Star Power - Cancelled

Tue, 19 June 2007, 05:13 pm

who cares70 posts in thread

Hello everyone I am very disappointed to have to inform everyone that Star Power has been cancelled. This is due to the lack of entrants in the competition for this year. We are so very disappointed as we had the support of such amazing groups that would have offered training and workshops and opportunities for the youth of WA. I must say that when I kept receiving emails asking how people could get the auditions without having to do the training, I started to wonder at the youth of WA. I want to stress to everyone now that all entrants will be receiving their entry money back in the next week. ( For those narrow minded and petty people who thought that Star Power was trying to rip people off and went to the amazing lengths of having us investigated, well, the investigation found nothing, and you simply made us realise how many people out there don't understand that there really are people who are prepared to work for no financial reward at all in order to help others. The cancellation of the competition has cost us money.) It seems that the youth of WA are not interested in training and workshops and opportunities . It seems that the youth of WA want to have the rewards without the work. That is a very sad generalisation I know and I am very sorry for the people who did enter. We simply couldn't make it work on those numbers. I thank everyone at the ITA for their support , I thank the people who were helping us, I thank the entrants and I thank the people who saw this competition for what it was and wanted to do all they could to help. I am sorry that we couldn't make it happen. Kerri

Thread (70 posts)

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who caresTue, 19 June 2007, 05:13 pm

class act theatreTue, 19 June 2007, 05:23 pm

I am sorry to hear this,

I am sorry to hear this, Kerri. It seems to be a bit of an epidemic I'm afraid - even trying to find young actors for paid theatre-in-education work is proving more and more difficult every year. I commend you for trying to offer this wonderful opportunity to the youth of WA. best wishes Angelique Malcolm Class Act Theatre Inc.

Paul HuntTue, 19 June 2007, 05:53 pm

Bugger!!!!!!!!!

I am very, sorry to hear this. I was really looking forward to this, I just can't believe that there was such a lack of entrants! I would have thought people would be jumping at the chance of auditioning for Paul Barron, and trying out for Home and Away and All Saints!!!! Come on guys where were you!!!!!! This is a very sad thing indeed. I really cannot beleive that the young actors in WA would not keep their eyes open!!!! My agent didn't tell me about starpower I found out for myself! come on! you need to be pro-active in this guys; its a dog-eat-dog industry!!! Don't leave I ALL up to your agent!!!!!! Such a shame!!!!!!!!!!!

drueTue, 19 June 2007, 05:54 pm

I have to say I am

I have to say I am incredibly shocked... all i hear from friends and performers is how there isn't enough opportunities in Australia. This was possibly one of the best opportunities I personally have seen or heard of... real workshops with experienced and talented proffessionals and the chance to win an amazing audition... I am extremely dissapointed and i'm sure there are others who feel exactly the same... :(

TaureanTue, 19 June 2007, 05:57 pm

Post Mortem

STARPOWER:

– An unofficial post mortem -

Here we are, the closing date for entries into this incredible opportunity for young West Australian performers has been and gone. The judge of the heats is poised waiting to see and hear the wealth of talent that he knows WA has to offer. The national patrons are eagerly expecting to see their fellow Sandgropers follow in their footsteps to join them in the “big time”. The Australian National Music Theatre Company is hoping to swell its ranks with young WA voices. The local patron is standing by and casting agents from across Australia are hoping to fill portfolios with the superstars of tomorrow.

The prizes are all polished and sitting about waiting to be collected by their rightful winners.

The only thing missing is the contestants.

Apparently the lure of becoming a television star isn’t enough any more. Being given career opportunities that were before unheard of just doesn’t appeal either. It even seems that having the most powerful names in the Australian Film and Television industry coming to WA to see you isn’t enough.

The organisers of this event have moved Heaven and Earth to convince the powers that be in the Eastern States that West Australia has just as much, if not more, skill and talent as anything “over there”. They have brought the Eastern States to you. Why? Because the organisers know that the talent is HERE.

