first time performers
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Filmmakers and agents who cast or represent first time performers bring me onto their teams to prepare the performer for working on set and the challenges of carrying a film.
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At its core, my work with first time performers is simply to support them in letting go of nerves, self consciousness and anything else preventing them from bringing all of themselves to the role. We create a compassionate, playful container in which the artist is free to be honest, practice, try things out and experiment on camera without feeling like they’re in a pressure cooker or like they have to get it right the first time.
We work with foundational acting tools and exercises and create a blueprint, a place to begin, with each scene in the script so that when it comes time to be on set (and they are in a higher stress environment) the performer has a foundation to rely on and tools to work with. Our priority is always cultivating the actor's self trust and self belief as well as communicating with production about what the actor will need in order to feel safe bringing the depth of their lived experience into the work.
If you are a filmmaker or talent agent working with first time performers or you are a first time performer who wants 1:1 support, I'd love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out for rates and further details on what working together could look like.
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Vivien expertly led casting workshops for my film "For Nonna Anna" which screened at festivals around the world including Sundance where it received a Special Jury Prize. I attribute much of the film’s success to the lead who was cast with Vivien’s insight, skill, and care.
Vivien has a way of making first time performers feel seen, heard, and comfortable which in turn leads to great performances. In the acting and casting world it has been a challenge to find people who have both a skill set in performance and an intrinsic empathy when working with marginalized communities. Vivien has both of these which makes her the perfect acting coach for my projects.
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- luis de filippis, filmmaker
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"Working with Viv has been life changing for me on and off camera.
Thank you for believing in me and showing me I could do it. I can’t imagine embodying my role in Something You Said Last Night (TIFF 2022) without your guidance, wisdom and support.
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I can't recommend Vivien enough for any actors looking to develop their practice."
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- Carmen Madonia, Actor ( TIFF Rising Star, 2022)
"I am so, so appreciative that I got to work with Vivien.
I COULD NOT HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT HER.
All the work we did was so present with me on set and carried me through.
Viv has been a deep source of grounded-ness and awareness. I truly took so much from our sessions; the work has seeped into my everyday life."
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- Tara Hakim (Actor, I Never Promised You A Rose Garden, Canadian Film Festival, CANNES 2023)