T: Is for the craft of theater

Last Sunday at the Weston Hotel there was an Entertainment Industry Expo presented by Zachary Lezberg and Brian Blattman. Both these men have impressive credits yet like most actor expo's in New York it missed the key ingredients that participants in the industry need. Nowhere were the unions, the relevant participants ie: doctors, businesses, organizations or the teaching professionals that could demystify the blur that this field causes within. Having been involved in producing, writing, acting, casting and teaching I was confused at who this was for. The professional or non? There is a difference in needs. Sadly I learned nothing. They had auditions for Hairspray (did not see or hear this and easily done if you are union), Blue Man Group, Model Management Group (which you can do every Wednesday from 2-4) 2xist (what is this?) and YRB. From what was there, here is the best:

Photography: www.imageworksnyc.com normally $450 for headshots the show special is $100 off. The portraits are clean, expressive with natural lighting and a real feel to them. In a time where the breakdowns are asking for real people this helps the actor convey that.

Seeing shows: www.theaterextras.com for a $65 members fee you can get tickets to shows for just $4. Not only does it include B'way but off B'way, concerts and games. This offer also includes a 20 day money back guarantee this helps an actor stay on top of his or her craft.

Not exhibiting but whose flyer's were included in the bag, Theater Resources Unlimited. TRU(run by long time friends Bob Ost and Gary Hughes) is a must for any professional in the theater. Their vast knowledge and resources is unprecedented. They know everybody. They also run a play reading series that is FREE! The 1st one was June 4th but you can catch the next three on the 11th, 18th and 25th at the Players Theater 115 MacDougal. For reservations call 212 714-7628. You can also log onto www.truonline.org to see what they can offer you.

Acting or getting trained: The Network is another legit group, people from the industry make money from doing their job and you pay their salary gig. As you can tell I think having to pay an agent or casting director for allowing you to audition is a joke. This is definitely a trend that has expanded. The thing that impressed me about this is at least they are honest about what they are looking for. They don't however give the whole name so you know who it is. That leaves me a little skeptical but check out www.thenetworknyc.com

Who to thank for attendance: www.amp3pr.com this is one PR company that this industry should know. They are polite, inventive and they know how to entice you to join in. They are the reason you are reading this and that's a F.A.C.T.