SUCCESS STORIES
Here are a few samples of successes achieved by talent on this web site and/or the companies associated with Casting America.
Josh Hartnett was one of the first actor/models ever to be placed on the Casting America web site, back in the days when he was living in St. Paul, Minnesota and working with Joe Katz Models. He was initially discovered by Joe Katz while performing in a high school play, "Guys and Dolls". One of his earliest television commercial assignments was for Northwest Airlines. Initially in great demand as a print model, his acting career quickly took off. His first notable acting role outside of the theater was in the short-lived television series "Crackers". His "big break" on screen came in 1998 through his performance in "Halloween: H2O", starring Jamie Leigh Curtis.
Rebecca Flint of the "All Movie Guide", said of Josh: "One of the crop of obscenely attractive young stars to pop up during the late 1990s, Josh Hartnett has the kind of strong-jawed, puppy-eyed looks that make him equally suited for both movie stardom and Tommy Hilfiger ads."
Josh continued to combine acting with modeling, doing numerous magazine assignments and commercials. He quickly followed his "H2O" performance with major roles in "The Faculty" (starring with Elijah Wood), "Town and Country" (performing with Warren Beatty and Diane Keaton), "The Virgin Suicides" (starring with Kirsten Dunst, James Wood, and Kathleen Turner), "Here on Earth" (with Chris Klein) and "Blow Dry" (with Rachel Leigh Cook) -- all released in 2000. By now Josh was truly established as a recognizable, versatile working actor, one who knew his craft. And one who was receiving a great deal of notice.
In 2001, Josh leaped to "A List" status and became a household name, if not a true superstar, with his appearance in the blockbuster $200+ million hit "Pearl Harbor". But according to Entertainment Weekly Magazine, this role was a difficult one for him to accept. Josh admitted to Entertainment Weekly that he was “scared to take the role because I was a bit concerned that it might make me a bit more famous than I already am.” Reportedly, after a much needed trip across the river (from Minneapolis to St. Paul) and a brief discussion with his dad over a car wash, Josh decided to take on the role of Danny Walker next to Ben Affleck and Kate Beckinsale. The movie itself fell short of Titanic, not only in budget, but also in opening week box office sales, however, for Josh, he did not fall short of Leonardo DiCaprio style success off the film.
His pivotal role in "O" (a modernized version of "Othello") drew further praise during 2001 as well. Josh starred in other major films in 2001 and 2002, "Black Hawk Down", direct by Ridley Scott -- and "40 Days and 40 Nights", a true romantic comedy (a departure from his recent string of serious projects).
Recently, he combined talents with Harrison Ford in the comedy buddy movie "Hollywood Homicide", a major 2003 release.
Though starting his career in the out-of-the-limelight climes of St. Paul, Minnesota, Josh has once again proven that talent, work ethic, and determination will nonetheless produce results. The starting point in launching one's career is far less important than where it finished. We will keep following Josh's career closely and with great interest.
Mandy Moore, the teenage phenom pop singer, model and actress, began her career as a child while working with Casting America's owners as the only human character in the animated television series "Smooze". She also worked on the Mickey Mouse Club. In the "Smooze" series, created by Wilson Knott and written by Casting America's president, Lew Carr, Mandy portrayed a real live girl (live action) who was suddenly spun into an Alice-In-Wonderland-like animated world, occupied by Smooze, Jiggles, Jeeter, Lord Zar and many other amazing creatures. She was not yet a teenager when she first became involved with the project that had her sing, dance, act in live action and act as a voice-over animated character known as (what else?) "Mandy". This was Mandy's first paid professional singing role on a CD (there was a children's CD produced from the series). While recording the "Smooze" tracks at the same recording studio used by the Backstreet Boys and Nsync, Mandy was noticed by the managers of the two boy bands. She also caught the attention of Sony's Epic Records. The rest is history, as they say. Now she has a major recording and management contract with SONY Entertainment, a platinum album, three top ten hit singles ("Candy", "I Want to be with You", "In My Pocket"), three videos that have made the MTV top ten, has appeared as the opening acting for the Backstreet Boys and Nsync, has had her own weekly MTV television series, has appeared on most major network talk shows (most recently on "The Tonight Show"), named to the Top 25 Teen Stars by People Magazine, appeared in Teenapolooza, appeared in MTV's 20th anniversary special and was a presenter at the American Music Awards. (whew!!! not bad!)
