Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/ A limelight for new and underexposed talent. Nontourage offers personal tales from the Hollywood trenches and provides a forum for musicians, actors, and artists still under the radar. Thru chat and podsafe music, Blonde & Brunette show life in the industry might not be glamorous but it's always entertaining. Nontourage offers personal tales from the Hollywood trenches and provides a forum for musicians, actors, and artists still under the radar. Thru chat and podsafe music, Blonde & Brunette show life in the industry might not be glamorous but it's always entertaining. en-us Copyright © 2005 Nontourage Inc. Blonde & Brunette brunette@nontourage.com Arts & Entertainment nontourage blonde brunette hollywood actor actress movie movies tv film music podsafe podcast musician comedy comedian studio interview underground independent indie la brunette@nontourage.com brunette@nontourage.com Sat, 29 Mar 2008 00:27:14 -0500 No Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=to-our-loyal-listeners-fans.html <a href="http://www.akabrunette.com/"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/jd08.jpg" align=left></a> <a href="http://www.sandradenise.com/"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/sd08.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24071138@N07/2365268560/in/photostream/"><img src=" http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/sa08.jpg" ></a> <p>First, thank you for your support and patronage the past couple of years. Your eyes and ears have meant so much to us. Just to catch you up, in our web-absence, we have been busy working on various Hollywood related projects:</p> <p>I've been busy producing & contributing to a few independent projects, while Sandy aka: <a href="http://www.sandradenise.com/">Blonde</a> is back on the East Coast, yet again, working on "Happy Days, the musical" (this time as the lead, Pinky Tuscadero.) And,the ever talented <a href="http://sarahatwood.wordpress.com/">Sarah Atwood</a>, has been busy producing her own weekly vlog "<a href="http://sarahatwood.wordpress.com/">nerdtainment</a>"</p><p>Amidst all this change, the productions created specifically for Nontourage have slowed. Please be patient while we shift gears and stay tuned for the eventual reincarnation of Nontourage.</p><p>Meanwhile:</p> <p>If you find yourself in East Haddam, CT this spring check out <a href="http://www.sandradenise.com/">Sandy</a> at the <a href="http://www.goodspeed.org/">Goodspeed</a>.</p> <p>For my occasional new media musings checkout <a href="http://www.akabrunette.com/">akabrunette.com</a></p> <p>And for everything @tw00d & nerdtainment related check out <a href="http://sarahatwood.wordpress.com/">sarahatwood.wordpress.com</a></p> <p>Thanks!! See you soon.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=to-our-loyal-listeners-fans.html Sat, 29 Mar 2008 00:27:14 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=The-Secret-is-Out.html <a href="http://www.thesecretofchristmas.net"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/rrnov1.jpg" align=right></a> Tonight, Nov. 1 2007: <a href="http://www.racquelroberts.com">Racquel Roberts</a> celebrates <a href="http://www.thesecretofchristmas.net/register/">the release</a> of her album <a href="http://www.thesecretofchristmas.net">The Secret of Christmas</a>. If you're in the LA area, join us at the <a href="http://www.knittingfactory.com/index.php">Knitting Factory</a> on Hollywood from 8-11pm. Do not miss Racquel Roberts performing live with some of LA's best jazz musicians (as well as Nontourage's very own Blonde). You can also check out the making of the album <a href="http://www.thesecretofchristmas.net/videos/">HERE!</a> So, pack up your Halloween costumes and kick off the Holiday Season right! http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=The-Secret-is-Out.html Thu, 1 Nov 2007 14:07:31 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=PNME-the-expo.html <a href="http://www.newmediaexpo.com"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/PodcastExpo125x125_Static.gif" align=left></a> For all you new media fans, this week Nontourage is prepping for <a href="http://www.newmediaexpo.com">the podcast & new media expo</a>. I'll be moderating a discussion with fellow video podcasters <a href="http://www.goodnightburbank.com">Hayden Black</a>, <a href="http://www.cautionzero.net">Stephen McCandless</a> and the <a href="http://www.bigfantastic.com">Big Fantastic</a> team (responsible for <a href="http://promqueen.tv/">Prom Queen</a>.) We'll be chatting about storytelling in the new online video medium. <a href="http://www.newmediaexpo.com/friday2007.htm#Serial">Our session</a> is titled "Scripted Stories: Views on the New Wave of Serial Video Content From Independent Video Podcasters" There are lots fun events planned over the weekend... So, please, if you find yourself in lovely Ontario, CA stop on by! http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=PNME-the-expo.html Tue, 25 Sep 2007 20:01:45 -0400 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Wish-You-Were-Here.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/vancouvershhhh.jpg" align=left> <p>Nontourage takes a little break to enjoy the simple things like a glowy summer sunset. Here's to hoping, wherever you are, you're having a wonderful summer. See you soon.</p> <p>XXOO,</p> <p>Brunette</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Wish-You-Were-Here.html Thu, 12 Jul 2007 01:00:35 -0400 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=So-its-Thursday.html <IMG STYLE="border: 5px solid white;" SRC="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/drinks.jpg" width="120", height="90" align="right"><p>Are you already itching for some weekend fun?</p> <p>Are you craving that after work cocktail? Want to see some of your favorite internet content creators up close and personal?<br>Tonight, <a href="http://www.thedailyreel.com/">The Daily Reel</a> is hosting their second content creator "<a href="http://www.thedailyreel.com/about/company-blog/archive/2007/06/05/tdr-to-repeat-debauchery-good-times">meet up</a>" this time at the <a href="http://www.la.com/nightlifeandmusic/5663876.html">Short Stop</a> in Echo Park.</p> <p>Maybe you're more in the mood for some laughs, but still want to see some live weblebrities.<br>Then, check out the 5th Annual <a href="http://festival.iowest.com/">Los Angeles Improv Comedy Festival</a> when tonight at 8pm, the <a href="http://askaninja.com/">Ask A Ninja</a> ninja <a href="http://askaninja.com/node/3707">performs live</a>.</p> <p>Perhaps you fancy some music instead and you didn't have a chance to check out <a href="http://www.myspace.com/bryangreenberg">Bryan Greenberg</a> perform at <a href="http://www.themintla.com/">The Mint</a> last week. Well he's back for an encore performance at 9pm tonight. Reserve a table for prime seating and yummy eats.</p> <p>Now, go eat, drink, and be merry!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=So-its-Thursday.html Thu, 7 Jun 2007 04:30:01 -0400 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Bryan-Greenberg-Performs-Live.html <a href="http://www.bryangreenberg.com/"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/bryanalbum.jpg" width="120" height="120" align=right></a><p>Sad that <a href="http://abc.go.com/primetime/octoberroad/index">October Road</a> is officially on summer hiatus?