CLASS SYNOPSIS
Actors are invited to bring in copy from past auditions to read in class so that we can review it together and see how actors are approaching their scripts. Specific issues will be used to make general observations for the benefit of the class at large. Copy should come from bona fide auditions, preferably 30 to 60 seconds in length. Please provide a second copy for the instructor. Actors who do not have such copy may instead choose two pieces of copy from the decks that will be emailed to you prior to class: a primary and a backup.
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR
John McKinney began life as a radio DJ where he worked at various rock stations throughout the Northeast both on the air and as a producer of commercials and promos. He later migrated from the airwaves to a twenty-year career as a copywriter for several major New York ad agencies (Kenyon & Eckhardt, Grey, LCF&L, Gotham, to name a few) where he not only won some prestigious awards for his TV and radio campaigns but also took an active role in the hiring of actors for many national campaigns. All the while, John still kept a hand in voice acting, voicing TV and radio spots for General Foods, Verizon and other megabrands.
Today, this unique and diverse range of experience serves John well in his current capacity as Casting Director at Pomann Sound where he has cast voiceovers for Heineken, Verizon, Burger King, Comcast and countless other brands. He also coaches actors privately, working mainly with top level talent.
When not casting commercials, John spends his time pursuing his other calling as a playwright. His stage plays have earned over thirty productions worldwide, five publishing contracts and two NYIT Award nominations, including one for Best Original Script in 2013. John often discovers new talent for his commercial casting through his theater connections, and vice versa.
REQUIREMENTS
Please note this class is intended for intermediate to advanced level students (preferably those with representation.)
Two solo booth sessions required.