Her second album, "Mandy Moore", produced two hit singles and videos ("In My Pocket" and "Crush"). Mandy has also modeled for Sony and has been both print model and spokesmodel for Neutrogena -- and has appeared in Neutrogena commercials. Mandy's first major film acting role was in the just released movie, "The Princess Diaries" in which she actually plays the villain (talk about not being type cast!). The movie was directed by Garry Marshall and includes stars such as Julie Andrews. The sky's the limit for this great young talent.
An excerpt from Teen People Magazine:
"Being in the spotlight, you have to realize that whether you choose to be or not, you're going to be a role model," says Mandy Moore. "I'm not here to baby-sit America, but at the same time, I have to take responsibility." Parents have nothing to worry about with this star. The Orlando-reared singer-actress and Neutrogena spokesmodel is about as wholesome as Disney World. She doesn't have a single tattoo or piercing (except her ears); her songs contain no questionable lyrics; and her stylist is under strict instructions to cover any and all cleavage. This suits Mandy just fine. In fact, she considers her squeaky-clean image to be a point of difference. "I'm younger [than Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Jessica Simpson], and I'm comfortable being 16 and singing pop music and wearing clothes I feel comfortable in," she says. But for her new album, Mandy wanted music with more of an edge. In contrast to the heavily synthesized sound of her first record, "So Real", its follow-up is "pop but with real instruments," she says. "Some songs have a Natalie Imbruglia feel. We're doing an acoustic version of 'I Wanna Be with You.'" Her favorite track so far is one she cowrote, called "When I Talk to You." "It's just me and an acoustic guitar. It's about my friends, and the trials and tribulations we've gone through in the past years: who has been my friend and who has stepped outside that circle." Stepping outside of music for a bit, Mandy will see the release of her first film, The Princess Diaries, this summer. "I'm the crude, popular cheerleader chick, the arch nemesis of the lead character," she boasts. Her costar, Anne Hathaway of TV's Get Real, confirms that for Mandy, the part was indeed a stretch: "[She's] a very normal person -- she doesn't allow her success to define who she is." Success does have its moments, though. "It's cool to walk into a McDonald's or a gas station and someone recognizes you," Mandy says. "The smallest gestures, like signs that say we love you, Mandy -- that's the coolest of all, I think."
Surprisingly, Mandy has been quoted as saying her primary influence in show business has been Bette Midler. "She does everything: singing, acting, comedy, drama. And she is so upbeat!"
Mandy completed filming her first film lead, playing Jamie Sullivan in the movie "A Walk to Remember", based upon the Nicholas Sparks novel. The movie was released in January, 2002, to both critical and box office success. "I love being in a teen movie that is not all about hair, makeup and superficial things. It's a great story," said Mandy. Set in the lowlands of North Carolina in the mid 1990s, "A Walk To Remember" follows the rite of passage of a jaded, aimless high school senior (Shane West) as he falls in love with a guileless young woman (Mandy Moore) he and his friends once scorned. The film stars Mandy Moore, Shane West, Al Thompson, Daryl Hannah, Lauren German. "A Walk To Remember" was directed by Adam Shankman and produced by Denise DiNovi and Hunt Lowry.
Mandy has completed the filming of several additional films in which she has leads, including "Try 17" opposite Elijah Wood (of "Lord of the Rings" fame), "How to Deal" with Allison Janney and Peter Gallagher, and an additional major film with McCauley Culkin.
"I would like to thank Lew Carr and Casting America for the great work that they have done for our company. Metro, headquartered in New York City, provides stock photography to major newspaper chains and other publications throughout the United States and world at large. As such, we are the most used photo source for American newspapers. And we have held this prominent position in the industry for 90 years. When we found that we were not getting enough Hispanic and Asian models in North Carolina (where we had been shooting) we turned to Casting America and Elan International. The first time we worked with Casting America, we used 53 different models, ranging from kids to fashion models to grandparents. Of the 53 models, 51 of them were on the web site where we could quickly and easily make our selections, rather than wading through the process of mailing modeling composites back and forth. Since that time, we have over the years done a number of additional shoots with Lew Carr and Casting America. We have by now used hundreds of Casting America's models and are completely sold on this method of finding and securing talent. We are also completely sold on Lew Carr's photography work. We originally had to twist his arm to get him to take a pause in his busy schedule as manager and writer, to return to the world of commercial and fashion photography, but the results have been fantastic. His ability to work with new, often untrained, models and make them look like long-time professionals is truly remarkable. Congratulations Casting America. And congratulations Lew. We look forward to working with you and your talent for many years to come."
