The Film Studios of Georgia

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The Film Studios of Georgia

December 2022

Have you heard the news?

Georgia is getting a new film studio in 2023! Blue Star Studios, located in Forest Park (just 10 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport) is the former location of Fort Gillem Military Base. According to Variety.com, the 53 acre site will offer 18 purpose-built stages and a collective of more than 600,000 square feet. While development is set to complete in stages through 2024, we do know that the location will feature many added benefits for production teams; such as: original 1940’s architecture, offices for production home base, top of the line technology, as well as amenities like nature trails, an on-site café, and a dog run.

Developers are currently working with the Historic Preservation Division of Georgia’s Department of Community Affairs to uphold the integrity of its six historic buildings that are being repurposed, ensuring the preservation of the former Army base’s architectural legacy. And the company is currently scouting GA schools and institutions to offer in-depth training in the cinematic arts.

How does this benefit GA actors?

Since the initial Georgia film industry boom, back in 2009, we have seen a steady increase of GA film activity…leading to our beautiful state being dubbed the “Hollywood of the South”. And there is no slowing down in sight. Back in August, GA Governor, Brian Kemp, announced that the state had broken yet another record by topping $4.4 billion (yes, with a B) revenue during the 2022 fiscal year. In that time, Georgia hosted 412 productions; represented by 32 feature films, 36 independent films, 269 episodic productions, 42 commercials, and 33 music videos.

Governor Kemp had this to say, “When the pandemic struck, we worked hard in Georgia to communicate with our partners in the Georgia film, TV, and streaming industries. Together, we forged a safe and appropriate path to allow the film industry to return to operations and deliver Georgia Made productions to eager consumers all around the world – even when some states continued to stay shut down and stifle the industry’s return to normalcy.”

The article, from GPB News, goes on to state: Movies filmed in Georgia claimed four of the top six spots for highest domestic-grossing movies: Avengers: Endgame (No. 2), Spider-Man: No Way Home (3), Black Panther (5), and Avengers: Infinity War (6). Streaming episodic and limited-series programming continued to choose Georgia for hit programming, including Season Four of Netflix’s Stranger Things, Netflix hit Ozark, HBO Max’s The Staircase, Disney+’s “Loki” and FX’s “Atlanta.”

But that is not all. Just this year, Georgia made waves when the nation’s first Latino-owned studio was opened in southwest Atlanta. Ozzie Areu, a Burbank native and the son of Cuban immigrants, chose Georgia to launch this groundbreaking project, Areu Bros Studios. The 150,000 square foot lot is attached to the well known Tyler Perry Studios. That is because Ozzie used to work for Perry and considers him a mentor in the industry. Areu, as well as Perry, continues to create opportunities for minorities in the film industry to tell their stories; providing top of the line locations and technology to do so with excellence. 

And if that is not exciting enough, we are excited to share that major names (such as Ron Howard and Brian Grazer) are collaborating to launch a groundbreaking social app that will change the face of production hiring, and they started it right here in Atlanta.

According to GPB.com, “Impact has launched their service in Atlanta, which has made waves in the past decade as a popular city for filming television series and movies — including popular Marvel Studios titles and shows like Netflix’s Stranger Things. Mitchell said the team behind Impact saw technology and modern social networking as an important tool for the future of jobs in film — and possibly a disruptor for the current status quo.

“We started, in fact, because we wanted to create technology that could help solve challenges in the entertainment industry and empower the people who bring stories to life,” he said. “And while there’s been tremendous innovations in filmmaking and television with things like digital effects and streaming, the actual mounting and producing of a show hasn’t changed much in the 20 years that I’ve been in the in the business.”

The change that Impact hopes to bring to film is a better medium for workers — set builders, production assistants, camera operators — to connect with productions looking to hire them. Mitchell said Impact seeks to be the one to bridge the gap. Mitchell said the network currently has 21,000 users, with roughly 4,000 in Atlanta. He said Impact’s hope is to use technology to unite the film industry.”

In a recent interview with the AJC, Blue Star Studios CEO, Rich Goldberg, talks about why another studio is needed: 

“Currently, the state has more than 60 purpose-built soundstages available for use and dozens of repurposed ones. The planned new studios could more than double stage capacity in Georgia over the next 24 months.

Goldberg said he isn’t fazed by the influx of new soundstages.

“I think there’s tremendous demand,” Goldberg said, noting that it’s still cheaper for film and TV shows to work in Atlanta than Vancouver, New York or Los Angeles. And even though New Mexico is vying for business as well, he believes the crew base here is far deeper.

On top of that, he promises that his soundstages will be “state of the art with an emphasis on technology,” especially virtual reality.”

Content Credit: The Atlanta Journal Constitution

““The film and TV industry is providing opportunities that I’m sure people in Georgia were originally skeptical about, but the proof is in the pudding. The most important thing is that people take advantage of the opportunity that has presented itself. It’s the perfect time to learn a new skill if you’re not happy with what you’re doing and to develop other passions. As there is so much room to grow with high amounts of inward state investment.”,”

Angie Callen, Career Benders Inc

The TAS crew had fun touring famous Atlanta film locations, such as the Marriott Marquis!

Here are a list of the GA Film Studios:

This is the most current list of major motion production studios, according to studiobinder.com

 

Tyler Perry Studios

Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia

Founded: 2006

Tyler Perry’s 300-acre movie studio has everything. A military compound? Check. A replica White House? Check. Restaurants, bars, hotels? Check. There’s no doubt about it: Tyler Perry is a titan of the film industry – and he should be credited as a pioneer behind the Atlanta renaissance.

Productions shot at Tyler Perry Studios include Madea’s Family Reunion, Good Deeds, and House of Payne.

 

Turner Studios

Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia

Founded: 1986

Sports fans surely know Turner Studios as the home of Inside the NBA, featuring Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley – but did you know the Studio also hosts productions for Major League Baseball, NBA TV, eSports Leagues, and Turner Animation?

Turner Studios is one of the most important sports studios in the world – and its lasting legacy is a testament to the Atlanta film industry.

 

Trillith Studios

Headquarters: Fayette County, Georgia

Founded: 2013

Trillith Studios – formerly known as Pinewood Studios Atlanta – has become one of the most star-studded studio lots in the world over the past few years. That simple fact can be attributed to one thing: Marvel. Here are just a few Marvel productions that have shot at Trilith since 2015: Ant-Man, Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War, and Spider-Man: No Way Home.

Crazy enough, there’s an entire town across the street from the studio lot! Houses aren’t cheap – but I suppose that’s a price to pay to live a hop, skip, and jump away from the stars.

 

Blackhall Studios

Headquarters: DeKalb County, Georgia

Founded: 2017

Blackhall Studios has only been around for a few years – but it’s already making big waves in the Atlanta film industry. In 2021, Blackhall Studios’ Founder and CEO Ryan Millsap announced plans to expand the complex with 18 new soundstages; which would potentially make it the biggest film studio in Atlanta’s greater area.

Films shot at Blackhall Studios include Godzilla: King of Monsters, Jumanji: The Next Level, and Jungle Cruise.

***Content Credit: studiobinder.com

Some of your favorite movie moments have been captured on an Atlanta film set.

The film industry is growing in 2023, read on if you want to be a part of it...

Ready to jump into the action? Now is the perfect time. Zig Ziglar famously said, “Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation” So what are you doing to prepare?