</p> <p>Catch <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2006/06/14/Guest-Bryan-Greenberg.html">Bryan Greenberg</a> performing music from his debut album <a href="http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=72356116">Waiting for Now</a> 9pm TONIGHT at <a href="http://www.themintla.com/">The Mint</a>. Can't make it tonight? He performs again same place same time June 7th. Can't make it to either? <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=250283567&s=143441">Waiting for Now</a> is available on <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=250283567&s=143441"> iTunes</a>.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Bryan-Greenberg-Performs-Live.html Thu, 31 May 2007 03:15:26 -0400 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Outer-Space-Astronauts.html <a href="http://www.scifi.com/outerspaceastronauts/"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/OSA.jpg" align=right></a><p>As pilot season draws to a close and the TV networks begin to make those tough decisions over which shows they want to pick up for a series, the <a href="http://www.scifi.com/">SciFi Network</a> wants their fans to participate! Go to <a href="http://www.scifi.com/outerspaceastronauts/">www.scifi.com/outerspaceastronauts</a>, and as they say "savor the power" by watching clips from the proposed animated SciFi TV show: Outer Space Astronauts, then answer a short survey as to whether or not you think the show should be greenlit!</p> <p>Despite being ever so slightly bias because the proposed show was created by my longtime friend, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0057272/">Russell Barrett</a> (who is an incredibly talented guy), I still giggle everytime I watch the short clips. However knowing Russell, I know that the snippets of OSA provide just a taste of the comedy that would be found in a full length episode complete with a beginning, middle, and end. Personally, I can't wait to see more--but of course YOU can be the judge!! So, check out <a href="http://www.scifi.com/outerspaceastronauts/">Outer Space Astronauts</a> and <a href="http://www.scifi.com/outerspaceastronauts/poll.html">share your opinions!</a></p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Outer-Space-Astronauts.html Tue, 24 Apr 2007 21:18:11 -0400 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=The-Most-Expensive-Haircut.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/haircut%20blog%20pic%20copy.jpg" align=right> <p>When I moved to LA five and a half years ago to pursue an acting career, I had to have headshots made. This is an expensive process so the goal is to do this as few times as possible throughout one’s career.</p> <p>Headshots are 8x10 photos that are in essence an actor’s calling card. When submitting for a role or for an agent, I would send my headshot. My agent also sends my headshot to casting directors when getting me auditions. And when I go to an audition, I must have a headshot to give to the director. The most important role the headshot plays in an actor’s career is showing prospective employers what the actor looks like. Therefore the actor must look like their headshot.</p> <p>Most non-actors can change their appearance whenever the mood strikes them. But, if you must always look like a photo that is representing you, this is no longer the case. What if I wanted to color my hair from dark brown to red or if I wanted bangs? Or what if I wanted a cute little bob do? Which I did! It couldn’t happen because I would have to fork out the dough to get new headshots. </p> <p>Well, after five and a half years I decided it was time to suck it up because I was in need of a change. I had my hair cut from mid back to above my shoulders. This turned out to be the most expensive haircut I’ve ever had.</p> <p>Let me break it down for you. I spent $175 on the actual hair cut. This included low-lights (for the guys reading this, those are dark hi-lights) and tip for my lovely hairstylist, Jodi. I then spent $500 on the photo shoot. It cost $110 to have the pictures put on LACasting.com and BreakdownServices.com. These are online services that casting directors and agents use to communicate during the casting process. I then had to have a bunch of hardcopies made as well. This cost me $300.</p> <p>So, this hair cut ended up costing me…drum roll please…$1,085. I shrieked when I calculated my grand total. No wonder I hadn’t drastically changed my hair in so long. I think I’m going to stick with this style for another 5 years!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=The-Most-Expensive-Haircut.html Mon, 16 Apr 2007 20:15:44 -0400 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Headshots-by-Chris-the-talent-agent.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/rpmlogo.jpg" align=right><p>I'm Chris Michelle from RPM Talent Agency in Los Angeles. I work as an agent and also head up RPM's children department. We are a SAG franchised talent agency that handles commercial, theatrical and print clients. But enough about that...</p> <p>Headshots. Headshots are the most important tool you have to market yourself.</p> <p>You could be the next Tom Cruise, but if your headshot sucks then nobody will call you in. I won't. (Now don't go looking for exceptions because I am sure there are a few. There always are since there are no rules in our business.)</p> <p>Imagine: You are a casting director sitting in front of a computer screen, staring at 675 thumbnail shots of 20-25 year old Caucasian females who have blonde hair and blue eyes to play the daughter of so-and-so on the newest law show in town. Would you click on the bad photos that look like somebody took themselves with a webcam? Would you click on any of the twenty or so black and white photos out of the now 758 thumbnails (Because Oh no! More submissions are still coming in!) to see if they even have blue eyes? OR are you going to scan the screen for (1) familiar faces and (2) the girls whose pictures are exactly what you are looking for and who have that certain ìsomethingî in their shot? Of course it's the latter.</p> <p>Now imagine: You are sitting in your office with 30 girls out in the lobby whom you called in off of their pictures and resumes. Your assistant calls in the first adorable blonde haired blue eyed girl who in her headshot with the pink shirt looked about 22 years old. Sally Smith. Sally walks in with orange-brown hair, blue eyes, six nose piercings, and is about 42 years old. Same pink shirt as the headshot. Does she look like her headshot? No! Can you cast her? Heck no! The most important thing is to look like your headshot. If you change your hair color, get braces, or tattoo your face...get new shots.</p> <p>TIPS:</p> <p>1. Color color color. Shoot in color. Itís not just for redheads anymore. Black and white looks outdated. Things change. Get new headshots if yours are black and white.</p> <p>2. Wear solid bright colors.</p> <p>3. Have a professional do your hair and makeup, but only how you usually wear it and in a way you could style yourself. Donít make it over the top (unless itís a character shot and then, again, be sure that you could recreate the look without a stylist.)