They have seen you in Community Theatres, they have worked alongside you in schools, they are proud of what Western Australian Young Performers have to offer, but it seems that the larger percentage of the youth of Western Australia can’t be bothered doing anything to help themselves.

The message is quite clear; the majority of today’s youth don’t want to have to work for their rewards, you want instant gratification. You want to stand up, perform a three minute party piece and pocket a wad of cash. You are not willing to expend any more energy than you absolutely have to. You want maximum return for minimum effort. The message that most Western Australian youth performers are giving the organisers of this unique event is:

“We are not interested in working for our prizes. We want freebies.”

You say you want to be the next Nicole Kidman or the next Heath Ledgar, but you are not prepared to earn that right. You would rather sit back and wait for it all to be handed to you on a silver platter. Maybe in a paper McDonald’s takeaway bag would be a better adage.

It seems that the majority of West Australia’s young performers aren’t interested in becoming anything more than what they are, “hopefuls and wannabe’s”.

Well… Congratulations Kids, as long as you keep going the way you are, that is all you will ever be. You have granted your own wish.

Pathetic effort Western Australia, it is pretty obvious why all the talent is “discovered” over east.

TaureanTue, 19 June 2007, 06:49 pm

Pre-emptive Apology

I realise that my "Post Mortem" may have offended the young people of Western Australia who did actually take this once in a lifetime chance to further their acting/singing careers. Those people know who they are, and to them I wish to pass on my apologies for tarring them with the same brush as the "wannabees" and offer condolences on the closure of Star Power, however, I would hasten to add "Don't ever lose faith in you."

There is a very old saying, "God helps those that help themselves" and perhaps the "God's" of the theatre and television industry will realise that we do have a select few individuals over here that are worth taking a punt on, that Western Australia DOES have people that are worth looking for.

I have spent way too many years in the industry "waiting for the breaks" and missing opportunities, so my initial reaction to the closure of Star Power was one of sheer amazement when I realised that the reason for it's demise was because of lack of entrants. My "Post Mortem" posting was a knee jerk reaction and, while the primary message remains the same, I apologise to any of the entrants who may have been offended.

Life is one huge deep end.... Dive right in and swim!

Taurean

NaTue, 19 June 2007, 06:58 pm

I take offense to this: as

I take a little offense to this: as an Eastern Australian, I feel that there is a lack of interest in projects at this time of year. "There's something in the air", and while it's sad to see that a project has collapsed from lack of interest, I don't think it is necessarily only a problem over in the West. It's been awfully quiet in the East too. Edit: Ah, didn't read the follow-up below. Apologies, I'm not being harsh; just trying to point out that it's a slow year. Sticky Apple Legs www.freewebs.com/stickyapplelegs Puppets in Melbourne www.thepromptcopy.com/pip

Walter PlingeTue, 19 June 2007, 08:22 pm

Same here! Its surprising

Same here! Its surprising that people didnt jump at the chance. If I was in the age range for this wild horses wouldnt of stopped me from entering. I do know some people are getting ready/doing exams, maybe its just the timing of things

Sean BTue, 19 June 2007, 08:53 pm

What was the advertisement

What was the advertisement for event like? Was it outreaching enough? I'm not an expert on the event, as an east coaster I didn't look into it. Is it a well established event that has run over many years? Where were the main points of advertising? etc Is that a possible reason behind the lack of entrants. I would also agree exams could be part of it. I know how inundated my friends and even myself have been lately, especially uni students. Maybe timing was bad. Just looking at the situation from another point of view. ....or maybe people don't want to be on Home and Away. ____________________________________________________________ Currently working on: "Boy Banned" a fusion of live acting, video footage, corny songs, syncronised dancing boys and egos! JULY 2007, ticket information coming soon!!!

David GreenTue, 19 June 2007, 09:22 pm

Hold on a minute!!!