Now is the time to jump into classes. Acting students spend their time:

  • Learning about the latest news and expectations of the film industry.
  • Find out what casting looks for in an audition, and how to stand out from the crowd. 
  • How to get an agent and maintain good agent relations.
  • How to be proactive in your acting career to build your resume and skills.
  • On-set etiquette.

And much, much more! You do not have to go on this journey alone. Make sure that you partner with a team that will provide you with knowledge, training, and ongoing feedback to help you identify and achieve your dreams.

Face it, there has never been a better time to be an actor in GA. The whole world is coming to us to make the most talked-about productions. Don’t get left behind!

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

678-313-7798

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SIGN UP TO AUDIT A CLASS FOR FREE

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About The Author

Elizabeth Alcaraz

Elizabeth has been a member of the TAS family since 2004. She is honored to have served in many roles at TAS; including: Acting Coach, Marketing Director, Syllabus Coordinator, and now TAS Operations Director. She has a passion for building confidence and purpose through the arts, and is grateful to be a part of a team of Confidence Makers. Elizabeth finds her greatest joy in her faith, her husband, and her daughter (and to be honest- a bowl of creamy mac and cheese). She lives by a simple motto which has served her well over the years: Aim for Excellence, Work with Flexibility, Reflect with Grace. 

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Student Highlight: Alina Brace

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Student Highlight: Alina Brace

Get to know TAS alumni and TASM Talent, from The Fabelmans (in theaters November 23rd!) and Sweet Magnolias (Netflix)

Periodically The Actor’s Scene likes to reach out to students and chronicle their success in the industry. Case and point: Alina Brace. Here’s what Alina has to say…

Hey Alina! We are so excited to speak with you! Let's start at the beginning, tell us what made you want to become an actor?

I was watching a TV show and Disney cartoons and thought how cool would it be to be like them; be a princess like Elsa. I asked my parents, “How do these people get to be on TV?” They explained to me that these are just characters, and there is an actor playing a role or voicing that character. So I asked them if I could do that too… I really wanted to be on TV! 

What do you really love about acting?

I like acting because you can be whatever you want to be. One day you can play a dancer, a hair stylist, a biologist, a doctor or a princess.  It is so much fun! 

What is something that surprised you about working on a set?

I was surprised by how  many people work on a set and how big it can be. I was really impressed that a production I was in (for a GA Lottery commercial) built a whole bedroom for me with a bed and a table, stuffed toys, windows, and all the decorations. It was really big!

What are some of your favorite acting moments?

One of my favorite moments on set was filming an unscripted scene for a movie. We just improvised; said whatever we wanted-  and laughed a lot! It was the most fun I ever had on set.

Another favorite moment was playing a wildlife biologist for a GA Lottery commercial. In the scene, when I drop the book with my drawings, I suddenly become a biologist and my drawings become real things! Jungle animals, trees, flowers and birds flying in the bedroom! It was so cool to see how the special effects and green screens were used for these scenes.

That sounds so cool! So, what did you use from your acting training to help you prepare for these on-set experiences?

I am using everything I have learned in class for all of my auditions and jobs. Focusing exercises and Improv lessons were especially helpful, as they allowed me to react and think quickly on the spot.

I feel most confident when I’m prepared and when I get good marks from my coaches, agents, and casting directors. Nothing is better than hearing “You were great” and “You booked it”!

-Alina Brace on what makes her feel confident

Tell us Alina, what is the best advice you've been given?

My parents and coaches always tell me to:

  1. Have fun 
  2. Be authentically you!

Great advice! So, tell us about your latest project, The Fabelmans.

The Fabelmans is loosely based on Steven Spielberg’s childhood. He co-wrote the script, produced and directed the movie. I got to play one of his younger sisters. During the two months of shooting in LA, we did a lot of fun scenes and I got to meet so many great people and make new friends; some of which I still keep in touch with today. It was truly an honor to be a part of the star studded cast. I can’t wait to see it! 

What would be your dream project?

My dream project would be playing a superhero in a live action movie. Also my favorite cartoon right now is Polly Pocket, so I would love to voice a character on that show. 

Speaking of superheroes: if you could choose just one superpower, what would it be?

I would definitely want the power to levitate! How awesome would it be to fly, make things float, and come to you? 

Finally, what advice do you have for young actors who are just getting started?

Always believe in yourself and have fun 🙂

-PARENTS CORNER-

We are super honored to hear from Alina’s amazing mother, Yelena Brace. We asked Yelena to share some of her best advice for parents of young actors. Here is what she has to say:

 

Hey Yelena, thank you for taking the time to speak with us! What advice do you have for parents of new young actors just getting started?

  1. Don’t be overwhelmed by the shear amount of information and advice you will receive. What maybe works for one child actor doesn’t mean would work for yours, so please do your research follow your instincts and ask questions! 
  2. Connect and network with other parents, follow other young actors, casting directors, coaches, and local agencies on social media. Building your network is key! 
  3. Celebrate their wins. Yes, even getting an audition is already a win! 

Is there any system, tool, or advice that you have found to be especially helpful?

Attending free workshops to learn more about the business side of the industry, such as TAS Business Seminars offered as part of Acting Foundations and Working Year classes. These were so beneficial for me  as you learn about what tools are mostly used by agencies and CDs, what resume template you should follow, industry terms and jargon, headshot information, etc. 

Tell us what makes it all worth it? Why do you keep going, even when things get hard?

The smile on my daughter’s face when she is in her element!

As parents, we always want and strive to provide what is best for our children. We want them to be happy, to learn and grow, to be confident, to chase their dreams and of course to be better than us.

 I know that even though it can be tough (this industry is not easy), there is a lot of rewards waiting, and seeing Alina follow her dreams and knowing that she is doing what she truly loves, makes it all worth it.

You mentioned that you want Alina to be happy, learn and grow. Has that been hard in this industry? In what ways do you work to reinforce her mental health? 

Thankfully Alina is only 6 , so we are able to shield her from a lot of negativity and rejection that comes with the industry. We explain to her that sometimes there are other factors involved that are out of our control and a little bit of luck is needed as well.  

In order to keep her happy and stay motivated,  we try to include her in the positive things she enjoys (sign up for new classes and activities that will broaden her skills). We strive to reward her and celebrate little wins by treating her with a favorite dessert or let her pick out a new book to read. 

 

You can follow Alina!

Check out her:

Actor’s Access

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Alina in the GA Lottery Commercial…

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Are you ‘Film-Literate’?

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Are you ‘Film-Literate’?

It’s worth putting the work in.

Hot Take: More actors need to be film-literate. But what does that practically mean?

Smith College said it best- “the aim of Film Studies is to understand the moving image — something that, in its totality, we are very familiar with, and engage with, use to communicate, and are entertained by almost every day. Knowing how to use film is not the same as knowing how it works, and how it works on us — as individuals and as a culture”

Credit: Smith College

So how do we go about “knowing how it works”? This is 3-fold. We need to be:

consuming media, discussing media, and creating media.  

What does it mean to “consume media”? Consumption is simply taking something in, which in this case refers to literally watching TV shows and movies. If you’ve never given much thought to the history of American cinema, it might be a good idea to start with the American Film Institute’s “100 Greatest American Movies of All Time” list. This might give you a better understanding of American Film History and how cinema has evolved throughout the years into what it is today!

Coach Sanna at The Actor’s Scene is super big on actors learning from films that have come before them. Check out this awesome quote from her regarding the importance of film literacy for actors!

