The ActorZilla Podcast

How to Stand Out in Auditions with Ryan Duncan, Actor

Summary In this conversation, Ryan Duncan discusses his experiences with video conferencing platforms during the pandemic and reflects on personal growth. He shares the impact of COVID-19 on health and well-being and the effects it had on the entertainment industry. Ryan also talks about the transition to self-tape auditions and his journey from early interest in acting to Broadway. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in auditions and offers advice for early career actors. In this part of the conversation, Ryan Duncan and James Larson discuss various themes related to navigating the entertainment industry and building a successful career. They […]

What Agents and Casting Directors Look for in Headshots - Vanie Poyey, L.A. Headshot Photographer (Ep. 7)

Click here to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. In this episode, host James Larson interviews headshot photographer Vanie Poyey. They discuss the importance of headshots as a marketing tool for actors and the need to define your brand and target specific marketing looks. They also explore the process of determining the number of looks for a headshot session and the common mistakes actors make in headshot preparation and photographer selection. Vanie shares her journey in the industry and the evolution of headshots from film to digital. They also discuss the importance of context and framing in headshots and what […]

Tell a Story With Each Audition - DJ Salisbury, Director, Choreographer, Writer (Ep. 6)

Click here to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. In this conversation, DJ Salisbury, a director, choreographer, and writer, discusses the protocol for regional shows, the importance of creating unique productions, and the challenges of replicating choreography. He also shares insights on casting, auditioning, and navigating typecasting in the theater industry. DJ emphasizes the value of creating your own work and getting it out there, and he reflects on his own journey from acting to directing and choreography. DJ Salisbury discusses the creation of immersive experiences and the concept behind his show, Whisper Darkly. He shares insights into directing an […]

Embracing Failure as a Part of the Process for Actors - Kevin R. Free, Artistic Director, Actor (Ep. 5)

Click here to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. Kevin R. Free, the artistic director of Mile Square Theater, shares his journey from actor to director and audiobook narrator. He discusses the difference between directing and acting, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and embracing failure as part of the creative process. Kevin also talks about his casting criteria and the need for actors to be authentic and human in the industry. He shares insights into regional productions and the challenges of set design. Finally, Kevin offers advice for early career actors, encouraging them to become part of a community and […]

How to Master Accents for Actors - with Jim Johnson, Accent & Dialect Coach (Ep. 4)

Click here to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. Jim Johnson, founder of AccentHelp.com and professor of voice and dialects, shares his journey and expertise in teaching accents and dialects. He discusses the importance of authenticity and cultural awareness when learning and performing accents. Jim also emphasizes the integration of accents with acting and the need for trust and collaboration between actors, directors, and dialect coaches. He provides tips for beginners learning accents and highlights the significance of phonetics in accent work. Jim addresses the ethical considerations of accent representation and the responsibility of actors to make informed choices. He […]