Andy Shapiro, President - Metro Creative Graphics
Metro has done shoots with Casting America many times now. Each time, the overwhelming bulk of models were drawn from the Casting America web site.
To go to Metro Creative Graphic's Web Site, double click the following hyperlink:
www.MetroCreativeGraphics.com
"Hi Casting America... and co., I am sure you remember me, Theresa Tilley, I came to your offices from England. I hope you are all doing well. Thank you for my website - it has done very well for me here in England.... It has been an amazing way to make contacts and to get in front of the right people in the business both here and in America. I will be coming there again soon and will be available to audition. Thank you."
Theresa Tilley - Actress, Model, Vocalist, Body Double, Dancer
Theresa Tilley has appeared on more than 25 magazine covers, as well as major billboard ads in Great Britain. She has performed in numerous television series in the UK including her own series on the BBC, has danced in several West End productions (England's version of Broadway), is the lead singer of the pop group "The Hysterics" with a recording contract with Epic records, has numerous body doubling credits including doubling for Tori Amos in a music video, and she did a voice over for Steven Spielberg's "Empire of the Sun"
We want to heartily congratulate Suzanne Stokes for being one of the three finalists for Playmate of the Millennium. Playboy received 50,000 submissions and interviewed 16,000 women to come down to the final three. Suzanne was also the February 2000 Playmate of the Month. And was Playboy's cover model in April. Way to go Suzanne! She has now appeared in a series of Playboy Videos, including "California Girls" and has just completed a principal acting role in the movie "Bricol Girls". Suzanne's primary aspiration is to become a serious film actress. She is certainly off to a great start. For a girl who started out in the quiet solitude of the Everglades, she has come a long way in a hurry. Needless to say, keep an eye on this rising starlet.
Bug Hall took lessons with Casting America's parent organization, Looks International. By the way, not only is he a great actor and a fine singer, but he is an outstanding dancer as well, having appeared as a member of our hip hop dance team. Bug's first major role was as Alfalfa in "The New Little Rascals". He was also Eddie Munster in the "Munster's Scary Christmas Special". He appeared in the title role of Tad in the movie "Tad" (about Abraham Lincoln's son), was the son in "The Stupids", scored with winning goal in the movie "The Big Green", was the star of Disney's "Safety Patrol", did a voice-over in the animated adventure "Hercules", was a regular in the "Kelly, Kelly" television series and has numerous other major film and tv credits. Bug's brother, Gemini, was the youngest child in the television series, "The Second Noah" and played Andrew Dice Clay's son in Clay's television series. Gemini also appeared in the "Kelly, Kelly" television series. Gemini also took lessons with us.
Lisa Ortega has appeared in over 50 magazines and catalogs, as well as innumerable print ads, and a number of magazine covers. Notable among her appearances have been "Playboy", "Venus Swimwear Catalog", "Swimwear Illustrated", "Penthouse", "Playboy's Lingerie Magazine", "Models and Motors", "Frederick's of Hollywood", "All America Uniforms Catalog", "Beauty and Spirit Magazine" and dozens more. A winner of dozens of contests and modeling competitions, Lisa was also the original Miss Looks International, which led to the awarding of her original web page with Casting America.
The CBS News affiliate in the Tampa Bay area did a very positive special presentation on Casting America in 1999. The story was so unique that it was subsequently picked up nationally by other CBS and independent affiliates and shown throughout the US. The focus of the piece was upon the process that is involved with becoming a success in modeling, acting, singing or voice over work. One of its major points was how much more work there is for those over thirty than is generally known. In fact, models in their 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's and even 70's often have a big advantage over those who are younger. Lew Carr, founder of Casting America, was featured prominently, along with appearances by Jack Amos, Helen Pugh, Janell Leow, Stephen Meyer and Nick Rondinelli. Among the advice offered by Lew Carr in the story was:
"If you want to model, act or sing, then do it because you have a passion for it, because you love it -- NOT because you are trying to be rich and famous. If you focus too much on wealth or fame, you put too much pressure on yourself, you do not do a good job, you do not enjoy it and you will get nowhere. On the other hand, if you do it for the passion, then wealth and fame have a way of taking care of themselves."