"Becoming educated in film and film history is quite important for actors. Knowing which films shaped our industry can be a great tool in your artistic tool belt, as inspiration from prior works influences tone, style, and inevitably, performance in contemporary work. If you have an opportunity to take a film theory class, do it. If not, start with the AFI (American Film Institute) 100 - you can begin your education by watching the greats right in your living room." — Sanna Erica

-Coach Sanna Erica

In addition to being educated on film history and how movies and TV have evolved into what we see today, it is especially important for actors to be aware of what is filming in their market. In the United States, the three main filming markets are New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. For Atlanta actors, this means knowing (and watching!) what is filming in the Southeast! From Tyler Perry Studios to Marvel, there are a LOT of projects going on right now. Georgia.org has an ongoing resource you can check out to always know what’s filming in the peach state:

Now Filming in Georgia by Georgia.org

In addition to watching TV and movies, we need to discuss them! That’s why we sat down with TAS student extraordinaire Ashely Baker to discuss her ongoing quest for film knowledge to help her in her acting. To preface this chat, Ashely has taken Coach Sanna’s words to heart, and is working her way through the AFI Top 100 Movies List!

Hey Ashely! We are SO EXCITED that you are taking your acting journey one step further by trying to learn more about film history! What made you decide to take on the challenge of finding and watching these older movies? Why is it important to you?

A. Being an actor I feel like having knowledge about film is important. It adds more to your creative palate and you are able to pull aspects from different characters whether it’s from tv or film. You also can interpret a script better because a lot of movies and shows still incorporate scenes and dialogue from classics.

We totally agree! So what have you learned so far from the movies you’ve watched recently?

A. So far I have learned that a lot of films today are influenced by classic films. You can also see similarities between storylines from movies now and the classics. It’s quite intriguing and it made me dive deep and start comparing movies I’ve watched recently to the classics and it’s so cool being able to pinpoint the similarities.

You’re a rockstar, Ashely! Thank you for your time.

Thank you for allowing me to shed light on this topic and give my insight. I really am finding that I enjoy analyzing film.

My advice for actors seeking to learn more about film history is to do the same thing I did. Go through those movies on the American Film Institute's list and check them off as you watch them. You will learn so much and you might see something that you can add to your creative toolbox. Also being knowledgeable about film history can make you more confident as an actor.

-Ashely Baker

We are so excited for Ashely as she continues her journey into film literacy! It is very helpful to have a place to put your thoughts about what you’ve been loving on film and in TV lately, whether you’re watching the greatest films of all time or catching up with what’s currently filming in Georgia! Letterboxd is a great platform to publish your thoughts, and share with other film enthusiasts! It is “the social network for film lovers”

Check out Letterboxd.com

In addition to letterboxd, it’s helpful to use all of the resources you’re already using for online community (in addition to chatting with real-life friends and family, of course)! Here are some social media communities we think might help you out on your quest for learning more about film and what’s current in Georgia:

Atlanta Actors Collective

Actors Helping Actors

Acting in Atlanta

(Disclaimer: Social media websites like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Letterboxd might have inappropriate content for those under the age of 18. Please proceed with parental guidance if you’re a minor, and general caution if you’re an adult!)

Once you’re discussing and consuming media, you might as well start creating it too! YouTube and TikTok are wonderful platforms (with parental guidance, of course) to start playing around with making skits and films of your own! As actors, we can’t control how much we’ll be on-set, so creating our own content is a fun way to stay acting outside of class in-between bookings! If content creation is something you want to work towards, see about scheduling private and/or career coaching with a TAS Coach to talk about how to get started!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PRIVATE COACHING

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

678-313-7798

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About The Author

Molly Pass

Molly Pass is an Atlanta-local actress, acting coach, and wedding videographer who loves to help new and seasoned actors alike find their purpose and passion through performance. She holds her bachelor’s degree in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University and enjoys discussing movies, shows, and all things new media. Her favorite part of working at The Actor’s Scene is being able to inspire folks to pursue their dreams and helping them to gain confidence in themselves along the way. When she is not acting or working in the digital media realm, she enjoys reading murder mysteries and desperately trying to keep a garden alive. 

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Student Highlight: Lily Moore

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Student Highlight: Lily Moore

Get to know TAS alumni, Lily Moore, of Color My World With Love (Hallmark) and Never Have I Ever (Netflix) !

Periodically The Actor’s Scene likes to reach out to students and chronicle their success in the industry. Case and point: Lily Moore. Here’s what Lily has to say…

Hey Lily! We are so excited to speak with you! Let's start at the beginning, tell us what made you want to become an actor?

When we lived in Austria, I took a drama class and fell in love with it. When we moved back to the US , three years later, my mom signed me up for an acting class and I loved it even more. So I kept taking classes.

Then I booked a small job and I was hooked!  My mom submitted me to over 20 agencies, I got one interview, and they signed me. I was so excited and started getting more auditions.

What drives you to stick with acting?

I’ve been doing this for 7 years and still love it just as much! I love meeting new people and playing different characters. I am accepted and respected when I go on set. It is my passion!

What is something that surprised you about working on a set?

How much you sit around waiting before you tape your scene. Also, how many times you have to redo your scene because they tape it from all different angles!  

What are some of your favorite acting moments?

Definitely filming Color My World with Love for Hallmark!  I was treated like a queen! I had my own driver, got to share my ideas with the director and producers, had a big dressing room, and so much more!  We got to film in Canada, met amazing people, and I learned so much from Erica and Ben!  It was a dream! 

I also loved being on set with Never Have I Ever. My character, Rebecca, is sassy like me!  Maitreyi  is one of the nicest people in the world! And, Darren is the best!

How cool! Tell us about your latest project: Color My World with Love. What is the story about?

Color My World with Love is about a young woman with Down Syndrome, who meets a young man and they fall in love. They want to get married, but the mom struggles with letting go; letting her daughter grow up. The mom and daughter are close and work everything out…….you have to watch the movie to see what happens!  My character, Kendall, is independent, an artist, and loves her mom and grandmother!

"If acting is something you really want to do, then treat it like a job and not a hobby. I have had to give up going to parties, sleepovers, school events, etc, to do auditions or work jobs, And, learn to let go of the rejection you get when you don't book a job. Just give yourself a hug and go do something fun!"

Lily Moore

Tell us Lily, what is the best acting advice you've been given?

My grandmother told me to always follow my dreams and to not give up- no matter how many times people tell you no!  So, whenever I don’t get a job, I just say, “Well, they missed out on all of this“! 

Also, my mom told me to advocate for myself when I think someone is talking down to me. I want to be respected as an actress and I do not want people to feel sorry for me because I have Down Syndrome.  I am very happy with how God made me!

Great advice! So, do you have any acting projects coming up?

I’m taking a small break while I get used to Clemson University!  Go Tigers!

What would be your dream project?

That’s a hard one!  I think being a lead in a Marvel move would be amazing, working with Steven Spielberg would be incredible. I also would love to be a lead in a Disney show!  I have so many dreams!

What advice do you have for new actors who are just getting started?

Kids should advocate for themselves if they haven’t been given time for lunch or breaks. Also, if they feel uncomfortable saying something or doing something that wasn’t in the script but added later. They should talk to the child coordinator on set and voice their issues.

And finally, what makes you feel confident?

 I feel confident when I believe in the character and know my lines. And, when you have hair and make up make you feel special, it gets me energized to go do my job! 

