appointed by God smoothiefied with hard-work, persistence, and a plan. I had the opportunity to work on great short and student films in 2009 and not only will that increase in 2010 but so will other opportunites…as indicated below!
As I drove back on the foggy Bakersfieldian Grape Vine and passed the wind-ridden trees and the frost-bitten mountains on January 9th (sorry I’m kinda in an Edgar Allen Poe mood), I journeyed into 2010 with 4 auditions in 2 days!? Say What??? Yup- 2010 is year of increased blessings-- Believe it and receive it baby! A McDonald’s callback, ARBY’s, K-Swiss, and a reenactment for Discovery Health show, “I Didn’t Know I Was Pregnant” (please note: this is the name of the show- Men do not, nor will ever be or have the capacity to be pregnant…or so we thought), about a married couple with a baby!!! If you asked me which job I was going to book - I would have said hmmm.. “I like McNuggets, I like to play with curly fries, and I wear shoes but uhhh…marriage/kids??? Two things that make every man run and catapult into his SNUGGIE and Scooby Doo Night Shoes!!! It wasn’t that I don’t have faith in my abilities--- it’s just that I’ve been told I resemble more of a Don Cheadle and the actor playing the character in the show needed to resemble more of a not Don Cheadle….But even when we doubt our abilities, God presents opportunities! Essentially, he’s saying, “Who said you couldn’t do this?” “Who told you aren’t that? Needles to say- I booked the job! When does it air? I have no clue! But I’ll let you know when I find out! There’s a picture attached below from when I was on set- If you want to see more pictures- check out my blog-http://nathanielsimons.blogspot.com/which I will start updating periodically with entertainment and everything related endeavors starting next week!


Proactiveness (apparently it’s not a word- because I’m getting the little squigglely line that says “you suck at spelling”) is building block for success as I have realized with pursuits in the entertainment industry. I’m currently taking two Cinematic Arts Classes: TV Station Management & Motion Picture Camera. I’d like to think I’ve been pretty proactive of late and as a result have been auditioning at least twice every week. In addition to booking a job on Discovery Health, I booked a job for Vh1 for a new show called “Famous Crime Scene”, a reenactment of Michael Jackson’s death in which I play M.J. himself (just kiddin, we would have to go back quite a few decades to make that work or I would have to get $5million in plastic surgery- so I play his assistant, Michael Amir)! Check out the pictures below (please note: the Michael Jackson one might be a little scary- more on the blog). When does it air!? Once again, I don’t know…but I’ll let you know! This week alone has been a blessing- Thursday I had the opportunity to audition for the casting director who was behind “Stomp the Yard” and “Notorious”, yesterday I had a hosting audition, today I had an audition for Coke, and Monday an audition for a movie trailer!!! What a blessing!

I also recently did some submissions (actually sent them out on Thursday). As I submitted, I did not even know that this particular agency I submitted to did only voice-overs. They represent Jane Lynch from Glee, Jim Belushi, Tony Danza, Kevin Dillon and bunch more. I got a call yesterday evening from this particular agency that is very well known for voice-overs and they want to bring me in for a voice-over audition next week! “Say What!!!!?” (in African Accent) “Say What!!!!?” ( in British Accent) “Say What!!!?” (in Jamaican Accent) “Say What!!!?” (in Southern Accent) “Say What!!!?” (in Filipino Accent…working on it). I’m about to get my James Earl Jones on! FRESSSSSSH! So…(shameless plug…again) if you check my blog, sometime next week, I’ll update you!


ENDING COMMENTS:

The backwards-upside-down-adrenaline in your face-about to make you throw up feeling is an emotion that we get when we pursue our purpose (should I say “purpoi”- would that be plural? It’s been so long since English class). I feel blessed (I don’t and cannot believe in luck- I believe in blessings) and so grateful for the opportunities that have arisen. I pray that as you sit there on that fluffy marshmallowed and beaned-baggen futon that you are progressing toward your purpose and realizing that every detail of your life is not a coincidence but a signal of direction. Thanks for reading! Feel free to check the blog http://nathanielsimons.blogspot.com/ (shameless plug #7000) every now and then!



TIPS FOR THE FUTURE:

1. If currently believe you are incapable of doing something, ask yourself who told you were incapable?
2. Peanut-butter makes the world go round (SKIPPY that is)
3. Pray for the beautiful country of Haiti and find it in your heart to donate whatever you can.
4. Ask yourself if you are in the right atmosphere and mindset to achieve your dreams? If not, what can you do about it?
5. DON’T go see “The Book of Eli”- Denzel, you let me down man!
6. Please do yourself a favor- Go for the SAINTS...If anyone wants to bet jars (as in multiple) of SKIPPY, I’m so down!