</p> <p>4. Interview your photographer or at least see their portfolio before booking them.</p> <p>5. Don't cheap out. A disposable camera from the dollar store is not gonna cut it. It's ok to do free shots or shoot with friends. I suggest it. It gives you experience in front of the camera and you can get a better sense of how you look. Heck, you might hit gold and luck out. Some photographers shoot for free to build their portfolios and they take amazing shots. But if you don't get the "money shot" be prepared to buy quality shots from a good photographer.</p> <p>6. Ask your agent whom they recommend, but do not ever sign with an agent or manager who forces you to work with a photographer you don't want to use. Do listen to their suggestions. They may even know where to get the best deals.</p> <p>7. Have a point of view in your headshot. Tell a story. Be interesting. No bland shots for crying out loud!. I should feel something when I look at the photo. Funny, serious, sexy...whoever you are, sell it. Don't try for one photo that fits in every mold; itíll end up saying nothing.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Headshots-by-Chris-the-talent-agent.html Fri, 30 Mar 2007 21:10:27 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Silicon-Valley-Meets-Hollywood-VON-07-by-Sarah.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/vonblog%20copy.jpg" align=right> <p>I spent the last week in San Jose at the <a href="http://www.videoonthenet.com/">Video on the Net</a> conference. It evaluated the perspective of Silicon Valley meeting Hollywood. This is a world that I have been absorbing for a year now so I was thrilled to hear other’s views on it.</p> <p>It’s clear that more and more people are spending time online. The web is a major force in entertainment. In fact Larry Gerbrandt from <a href="http://www.nielsenmedia.com/nc/portal/site/Public/">Nielsen Analytics</a> announced during a panel that there was “bad news,” homes with internet watch less television. I’m not sure who that is bad news for. The crew of video podcasters I was sitting with agreed that in fact that was good news for us.</p> <p>Speaking of video podcasters, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by an amazing group of online content creators. Their shows vary from serious and educational to just plain fun, scripted and blog style. All of us have diverse backgrounds and past experiences that we chatted about and differing opinions on where this new age media is headed.</p> <p>Dina Kaplan of <a href="http://www.blip.tv/">Blip.tv</a>, spoke of how one day we won’t specify TV show or online show. We will just talk about shows, and I have to agree with her. Our culture just wants to be entertained. We want to read the newspaper as well as blogs online. We want to go to the movie theatre to see big blockbusters as well as sit at home and catch up on our favorite series. And if we are offered quality content on our computers or cell phones, then that too will become a part of our routine.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Silicon-Valley-Meets-Hollywood-VON-07-by-Sarah.html Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:52:14 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Listen-to-the-Music-again.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/nickmanciniblogpic.jpg" align=right><p>If you missed our friend, vibraphonist <a href="http://www.nickmancini.net/">Nick Mancini</a>, perform with the Nick Mancini Collective in February, make sure to check them out tonight, March 23 at <a href="http://www.cafemetropol.com/">Cafe Metropol</a> from 8-10 PM. $10 cover.</p><p>Catch his interview with Nontourage <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2007/02/13/Guest-Nick-Mancini.html">here</a>.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Listen-to-the-Music-again.html Fri, 23 Mar 2007 14:10:42 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Getting-an-Agent-by-Chris-the-talent-agent.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/rpmlogo.jpg" align=right><p>I'm Chris Michelle from <a href="http://www.rpmtalent.com/">RPM Talent Agency</a> in Los Angeles. I work as a talent agent and also head up RPM’s children's department. We are a SAG franchised talent agency that handles commercial, theatrical and print clients. But enough about that...</p><p>Getting an agent.</p><p>Not an easy task. There are a few ways that I suggest are better than others. </p><p>1. Get a referral. If you get yourself cast in a project the casting director, director etc... may refer you. You may also have a friend who is represented by an agent they have a close working relationship with. They may refer you. I'm telling you...I'd rather meet someone through a referral because I already have a second opinion. </p> <p>2. Send a headshot/resume in the mail. Traditional, but it can work. You should have a SHORT cover letter. I prefer bullet points. (I spend my whole day reading breakdowns and emails so I don't want to spend 3-5 minutes reading your life story. No offense.) . The cover letter should say something about who you are and what you are working on. For example, if you've won any awards for acting, are currently performing in a show, or are taking class at a reputable school (BHP, Groundlings, UCB, UCLA, etc...) put it in the letter. You can include your reel, but make sure you have other copies because you probably won't get it back. </p><p>Your resume should be PROFESSIONAL for an ACTOR (not the resume you gave to the temp agency or the fast food restaurant). I know that advice sounds obvious but you'd be shocked by what people send us). Your resume should be printed or stapled on the back of your 8 x 10 headshot (if stapled it should be cut to 8 x 10 and not have a 1/2 inch border hanging out). I'll talk more about headshots in a future blog. </p><p>3. Send Postcards. This is one of my personal favorites, especially if it is inviting me to an awesome show. (I love comps to improv shows most!) Send a postcard with your picture on the front (could be your headshot or a still from a shoot or a fun professional pic of you) and a message like, "Watch for me on ‘Leave it to Beaver’ this Thursday" and on the back "I am currently looking for theatrical representation. You can reach me at 310-555-5555." You get the idea. (NOTE: If you currently have an agent and are looking for new representations be sure to give us your personal contact number and not the current agent's.) </p><p>4. Open Calls. RPM has open calls. There are a few other agents in town that do the same. Be sure that you check to see if the agency you are interested in has open calls. Call the same week you plan to go, in case they have stopped doing them or changed the day or time. If you go to an open call, you should arrive on time with pics and resume, demo reel if you have it, and at least two monologues just in case. Dress either business or in your own personal style or both but not like a bum. No heavy perfumes/colognes please. </p> <p>5. Showcases. Some agents go. I went to ONE in 2006 and it was put on just for me by a kids management company. I don't like 'em. I don't usually go. They are not my scene. I'd rather see a play or an improv show. However, other agents at RPM do go to them and find amazing talent. Be careful if you are paying to be in a showcase. Do your homework to see who's going to be invited and who has attended in the past.