-PARENTS CORNER-

We have the honor of speaking with Natalie Moore, Lily’s mother. Even though Lily is an adult now, her acting journey began when she was a young child. Her mother provides valuable insight for parents of young actors on how to help your child achieve success in the industry. 

 

  1. Hi Natalie! Thank you for taking the time to chat with us. What advice do you have for parents of new young actors just getting started?  Ask questions and do your research so you can help your child feel confident in what they are doing. Also, when your child is on set, let them do their thing, you just sit and be quiet! That’s a hard thing for us to do, but this allows your child to advocate for themselves when it’s their time to shine! Every child learns lines differently. Find the way that works best for them and go with it.
  2. Is there any system, tool, or advice that you have found to be especially helpful?  Don’t get caught up in comparing your child with other children.  Remember it is a journey and not a race!  Most people take a while before they book.
  3. Tell us what makes it all worth it? Why do you keep going, even when things get hard?  It is worth it when your child books a job and you see their excitement. It is worth it when you get to set and watch your child feel confident and do what they are passionate about.  All the early mornings, late nights, local hires (where we lost money), unpaid jobs, bringing our own wardrobe, unorganized jobs, long hours….it is all worth it because I am helping my child follow their dream.
  4. Tell us about a proud mom moment you’ve had with Lily. We are sure there have been a bunch, but what is one that stands out as a highlight?  Proud Mom Moment:   Lily wanted to try out for cheerleading, but was recovering from surgery so I told her she could not try out.  But, Lily talked with the coaches and she tried out with a full leg brace on!  The coach later told me that it didn’t matter if she could do everything the other kids were doing because when she walked onto the floor, the judges could feel her energy and excitement. They said her smile lit up the room and she was so loud.  When Lily came out to the parking lot, she announced, “I nailed it”! Indeed she did, She made that squad!

You can follow Lily!

Check out her:

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Halloween: The Actor’s Ultimate Holiday!

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Halloween: The Actor’s Ultimate Holiday!

Finding Purpose in the Fun.

Double, double, toil and trouble… It’s that time of year once again! Now that we’re in October, it’s easy to find ourselves planning ahead for Halloween.

It’s the one night of the year where you get to pretend to be anyone in the world, and nobody bats an eye! Whether you choose to be a real person, a celebrity that you admire, or a fictional character that you’ve always wanted to be, Halloween is the perfect time to go all out and make some fun memories! The holiday can be an adventure for anybody- but it’s especially great for actors and artists.

There are plenty of reasons that Halloween is an actor’s dream holiday, but in this blog we’ll be focusing on the 3 Cs:

Creativity, Characterization, and Costumes. 

First and foremost, Halloween is a time where we get to use our creativity and talent to put together an idea for what we should dress up as; whether our plans include a Halloween party, trick-or-treating, or just doing the Monster Mash at home by ourselves! On a day where you can be ANYTHING, there’s sometimes a pressure to try and create the best, most impressive costume ever. Rather than focusing on winning the costume contest, we encourage you to find a character or figure that would be super fun to pretend to be for the day. Maybe think about your very favorite character from media and pop culture, or create your very own! Here’s a photo of TAS Coach Rick Goins and his family as the Belcher family from Bob’s Burgers, along with a quote on why he loves Halloween:

“Halloween was always a great holiday for me because of the creativity. Movie magic is ultimately what got me into acting. I love special effects and playing make believe. I was always big into making my own costumes, I don't think I have ever bought a costume, and that was always the fun part. “

-Coach Rick Goins

There is this idea that people can be “too old” for Halloween once you reach a certain point, but we think that creativity and fun costumes are for everybody! It isn’t often that adults feel free to engage their creative side, between work and life responsibilities, so why not take this opportunity to feel like a kid again, even just for one night a year! Believe it or not, Forbes.com says that “engaging in creative behaviors (even just coloring in those trendy adult coloring books) improves brain function, mental health, and physical health”* It’s amazing how letting yourself be creative can benefit your overall health and quality of life! Even if you’re regularly acting or in an acting class (which, if you’re not, check out our class info HERE), having hobbies or preparing for fun creative outlets, such as dressing up for Halloween, can help you level up your craft even more by providing another avenue for your creativity to shine! 

*Here’s How Creativity Actually Improves Your Health (forbes.com)

“How fun is Halloween for us actors? We get to use all our creativity to create a character from the ground up.”

-Coach Kristi Taylor

Characterization is one of the most fun parts of script analysis for many actors, whether it be building original characters or expanding on existing characters to make them more your own or adding a fun twist! When attempting to create a character, we can start by asking ourselves some questions:

  • Is my character an introvert or an extrovert? Meaning, do they prefer to keep to themselves until you get to know them better or do they love being the life of the party?
  • How expressive are they with their emotions? People are dynamic beings who process and show emotions differently. A shy person might hold their emotions more internally, while someone who is super outgoing might let their feelings show for everyone to see!
  • How does this character move their body? Is it similar to the way you move, or is it different? Faster? Slower? More graceful? More clumsy?
  • Do they sound different than you? It may feel a bit silly to walk around trying out different accents on a normal weekday, but Halloween is the perfect time to give that daring dialect a test run. At the end of the night, ask your friends for their feedback! 

Play around with these questions and see if you can come up with a new character for this year’s Halloween!

If you’d like some personalized help creating or adapting characters for a project or audition you’re working on, you can always schedule a Private Lesson or Audition Taping service with one of our awesome industry-professional coaches HERE.

Halloween allows us to play around with characters and costumes vastly different from us. I love not only dressing up, but trying to match my mannerisms, my walk, and my speech to the character as well. This is a huge reason why I've begun the tradition of a "Halloween Class" the past 2 years I've coached at TAS. I encourage my students to come in costume and we play around with improvising as our characters. It's an awesome day to let your imagination run wild!”

-Coach Leah Merritt

If you’re looking for some ideas of characters that you can make your own, we have a few suggestions!

  1. Superhero. With how many awesome Marvel and DC projects filming in the Atlanta area, it’s easy to be a superhero fan! You can channel one of the awesome existing characters like Black Panther, The Flash, Wonder Woman, or Wanda, but wouldn’t it be cool to create a superhero of your own? Think about what super power you would like to have if you could choose, and then come up with a cool name for yourself based on those powers! All you need next is a mask and a cape, which you can totally make at home!
  2. Witch/Wizard. If you’re a Hocus Pocus fan, you may have seen TAS Alum Nina Kitchen in Hocus Pocus 2 as Young Mary Sanderson! A witch or wizard is a CLASSIC Halloween choice, and what better witch inspiration than the Sanderson Sisters themselves! All you need is a witch or wizard hat, cloak, and broom (although Roombas and Swiffers might also do the trick). Bonus points if you have a black cat!
  3. Zombie. With The Walking Dead ending its 12-year run this November, what better way to pay tribute to an iconic piece of Atlanta film history? You can totally DIY your zombie getup by cutting and dirtying up some old clothes and getting creative with makeup! Fun fact, the first episode of The Walking Dead aired on October 31st, 2010!

 

Whatever you decide to do to celebrate the last day of October this year, we hope that you have a safe, fun holiday! Remember, if you’d like to work on fun characters year-round, we offer classes in-person, virtually, and even one-on-one with our personalized private lessons! For more info on classes, click HERE. For more info on private lessons, click HERE. Stay spooky, ATL!



Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok for more Halloween content, 

contests with PRIZES, and MORE! 