Also the piece emphasized that too many newcomers do not see this as a business and have too many false illusions:
"This is a business and you essentially work for yourself as a talent," said Carr. "If you do not pay for training and head shots as an actor or for a portfolio as a model, you will never get a real shot. There are too many myths flying around that if someone wants you, that they will pay for these things. It is more rare for that to happen than for someone to win the lottery. If training were truly free, then why do 10,000 people apply every term for 100 openings (costing thousands upon thousands of dollars in tuition) to get into the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, or The Actors' Studio (where even fewer are accepted) -- to learn to act? There are many prestigious acting schools throughout the US and they are there for a reason. With respect to modeling, modeling agencies would go broke if they were to pay for the photography, makeup and printing of composites and portfolios in behalf of their models. There is far too great a risk that the very model (in whom the agency may have now invested $2,000 to $3,000) will come back and say she does not want to model any more because her boyfriend is jealous, or that it is against her new religion, or that she is transferring to a college across country -- or that she is pregnant or on drugs. Agencies who used to try to do this simply went bankrupt. So, if you have the look and the passion, and if you truly believe in yourself, then stop sitting around and waiting for something to just drop out of the sky. It won't happen unless YOU make it happen. Take action! Go for it! At least you will not be 80 years old and wondering what might have been."
To read the transcript of the news story (short version), please click on the following link:
"I recently took the Casting America On Camera Acting and Auditioning Workshop. I could not believe the volume of information that we received -- and how practical it was. To my amazement, the VERY FIRST audition I went to I won! It involved doing a cold reading for a commercial, and I had only fifteen minutes to prepare. I applied all of the techniques taught in the class to quickly break down the character and rehearsed the script out loud in the waiting room -- even though all of my competition thought I was crazy. I ended up winning the lead character role in Hyundai commercial, playing a People's Court type judge. This is great!" To check out her web page, double click on the following hyperlink:
"Just a note to thank you for helping me get started in the business of acting by preparing me with all the basic essentials needed for my new career. Being prepared is probably one of the most important things you teach. By helping me to create a professional portfolio and spending extra time with me in both the photo sessions and your excellent workshops you have given me both the confidence and the tools I have needed to succeeded in reaching my goal. From my first audition with an agency (which signed me immediately) to my first audition for an Independent film (in which I landed a leading role), to a commercial shoot for a national restaurant, to having a featured role in an episode for "The New Detectives" you have been with me "In Spirit". Amazingly all of this has taken place in the last two months. I am headed to L A in January, obviously for more opportunity, and wanted to get some more of your good advice as to what workshops you would recommend and also what agents I might contact for representation. I am having a the time of my life and I owe a great part of that to you. I wish you continuing good luck in both your personal and business ventures and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Thanks again, Wade Haughton"
Wade Haughton
Wade Haughton Online Portfolio Page
"It was really great working with Lew Carr of Casting America. It was the first time I'd done a photo shoot in a couple years. He made me feel completely at ease. I didn't have to wonder when he was going to shoot. He was able to catch wonderful shots without me feeling like I had to pose. It was completely natural. The majority of the shots came off with superior quality with very little effort. I didn't realize how great our shoot actually was until I worked with some photographers after Lew. They weren't able to catch the natural essence of the art. I felt very stiff and posed. The direction I received was not inspiring me and I felt like an amateur. The majority of the photos from the other photographers came out terribly. The shoots were basically unusable. I was really disappointed when I won a fitness competition (I compete around the country) and won a free shoot for a fitness magazine as part of the competition. I could not believe the difference in photos! I wanted them to let me go find Lew and use him. I've learned that quality pictures depend greatly on the rapport you have with the photographer. Professionalism, fun, and natural ease are key to having a great shoot which will result in great pictures. I look forward to working with Lew in the future because the quality of the pictures will get even better as I keep learning. I never thought I would have flown cross country to get a portfolio done, but it was one of the wisest things I have done in a while. I plan to do the same for the on camera acting workshops."
Nikki Giavasis
Nikki Giavasis Online Portfolio Page
The following four emails came from Robbie Tittle, one of the Model/Actresses Casting America trained through our workshop intensives and packaged (shooting her portfolio and head shots, assisting with resumes and cover letters to agents and casting directors, legal guidance with contracts, and career guidance through Superstart). These emails, showing a series of successes for her shortly after getting under way, are not at all unique with the people with whom we work closely. Different people progress at different paces, but the opportunities are there for those who work at their craft, are packaged correctly for their pursuits, trained properly, and are patient. Robbie had never done any professional modeling or acting prior to working with Casting America.