I wasn't going to post anything for this. But I have a REAL problem with that comment on youth Taurean. To a certain extent I agree with you...but you enter VERY dangerous territory by using your brush stroke for all youth who didn’t enter. I would like to let you know something...a lot of people (adults and youth) are in this industry for ego...not everyone, but a proportion are in it just "to be famous". I meet four young people today (16-17 year olds) who wanted to enter into the industry just for the ego...and they had never heard of this website to boot. Now neither I nor anyone has the right to say they can't be actors or singers just because their motivation is to be famous. If it motivates them to their goals and they have the skills to back it up...they should go for it. Now to say that youth don't want to work for their success is not right...the ones who don't want to work are the ones who drop out after about 5 years or less, or look at performing as a hobby. And you know what...THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT. Now I work hard here in Perth to make something of myself in this industry...I’m an actor, fight choreography and manager of DRAGON FILMS...but I didn’t enter this contest!!! Does this mean I don’t want to work for my success??? I can understand that you may feel upset that you were not able to take part in this competition...but to make your comments about the youth who didn’t is very disrespectful...so is calling youth "kids". Now like I said...on some points I do agree: If youth would like to be the next Nicole Kidman or the next Heath Ledgar they really have to work on it...but that doesn’t mean they have to enter competitions like the above to make it. To all the youth who did or did not enter... Keep Smiling :) David Green DRAGON FILMS www.davidgreenenterprises.com

Walter PlingeTue, 19 June 2007, 10:19 pm

Oh David Green. You are

Oh David Green. You are just ridiculous. That is all.

Walter PlingeTue, 19 June 2007, 11:51 pm

what a shame

It really is a shame this competition was cancelled. I was really looking forward to the opportunity of making it through to the workshops and the possibility of a screen test. Without an agent, you just don't get those opportunities every day. I understand the competition isn't possible without the required number of entrants, but is there any chance for those who DID enter to present their pieces to judges and get some feedback? Could the entry fee act as a payment for workshops with directors? I'm sure these are thoughts which have been addressed in some way when coming to the conclusion of cancelling, but I thought I'd mention them anyway. I decided to enter because of the opportunities the competition was offering along the way, not necessarily the grand prize. I know others were deterred as the prize awarded as the grand prize was something Storm the Stage offered as an extra chance at their grand final, and its a bummer they didn't stop to take note of the other possibilities along the way. A lot of other young performers I know either didn't know about this competition, or had already had a couple of gos at Storm the Stage and weren't interested in trying again. I also think the 16 - 25 age limit may have frightened a few people away (correct me if I'm wrong and you've had more 16 yr olds than others...) because I know if I were 16 and I thought I'd be competing against 25 yr olds, I would probably think twice about entering. It is a shame it has come to this, and after going to the launch I know how excited all those involved with this competition were. It's also a shame for people to say the youth just want the prizes handed to them, because it's obvious from those who entered that there are so many who are willing to work for a chance in this crazy world. It would be interesting to know how many people entered, and how many more it would have taken for this competition to go ahead... Star Power was a great concept, and as someone who has passed the age limit for Storm the Stage and is thinking of auditioning for the schools at the end of the year, I thought the chance to get some feedback of my work would be something of great value. I am glad Bevan Lee has agreed to choose some entrants for auditions, but again I'll say it's a shame it has come to this. xx cassie

Walter PlingeWed, 20 June 2007, 12:18 am

I guess that what's happens

I guess that what's happens when Star Power tries to steal the Storm The Stage (an established brand) thunder