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

678-313-7798

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR CLASSES
SIGN UP TO AUDIT A CLASS FOR FREE

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About The Author

Molly Pass

Molly Pass is an Atlanta-local actress, acting coach, and wedding videographer who loves to help new and seasoned actors alike find their purpose and passion through performance. She holds her bachelor’s degree in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University and enjoys discussing movies, shows, and all things new media. Her favorite part of working at The Actor’s Scene is being able to inspire folks to pursue their dreams and helping them to gain confidence in themselves along the way. When she is not acting or working in the digital media realm, she enjoys reading murder mysteries and desperately trying to keep a garden alive. 

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Get to know TAS Coach: Tara Jones

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Get to know TAS Coach: Tara Jones

All of our acting coaches are highly qualified working actors who participate in the Film/TV industry in a variety of ways, in addition to coaching acting classes. But we want to give you a more in-depth look at who they are as people. 
 
This month we are sharing some insights that will help answer the question, 
“Who Is Tara Jones?” Read on to find out!

What Makes You Feel Confident?

AUTHENTICITY makes me confident! Being the best version of who I can be puts me in a space of certainty which creates confidence. And if I’m authentically myself, I know that I will mess up! So I give myself grace and patience through the acting process when I don’t get something “right,” or am having difficulty with a script. 

Knowing that I am actively working on my craft every chance I get, also evokes confidence in that I feel free to experiment and take chances with my auditions. Always remembering the love and passion for the art brings me back to why I do this crazy industry, and that is empowering. 

How did you first get into acting?

I was a former broadcast journalist, working all over the country as a reporter and anchor. Once I had my first daughter, I decided to retire from the news world, as it was not very conducive to raising a family. My colleague from WSB-TV told me to go to a local talent agency because I knew how to read a teleprompter, and I could likely get some hosting gigs. I knocked on People Store’s door, and thankfully, they signed me!

I slowly started training as an actor, and moving from hosting, to commercials, to TV/film. I am a story teller at heart, so I fell in love with this new format to tell stories that mattered and could potentially make a difference in our world.

Tara with her daughters 

What has been your biggest struggle in the industry?

Keeping the right mind set! For years I struggled with my self worth being tied to my bookings. It took a lot of mental work to know that I am enough just as I am, and I do not need the industry to validate me for any reason. Once I figured out the formula for that, I was inspired to share it with others, especially acting children and their parents, which is why I started United Child Actors Network. 

How did you tackle it?

Through consistent mind work. Waking up every day and being TRULY grateful for what I have, and not focusing on what I want or don’t have. Creating a world of gratitude transforms your reality, and shifts your thinking from, “I hope I book it!!!”…to “I am so thankful I had the opportunity to show that casting director my talent.” 

I teach and preach authenticity. The more authentic you are, the happier you’ll be, and the bonus is, you’ll likely book more because your auditions become real and grounded…which is exactly what the casting director is looking for! 

You have no control over your audition; all you have is control over is how you prepare and perform. So why would you ever stress over a result you can’t control? 

This industry is a journey. You can act until the day you die. There’s no race to the finish line because there is no finish line. Once you learn to love the craft, and take the stress away from the auditions, and potential outcome of those auditions, is the moment you build a FULFILLED life-long actor. 

I ADORE being able to use my talent to help tell stories, and ultimately make a difference. The world of acting and storytelling is beyond powerful. As I continue my journey through the industry, I hope my passion is felt by each and every person I come in contact with. Because without the passion, what’s the point? If you don’t LOVE acting, you should do something else…anything else, because it will just feel like a lot of work, sacrifice and heartache. But if you LOVE acting, arm yourself with the right mindset and training, then buckle up and enjoy the ride!

-Tara Jones

Besides acting, do you pursue any other interests in the entertainment industry?

I created United Child Actors Network because I felt a passion to help other parents and children after my own two girls got involved in the industry. I was shocked at the amount of animosity between parents, the jealousy, comparison and competition. I truly believed that these other children were not “competition” for my kids because we’re all different human beings, who bring something unique to the table. 

My girls often got auditions for the same roles, and I used to tell them, “If one of you books over the other, that means the other person didn’t even have a chance because you’re different humans with different essences. Whichever person exemplifies the character more NATURALLY, is the one that will likely book.” That resonated with them and created zero jealousy in our household, even when one sister booked over the other. It also allowed my children to understand authenticity in who they were, and how to see it in other people. This is what I teach to kids and parents through UCAN (United Child Actors Network.) 

Why did you get into coaching?

I started coaching my own children, and they did really well from the on-set, mainly because I was teaching them to be authentic actors. Friends with children in the industry then started asking me to teach and self-tape their kids, too. Once they started booking as well, I realized there must be validity in what I’m teaching.

Moreover, I LOVE instilling confidence in my students. There is nothing better than showing a child that they are enough…and what God/the universe gave them is so uniquely special and needed in this world.

Creatives can be very sensitive and sometimes don’t fit into society’s box. I hope that my teachings can help give young creatives the strength and confidence they need to stand up to anyone that may try to push their uniqueness and talent away.

What is one important bit of advice you always give the students in your class?

Be authentic! There is no one in this world who can play ‘you’ better than ‘you!’ 

You will hear casting directors say over and over again that they are looking for “real and grounded” performances. The more a student can understand who they are and how to lean in to their own natural essences, the more they will book. 

I love giving students an adjective unique to them (like “intellectual”) and then tell them to prepare a script leaning into that adjective/essence. After assigning a different adjective to each student in class, I then have them read the same script to demonstrate the different deliveries from each person. It allows the students to see how unique each audition can be, and how the script can take on a whole new meaning just based on who is reading it. It also provides them insight into what casting director’s see through auditions, and it solidifies that the BEST actor doesn’t always get the job, the most APPROPRIATE actor gets the job. 

What is your proudest coaching moment?

My proudest moments come when one of my students has a breakthrough. I love watching hard work turn into growth. And then watching that growth turn into signings with major agencies, bookings in the form of Marvel movies, series regulars on network TV shows, and leads in movies! It makes me tremendously proud and fulfilled knowing that I had a small part in making that success happen, and their dreams come true. 

Tara teaching classes at TAS!

What do you hope that your coaching legacy will be?

That people use what God/the universe gave them in this world to make it a better place. I consistently tell my students that the world needs what they have been given, so don’t hide it, embrace it and use it for good…especially in the world of acting. If anyone has taken my class, they know I say all the time, “The better the human, the better the actor can be.” 

Tara Jones Bio:

Tara Jones is an Emmy Award winning journalist turned actor. Her deep appreciation and knowledge for the art of television production led her to be a part of countless commercial productions, industrials, network TV shows, and blockbuster films. She has also served as a spokesperson for several Fortune 500 companies and participated in their brand management as a company. 

Tara’s knowledge of both being in front of the camera and behind the scenes has benefited her deep understanding of the “big picture” when it comes to the industry as a whole. Her company, Green Sky Productions, produced numerous commercials and marketing videos, as well as the award winning independent film, “iGirl,” in which Tara was awarded ‘Best Female Filmmaker’ and her daughter, Skylar, was awarded the “Rising Star” award from the New York Independent Film Festival. You can see Tara’s work as an actor on shows such as “MacGyver,” “The Resident,” and movies such as “Need for Speed,” “My Dad’s A Soccer Mom,” “Almost Christmas,” and a new DC Comics movie coming out in 2023!  

