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january
2012
-
now is the perfect time to enroll in our certificate program - comprehensive,
in-depth and fun acting training to help you prepare for the lights
camera and action!
-
can't get into the city before your audition? ... we can do a skype
audition preparation session!
-
i can e-pitch your self-tape audition!
plus:
beginning
fall 2011 - continuing classes for kids and teens
at studio pavas with michael caruana (below)
bongo
productions
31 keele st. at keele & bloor, steps from keele subway station!
416 766-9092
contact
alison, administrator at:bongo.alison@gmail.com
contact
michael
bongo
production’s acclaimed on camera courses:
step 1: private coaching
(for actors of all ages - beginners & advanced,
flexible schedule)focused and challenging, one-on-one training sessions,
in a supportive environment, michael encourages a deeper personal
connection to the text, providing the actor the opportunity to explore
intuitive and analytical approaches to audition preparation, monologues,
on camera scene study, dialects, acting in commercials and more -
sessions are one hour in length and can be customized to suit specific
needs.
continuing - days/evenings, mon. through sat.-
begin anytime! $99 /per hr. + hst, or $499 + hst /for a series of
6 sessions
step
2: semiprivate, on-camera, scene-study
(for actors of all ages - beginners & advanced,
flexible schedule)
we pair you with an appropriate scene partner for a series of three,
two-hour, semiprivate sessions, applying process oriented preparation
techniques, combining script analysis and the development of a deeper
intuitive connection to the text, to compelling film & television
scenes, exploring screen acting technique, we create spontaneous,
bold & authentic on-camera work. this is practical & inspirational
training allowing the actor to explore the specific demands of acting
for the camera in a challenging & supportive environment. - we
can begin anytime!
continuing – days / evenings, mon. thru. sat. - $399
+ hst
step
3: on camera, audition workshops:
kids
on-camera audition workshop
(8-12 yrs., beginners & advanced)
is a fun, focused, on-camera, audition workshop for movie, TV series
and TV commercial auditions for kids 8-12 yrs., beginners & professionals,
with guidance & demonstration from an experienced actor/coach
who knows the ropes on both sides of the camera - detailed, proven,
process preparation applied to professional commercial, film &
television scripts, these are practical, realistic audition strategies
and techniques, all work is taped with supportive direction, playback
and critique.
sat. & sun., mar. 31 - apr. 1, 10 am –
4 pm - $299 + hst
teens on-camera audition workshop
(13-19 yrs., beginners & advanced)
an intensive, on-camera, audition workshop for movie, TV series and
TVcommercial auditions for teens 13-18yrs., beginners & professionals,
with guidance & demonstration from an experienced actor/coach
who knows the ropes on both sides of the camera - detailed, proven,
process preparation applied to professional commercial, film &
television scripts, these are practical, realistic audition strategies
and techniques, all work is taped with supportive, direction, playback
and critique.
sat. & sun., jan. 21- 22, 10 am – 4 pm, $299 + hst
successful auditions for adults workshop
(beginners & advanced adults)
an intensive, on-camera, audition workshop for movie, TV series and
TV commercial auditions for adult actors, beginners & professionals,
with guidance & demonstration from an experienced actor/coach
who knows the ropes on both sides of the camera - detailed, proven,
process preparationapplied to professional commercial, film &
television scripts, these are practical, realistic audition strategies
and techniques, all work is taped with supportive, insightful direction,
playback and critique.
sat. & sun., feb. 25- 26, 10 am – 4pm - $299 + hst
certificate
program/agent referral:
(package
includes steps 1 to 3) six hours of private coaching, six hours of
semiprivate, on camera scene study, plus 12 hours weekend audition
workshop! Continuing, flexible scheduling for steps 1 & 2 - begin
anytime! $999.00 + hst
our
audition workshops cover:
sure-fire
preparation techniques: the given circumstances, script analysis guideposts,
exercises for focusing and listening, the journey of the scene, memorization
tips
detailed
on-camera acting work on tv/movie scenes & commercials, who's
who on set, slating, cold readings, what to wear, enthusiasm - the
will to play, nailing the part!participants get detailed, supportive
direction and perform on camera in commercials and/or scenes that
are taped, screened and critiqued. we see past-participants of our
workshops on movie and television screensdaily.
what
they're saying about michael's classes:
norbert abrams from the nobel, caplan, abrams
talent agency says: "michael is a warm, respectful and
considerate practitioner with a uniquely keen sense of translating
a performer's growth opportunities into sensible and realistic strategies.