Note #1 from Robbie:
"I wanted to take a moment express my deep gratitude and appreciation to you, Mr. Carr, for helping me get started in the professions of acting and modeling. From the moment I contacted you online, you began preparing me with all the critical essentials required for my new career without all the flowery fluff that you get from other companies. You gave me facts with no pressure. From helping me build a great professional portfolio, as well as spending a lot of extra time with me -- not only with the photo sessions -- but your exceptional workshops as well. I loved my photos and I learned a lot more in your 2 day on camera workshops than I learned taking a whole term of acting classes in college. You have given me both the self-confidence and the tools I need to succeed in accomplishing my goals. I would like to get more of your high-quality advice as to what workshops you would suggest for the future. It was certainly worth the trips from Oregon to work with you. I am having the time of my life and I owe a great deal of this to you. So far I have won the lead role Misty in a murder mystery and have been contacted for future films and modeling jobs that begin in Jan. I look forward to my date books continuing to fill up. I do wish you continuing good luck in both your individual and business ventures. I do look forward to seeing you again and I will keep you up dated on my successes… How could I not succeed I got the BEST!!!!!"
Robbie A Tittle
Robbie Tittle Online Portfolio Page
Note #2 from Robbie: "I cannot believe what has happened in the past two days! I need to thank you once again! I am so excited. I was involved with auditions last week for a multimillion dollar film project called Instant Messenger. While I had recently won the lead in a small mystery project that I mentioned in my last email, I had no expectation of landing anything except a small role in a movie of this size. Yesterday, they called me to say that I had won the LEAD!!!! My God!!! We will be filming in LA, NY and Washington, DC. So much is happening so fast that I have already been making arrangements to move to LA. I cannot believe that you've helped me to get involved in so many things in such a short time. And I only live in a small town in Oregon. To top it off, I just got a call today and find that I am up for a role in an ABC TV miniseries. My head is spinning. My heart is beating like crazy! The only training I've had with acting for television and film has come through Casting America - and it was just a few weeks ago. But in each audition I've been to, they are doing things we covered thoroughly in class -- things I have practiced over and over on my video camera at home. Not one thing has been different. The technical things really do make a difference, just as you said. And boy am I am happy your class taught all ten types of auditions we go through. I bet I have been through half of them already! Thanks Casting America!!! Thank you Lew Carr."
Robbie A Tittle
Robbie Tittle Online Portfolio Page
Note #3 from Robbie:"Now my head is really, really spinning! I actually have to turn down projects now. I've just been offered several modeling assignments. One is to shoot in New York for an art gallery in Spain. It pays really well and I will get to go to Spain for the opening of the Gallery. Another is for a calendar that pays great. Another for print. I have decided to have Casting America, specifically Lew Carr, serve as my manager because I just cannot make the decisions that are coming my way. A couple of things overlap with others in terms of timeframes. I need your guidance to take the right direction with all of this. I've gone from no acting or modeling opportunities to many. But it is a nice dilemma to have! I know I always seem to be thanking you. I do not think I will ever be able to thank you enough."
Robbie A Tittle
Robbie Tittle Online Portfolio Page
Note #4 from Robbie:"So much has been happening that I have just completed my move to LA. I wanted to let you know that I just learned that I won the lead role in an independent film called "DISAPPOINTED". I am playing the role of Maddie. And following your suggestion that I only work with several different nonexclusive model and talent agencies (so that I can maximize my audition opportunities), I am now signed with an additional modeling agency called MAC Models...NO up front fees (as you preach)... Only 15% off the work I do...They are definitely nonexclusive... I have an audition today for 2 commericials for bathroom products and household cleaners....Pay is 100.00 + hr... I will keep on keeping you informed... This is really taking off! Take Care."
Robbie A Tittle
Robbie Tittle Online Portfolio Page
"I took the On Camera Acting and Auditioning Workshop for Television and Film... It was the best class I have ever had! I have taken a number of acting classes and seminars in the past. This was the first one that made sense. Everything was suddenly falling into place! I want my money back on the courses taught by the other schools! Thank you so much..."
Jerald Garner
Houston, TX
Jerald Garner Update 1:Jerald won his first audition after taking the workshop and within a month, won the lead role in the Independent Film "Suddenly Unexpected". Congratulations, Jerald!
Jerald Garner Update 2:"Just letting you know that I will be attending the premier of my film "Suddenly Unexpected" shortly. We shot the film in Texas and Utah." It is already getting very good early reviews from the critics. "I am also starring in "Through the Storm" in Austin."