Tara has two daughters, both of which are actors. Skylar Morgan Jones has appeared in “Dynasty,” “The Vampire Diaries,” Lifetime’s “Terror in the Woods,” and as the lead in the upcoming movie, “Blood” (Release fall of 2022.) Ariel Jones starred alongside her mother in “The Resident,” and can also be seen in “Your Worst Nightmare,” as well as numerous national commercials, national voiceovers, and a prior YouTube series called “Smooshie Mushies,” with her sister.

Tara loves sharing her knowledge of the industry with those who are just starting out, or simply looking to get ahead. She believes in the power of positivity and preaches that other actors are not competition…the only competition lies within the artist to be the best version of themselves, as a human, and as an actor.  

Would you like to take private lessons with Coach Tara?

Coach Tara teaches private lessons for beginning actors through advanced.

To sign up for a private lesson with Coach Tara, click HERE. 

Want to keep up with Coach Tara’s latest bookings? Check out her IMDb HERE.

If you would like more information on her organizations: United Child Actor’s Network (UCAN), click HERE.

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Healthy Mindsets for Actors

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Healthy Mindsets for Actors

The Power of Positive Thinking.

The film industry is not for the faint of heart, especially when it comes to being an actor.

Taking care of one’s physical, mental, and spiritual health is of the utmost importance in a field like acting that requires so much of each individual. But how can we, practically, take care of ourselves?

A big struggle for many actors is self-doubt.

In this industry, it’s really easy to fall into the comparison game and feel like every other actor around you is doing better than you are at “making it”, so to speak. Social media is a tool to help us promote ourselves, and because of that we are only seeing other people’s highlight reels. It’s easy to look at someone’s page and say “wow, they seem to be working a lot more than I am” without seeing all the hard work they’re doing behind the scenes. We don’t see the bad days that other people have, or the countless times that they auditioned and didn’t book, or even self-submitted never to get the opportunity to audition in the first place. One of the first steps to developing a healthy mindset is removing any obstacles that are preventing you from believing in yourself. Watching how much time you spend online and who you follow is an amazing place to start. When it comes to other actors and online communities, make sure that you’re following only people who encourage you, help you better yourself and your craft, and make you smile with what they’re posting. And remember, if you don’t want to fully unfollow someone to make sure there’s no hard feelings, there is always the “mute” button.

One of our coaches at The Actor’s Scene has opened up about struggling with negative mindsets and comparison in her own practice. Let’s see what Coach Leah Merritt had to say about overcoming those obstacles in her acting career:

“It’s no secret that the acting industry alone can breed some pretty unhealthy mindsets- if left unchecked. There’s a lot of rejection, comparison, and pressure to look/be a certain way that can be really hard to manage for adults, let alone young actors. But at the same time, I’m thankful that I dealt with these challenges early in my life, because it forced me to find my worth and happiness outside of achievements. I learned to talk kindly to myself and have a perspective of joy and gratitude, rather than stress and dejection. Once those unhealthy mindsets faded away, I started having a lot more fun! Not only in acting, but in life. It’s a whole new world when you realize that no one is your competition. We can all be uniquely talented and beautiful and accomplished in whatever way makes US happy!

Also, there can be a lot of comparison and competitive natures in this industry. I think the biggest thing that helped me through those mindsets was actually becoming friends with the actors I thought I was competing with. I realized instead of judgment, I found a welcoming community of artists that just want to be able to share our common struggles and accomplishments.”

Do you have people to encourage you on the hard days and celebrate with you on the good days?

Community is a MUST for actors. Find your tribe and love them hard! 

Each actor is a completely unique and distinctive person, so what works for other people might not work for you. Try out these methods and see if any of them help you find a more healthy mindset and positive outlook!

Dr. Caroline Leaf is a communication pathologist and cognitive neuroscientist, as well as an author and podcaster, and in a September 2021 podcast titled “The One Mindset That Can Help You Through Any Problem” (LINK), she shares some tips for creating a more powerful mindset.

These are just a few of her awesome ideas from the episode, so be sure to check out her podcast for more tips!

  1. A Sense of Community. As Dr. Leaf says in the episode, “A sense of community helps build hope into the brain and body!”. In a recent TAS TikTok (which you can follow HERE), Coach Kirsten Krehbiel said that her best piece of advice for new actors is to find community. She said “One of the best things that I did and that I think everyone should do is to find an acting family, or an acting community. That way you’re with likeminded people, people who are going to inspire you, help you, support you, and understand. Because even if your family supports you, it’s a very bizarre industry and the more people that can help you, the better it’s going to be.” Here’s a link to that video: TIKTOK 
  2. Living Outside of Social Labels. As actors, it’s easy to feel stuck in your typecast, or the way that casting typically sees you. Don’t feel restricted by your type, just be aware of it. Dr. Leaf says that “People who do not get stuck in labels or the way society tries to define them often have more hope”. In addition to comparison with the types or frequency of roles that we get, there is also a lot of comparison between actors about the amount of training they have had, how their headshots look, how many followers they have, the list goes on. Let’s be clear: there is no “right way” to start or maintain your acting career. As long as you are continuing training, updating your materials to reflect your current career credits and physical appearance, and working to improve your craft individually, you are in the right place.
  3. Knowing What Can Be Controlled. The film industry is unpredictable. Actors have no direct hand in the casting process, which means that there are a lot of factors about auditioning and booking that we cannot control. Instead of fretting over your ratio of auditions to bookings, or comparing your success to other people with similar experience, focus on what you can control. We had a section on our blog, “How Do I Get My Child On Nickelodeon/Disney?” where we talked about goal-setting for actors, and how to focus on goals within an actor’s control. If you’d like to check out that article, you can click HERE. We also had a helpful TikTok on this subject, which you can find HERE. Basically, make your goals tangible. Instead of having goals centered on auditions or booking, which is out of your control, focus on the aspects that you can control! Maybe a goal can be self-submitting for a certain number of projects, trying to hone a new skill like singing (which you can start with the lovely Coach Kate Leek, whose information to book is HERE), or even scheduling a career coaching to evaluate and elevate your submission materials like your headshot, resume, reel, etc! To find a private career coach and schedule a session like that, click HERE. In addition to tangible goals, we also want to focus on our wins along the way! Taking a new class is a win. Getting those headshots or materials updated is a win. Getting the audition is a win. Take the pressure off of yourself to achieve grand career steps that are out of your hands, and focus instead on what you’re actively doing to improve your craft and your skillset. 

You have power over your mind-not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.

-Marcus Aurelius

We begin the mental health process early; teaching young actors the beauty of their unique quality and appreciation for each other! 

“Here's what I've learned: first, you have to identify the things you can control- keep taking classes and workshops, network at industry events, audition for as many roles as you can. Give 110% to those things. Then, let go of the parts that are out of your control. Once a taping is submitted it's out of your hands- so let go of the anxiety, too!”

-Coach Dina Karl

Overall, mindset is everything when it comes to acting. Focus on taking care of yourself as a whole person (mind, body, spirit), and your acting will improve with that self care. Make sure you are actively training, whether that be in an in-person class, a virtual class, or a one-on-one private coaching rhythm. To find a place to get plugged in, check out our class offerings HERE, and our private coaching offerings HERE. 

 

We’ll leave you with this awesome quote from Dale Carnegie: “Find yourself and be yourself: remember there is no one else on Earth like you.” Take care of yourselves, actors!

.