michael commits the performers to hands-on applications which has
resulted in tangible and measurable positive results."
shari
quallenberg from ami
says:"
i always feel confident that my clients arebetter prepared after taking
ichael’s workshops. His interpretation of scripts and dialogue
is a true asset."
kim
everest founder of powerhouse casting said: “michael
has a lot of talent and a lot of juice. I consider michael a top acting
coach in the city!”
raven dauda, toronto actor says: "i have been
to many classes and workshops, however, yours remains to be one of
the most enjoyable and beneficial for me. your feedback was precise
and yet it left tons of room for the actor to make the connections
themselves. you reminded me of fundamental techniquesthat i now use
in my work today, and will continue to use in my work tomorrow."
neil
whitely, toronto actor says: "when my actor friends
ask me to recommend a good coach, michael caruana is the first name
that comes to mind. michael was the first acting coach that I chose
t work with when I decided to pursue an acting career at a relatively
late stage of my life. at first i didn’t understand many of
the principles he was trying to teach me but now years later i am
still using the techniques i learned thanks tomichael. in the past
five years ihave been fortunate enough to appear in feature films,
episodic television and commercials. i owe much of that to michael
caruana.
elitsa
bako, toronto actor says: "i've worked very closely
with michael, and wouldn't be lying if I said he is the dream teacher!
he is comforting and encouraging, yet very forward with his observations!
he finds a unique wayto shine a light on the missing pieces of the
puzzle and with the right directions, allows you to put it together
on your own. kind, compassionate and exact in his teachings, he truly
helps the artist rise within!"
tracey
jarvis - " i met michael through a recommendation. he
was summarized to me as a reliable and professional acting coach who
could help my children learn strong fundamentals. all of us quickly
learned thatmichael’s talents went beyond simply coaching his
craft – perhaps most importantly, his ability to connect and
relate with students. michael has that unique ability to engage with
people in a manner that inspires confidence and encourages people
to withdraw their very best from their skills. accordingly, I would
recommend michael without hesitation to any parent or individual who
has a passion for developing their love of acting."
anna
donato, mother of emmy nominated teen actor mark donato says:“michael
is a loving inspiration and wonderful coach. he has all the necessary
qualities; kindness, patience and knowledge. he is the best there
is.”
michael
caruana
actor,
acting coach/teacher/director
since 1996 michael has been coaching actors of all
ages, privately at his home/studio and on set. he has been a busy
working actor for more than 30 years in theatre, film, tv movies &
series and more than 70 commercials. on-set acting coach for:
red - directed by robert
schwendke, with bruce willis, morgan freeman, mary loise parker, john
c. reilly & helen mirren, abc tv series
happy town, the new line cinema feature film the time traveler's wife,
starring rachel mcadams and eric bana. on-set acting coach and dialogue
coach for the feature film cave dweller, including stars kyra sedgewick,
kevin bacon, aidan quinn & sherilyn fenn, dialogue coach for feature
film owning mahoney, including stars phillip seymour hoffman, minnie
driver & john hurt, ken finkleman’s series: at the hotel
and acting coach for harvey kietel feature crime spree and more american
and canadian features and series including psi-factor & queer
as folk, mayday 5. michael teaches advanced on camera skills &
techniques and screen auditions at humber college institute of technology
and applied learning in the acting for film & television program
(aftv.) since 1994, michael has been a director of auditions for powerhouse
casting, gloria mann casting and fade to black casting. an acting
coach who ‘walks the talk’ and ‘knows the ropes
on both sides of the camera,’ michael is in constant demand
as an acting coach, on set, privately and in workshops; he receives
high praise from casting directors, agents, producers and actors alike.
some
recent news ...
Alyssa
Blasak, represented by Jessica Martins at MMG,
just booked a TVO spot .
Lyndsay
Hamilton is now represented by Lisa DiMeo at ETM!
Jessica
Towler is now represented by Jack Frizzell at
Creative Drive!
Allison
Tamblyn is now represented by Stephanie Porter
at The Porter Group!
Tamara
Goddard is now represented by KG Talen
Laurel
Brandes is now represented by Jessica Martins at
MMG!
Elora
Cook is now represented by Patrick Yang at Oldfield
Talent!
"Michael
is wonderful teacher who utilizes his training and contacts to the
fullest. His method of learning by experience has been a great utility
to the "actors tool box". My confidence level increased
thanks to the feedback and experience given by Michael . I credit
most of my recent success to the experience and familiarity I obtained
in Michael's class. Simply put Michael provided the shoes for the
race that is the actors life."