</p><p>Those are my top 5. I'm sure there are other ways to get an agent. We love creativity. So try your own approach, but make sure that your tactic isn't going to make your targeted agent uncomfortable and that you don’t break the law. Sorry, stalking isn't creative and it doesn't work. One last thing: some of my "do not do this" scenarios probably sound crazy, but if I feel they are common enough to mention. They’ve probably happened...more than once. Type at ya' soon! </p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Getting-an-Agent-by-Chris-the-talent-agent.html Fri, 23 Mar 2007 14:05:40 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Dining-in-Los-Angeles-Yucas-Tacos-by-Phoebe.html <a href="http://www.yucasla.com/"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/YucasHut.jpg" align=right></a><p>My quest to uncover the best hut-and-shack eateries in Hollyood.</p><p>Having grown up in Texas, I developed a deep love of Mexican food at an early age. When I moved to Los Angeles from the East coast, I was thrilled by the wondrous possibilities offered by brightly lit Mexican restaurants with live musicians and valet parkers. That first year I was unemployed, had no kitchen and subsisted on a wheat-free diet (don’t ask). While I savored the occasional evening dining at fine and family Mexican restaurants, I had practical needs on a day to day basis. I needed quick, cheap, delicious food that met with my restrictive diet. Enter <a href="http://www.yucasla.com/">Yuca’s</a>. Two carnitas tacos for $3.50. Applause.</p><p>I never really knew Taco-love until I bit into Yuca's carnitas Taco with soft corn tortillas, tender juicy pork dripping with I-don’t-want-to-know-what-it-is-but-can-probably-guess juices, and topped with onions and cilantro. It’s been a while since I ate Yuca’s every day for lunch, and I decided to revisit my beloved tacos today. All my love came flooding back.</p><p>Yuca’s is a tiny eatery in a parking lot next to a liquor store in the upscale meets starving artist meets hipster meets Armenian neighborhood of Los Feliz. The permanent structure houses the kitchen and its square footage is smaller than my car. There are some mismatched chairs and wobbly cocktail tables scattered near the shack. Usually, Socorro Herrera or her daughter Dora greets you at the window, and writes down your order and your name with a ball point pen on a paper plate. That’s the plate you’ll be eating on. While you wait for you name to be called, you can kill time by reading the article about how Yuca’s won a <a href="http://www.jamesbeard.org/index.shtml ">James Beard Foundation</a> “America’s Classics” Award. That’s one way to know you’re in good hands. The other is to notice that the place is packed with people from all walks of life shoveling food into their happy happy mouths. One time, as I was leaving Yuca’s a swarm of paparazzi almost knocked me over as they descended on the place. I don’t know if some celebrity was dining there or if fifteen camera-toting journos were craving a carnitas taco or other tasty treat at the same time. I find either possibility perfectly plausible—the food is simply delicious. <a href="http://www.yucasla.com/">Yuca’s</a>, 2056 Hillhurst Ave., Los Feliz, CA 90027</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Dining-in-Los-Angeles-Yucas-Tacos-by-Phoebe.html Thu, 22 Mar 2007 15:18:05 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=SXSW-video-interview.html <a href="http://www.podtech.net/home/technology/2363/irina-slutsky-talks-to-nontourage-at-sxsw"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/vloggiesint.jpg" align=right></a><p>We caught up with Irina Slutsky (our old <a href="http://www.podtech.net/home/">PodTech</a> buddy and host of the new <a href="http://www.vloggiesshow.com/">Vloggies Show</a>) for an interview while we were in Austin for <a href="http://2007.sxsw.com/">SXSW</a>. This time, we were the interviewees!! Check out the interview <a href="http://www.podtech.net/home/technology/2363/irina-slutsky-talks-to-nontourage-at-sxsw">here</a>.</p><p>To see the other movers and shakers she interviewed, take a look <a href="http://www.podtech.net/home/search/SXSW">here</a>.</p><p>And watch out for more Nontourage SXSW coverage in the coming weeks!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=SXSW-video-interview.html Wed, 21 Mar 2007 15:38:18 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Jersey-Boys-on-the-Tonight-Show-Tonight.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/sandytonight.jpg" align=right><p>So, while <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nontourage/315889892/">Sarah</a> is up in San Jose listening to panels talk about the future of technology & television at <a href="http://www.videoonthenet.com/">Video on the Net</a>, <a href="http://www.sandradenise.com/">Sandy</a>, <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/vlog/2007/02/27/Where-Oh-Where-is-Blonde.html">our long lost Blonde</a>, is back in LA (technically Burbank) if for only the day! Sandy is rehearsing with the cast of <a href="http://www.jerseyboystour.com/">Jersey Boys</a> for an appearance...TONIGHT...on <a href="http://www.nbc.com/The_Tonight_Show_with_Jay_Leno/">The Tonight Show with Jay Leno</a>. This will be her late night debut!</p> <p>So, have that extra cup of coffee today and stay up to catch The Tonight Show, or if you really need those extra zzzz's be sure to set your TIVO!</p> <p>Knock 'em dead, Sandy!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Jersey-Boys-on-the-Tonight-Show-Tonight.html Mon, 19 Mar 2007 14:04:28 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=More-on-Pilot-Season-by-Chris-the-talent-agent.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/rpmlogo.jpg" align=right><p>I'm Chris Michelle from <a href="http://www.rpmtalent.com/">RPM Talent Agency</a> in Los Angeles. I work as a talent agent and also head up RPM’s children's department. We are a SAG franchised talent agency that handles commercial, theatrical and print clients. But enough about that…</p><p>Pilot season is stressful, exciting, fun, and a lot of work for everybody! Please don't waste anybody’s time. Casting directors probably don't have time to chit chat. Agents don't have time for all of their clients to drop by and pow wow for 15 minutes. I know you are thinking that it's your agent’s job to know you and make time for you, but we are busy trying to get casting to see you for the lead in the next big series. If we are talking to you about your new car and boyfriend, then we aren't submitting you for that series.</p><p>Now, it is important to communicate with your agent during pilot season. I prefer that my clients email me when they have updates such as a new haircut, a performance coming up, or they’ve learned Spanish, etc...You should ask your agent what communication method they prefer. Some like postcards, some like notes left with the receptionist, and some like smoke signals. I like email. I hate phone calls. I can read your email while on hold for a casting director. I can't be on hold for a casting director while talking to you on the other line...it doesn't work for me. I especially like cmail through <a href="http://www.actorsaccess.com/">actors access</a> for my adult theatrical clients. I can email audition notices and get replies without having to take time away from calling casting. It's great. I still call about auditions, too, but I usually email and then call in an hour or so if it's for the following day or later. We love our clients, but our time is best spent getting them auditions.