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

678-313-7798

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR CLASSES
SIGN UP TO AUDIT A CLASS FOR FREE

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About The Author

Molly Pass

Molly Pass is an Atlanta-local actress, acting coach, and wedding videographer who loves to help new and seasoned actors alike find their purpose and passion through performance. She holds her bachelor’s degree in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University and enjoys discussing movies, shows, and all things new media. Her favorite part of working at The Actor’s Scene is being able to inspire folks to pursue their dreams and helping them to gain confidence in themselves along the way. When she is not acting or working in the digital media realm, she enjoys reading murder mysteries and desperately trying to keep a garden alive. 

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Student Highlight: Sam Salary

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Student Highlight: Sam Salary

Get to know TAS student, Sam Salary, of Stranger Things (Netflix) and Preaching Lies (Tubi) !

Periodically The Actor’s Scene likes to reach out to students and chronicle their success in the industry. Case and point: Sam Salary. Here’s what Sam has to say…

Hey Sam! We are so excited to speak with you! Let's start at the beginning, tell us what made you want to become an actor?

I was in my 7th grade English class when I was given the opportunity to audition for my first play, “Melanie and the Trash Can Troll”, and I was the troll! After that, I was bitten by the acting bug.

What drives you to stick with acting?

Acting is where I first felt acceptance. Specifically, I love the discovery process. I feel like a detective trying to solve the case of who my character is.

LOVE the detective analogy! What are some ways you go about discovering your character when preparing for an audition or a day on set?

One way I go about discovering my character is to examine the relationships he has, and how other people feel about him. I like taking a deeper look at the world around him.

Sam playing the Stern Orderly in Season 4 of Stranger Things.

What is something that surprised you about working on a set?

This may sound weird, but I love watching my peers work. I love watching the DP (Director of Photography) or AD (Assistant Director) or other actors work hard trying to get the perfect shot to tell the best story possible.

What are some of your favorite acting moments?

Working on the Stranger Things set was an absolutely amazing experience. The people were so nice and the on-set environment was a pleasure to be a part of.

I'm sure that working on Stranger Things was a blast! Who is your favorite character in the show?

My favorite character on the show is Dustin. I feel like he was me when I was a kid. But behind the scenes I truly enjoyed talking about life and the game of acting with Jamie Bower. Those days and memories I will cherish for the rest of my life.

"The process gives me confidence. Discovering a character is a journey. And I have learned to trust it even when my emotions are not exactly matching."

Sam Salary, on what makes him feel confident.

Tell us Sam, what is the best acting advice you've been given?

That my character, who I am, all the things that make me- and most importantly, how I treat others- is more important than any character I will play. (This is a quote from my mom!).

Has it become easier to trust yourself and your process as you've gotten more experienced? What advice would you have for actors learning how to deal with rejection or doubting themselves?

Yes, though it was a difficult journey, I can say that I know myself. And when you know yourself there’s a good chance you know your worth.  Knowing my worth is how I deal with the rejection. I refuse to place my self-worth in someone saying yes to me or booking a job, when I can just say yes to myself. My advice is to take the time to know your worth.

Great advice! So, do you have any acting projects coming up?

Yes, I do. I’m shooting a movie next month. And I also have 2 projects coming out in 2023!!!

What would be your dream project?

As a kid I was obsessed with the movie Ghostbusters. So yes, I have always wanted to play a Ghostbuster! There is a story behind this, but to make it short, when I was a kid my mother would drive me past the mechanic shop in Kansas City, MO, that had the replica of the Ghostbusters car. And I would go crazy every time I was able to see it just imagining what it would be like to be behind the wheel!

What advice do you have for new actors who are just getting started?

Don’t take yourself too seriously. In my opinion, storytelling is a team process. Do your best to be giving and to serve both the story and your fellow coworkers. Do your best to ask yourself, ‘In what way can I positively add to the environment?’ Free yourself from judgment and know that you are enough.

You can follow Sam!

Check out his:

Instagram

imdB

 

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GA’s Film Industry is Thriving

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GA’s Film Industry is Thriving

August 2022

Have you heard the news?

GA just set a record breaking year with $4.4 Billion spent on film and television productions! This is great for Georgia actors because it shows that our market is NOT slowing down. Right now, film opportunities abound all over the state! Even through the pandemic, GA saw record breaking numbers in terms of productions and revenue. According to WALB, this year’s figures are up from last year’s record breaking total of $4 billion. They go on to say that, “The state had a total of 412 productions. There were 32 feature films, 36 independent films, 269 television and episodic productions, 42 commercials, and 33 music videos. It’s definitely not uncommon to see (Georgia)’s squares or neighborhoods transformed into sets for TV shows and movies. And anytime projects come into town, it translates into millions of dollars getting pumped into the local economy.” (article HERE)

So, how did we get here? How did we go from pulling just $93 million in 2007 to becoming known as Hollywood’s toughest competitor? It all started in 2008, when then-governor, Sonny Perdue, granted a generous tax incentive for productions of $500,000 or more (this was based on a deal made in 2002, but strengthened in ’08). When you take into consideration the recession that was ravaging America at the time, 20% off was a pretty sweet deal! Not only did we offer great rates, but GA has always shown that it has plenty of other legs to stand on. For one thing, GA officials proved that they were not only on board, but willing to help production companies with their projects.  For instance, the mayor of Senoia who famously allowed the Walking Dead team to shut down streets and entire bridges to make for an authentic product.

Other brag-worthy features that make GA an attractive filming location is our dynamic landscapes, thriving International airport, and communities that span various time periods (which is a big reason why Stranger Things made it’s home here- where else can you find neighborhoods straight out of the 80’s?). Since 2008, Georgia has seen multiple movie and film franchise credits; Hunger Games, Fast and Furious, Ozark and the Marvel Universe, just to name a few. And with each one, we have more firmly established ourselves as “The Hollywood of the South”.

And not to mention, GA is home to some major film studios; Trillith Studios (formerly Pinewood), Turner Studios, Tyler Perry Studios, Blackhall Studios, and more! 

“The last fiscal year was another record-setter for the film industry in Georgia.

Film and television productions spent $4.4 billion in the Peach State in fiscal 2022, which ended June 30, Gov. Brian Kemp announced Monday. That’s up from the previous record of $4 billion set in fiscal 2021.

Georgia hosted 412 productions in the last fiscal year, including 32 feature films, 36 independent films, 269 television and episodic productions, 42 commercials, and 33 music videos, according to the Georgia Film Office, which promotes and markets the industry in the state.  

“When the pandemic struck, we worked hard in Georgia to communicate with our partners in the Georgia film, TV, and streaming industries,” Kemp said.

“Together, we forged a safe and appropriate path to allow the film industry to return to operations and deliver Georgia Made productions to eager consumers all around the world – even when some states continued to stay shut down and stifle the industry’s return to normalcy.”

Credit: Reporters Newspapers

“Because Georgia was the first state in the country to re-open our economy and worked with film productions across the state to ensure they could safely continue operations, the Peach State’s film industry is leading the nation,”

Gov. Brian Kemp

Here's what is filming in GA right now!

  • Idea of You. Starring Anne Hathaway
  • Megalopolis. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Adam Driver, Jon Voight and more!
  • Blade, a Disney production. Stars Mahershala Ali
  • Pain Hustlers. Starring Emily Blunt
  • The Electric State. Starring Millie Bobby Brown
  • The Color Purple: The Musical. Produced by Oprah Winfrey. Starring Ciara, Fantasia Taylor, and more! 

Have you spotted any filming around Atlanta? 