Farid Yazdani
"What
can I say ... Besides being an amazingly talented actor, Michael was
born to teach! His patience, guidance and skill in bringing out my
ability
to connect to the role, has helped me immensely this past year. I
feel so
comfortable and confident when I'm in Michael's class. I would never
have
made it to the U.K. without his help ... Thank you Michael!"
Elora Cook
"I
want to thank you for your inspiration and fantastic teaching methods
that have helped Brandon immensely with his acting. I am sure Brandon
will Skype you often to prepare him for any roles that may come to
him in the future. He is recording his first single this weekend and
will keep you posted on outcome."
Barbara & Brandon Hutcheson
Joel
Cox booked an Ikea commercial and landed a role as one of
the Von Trapp kids in The Sound of Music.
Charlotte
Hegele has been cast as one of the stars of Global's
new series Bomber Girls.
Ana
Sani is now represented by Lisa DeMeo at
ETM.
Josh
Pattynama is now represented by Lisa DeMeo
at ETM.
Here
are some recent messages we've received from Bongo students. Thank
you for sharing your success stories with us. Keep 'em coming!
From
Allison Dawn Doiron
Michael connected me with my agent, Lisa DeMeo at ETM ...I auditioned
my butt off right from the get-go. I was put on hold for a Mike's
Hard commercial the first time at Mann Casting but was released. Still
exciting news, though! After that I auditioned for more commercials
and then a feature titled " And Now A Word From Our Sponsor",
directed by Zack Bernbaum and Starring Bruce Greenwood, Parker Posey,
Callum Blue and Alli MacDonald... and, of course, me.. teheee. Auditioned
for Gavin Crawford's "Wild West", CBC mockumentary style
show... Got a callback with Gavin but have yet to hear a final decision.
Just shot a Tetley Tea national commercial. So far so good it seems,
hahaha. And of course you were a fantastic help Michael. I am so much
more confident with my auditioning now!
See you soon!!
From Jerrit Boyce, now in Calgary shooting a feature
film .
The day after arriving in Toronto from Lethbridge, Alberta (and having
had no prior acting experience), I began working with Michael. Within
a month, I landed an agent and, shortly thereafter, was featured in
a Pepsi commercial and got a principal role on the TV series, "Flashpoint".
Michael's incredible teaching skills kick-started my career at the
speed of light. I'll be forever grateful. Thank you Michael!
From Ana Sani.
Michael!
I have amazing news! I just signed up with Lisa DeMeo and ETM today!
I'm extremely happy about my decision! She's an amazing person and
I can't wait to get started!
Thanks for everything Michael. I wouldn't be anywhere without you!
From Nicki Lloyd, Josh Pattynama's Mom .
Hi Michael, After a few years of community theatre classes and performing
arts camps, Josh was ready to take his acting to the next level. Having
done some research on the industry, Michael came highly recommended.
By completing the On Camera Certificate Program, I can undoubtedly
say that this is the best acting coaching that Josh has ever received.
Through the program, Josh has really grasped the nuances between performing
in theatre and on camera. Through the study of a range of monologues
and two part scene studies, he has learned how to effectively break
down a scene and really get in to character. Michael has also really
prepared Josh well for auditions – booking 100% of all auditions
attended to date. Michael recently helped Josh prepare for an audition
for the short film “The Locker”, which Josh successfully
booked and recently filmed. Michael really knows what he’s doing
and passes along his knowledge in both an educational and fun way!
Thanks Michael for the great work you’ve done with Josh, and
we look forward to continuing these sessions as Josh continues to
practice enhancing his craft. We met with Lisa DeMeo today, and she
wants to sign Josh. Josh was quite happy! Thank you for everything
Michael
Michael
Caruana is Dialogue Coach on the Rhombus Media,
Canadian/Mexican feature film The Boy Who Smelled Like Fish,
currently shooting in Toronto.
Michael
Mercy currently co-hosts Armchair Directors
with Matthew Crandall on Rogers TV, Waterloo region.
He's also writing and directing comedy shorts and music videos and
writing two books. Catch up with him at www.michaelmercy.com
Alex McCoombes just booked a spot on Discovery
Channel's Curious and Unusual Deaths.
Daniela Izquierdo is represented by Jessica
Martins at MMG and just booked a very challenging
and emotional role on The Transporter for HBO.
