Net Work

I'm not big on networking events. They always feel like work to me. But I went to an event last night with a new group I joined -- commercial and film actors -- and it was actually a lot of fun.

It really helps a lot when you know people, and I knew at least 10% of the people there. I should be doing more of this for the business side of my life, but the groups aren't as focused. They're a lot harder to get your arms around.

The main event was a panel discussion of casting directors. One of them was pretty well known and casts quality stuff, but she's not among the Big 3. I've auditioned for her once -- twice, actually, because she called me back -- and it was a long time ago.

In fact it was one of my first callbacks ever. An Illinois Lottery commercial. I had to dance like a fool in the style of various eras. Yup, just about my worst nightmare -- dancing sober.

Anyway, I'd assumed that she wouldn't remember me at all and I planned on shaking her hand and telling the story and re-introducing myself. But before I knew it, she came up to me and addressed me by name. Weird! She indicated that my glasses made me distinctive and memorable.

Interesting. I've been needing new glasses and I was actually a little concerned about preserving the "look" I'd invested so much in, with headshots and comp cards and web stuff. I guess that wasn't such a crazy thought.