So, how can you be a part of the excitement?

Ready to jump into the action? Now is the perfect time. Zig Ziglar famously said, “Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation” So what are you doing to prepare?

Now is the time to jump into classes. Acting students spend their time:

  • Learning about the latest news and expectations of the film industry.
  • Find out what casting looks for in an audition, and how to stand out from the crowd. 
  • How to get an agent and maintain good agent relations.
  • How to be proactive in your acting career to build your resume and skills.
  • On-set etiquette

And much, much more! You do not have to go on this journey alone. Make sure that you partner with a team that will provide you with knowledge, training and ongoing feedback to help you identify and achieve your dreams.

Face it, there has never been a better time to be an actor in GA. The whole world is coming to us to make the most talked-about productions. Don’t get left behind!

Ready to get started? Reach out today!

TASFRONTDESK@GMAIL.COM

678-313-7798

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR CLASSES
SIGN UP TO AUDIT A CLASS FOR FREE

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About The Author

Elizabeth Alcaraz

Elizabeth has been a member of the TAS family since 2004. She is honored to have served in many roles at TAS; including: Acting Coach, Marketing Director, Syllabus Coordinator, and now TAS Operations Director. She has a passion for building confidence and purpose through the arts, and is grateful to be a part of a team of Confidence Makers. Elizabeth finds her greatest joy in her faith, her husband, and her daughter (and to be honest- a bowl of creamy mac and cheese). She lives by a simple motto which has served her well over the years: Aim for Excellence, Work with Flexibility, Reflect with Grace. 

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Get to know TAS Coach: Kate Leek

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Get to know TAS Coach: Kate Leek

All of our acting coaches are highly qualified working actors who participate in the Film/TV industry in a variety of ways, in addition to coaching acting classes. But we want to give you a more in-depth look at who they are as people. 
 
This month we are sharing some insights that will help answer the question, 
“Who Is Kate Leek?” Read on to find out!

What Makes You Feel Confident?

I feel most confident when I learn something new. I get embarrassingly excited about
knowledge and being able to share that makes me feel empowered. That, and high
heels.

How did you first get into acting?

My mother always had a passion for musical theater and she passed this passion onto
me. I soon fell in love with movies and would insert my own dialogue into films so I could
pretend I was a character. I was absolutely obsessed with Lord of the Rings as a kid and
I wanted to be a character in that world more than anything. When my parents asked me

what I wanted for my eighth birthday I replied, “an agent”. I started lessons at The
Actor’s Scene soon after and the rest was history.

Kate with family

What has been your biggest struggle in the industry?

When I was younger and living in Los Angeles with my mom, I missed my family terribly.
As a kid, it was difficult to choose between chasing my dream and being apart from
them. There was no video chat at the time so it was easy to feel disconnected. As I got
older and decided that my true passion was coaching, it was a little tricky to make the
shift into a new position. Having to explain my preferred role in the industry to all of those
who supported me through my acting career was a bit of a struggle, but ultimately, my
loved ones and representation supported it. It was the best decision I ever made. I love
coaching actors so much and although I love performing for myself, I find true happiness
in being a coach.

How did you tackle it?

It is important to always stay true to yourself. As a kid, I decided to come home to the
Atlanta market. It simply wasn’t worth being away from my family. As for the professional
shift, I studied the works of many successful acting coaches and used my knowledge as
a performer to become excellent at what I do. Even today, I am always continuing to
educate myself so I can best benefit the actors I work with. I feel validated by the
progress I see in my students every day and that just confirms that I made the right move.

Acting is the ultimate exercise in empathy. As actors, we have the honor of recreating life. I always encourage my students to tap into the details that make us human so they can do their characters justice. Empathetic practice yields genuine performance and in doing so, we exercise self-discovery.

-Kate Leek

Besides acting, do you pursue any other interests in the entertainment industry?

I have dabbled in producing with some of my friends who are filmmakers and I have
published a research thesis through Georgia State University entitled “Drama Therapy: A
Character Analysis of the Self”. I am very proud of the year-long research that went into
my written experience as a coach and the emotional healing I witnessed in my students
through their acting journeys.

Why did you get into coaching?

When I was sixteen and I had just started college. I was working in admin for a talent
development company. I would travel for work and there was this one weekend where
our acting coach missed their flight and because of my performance background, I was
asked to fill in. I was nervous. I was young and I had a serious case of imposter
syndrome. When I taught that first class, I felt invigorated. I was so proud of each
performer and they improved so much in such a short amount of time. I remember
thinking, “Wow, I think I am pretty great at this”. Based on the feedback from the
students, the company hired me on as a coach. I traveled for three more years with the
company and coached thousands of actors all across the United States before taking a
full time position at a local Atlanta studio.

What is one important bit of advice you always give the students in your class?

Acting is the ultimate exercise in empathy. As actors, we have the honor of recreating
life. I always encourage my students to tap into the details that make us human so they
can do their characters justice. Empathetic practice yields genuine performance and in
doing so, we exercise self-discovery.

What is your proudest coaching moment?

It is hard to pick just one because over the years, I have been blessed with truly magical
moments in my classes. That said, there is a student that has always had a special
place in my heart. When she was a teenager, she was going through a really tough time.
She almost quit and I am so glad she didn’t. We spoke together and I gave her a script
that was almost identical to what she was going through. At first, she didn’t want to do
the scene so I told her we could pick another one, and we did. She came back to class
the next week and said she decided to do the original script. She gave the most raw and
honest performance I have seen to this day. I cried, which, if you know me, you know is
a rare occurrence. I will never forget what she said next. She said, “feeling someone
else’s pain allowed me to heal from my own”. That is probably one of my proudest
moments as a coach.

Kate in a Spotify Commercial

What do you hope that your coaching legacy will be?

I just hope that my students feel a fraction of the pride I feel when I see them succeed. I
am a huge advocate for drama therapy. I have seen the performing arts function as a
platform for healing, confidence, self-actualization, and flat out fun. I aspire to be a coach
that caters to the individual needs of each student I cross paths with.

Kate Leek Bio:

Kate Leek has been working in the entertainment industry for nearly twenty
years. She has worked and trained as an actor, singer and dancer in the
Southeast, Los Angeles, and New York markets. Kate began her performance journey at the Actor’s Scene when she was eight years old and her endeavor as a performer led her to her true passion for coaching.
She has been coaching actors, singers, and dancers for ten years. Kate feels
such pride and joy from her client’s successes. Some notable projects her
clients have appeared in include, “Stranger Things”, “The Vampire Diaries”,
“Dear Evan Hanson”, “The Summer I Turned Pretty”, “Salem”, “XO, Kitty”, as
well as starring as Simba in the Broadway tour of “The Lion King”.
Kate has her BA in Anthropology from Georgia State University where she
conducted a research project and published a thesis about Drama Therapy,
particularly in adolescents. It is her belief that the performing arts not only
serve as an artistic outlet, but as a form of healing and growth that nourishes
our minds. Her passion for educating actors is evident in her detailed
approach that specifically caters to each individual performer.
In addition to this, she is a mother to a two-year-old boy and is currently
obtaining her degree as a registered respiratory therapist.

 

Would you like to take classes with Coach Kate?

In addition to a variety of private coaching appointments and singing lessons, you will find her teaching our Foundations, Improv, and Working Actor classes. 

To sign up for a class with Coach Kate, give us a call at:

770-904-6646.

To sign up for a private lesson with Coach Kate, click HERE. 

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