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=More-on-Pilot-Season-by-Chris-the-talent-agent.html Fri, 16 Mar 2007 14:59:59 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Tony-Hale-in-Andy-Barker-PI-Today-on-NBC.html <a href="http://www.nbc.com/Andy_Barker_PI/bios/tony_hale.shtml"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/barker.jpg" align=right></a><p>More kudos. Another friend, another series premiere on Thursday, March 15! Our friend Tony Hale stars with Andy Richter on the new show "<a href="http://www.nbc.com/Video/rewind/full_episodes/andybarker.shtml">Andy Barker PI</a>" today on NBC. Tony is best known as Buster, the hilarious manchild from "<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0367279/">Arrested Development</a>" and recently as Dave in "<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0420223/">Stranger than Fiction</a>".</p><p>If you missed Tony's interview with Nontourage, catch it <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2007/01/16/Guest-Tony-Hale.html">here</a>. Be sure to tune to NBC 9:30/8:30c for "Andy Barker PI", then flip over to ABC to catch Bryan Greenberg in "<a href="http://abc.go.com/specials/octoberroad.html">October Road</a>" at 10/9c.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Tony-Hale-in-Andy-Barker-PI-Today-on-NBC.html Thu, 15 Mar 2007 14:46:36 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Bryan-Greenberg-in-October-Road-on-ABC.html <a href="http://abc.go.com/specials/octoberroad.html"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/bryanoctrd.jpg" align=right></a><p>Kudos to Bryan Greenberg, a fabulous actor and friend to Nontourage. He stars in "October Road", a new series which premieres this Thursday, March 15 on ABC at 10/9c. Check it out! Find out more about the show <a href="http://abc.go.com/specials/octoberroad.html">here</a>.</p><p> If you haven't heard our interview with Bryan, who had a recurring role on "<a href="www.cwtv.com/shows/one-tree-hill/about">One Tree Hill</a>" and starred in "<a href="http://www.primemovie.net/">Prime</a>" with Meryl Streep and Uma Thurman, listen <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2006/06/14/Guest-Bryan-Greenberg.html">here</a>.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Bryan-Greenberg-in-October-Road-on-ABC.html Wed, 14 Mar 2007 15:33:00 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Broken-at-the-Underground-Theatre.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/katejamesthumnail.jpg" align=right>If you like <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/videos/">Almost There</a>, check out guest stars <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2006/03/06/guest-Katherine-Leigey.html">Katherine Leigey</a> and James Smith onstage this week! They will both be in Broken, a night of One-Acts, at <a href="http://www.undergroundtheater.com/Home.html">The Underground Theater</a> in Hollywood. So go see their show this Thursday through Saturday March 15, 16 and 17 at 8:00 PM for some real Hollywood entertainment! http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Broken-at-the-Underground-Theatre.html Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:03:12 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=What-is-Pilot-Season-by-Chris-the-agent.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/rpmlogo.jpg" align=right><p>I'm Chris Michelle from <a href="http://www.rpmtalent.com/">RPM Talent Agency</a> in Los Angeles. I work as an agent and also head up RPM’s children's department. We are a SAG franchised talent agency that handles commercial, theatrical and print clients. But enough about that... It is pilot season.</p><p>What does pilot season mean?</p><p>Pilots are new series/shows that are created and cast over a few months time period. They replace canceled shows or fill a new spot on a new network, etc. They are a great opportunity for actors to get seen and possibly land a series regular role. Not all pilots get picked up or put on the air. Some are shot and then get shopped around to networks. They may even get picked up and re-shot with a new cast. Unfortunately just because you book the pilot doesn't mean you'll be in the series. If a hot name-actor could play your role, and they want it for a reasonable pay rate, they'll probably knock you out of your role. But you’ll still have had the experience, credit for your resume, and a copy for your reel. Pilot season is probably the most stressful and busy time in Hollywood. Actors should be sending postcards to casting directors and staying on their radars right now more than ever.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=What-is-Pilot-Season-by-Chris-the-agent.html Fri, 9 Mar 2007 17:16:03 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=SXSW-4VR.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/sxsw.jpg" align=right> <p>Well, we're hitting the road again!!</p> <p>This time we're heading all the way down to <a href="http://www.austinist.com/">Austin, TX</a> for <a href="http://2007.sxsw.com/">SXSW</a>. It's supposedly a rockin' time that includes a <a href="http://2007.sxsw.com/film/">Film</a>, <a href="http://2007.sxsw.com/music/">Music</a> and <a href="http://2007.sxsw.com/interactive/">Interactive</a> Festival. This is our first trip to not only SXSW, but also my first trip to <a href="http://www.austintexas.org/">Austin</a>. I'm eager to learn as much as I can about it, meet musicians, filmmakers, and fellow podcasters. There has been promise of many a party and, let me tell you, I am looking forward to the beer and bbq.</p> <p>We get into Austin Friday night and head back to LA on Monday. So, if you'll be there give me a <a href="mailto:brunette@nontourage.com">holler</a>. Texas here we come!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=SXSW-4VR.html Thu, 8 Mar 2007 15:19:58 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Somewhere-Over-the-Wall-by-sarah.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/overthewallblogpic.jpg" align=right><p>This past weekend was the <a href="http://www.beverlyhillsshortsfestival.com/">Beverly Hills Shorts Festival</a>. I attended the Sunday night showing of films titled Crazy Little Thing Called Hollywood. The seven films screened during this time had themes revolving around movie making. It was perfect for Nontourage!</p><p>I was there to support two friends who starred in <a href="http://www.myspace.com/overthewallthefilm">Over the Wall</a>. Over the Wall is an adorable little film with a modern Hollywood twist on the classic notion “the grass is always greener on the other side.” It is written by Phil Abatecola and Scott Bridges, directed by Anthony J. Gonzales and stars Scott Bridges, Michael Maury and Brian Groh. I am proud to say that it is well written, skillfully shot, cleverly cut and perfectly performed. You can see it next at the <a href="http://www.othervenicefilmfest.com/">Other Venice Film Festival</a> and the <a href="http://www.newportbeachfilmfest.com/">Newport Beach Film Festival</a>.