Walter PlingeWed, 20 June 2007, 12:45 am

well... no

Star Power was a completely different concept. Storm the Stage offers entrants the chance of performing a monologue or musical theatre piece to a panel of judges at heats, semi-finals and then the grand final. it's a great competition and a great opportunity for young actors to get out there and show what they have and get some feedback along the way. Star Power offered entrants the chance to audition with their own piece, and 100 finalists would go through to be involved in a series of workshops. 24 finalists would then be selected to take part in a 4 week workshop with an artistic director and musical director who would give them scenes and pieces to work with. Each of these finalists would also have been offered a screen test with Bevan Lee. Star Power wasn't stealing Storm the Stage's thunder, it was simply buiding on the great idea of giving youths a chance to show off, and also giving them a chance to build on their skills. Storm the Stage will continue because of the great name it has made for itself, but I guess I'll just say it one more time, it is a shame Star Power didn't really get the same chance. xx cass

who caresWed, 20 June 2007, 07:35 am

Star Power vs Storm the Stage ? Hardly

Star Power - 16-25 Storm the Stage 16-19. Star Power judges for heats - Stephen Lee and members of theatre community Storm the Stage judges for heats - Rotarians, no theatre background. Star Power - training, education, opportunities in the industry to work with professionals. Storm the STage - none. Star Power - prizes of auditions and a showcase to show what the grand finalists can do in different scenes etc. Storm the Stage - $5000 cash to be done with as you will. No opportunities and a three minute piece that anyone could have helped you with. No opportunity to show what else you are capable of. Star Power grand final judges - Paul Barron, Bevan Lee, John Milson, Peter Ross, Ann Fay Storm the Stage grand final judges - ????? storm the stage is a talent quest run by rotarians. Star Power was a challenge for young performers to learn, grown, work with professionals and be given amazing opportunities along the way.

Tari-XalyrWed, 20 June 2007, 08:52 am

Tis a Pity

I was looking forward to making it through to the workshops and in honesty that was the main reason I entered. I'm not a fan of Home and away or All Saints despite their reputations, so the workshps were my main consideration when I entered. People saying that the "youth of WA" (and youth in general) want things handed to them on a silver platter. Don't make broad generalisations. I will give creadit though, after reading Taurean's comment I was ready to attack but at least you had the decency to apologise to the "other half" of the "youth." There are many of us wanting and willing to work for our supper. I also know various people who did not enter for other reasons - such as extended family holidays right smack bang in the middle of the heats, final year uni - they want to giv their concentration over etc etc. There are a variety of what I think are legit reasons not to enter despite the brilliant opportunities the competition offered. As for advertising. I'm not sure but I only ever heard of it on ITA and if I hadn't been visiting this site I wouldn't of had a clue it existed. Perhaps, and I don't know if this was done, Posters around major shopping centres and newspaper ads were needed. (cheaper then tv advertising too) and radio stations offer free "plug your thing" segments where people plug their businesses etc. Ah well, maybe next year??? ~ Tari The Writer is a child forever listening at the keyhole of the adult world.

LabrugWed, 20 June 2007, 09:17 am

Plugging Holes

There were adverts in local papers including some of the mainstream newspapers. There were countless fliers thrown around (I know I threw a few), I believe there was promotional discussions on certain radio stations. I know for a fact that the message reached more than enough people who would have been prime candidates for the thing.

They have either let apathy get the better of them or not bothered altogether. To those who took the chance and did registered, good on you. You can recognise an opportunity when you see it. To those who didn't and now may be having feelings of regret, when the door is there you have to open it.

Opportunities like this do not come every day. As for Turean's Comments about things on a silver plate, that was it guys. The silver plate was handed round and found wanting.

It brings to mind a story about a man lost at see who asks his god for help. When a boat arrives and offers him a ride home, he refuses saying that God would save him. This is repeated when a fishing trawler then an ocean liner appears. His refusal results in his death. Upon reaching the Gates, he asks "Why did you not help me?" The Lord's reply, I sent you three boats and you refused every one. What more could I do?"

I am disappointed as I type this. Please forgive any edge to my words.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

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Sean BWed, 20 June 2007, 09:20 am

I don't know if they did

I don't know if they did this but submitting information to local schools would have been good too. We quite often get information about events through school and it is where a lot of the things I partake in come from. ____________________________________________________________ Currently working on: "Boy Banned" a fusion of live acting, video footage, corny songs, syncronised dancing boys and egos! JULY 2007, ticket information coming soon!!!