"Being the skeptic that I am, I never would have thought that just a few months after taking the Casting America 'On Camera Auditioning and Acting Workshop' and the 'On Camera Monologue Workshop' I would have been cast in three film projects! One of these films I learned about through the classes with Casting America, one project through the Casting America Auditions Board, and for one of these projects, a production company saw me on my Online Portfolio Page through the Actors Gallery on Casting America website, and contacted me. Success in all three avenues. For all three auditions, I used techniques taught in the classes by Mr Carr. 'Go Slow, Talk Low and Don't Say to Much' is a favorite saying of mine now....and it works. I've completed filming on one of these projects, 'The Sweet Bitters.' In this film I was the damsel in distress...actingwise it was both physical and emotional. This short film when completed will be submitted to several festivals around the country. This was a great experience. One of the shoots lasted 11 hours w/ just a few breaks. But the time flew by. With a small crew and cast, we were helping each other with everything...checking continuity, setting up shots, etc. In the movie, 'The Knowledge', I will be the damsel in distress...hmmm...I see a trend here. But this film will involve martial arts and special effects. Can't wait to begin this process.
In the film, 'Necrophobia', I have a small part as a low-income, working mother whose son is nearly killed by a carnival freak. By the way, during my photo shoot with Lew Carr at Casting America, I didn't just get my picture shot, but rather, I learned a lot about the business. It was almost like a workshop itself and I have benefited greatly"
Karen Schlag
Karen Schlag Online Portfolio Page
"Listen to what Lew Carr and Casting America tell you! I started with them a few years ago and had no industry background at all. But with the training, mentoring and management of Mr. Carr and his company, I have now done over 100 film, tv, industrial, commercial, voice over, animation and corporate video projects, as well as another 40 modeling assignments. ALL of my original training and guidance came through Lew Carr and his company. Thank you, Lew! And to all of you out there who are serious about the entertainment field, pay attention to what he has to say! What he tells you is the truth! And if you're asking whether their Kickstart Program works, I landed nonexclusive contracts with 23 agencies through it. Having many different sources trying to find you work sure beats doing it all on your own. Casting America has the best approach that I have ever seen."
Wes Sainz
Wes Sainz Online Portfolio Page
"In October of 2002 I attended an On Camera Auditioning Technique Workshop. Since my experience in the workshop I have been able to become
proactive with my acting career. I learned so much about the industry
and how important it is to have the right packaging. I was so amazed by
your technique that I decided to have my pictures done by you as well
which can be seen on my Casting America web page. Once I got my pictures
back that I loved so much, I began to send them off to agents and casting
directors here in Texas. I'm pleased to say that I have been casted in
two independent feature films since October. The first was called
"Hallow's End" and the second was called "Welcome to Neymoy". At the
last movie shoot that I went to, I met with a casting director for
Starling Films. The next day I was going to Las Colinas Movies Studios
in Irving, Tx to audition for thirteen more projects that are to be
filmed this year. Having the right pictures, training, and personality
paid off for me. I'm looking forward to the future as an actor and I owe
my thanks to Casting America and especially Lew Carr! Thanks a million!!"
Erik W. Chase
Erik Chase Online Portfolio Page
"I just had to write and tell you that I just landed two modeling jobs in one day!!! I have to admit that I was getting pretty antsy during the holidays when nothing much happened after I had started last fall. I landed three different agents within the first few weeks after having my comps and portfolio -- and one job. But then it came to a crawl from mid-December through January. Lew Carr reminded me more than once that patience is part of the industry, especially in the beginning, but I was getting concerned. I was in an on camera workshop at Casting America and several of the other students had already landed big roles in movies. but not me. Then, out of the blue, I landed two modeling assignments, one for a professional sports team and one for a bank -- and I learned I had won both on the same day. I want to thank you for the great portfolio that I got through Casting America. My photos and comp card really stood out against the competition. And the workshop helped me to focus better and present myself better during the auditions. It's only just the beginning, and I am looking forward to more great things to come!"
Holley Lervik
Holley Lervik Online Portfolio Page
"Dear Casting America... Lew Carr is without a doubt the most talented photographer I have ever worked with. My husband wants me to tell you that Lew did an AMAZING job photographing me. He absolutely loved all the pictures and so do I. Also, attending and studying the On Camera Acting & Auditioning Workshop for Film & Television, given by Lew, was one of the most important and smartest things I've done for my modeling/acting career. I would honestly suggest to any up and coming actor to take this workshop."
Karen Castleberry
Karen Castleberry Online Portfolio Page
"This is so great! I am 65 years old. Never thought I would be an actor. But as a lark I joined Casting America and attended a couple of their on camera acting and auditioning workshops. Boy were my eyes opened. And Casting America got me involved with three different movies almost immediately. When I walked onto the set for the first time, it was as though I had been there all my life. Thanks to the classes and Lew Carr's great guidance, I understood everything that was going on out there and why! Boy has it been fun! Thanks guys!"
