The need to connect intimately to another human being is essential to being human. And the use of an authentic expression (body language and words) to define this experience is a fun exercise, even if it pales in comparison with the experience in of itself. I’ve always been fascinated by the “intimacy of an authentic moment,” and it is the very thing that drives me as a human being and the work I am exploring as a man, lover, friend, actor,

This year, metaphorically and spiritually speaking, I plan on throwing out my rear view mirror. In 2018, the ‘goal’ is to look back less often and instead, address that which is in front of me. One task at a time, one hour at a time, one day at a time. Looking forward in place of looking back is an opportunity to wake up each day in a state of enthusiasm and curiosity; to see each day as an adventure instead of dreading what lies ahead. The rearview

The months of January – March is one of the most significant time periods known to actors. These three months are commonly known as “Pilot Season.” A Pilot is a stand-alone episode of a television series that will be used to sell that show and typically runs as the first episode of said series if a network picks it up. For the actor, this time period is filled with an abundance of job interviews and potential work. That being said, we can ascertain

What a time to be in the arts! With technology in the palm of our hands, a limitless imagination, and a radical and vibrant Venice community in a state of flux, there is a treasure trove of stories to be told. If you are an actor, writer, or director, and aren’t creating something, anything, what are you waiting for to get started? What an opportunity to explore the shifting of old paradigms, belief systems, individuals and groups clinging on to

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Jablonski. Jessica, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today? Marketing Account Executive turned Kids Yoga Teacher? That’s me!! After 13 years in the Pharmaceutical business, I needed to pause. The industry had hardened me so much and I had hit my breaking point. Always having a love for children, I decided to voyage into the land of kid’s yoga. Why kid’s yoga? I had

I recall studying in New York with the late and great teacher and director, Gene Frankel. I was fortunate to have him as a teacher, mentor, and friend for seven years. The biggest lesson learned from Gene was that, first and foremost, it’s about the work and the life experiences manifested as a result of putting in the work. That lesson and many others were profound, and I’m happy to say are still applicable to my life today. I frequently hear

Tonight, June 23, Abbot’s Habit will throw a farewell party so Venice can say goodbye to the 24-year-old AK OG. The rent is going up, so the café, at 1401 Abbot Kinney Blvd., is moving out. By July Abbot’s Habit will be gone forever. The last day set for June 28, 2017. “Coffee is over,” Acupuncturist, Venice local, and Abbot’s Habit regular Andrew C Whitelaw told Yo! Venice. “After this, we die,” added Geo Beck, a local blogger from

Staredown: The art of looking someone in the eye and not flinching. I am of the mind that Improv, public speaking and giving presentations are a form of a staredown. When giving a speech, we are told to connect with the audience. Experts say to literally make eye contact. I have had my fair share of presentations and performances, but I must admit, I have not been very engaging with the audience. In a recent improv warm up exercise, it dawned on

After acting side-by-side and coaching hundreds of actors, I have experienced and been fortunate to have observed my share of excellent work at my acting studio, on the set, on stage, and in rehearsals. But, when an actor is UNDENIABLE (unable to be denied or disputed), I find myself gobsmacked and simultaneously deeply appreciating the power of a single word like undeniable to describe what I’ve just experienced. What makes a person undeniable?

FIRST, there is a blank page. by Guy Camilleri The blank page is where it’s at for me! Each day I start here in Venice, close to the beach and usually somewhere with a view so I can check which direction the palm fronds are swaying. The best-case scenario is no wind at all, though having spent most of my surfing years in Hawaii, I yearn for offshore winds (trade winds). Today, the winds are onshore; the ocean is churning, cleansing itself from