David GreenWed, 20 June 2007, 09:22 am

Mature

Dear User That is really Mature..."I’m just ridiculous". I’m sure I know you or you know me but to make a statement like that with no reason is probably one of the biggest waste of space you could have thought of. I was expressing an opinion and if you do not like it that is your choice...but rebut my remarks with facts in reason. To everyone else out there... Keep Smiling :) David Green DRAGON FILMS www.davidgreenenterprises.com

Tari-XalyrWed, 20 June 2007, 09:28 am

Edgy

Yeh there is an edge to your words, Jeff. But it sounds like I sounded when I read teh email sent to me earlier this morning. And re-readng my post I realised it did sound quite sad - and I mean that in a pathetic way. As for advertising. No matter how much is done it will not reach everyone it needs to reach. I do like Sean's idea about sending info to schools, though. Like I said in my post. I don't know what else was done because I didn't see/hear anything but ITA plugs. I still stand by the fact that there are people willing and wanting to work for their supper. ~ Tari The Writer is a child forever listening at the keyhole of the adult world.

LabrugWed, 20 June 2007, 09:40 am

Schoolies

I believe schools were canvased also. Kerrii works in the system and would not have left that little gold mine untouched.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

Home Page
Yahoo Blog Page

Sean BWed, 20 June 2007, 09:51 am

Thats good, I know how many

Thats good, I know how many opportunities arrive through schools and you're right it is a gold mine as long as you know how to dig. I think it's a shame that it didn't go ahead, I hope something can be worked out like mentioned above where people may still get an opportunity or something similar. ____________________________________________________________ Currently working on: "Boy Banned" a fusion of live acting, video footage, corny songs, syncronised dancing boys and egos! JULY 2007, ticket information coming soon!!!

Walter PlingeWed, 20 June 2007, 10:39 am

1) No self-respecting actor

1) No self-respecting actor would be seen dead on a soapie. 2) Stage auditions for parts in TV and film. HELLO???????? 3) 16-25 year olds can't compete in the industry with 26-40 year olds who look younger than them. The catch-22: Actors who have the skills and confidence to compete in such a competition have the self respect not to. Actors who do not have the skills to compete have neither the competence or confidence. This leaves the greedy and stupid. Due to lack of entrants, the logical conclusion is that WA is not full of greedy and stupid younger actors. The average younger person's wage far exceeds anything they could make in 5 years from acting. Salt please.

LabrugWed, 20 June 2007, 11:12 am

Bleak Outlook

You have a very bleak outlook on the life of an actor.

1) No self-respecting actor would be seen dead on a soapie.

Many current High Profile Actors started off in 'soapies'. It gave them their 'big-break'. Any intelligent actor would realize that any exposure is good exposure.

2) Stage auditions for parts in TV and film. HELLO????????

Again many TV and Film actors start of in theatre (Kevin Spacey is one that comes to mind) plus many keep their connections with theatre (eg Judy Dench). Making the transition from stage to Film/TV happens all the time.

3) 16-25 year olds can't compete in the industry with 26-40 year olds who look younger than them.

Why not? It has nothing to do with looks in this case. When you have two similar looking individuals, of similar stage age, it comes down to who can portray the characters best. Any respectable director will keep in mind that a mentally old person naturally acts older and finds it harder to act younger than another is is young.

Sorry, your points don't hold much strength when there is plenty of evidence to the contrary.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

Home Page
Yahoo Blog Page

Kathleen_DWed, 20 June 2007, 11:26 am

Star Power

I know for me personally I heard about Star Power from 1. My agent 2. My drama teacher 3. Email from blue room 4. Email from West Australian Youth Theatre Company 5. From friends and myspace 6. This website 7. Email from Kimberly Shaw 8. And I saw an article about it in the Sunday Times Chillout section So please do not blame the organisers in anyway especially in comparison to Storm the Stage. I was so very excited about Star Power and agree with Cassie's suggestions for workshops and feedbacks on our audition pieces. This is a very unforntunate situation and the only people to blame are the lack of entrants and my full congratulations and admiration and with Kerri and the organisers for attempting a wonderful program. Kathleen Douglas 18 years old.