Leigh Elliot is now represented by Jessica
Martins at MMG.
Since
Matthew George enrolled in bongo's Certificate
Program, he has booked 2 international Tostitos
commercials, print/promo work on 3 international ad campaigns, a national
commercial, and promo work for Canadian Tire.
Julian
Rubino is now represented by Lisa DeMeo
at ETM and has landed a role in an ACTRA
TIP (Toronto Indie Production) feature film.
Farid
Yazdani is newly signed with Lisa DeMeo at
ETM and will be touring with the theatrical hit Paul
& Priya's Wedding.
Alex
McCoombes booked a lead role on Paranormal Witness
and a principal role on Dual Suspects.
Dulce
Felix has a busy fall and winter lined up with roles in 3
upcoming feature films.
Brock
Morgan booked a lead in Big Break and for
which he will be shooting 10 episodes.
stepfanie
cuda is now represented by stephanie porter
at the porter group!
brock
morgan is now represented by lisa de meo at etm!
kate
moreira is now represented by jessica martins
at mmg!
alex
mccoombes is now represented by stephanie porter
at the porter group!
stefani
eleoff is now represented by lisa de meo at etm!
samantha
busch is now represented by lisa de meo at etm!
jerrit
boyce is now represented by norbert abrams
at the noble, caplan, abrams agency!
farid
yazdani is now represented by lisa de meo at etm!
julian
rubino is now represented by lisa de meo at etm!
dawn
doiron is now represented by lisa de meo at etm!
yaari
magenheim is now represented by fran messinger at
the messinger agency!
zoe
de grandemaison is now represented by norbert abrams
at the nobel, caplan, abrams agency!
emily
stranges is now represented by shari quallenberg
at am!
anna
petrova is now represented by lisa de meo at etm!
alithea
watters is now represented by shari quallenberg
at ami!
stefani kimber is now represented by norbert abrams
at the noble, caplan, abrams agency!
ryan
watchorn is now represented by mary swinton at
the in vision agency!
jordan
may is now represented by barb muller at
the messinger agency!
michael
mercy is now represented by stephanie porter
at the porter group!
for
more information or to register, contact : alison (administrator)at
416 655-9125 or email: contact
alison,
or
contact michael directly at:
416 766-9092
or
email:
bongoproductions@rogers.com
beginning
fall 2011
-
contiuing classes with michael caruana at studio pavas in mississauga
!!
mondays:
the craft
level
1:
stage
and screen acting - acting basics for beginners
4:30 - 6 pm 8-10 yrs,
6:00 - 7:30 pm 11-13 yrs,
7:30 - 9:00 pm 14 – 19 yrs
first
semester -
creative play; warm ups, games, improvisations and exercises to stimulate
an active imagination and inspire confidence, free expression and
acting skills for the stage and screen, in a fun and supportive environment.
*
terms and goals for performers.
* relaxation, imagination, concentration, focus, body and sensory
awareness.* discipline, professionalism, trust and collaboration.
* observation and memorization.
* characterization, action and reaction, knowing your objectives and
making choices.
second
semester -
monologues: preparing and performing monologues from literature, classic
and contemporary plays, screenplays and television and applying skills
and techniques explored in first semester plus introducing script
analysis. we cover:
* context, the given circumstances, script analysis, guideposts. *
character interpretation, character traits, body and voice.
* historical vs. modern setting, costumes and props.
* understanding and playing objectives and making choices.
* storytelling, diction and projection.
* comedy vs. drama.
third
semester –
scenes: preparing and performing scenes from literature, classic and
contemporary plays, screenplays and television and applying skills
and techniques explored in the first and second semesters plus reviewing
script analysis.
* context, the given circumstances, script analysis, guideposts. (review)
* listening and reacting.
* ‘blocking’ and ‘business.’ Where the actor
moves and what he does when he gets there.’
* cheating out to audience / to camera.
* ensemble, collaboration and teamwork. “The play’s the
thing”
wednesdays:
the industry
level
2:
stage
and screen acting - for returning students, those who have worked
with michael previously and experienced actors
4:30
- 6 pm 8-10 yrs
6:00 - 7:30 pm 11-13 yrs
7:30 - 9:00 pm 14 – 19 yrs
first
semester –
monologues and scenes: adeeper, advanced exploration of preparation
techniques and performing scenes and monologues, on camera, from literature,
classic and contemporary plays, screenplays and television with supportive
and challenging direction and coaching.