Gene Nieto
"The concise detail and professionalism of the workshop held my interest and I understood these people (Casting America) know what they are talking about. Many myths about the business were brought into proper perspective enabling me to avoid many tragic mistakes and ruining future opportunities I otherwise would have learned the 'hard way'. The training I received was invaluable concerning my first audition for an independent film. I used the tools given me by Mr. Carr via the workshop and to my delight I landed the lead role for the film. Mind you this was my first audition after taking the workshop some two weeks before. I seriously doubt these results would have been possible had it not been for my training @ Casting America. I truly believe that I acquired more knowledge from the workshop in one weekend than I would have in a year of trying to figure it out on my own. Thanks to Casting America for helping me to do my best in this industry."
Lisa Lainhart
Lisa Lainhart Online Portfolio Page
"I joined Casting America as a member just over a month ago. Through your Jobs, Casting Calls and Auditions Board, I lined up 6 auditions and won two of them!!! One is a television commercial and the other is a print ad for a department store. Thank you Casting America! This is just what I needed. I will tell all of my friends about this."
Sarah Benton
Newark, NJ
"I'm a singer/composer. I have been trying to get a foot in the door of the recording industry for years. I just signed up with Casting America three months ago and have two serious recording offers. I cannot believe it. Your staff has been truly awesome in giving me advice that really makes sense. You are to be commended. My hat is off to you."
Jason Lawrence
Fresno, CA
"I almost cried when I saw my photos! I could not believe it was me! I looked so good! People have always said that I should model, but when I had seen other photos of me, I certainly did not look like one. Casting America not only arranged to do the photography, but Mr. Carr's photo movement training while the shoot was actually going on made me feel so comfortable. So professional. Suddenly it all seemed so simple and clear, and fun. I am so happy!"
Renee Martin
Renee Martin
Jackie Nealon, an established actress, model and host of Fox TV's "Extreme Sports" has now branched out into film production with several exciting film projects already under way! Good luck, Jackie - and don't forget the Casting America talent pool!
Jackie Nealon
"The Casting America On Camera workshop was the third acting workshop I have ever attended and this was by far the best and most comprehensive. The topics were very relevant to my level of acting. They answered many of my questions. I feel more confident that I will be more competitive in future casting calls. If I make mistakes, it will be my fault, not a lack of training."
Hugh Long
Eleven year old Janell Leow was selected from the Casting America web site by an LA based production to fly to Hollywood, California, all expenses paid, to audition both for a sitcom and a kids' dance show/game show! Janell has worked several times with Metro for stock modeling, as well as with regional department stores such as Bealls and JC Penneys.
"I started training with Lew Carr about fifteen months ago and was on the web site from the very beginning. All I can do is say 'Hallelujah!' In the past 15 months I have won numerous roles in movies, commercials, industrials, as well as animated voice-over roles, commercial voice-over roles and have even won a Crystal Reel Award for stunt work performed in a television production (my stunt training came through Casting America and the Jerry Alan Stunt Fighting workshop). I have worked around major stars like Al Pacino, Cameron Diaz, Shania Twain, Adam Sandler, Anthony Hopkins, Cuba Gooding, Jr., and a number of others. I played the Archbishop in the movie 'Stavro', currently am in a two year run with speaking roles in commercials for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays baseball team, I am Merlin in one set of television commercials, and it goes on and on. I even modeled as a handy man for Metro Creative Graphics. This week alone, I have won three separate auditions. Thanks for the training (workshops and private tutoring). Thanks for the guidance. And thanks for the web page!"
Jack Amos - Actor, Voice-over Talent, Stuntman, Stock Model
Tracy landed a role in the film "The Crew" with Burt Reynolds and Richard Dreyfuss by way of Casting America and Elan International. She has appeared in numerous films and television series, with a particularly noteworthy speaking role in "There's Something About Mary". She also is a hot property right now with her "Sisters" calendar, shot (of course) with her sister. If you want a chance to buy one of her personally autographed calendars or to be a distributor of Tracy's products, contact Casting America at CastingAmerica@aol.com.