LogosWed, 20 June 2007, 11:50 am

What would be interesting

What would be interesting would be to hear from the people who knew about the contest fitted the criteria and chose not to sign up. It would be nice to hear their reasons for not entering the contest. Is that all there is? Well if that's all there is my friend, then let's keep dancing. www.tonymoore.id.au

LabrugWed, 20 June 2007, 12:22 pm

Confession

I confess that a part of me would like to hear that too.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

Home Page
Yahoo Blog Page

Walter PlingeWed, 20 June 2007, 01:16 pm

Options

Hi Kerri, Is there any opportunity for those who have already entered to pay a higher fee for the opportunity to participate in the workshops etc. The format would naturally have to change, but is this an option?

Walter PlingeWed, 20 June 2007, 01:19 pm

Disquisition. Yay.

>You have a very bleak outlook on the life of an actor. Meh. 1) No self-respecting actor would be seen dead on a soapie. >Many current High Profile Actors started off in 'soapies'. >It gave them their 'big-break'. Any intelligent actor would >realize that any exposure is good exposure. I agree. I agree that they had no self-respect when they took the job, which was my point. (Guy Pearce, Russell Crowe, Naomi Watts, that...guy who is now on House) >any exposure is good exposure. Like Paris Hilton. Or that brute Matthew Newton. 2) Stage auditions for parts in TV and film. HELLO???????? >Again many TV and Film actors start of in theatre (Kevin >Spacey is one that comes to mind) plus many keep their >connections with theatre (eg Judy Dench). Making the >transition from stage to Film/TV happens all the time. Don't forget to mention Robert Deniro, Al Pacino, Ellen Burstyn, Marlon Brando, John Leguizamo, Anthony Hopkins, Laurence Olivier, Michael Caine, Sam Neill, Dustin Hoffman and the other swath of hugely popular film actors who once did theatre. My point (which chose to be succinct instead of laboured) was: stage and film acting do not cross over, no matter how ignorant a producer, director or agent. That being said, here's another name: Geoffrey Rush 3) 16-25 year olds can't compete in the industry with 26-40 year olds who look younger than them. >Any respectable director will keep in mind that a mentally >old person naturally acts older and finds it harder to act >younger than another is is young. Which would be why Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio get cast in parts for their age, right? >Sorry, your points don't hold much strength when there is >plenty of evidence to the contrary. Misintepretation goes a long way.

Sean BWed, 20 June 2007, 02:14 pm

Quote: "That being said,

Quote: "That being said, here's another name: Geoffrey Rush " I sure hope you're not quoting that name in the form of 'can't act on either stage on screen' or in some similar fashion. Why can't stage and film acting cross each other? And why can't someone be successful at both. How about David Hyde Pierce (is that spelt correctly) recently in Spamalot and now in Curtains on Broadway, and he came from Frasier (and other things before hand)...and he just won a Tony award. There are actors that work in both mediums across the globe successfully. As for Geoffrey Rush on stage, I was moved by his performance on stage in Exit The King. Of course Rory Mac you seem to know the ins and outs of acting very well...what are we going to see you in? I don't really like posts such as the above.Such irrelevent thoughts that are clearly not thought through. Yes I wouldn't really want to be on a show like Home and Away but it's still an 'opportunity' and a show like Home and Away I'm sure is geared towards an audience that fits the Star Power audience that they were expecting...All Saints the higher end. The other thing you have to look at in 'Hollywood Movies' (the link to Star Power I can't see as it's such a different scale to any 'prize' offered here) is that people like Johnny Depp or Leonardo DiCaprio get roles because films require 'big names' to sell better. Big Name actors are an advertising technique. They aren't necessarily cast because they are best for the role (which can sometimes sabotage a film), but because they will sell a ticket...that said, we're not talking about Hollywood Movie acting here...Australian films and television shows are on a completely different level, the industry out here is different to overseas. What a frustrating comment. ____________________________________________________________ Currently working on: "Boy Banned" a fusion of live acting, video footage, corny songs, syncronised dancing boys and egos! JULY 2007, ticket information coming soon!!!