</p><p>I am also pleased to report that I was impressed with the event as a whole. It was one of the more intimate festivals I have been to. There was no promise of fame or fortune attached to its title, but the quality of participants was exceptional. Each short film had an interestingly crafted story and high production values. Most notable were Script Cops, written and directed by Scott Rice, which spoofed the TV show Cops by arresting those guilty of bad screenwriting; and IAS: A Search for Hope, written and directed by Paul Bartholomew, a mockumentary showing what happens to true artists who become affected by Hollywood. These two films had the audience in an uproar.</p><p>I know how much work and effort goes into making even the shortest film. It is such a joy to see the final product come together. Congratulations to all the filmmakers who were in the Beverly Hills Shorts Festival. Nontourage wishes them the best of luck on their journey upward!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Somewhere-Over-the-Wall-by-sarah.html Wed, 7 Mar 2007 15:10:19 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=iTunes-Love-for-dotBoom.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/dotboom.jpg" align=right> <p>A big shout out and congratulations to fellow video podcaster, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/inelegant/258146350/in/set-72157594308407110/">Brian Hogg</a>!!!</p> <p>He's the Canadian mastermind behind <a href="http://www.dotboom.ca/index.php">dotBoom</a>, a web-based puppet series that is currently featured front and center on the <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewGenre?id=26">podcast page</a> of iTunes. Check out dotBoom for hillarious puppets that swear and hate themselves.</p> <p>In Brian's own words "Watch dotBoom: Apple thinks it's great!"</p> <p>Want to hear more from Brian? Check out <a href="http://www.boattothemoon.com/blog/">Boat to the Moon</a>, an audiocast featuring Brian Hogg, <a href="http://www.cautionzero.net/">Caution Zero Network</a>'s Stephen McCandless, and Nontourage's very own Brunette discussing their theories and experiences producing online video content.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=iTunes-Love-for-dotBoom.html Tue, 6 Mar 2007 19:55:12 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Just-when-I-thought-it-was-safe-to-get-back-in-my-car.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/marathon.jpg" align=right> <p>As exciting as it is to see those oversized golden Oscars wheeled out on to Hollywood Boulevard every year, I'm equally happy to see them wheeled back into storage as traffic routes return to normal and road rage returns to its acceptably elevated level. But, just as I was getting comfortable cruising around Hollywood without any detours, I caught a glimpse of a sign warning of the LA Marathon. Yes, the LA Marathon. It's the one time of year a mass of Angelenos get out of their cars and take to the road on foot.</p> <p>The <a href="http://69.44.181.203/Home.261.0.html">LA Marathon website</a> boasts that the best marathons reflect the character of a city. This year marked a significant change in the LA Marathon route. No longer circular, it spanned from the Valley to Downtown. Beginning near <a href="http://www.universalstudios.com/homepage/html/inside/history.html">Universal Studios</a>, runners got to travel across the historic <a href="http://wesclark.com/am/warlords.html">Cahuenga Pass</a>, through Hollywood, and down <a href="http://www.yesterdayla.com/hollywood.html#Vine_Street">Vine</a> as they made their way along the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathon">26.2 mile path</a> to <a href="http://blogdowntown.com/">Downtown</a>. The <a href="http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-traffic1mar01,1,6958352.story?coll=la-headlines-california&ctrack=1&cset=true">LA Times reports</a> that this new route blocked 350 major intersections (over a hundred more major intersections than last year) and 22 freeway offramps. To make matters worse, because of the new route, even runners were forced to commute (preferably via public transportation) from the end of the race to the starting point. I am still trying to decide what all this says about the character of Los Angeles.</p> <p>As I made my way to the office, a little later than usual, traffic seemed quiet. Perhaps people had heard the warnings of snarled traffic headaches and opted to stay home or sleep in on this unusually overcast Sunday. Or, perhaps due to offramp closures, they were all simply still trapped on the 101. Either way, congrats to all who participated! I hope you made it home without too much traffic trouble. Now, is it finally safe to drive through Hollywood again?</p> <p> (Catch our Oscar Wrap Up podcast tomorrow!!)</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Just-when-I-thought-it-was-safe-to-get-back-in-my-car.html Mon, 5 Mar 2007 03:20:12 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Intro-to-Chris-the-agent.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/rpmlogo.jpg" align=right><p>I'm Chris Michelle from <a href="http://www.rpmtalent.com/">RPM Talent Agency</a> in Los Angeles. I work as an agent and also head up RPM’s children's department. We are a SAG franchised talent agency that handles commercial, theatrical, and print clients. But enough about that...</p><p>I'm here to share info and opinions on the industry. I will cover the basics from headshots to personal pet peeves over the next few weeks.</p><p>There is a lot that I love about actors. I love their bravery and creativity, their willingness to put themselves out there, their passion and drive, and their ability to take criticism and bounce back after difficult times. I love when actors are polite, prepared, and take direction well. I love actors who are low maintenance and fun to be around. I love when actors listen. I love actors who appreciate those working with them such as agents, CDs, directors, DPs, gaffers, craft services, etc..</p><p>Thank you notes from actors are great and usually full of warm fuzzies. I love actors who don't give up because times are tough. I love actors who make acting their job and not their hobby. (I also love actors who making acting their hobby, not their job, but I don't want them as clients.)</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Intro-to-Chris-the-agent.html Fri, 2 Mar 2007 16:19:12 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=I-love-the-Oscars-but-by-Phoebe.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/blogoscartraffic.jpg" align=right><p>The <a href="http://www.oscars.org/79academyawards/index.html">79th Annual Academy Awards</a> are in town this weekend and with them all the pageantry, live performances, and caught-on-camera wackiness that I love so dearly. I'm a big fan of awards shows, but this one's really special. It's the Kentucky Derby of the film industry with ball gowns replacing bonnets. Broadcast around the world, the Oscars bring the most glamorous smoke and mirrors of Hollywood to millions of homes for a few hours every year.