To check out her web page, double click on the following hyperlink:
Anthony was trained by Casting America through its "On Camera Acting and Auditioning Workshop in Television and Film". At the time he took the workshop, Anthony had yet to win a speaking role in film, television or commercials. Amazingly, within 90 days, Anthony landed the lead in an as yet untitled theatrical-release film, playing the role of a warrior elf. Anthony immediately thanked Casting America for the training he received. To check out his web page, double click on the following hyperlink:
Jose attended the same workshop as was attended by Anthony Butler. Within 45 days, he had landed a key role in a new film. "I want to thank Mr. Carr and Casting America for all of the help." He has now moved to california to pursue his acting dreams. To check out his web page, double click on the following hyperlink:
"I want to thank Lew Carr, Casting America and Elan International for all their help and guidance. I have recently worked in a variety of commercials, television shows and films, thanks to you. I have been seen everywhere in two 'Hair Club for Men' commercials, and was recently in 'Any Given Sunday' playing a photographer, and the new television series 'The Disciple' as a mercenary. As a professional stunt person, Casting America has also tied me into a top stunt coordinator who will now be using me on upcoming projects."
Louis Nolan - Actor, Model, Stuntperson, Musician, Vocalist
To go to his web page, double click on the following hyperlink:
We want to congratulate the DiStefano sisters! They were both used by Metro Creative Graphics for stock photography, gymnastics shots, lifestyle, commercial print, and holiday photos only days after they put their first modeling composites together! They have since been picked up by several top modeling agencies in the industry. Joy has been in the South American edition of the Avon Catalog and Victoria has been used a second time by Metro and Andy Shapiro who is truly impressed by her print work. Congratulations!
To go to their web pages, double click on the following hyperlinks:
"I just wanted to drop a note of thanks for getting me the recent work as a model. I have long worked as an actor but had only just begun considering character modeling to add to my acting credentials. I was definitely pleased when the production company called me back for additional shoot dates. The web site really works, doesn't it?"
Ray Nelson - SAG Actor, Stuntman, Model, Voice-over Talent
Ray Nelson
"Just wanted to say thank you so much for the two auditions in Miami and the print work you helped me win recently. I never had so much fun modeling and was so happy when I was called back for more sessions a few weeks later. Anyone who doubts that Casting America can show them how to get into the business the right way should think again. While I am at it, let me thank you here and now for the training I received from you last year and for all of the acting roles it has helped me to win in film and commercials. I start a major role in a movie two weeks from now. I will never forget all that you have done for me."
Lisa Kelley - Actress, Model, Stunt woman, Voice-over Talent
Lisa has worked as an actress in a variety of movies, including the lead in "Animals" and a featured role in "Waterboy". She has modeled extensively, including appearing on numerous "Welcome to Florida" postcards and serving as national spokesmodel for suntan products. She is also certified stuntwoman, trained through Casting America.
Lisa Kelley
Kitty has earned dozens of modeling and acting assignments as a result of being on the Internet, including stock photography with various companies including Metro Creative Graphics, swim suit assignments, editorial modeling, lifestyle, commercial, as well as acting work in "Miami Sands", "Mortal Kombat", "Any Given Sunday" and more. "The Internet is really the future of the modeling and entertainment industries. I fully endorse the Casting America website and suggest that anyone serious about modeling grab a page while they can," says Kitty.
Kitty Regina - Actress and Model
Kitty Regina
Ken has also won numerous modeling and acting assignments as a result of being on the Internet as an actor and model. His assignments have included stock modeling with various companies including Metro Creative Graphics, artistic modeling, swimwear, editorial, commercial, along with acting jobs such as "Mortal Kombat", "Miami Sands" and "Any Given Sunday". Ken says, "I wholeheartedly believe in the Internet and what Casting America is doing in developing a national and international talent pool. Go for it."
Ken Horkavy - Actor and Model
Ken Horkavy
Katherine has earned a number of assignments through Casting America, including working in the Harrison Ford movie "Random Hearts", working in a Doritos commercial, and stock modeling work including swimwear, lifestyle and commercial looks. Katherine shot with Metro and has appeared in prints ads throughout the U.S. She has additionally modeled for Home Shopping Networks and Shark Island Swimwear. Katherine has trained through Casting America, taking acting and auditioning workshops, stunt certification training and voice over training.
Katherine Raymond - Model, Actress, Voice Overs, Stunt Woman
Katherine Raymond
"The two day On Camera Auditioning Workshop for Televsion and Film was excellent. Lew Carr is a great teacher. The class was very educational, informative, realistic, honest and truly helpful. The class seemed well-rounded to me. And the environment was very friendly, relaxing, ego boosting. The staff is wonderful. They have helped to make me a better person and actress."
Norma Anderson
Norma Anderson Online Portfolio Page
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