Sean BWed, 20 June 2007, 02:17 pm

I didn't intend on blaming

I didn't intend on blaming organisers...as someone who didn't know the details, and from a different coast, they just seemed like points that would add to the discussion. I'm sure organisers did their best. However if that hadn't been the case I think valid points were presented about other advertising techniques that could have worked for a 'next attempt'. That's all I was getting at, just wanted to know how well the event was advertised etc. Thanks to all who clarified that for me. ____________________________________________________________ Currently working on: "Boy Banned" a fusion of live acting, video footage, corny songs, syncronised dancing boys and egos! JULY 2007, ticket information coming soon!!!

LogosWed, 20 June 2007, 02:40 pm

Sean: I suggest you avoid

Sean: I suggest you avoid getting into a discussion with Mr Mac. If you score a point he will simply change the ground rules so as to keep his point winning. And anyway what do you mean that film and television here are on a different level than overseas. Are worse better or what? Any way as per the above, some performers Geoffrey Rush being a case in point are comfortable in all mediums (media?). Some cannot deal with stage acting, some time ago for example Bruce Dern pulled out of a contract on Broadway despite brilliant reveiws because he hated it. For many years Corin Redgrave turned down film and TV because he wasn't comfortable there. Ian Holm did no stage for a great many years and so on and so on. This is because they love one form and are uncomfortable in others. The true all rounder is a rare beast. Personal opinion, please don't compare Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp. Despite an almost total lack of training Depp is one of the greats although he may never do stage. DiCaprio is a waste of the film used to shoot him. Is that all there is? Well if that's all there is my friend, then let's keep dancing. www.tonymoore.id.au

David GreenWed, 20 June 2007, 02:52 pm

Postive Thoughts

I look at this whole posting like a car accident...nobody really likes it but you can't turn away. A lot of negative words have been said for this posting and I think the following points sum up everything: 1) It is a disappointment that there were not enough people to continue Star Power 2) Some people are blaming other people for it not happening 3) Some people don't believe it was a worthwhile competition where as others do 4) Some people feel that the timing was wrong for the competition and 5) Some people feel that there was not enough advertisement about it. CAN EVERYONE TAKE A DEEP BREATH FOR A SECOND!!!!! The more negative energy we put into this the more people are going to get upset about it. I think everyone has an opinion about why it didn’t happen and I think an equal amount of people feel very disappointed about it. It may be an idea to look at all of the above comments and try to work something out. Only one person has suggested something to help ease the conflict: run the workshop anyway. Now I don't know if this is practical but at least it is a positive suggestion. so for everyone out there please... KEEP SMILING :) David Green DRAGON FILMS www.davidgreenenterprises.com