</p><p>Living in Hollywood, this pinnacle of the awards season touches my life much more personally. The Academy Awards have shut down my route to work. As much as I love watching the show on TV, I rue the <a href="http://www.oscars.org/closures/index.html">street closures</a> which force me to crawl behind angry drivers circumnavigating the production trucks and <a href="http://defamer.com/hollywood/oscars/oscars-red-carpet-abandons-rehab-after-24-hours-238645.php">freshly-dyed carpet</a> clotting up Hollywood's main thoroughfare. It's not a big deal, and the detour only takes me about 10 minutes longer, but it gives me a real insight into the importance of the Oscars to this little neighborhood in LA called Hollywood. And it makes me a little more invested in the show-- I'll be really annoyed if the ratings aren't sky-high this year after all the extra driving I've done!</p><p>Look for Nontourage's Oscar wrap-up in the coming weeks.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=I-love-the-Oscars-but-by-Phoebe.html Fri, 23 Feb 2007 18:18:15 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Observations-from-my-car-by-Phoebe.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/blogobserv1.jpg" align=right><p>The prologue: I’d never really driven in a big city when I moved to LA, so the first year I lived here, my dainty hands developed calluses where I gripped the steering wheel for dear life. Difficult-to-read street signs, aggressive drivers, strange neighborhoods, aggressive drivers, my boat of a car, congested highways, unpredictable pedestrians, left-turn-on-red, aggressive drivers, and aggressive drivers. The stress of it all sent me into more than one anxiety attack—which didn’t help my driving one bit. I gradually calmed down, got to know my neighborhood, familiarized myself with main arteries and a few shortcuts, and joined the flow of traffic. I’m glad I got that under control. Frankly, driving in LA is a great way to sneak a peak at the city and its colorful inhabitants. I intend to share my driving tales of adventure and words of wisdom in the Blogtourage. I shall call it: Observations from my car.</p><p>There’s a rainy season in LA. It’s usually short and light, but it’s still wet.</p><p>LA is a city of transplants. One assumes that a large number of these transplants moved from somewhere with rain. Or snow. Or locusts. But some sort of inclement weather must be presupposed otherwise they wouldn’t have left (professional aspirations aside).</P> <p>The unfortunate truth, however, is that Angelinos can’t drive in the rain.</p><p>Driving in to work today on a residential stretch of Hollywood Boulevard, I came across a vicious car accident involving an automobile and a Hollywood sign (a street sign labeled Hollywood). The street sign looked bent out of shape, and the fancy-pants car looked broken. No one was hurt-except the reputation of Angelinos continually damaged by impatient and dangerous drivers. I wish the scene had shocked me, but I expect to see dumb accidents when I go out in the rain here.</p><p>Some might blame rubber-neckers looking for starlets or studio execs testing the limits of their new <a href="http://www.porsche.com/usa/">Porche 911 GT3</a>, but I proffer a more pedestrian explanation: It rarely rains here, so the streets are slick much longer than the initial 30 minutes allotted to careful driving elsewhere.</p><p>I offer a stern demand to impatient bad weather drivers: Chill out! Driving in the rain is the time to enjoy being in your car, moving at a slower pace and not a time to insist on arriving at your destination. Let’s be honest. You’re probably already fifteen minutes late, and you’re probably on your cellphone, so call the people you’re meeting and let them know you’ll be another five minutes. Save a street sign while you’re at it. Or a life. Or that Porche.</p><p>I don’t know what to do under locust driving-conditions. I guess “be careful” applies there as well.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Observations-from-my-car-by-Phoebe.html Thu, 22 Feb 2007 16:02:17 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Front-page-love.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/itunes_button4blog.jpg" align=right><p>Check us out! We're so excited! </p><p>We just received a call from a friend who let us know that we're featured on the front page of <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewGenre?id=26">podcasts </a>at the iTunes store!</p><p> Woo hoo!</p><p> To subscribe to Nontourage through iTunes, <a href="http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=84389693">click here</a>.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Front-page-love.html Fri, 16 Feb 2007 21:23:12 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Sharing-the-Love.html <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/object/article?o=0&f=/c/a/2007/02/14/DDG8SO3FGT1.DTL"><img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/sdsf.jpg" align=right></a><p>Been missing Nontourage's very own Blonde, <a href="http://www.sandradenise.com/">Sandra DeNise</a>?</p> <p>Well, today the <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/chronicle/">San Francisco Chronicle</a> posted a <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/02/14/DDG8SO3FGT1.DTL&hw=jersey+boys&sn=001&sc=1000">"Jersey Girls" story</a> about Sandy and the three other talented women who currently perform a slew of roles in <a href="http://www.jerseyboystour.com/">Jersey Boys</a> at the <a href="http://www.bestofbroadway-sf.com/theatres/index.asp?key=44">Curran</a> theater in San Francisco.</p> <p>Want to hear them tell it in their own words? Listen to the Chronicle's podcast <a href="http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail?blogid=5&entry_id=13355">"'Jersey Girls' are masters of the quick change</a>"</p> <p>And because we missed her that much, Sarah and I just got back from San Francisco where we reunited with Sandy. Keep an eye out for some more Blonde and Brunette fun posting soon!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Sharing-the-Love.html Wed, 14 Feb 2007 22:30:31 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=More-Sundance-Internet-Celebrities.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/casimir.jpg" align=right> <p>Did you catch our <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2007/02/06/Pushing-Sumo-Reports-on-Sundance.htm">Sundance podcast</a> with Pushing Sumo's Jude Taylor? Want even more coverage and insider info?</p><p>Check out the <a href="http://www.thedailyreel.com/spotlight/premiere/grown-ass-spring-break">Internet Celebrities at Sundance</a> series for film festival fun. Here's where it gets exciting... our friends at <a href="http://www.thedailyreel.com/">The Daily Reel</a> feature the exclusive web series by Casimir Noskowski, Dallas Penn, and Rafi Kam. <a href="http://www.casimirnozkowski.com/">Casimir </a> has done some great work with <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2006/09/12/Guest-Will-Carlough.html">Will Carlough</a>, who is another friend of Nontourage! It makes us giddy! We love it when worlds collide in an internet-video sort of way.</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=More-Sundance-Internet-Celebrities.html Mon, 12 Feb 2007 15:35:21 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Listen-to-the-music.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/nickmanciniblogpic.jpg" align=right><p> Don't miss our upcoming interview with vibraphonist <a href="http://www.nickmancini.net/">Nick Mancini</a>.