* creative play; warm ups, games, improvisations and exercises (review)
* context, the given circumstances, script analysis, guideposts. (review)
* interpretation/analysis of scenes and monologues applying advanced
preparation techniques.
* selected scenes and monologues prepared, rehearsed and recorded,
on camera with direction, demonstration, guidance and critique with
increased on camera time.
* playback of recorded scenes and monologues with discussion, detailed
feedback, demonstration and guidance.
* ‘blocking’ and ‘business.’’(review)
plus’ hitting marks’ and ‘eyelines.’ the ‘closeup’
shot.
second
semester -
auditioning for movies, tv shows and commercials!
* theatrical auditions – monologues and readings, 'the plays
the thing.'
* film and television auditions, the breakdown, ‘sides,’
how to prepare.
* commercials, acting and auditioning for tv commercials. ‘slating.’
‘what to wear?’
* cold read auditions.
* enthusiasm, the ‘will to play’, dealing with nerves,
booking the part.
third
semester –
lights, camera, action: the industry: what’s it like to have
a career as an actor? working in the Theatre, working in film and
television or all of the above?
* agents and casting directors.
* who’s who backstage? who’s who on set and what do they
do?
* professionalism, the unions, actra, actor’s equity.
* training, support and coaching.
* headshots and demo reels.
* seeking representation.
a showcase of young talent
an evening in june of 2012, i will compile selected recorded work
from level 2 students to be screened at studio pavas for invited guests
including family of students and selected industry professionals.
... these are beginners acting classes, where i introduce, explore
and apply the basic skills and techniques of acting for the camera
and stage. by encouraging an intuitive connection to the text and
applying the support of sound analytical process preparation (script
analysis) to compelling monologues and scenes from plays, film &
television, we explore the specific demands of of acting for the camera
and the stage in a challenging & supportive environment. “it
is through risking that we learn and grow.” this is proven,
professional, insightful and focused coaching, encouraging the actor
to risk, play and create spontaneous, bold & authentic acting.
i employ techniques and processes i’ve learned in 30 yrs of
working as a professional actor, director, coach and teacher and my
training and collaboration and with other talented and successful
working professionals. the work is informed and supported by techniques
and processes of sanford meisner, uta hagen, lee strasberg, stella
adler, viola spolin, larry moss, harold guskin and more. monologues
and scene work is recorded, on-camera, with supportive coaching, discussion
and demonstration and screened with critique.
studio pavas is located at 2301 royal
windsor drive, unit 1, mississauga.
for
more information or to register for these continuing classes at studio
pavas, you can call: 905 403-9435.
email:
studiopavas@bellnet.ca, and visit http://www.studiopavas.com/
michael
caruana, bongo productions,
faculty, acting for film & tv (aftv)
school for the creative & performing Arts,
humber college
studio pavas
bongoproductions@rogers.com
bongo productions is a member of taas
(toronto
association of acting studios)
taped
auditions :
need
to send an audition dvd to l.a. or vancouver? i can tape your audition
at bongo productions, you'll read with a talented working actor and
coach and receive expert, supportive coaching. I book one-hour taping
sessions, at my reasonable private coaching rate and I'll supply the
dvd!
demo
reels :would
you like to put a monologue or scene on tape or dvd to show a prospective
agent? would you like to have expert coaching for the taping session?
ibook one-hour taping sessions, at my reasonable private coaching
rate and i'll supply the dvd!
suggested
reading:
the
intent to live- achieving
your true potential as an actor
larry
moss is brilliant, extremely generous
and articulate, his book is truly
helpful and wonderfully inspiring!
you can get it at theatrebooks!
also,
in my auditioning and self promotion class which
I teach in the acting for film and television program at humber college,
I've been usingmarcia chesley's book you got
the part! i have found it very helpful
and informative and an enjoyable read. it's particularly good for
us here in toronto because this is where marcia lives and works and
most of her references are our own. i highly recommend this book.
it's available at theatrebooks on st.thomas st. in toronto.
watch
for more as we build the new 'what's new' feature of our website!
coming
soon : 1) an audition checklist
2)
star student profile
for
more information including our reasonable/flexible rates, or
if you’d like to register for a class, you can contact:
michael at 416 766-9092
or
alison
at 416 655-9125
or
email
contact
alison, administrator
or michael at: bongoproductions@rogers.com
bongo
productions is a member of TAAS
(Toronto Association of Acting Studios)