</p><p>Can't wait? See him perform live on Saturday night (February 10) with the Nick Mancini Collective at <a href="http://www.cafemetropol.com/">Cafe Metropol</a>. Showtimes are 8pm and 10pm. $5 cover</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Listen-to-the-music.html Fri, 9 Feb 2007 17:43:22 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Why-Nerdcore.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/nerdcoreblog2.jpg" align=right> <p>After our latest vlog, <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/vlog/2007/01/30/A-Nerd-Revolution.html">Nerdcore Revolution</a>, a viewer asked "Why Nerdcore?"</p><p>Our inital response was "Because it's a revolution! A nerd revolution that is gaining momentum!"</p><p>The truth of the matter is that when we found out Rob and Russ, who live in LA and work in Hollywood, at the end of their "industry" day jobs, become <a href="http://www.myspace.com/mcdjmc">MCDJ and DJMC</a>, our eyes were opened, and we felt this emerging musical genre needed to be highlighted.</p> <p>Apparently we weren't the only ones. While tagging along to Vegas with these LA Nerdcore MCs & DJs, we ran into some of our online vid friends who unbeknownst to us were also covering the "nerdtastic artistry". Check out: <a href="http://www.geekentertainment.tv/">Geek Entertainment</a>'s <a href="http://www.geekentertainment.tv/2007/01/27/nerdcore-brings-it-to-vegas/">two-part</a> series on the Nerdcore scene at CES, and <a href="http://jetsetshow.com/">JETSET</a> feature many of the Nerdcore performances from the <a href="http://www.divx.com/ces/">Divx Booth</a>.</p> <p>Besides this online video coverage, we saw two Nerdcore documentary teams in action: "<a href="http://nerdcorerising.com/">Nerdcore Rising</a>" and "<a href="http://www.nerdcoreforlife.com/">Nerdcore for Life</a>." We were able to meet "Nerdcore for Life" creator Dan Lamoureux along with co-producer Rob Korotky who explained they had been working on their project for over a year. Check out their trailer <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8VTmy5clHk">HERE!!</a></p> <p>To be nontourage is to be just on the other side of It. Whether you want to be the It actor, the It director or the It musician, you will inevitably climb a ladder of varying degrees of success. Nerdcore is nontourage because despite obstacles, these artists make things happen by banding together to express themselves in positive and innovative ways. Proving they won't be under the radar for long however, the Feb. 5th edition of Newsweek raises awareness of this new music genre with their article "<a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16840016/site/newsweek/">Geeksta Rap Rising</a>".</p> <p>Can't get enough Nerdcore??</p> <p>The word on the street is that the nerds are getting ready to rock LA. When that gig is set, we will be sure to pass on the details.</p> <p>Until then, keep scouring the net for some intellectual rhymes. g33k Out!</p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Why-Nerdcore.html Mon, 5 Feb 2007 21:44:46 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Viva-Las-Vegas.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/luxor.jpg" align=right><p>We are back from Vegas two conventions later, exhausted, having felt Elvis's bright light city lament that there should be more than the twenty-four hours in the day. Too much fun too little time!</p> <p>After our whirlwind trip to <a href="http://www.cesweb.org/default.asp">CES</a>, I returned to Vegas to attend the <a href="http://www.natpe.org/">NATPE</a> convention. This networking event hosted by the National Association of Television Program Executives for over forty years has historically revolved around traditional <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Television_syndication">television syndication</a>. However, in an era when video content can be accessed not only through broadcast and cable television, but on demand, through the internet, or by mobile phone, the idea of syndication now incorporates much much more.</p> <p>The convention tag line of "Evolve & Prosper" set the tone for this year's gathering where the old studio guard mingled with cross-platform pioneers and panels delved into "The Devilish Details of Digital Distribution" while trying to answer the question of whether primetime still mattered. Although very few questions were actually answered no one denied the impact technology has had on the way we view television today. Sony, a company that has the benefit of being both a studio and a consumer electronic player, hopes to lead other studios towards the future when <a href="http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6408899.html?display=Breaking+News">it suggests</a> CES become the new NATPE. Either way, a geek girl like me was loving life as I wandered the floors of CES and NATPE learning all I could about tech and TV.</p> <p><em>Later this week, check out our <a href="http://www.hfpa.org/">Golden Globes</a>/NATPE wrap up noncast!</em><br><em>And next week check out our <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nerdcore_hip_hop">Nerdcore</a> Vlog!! </em></br> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Viva-Las-Vegas.html Tue, 23 Jan 2007 01:25:58 -0500 Arts & Entertainment Blonde & Brunette http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Blog-tourage.html <img src="http://www.nontourage.com/resources/nontourage/blogintro.jpg" align=right> <ul>Welcome to the inaugural entry into the nontourage blog! </ul> <p>Perhaps you've already listened to our <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/">noncasts</a>, caught our <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/vlog/2006/11/14/Roadtrip-Vloggies-2006.html">travelogue to the vloggies</a>, or watched our mini-sitcom <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/videos/">Almost There</a>. Now, we offer up a <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/">blog</a> to keep you updated in between the podcasts and productions. There is just too much happening behind Hollywood for mere audio and video alone!</p><p>We'll announce the when and wheres for the local performers and artists we've had on the show. We'll feature advice and commentaries from industry insiders. We'll recommend neighborhood faves and our local finds around LA. We'll include everything you loved about the podcasts and more.</p><p>Chances are when you read this, I'll either be in or en route to Las Vegas!! One of LA's favorite weekend getaways. However, this mid-week excursion is as much work as pleasure for the ladies of nontourage. We are on a quest to learn as much as we can about a new music revolution...a revolution being celebrated at <a href="http://www.cesweb.org/default.asp">CES</a>. We discovered an emerging artist from Hollywood who is taking part in the event and who will hopefully lead us into a world we've previously only heard about...</p><p>So, keep watching, listening, and now reading for even more nontourage-ness.</p><p><em>Next week's noncast: an interview with actor, <a href="http://www.nontourage.com/home/podcasts/2007/01/16/Guest-Tony-Hale.html">Tony Hale</a>.</em></p> http://www.nontourage.com/home/blog/?permalink=Blog-tourage.html Tue, 9 Jan 2007 03:05:29 -0500 Arts & Entertainment