Neville TalbotWed, 20 June 2007, 02:56 pm

I cannot believe this

I have just returned from a month away touring to find out this opportunity is gone- Because it lost money? No Because the judges pulled out? No Because there wasn't enough interest to find workshop leaders, judges, programmers etc.? NO Because they couldn't get enough applicants????!!!! I am seriously completely floored... I am sorry to say, but I do think there is a serious element of Taurean's first rant, in that there are far too many waiting for it all to happen, without doing the work. Suggestion- make up a similar competition, however, this time let's make it ONLY available to applicants between 30 and 45. I am sure I speak for many out there as I finally pass the threshold of being 'young and emerging' that there is a horrifying dearth of support/opportunity/funding aimed specifically at this group. A group, ironically, that is often more likely to absorb and thrive on these opportunities. (think of that mature age student who always had their assignments in early, always had prepared for their exams, passed everything with flying colours) and in deference to Rory, I suspect his point (having skimmed most comments) was that film/tv and stage acting were two entirely different, and required different skills. (to the organisers- maybe next time lose the soapie angle. Get a part for someone in an STC or similar production, or a tv drama. difficult I know, but I certainly wouldn't be thrilled about a spot on home and away, despite the career opportunity!) OK, I have much work to catch up on. see you all around soon! Nev It's the simple things stupid...

Sean BWed, 20 June 2007, 02:59 pm

Yes, I mentioned earlier,

Yes, I mentioned earlier, that I agreed with the running of the workshop. I find workshops an amazingly good tool, I love them when we go with school. For a few reasons. You learn the 'good stuff', you learn more than just in the classroom, you get to work with actors of varying fields and talents (I worked recently at a workshop with one of the members of Skithouse and the Tic Tac guy...he was on a Tic Tac ad...anyway) it was great, because you know these people from say TV and they are helping share what they know with you. Then (one I love the most) is that you get to experience different performing spaces. The first workshop I attended was at Malthouse's Merlyn theatre (love it love it love it) and I thought it was great...then to return to the space and see how that theatre can be used by another production...and how different it looks to the blank canvas we workshopped in AMAZING. Workshops are great! Big thumbs up for the workshop. I hope something can go ahead. ____________________________________________________________ Currently working on: "Boy Banned" a fusion of live acting, video footage, corny songs, syncronised dancing boys and egos! JULY 2007, ticket information coming soon!!!

Neville TalbotWed, 20 June 2007, 03:11 pm

damned double postings

I've never been able to work out how people did it by accident, then this! I honestly have no idea what I did?! Sorry everyone nev It's the simple things stupid...

Walter PlingeWed, 20 June 2007, 03:17 pm

perhaps...

The original competition guidlines stated 100 finalists would make it through to workshops, and then 12 (of each section) would go through to more intense training with directors. Is it at all possible for, say, 50 to attend workshops? And select 24 from there? I'm guessing, like i said in my first post, all these possibilities have probably been addressed in some way, but it just feels necessary to ask!

LabrugWed, 20 June 2007, 03:25 pm

Double Posting

Occasionally when you submit a posting, a network glitch hijacks your transmission and takes it into the void. Where this glitch actually interrupts your posting is the key.

When posting, (I've watched this closely) your text is first sent to the site for publishing. There is then a return transmission that refreshes your screen with the updated posting. If little Glitch gets the second part, then your post was published and you can't see it. You may be tempted to try again thinking it didn't work and so post twice. This could by simply hitting refresh on the browser.

Occasionally, I have had a posting "fail". I have opened a second window, keeping the "failed" one alone, and checked to see if my posting has appeared. If it has, then I close the original window and carry on. If it hasn't, I then refresh the original window until it does appear.

This happens on quite a few forum groups I've found, not just this one. It's a network issue more-so-than a site one.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

Home Page
Yahoo Blog Page

NaWed, 20 June 2007, 07:32 pm

This double posting thing

This double posting thing has happened to me, usually when the site is particularly slow and takes its time to post the comment. Sticky Apple Legs www.freewebs.com/stickyapplelegs Puppets in Melbourne www.thepromptcopy.com/pip

Walter PlingeWed, 20 June 2007, 11:26 pm

I feel bad...

I feel bad..... I forgot to enter...seriously I had my entry all filled out but exams took over and I totally forgot. I was upset when I realised I'd miss the cut off date and even contacted Star Power to see if I could get my entry in a little late.....but then it was cancelled :(. Please don't paint all W.A. youth as not interested in the opportunities offered -- I was but life took over, it happens sometime. Maybe I wasn't the only one it happened to? Anyway I am really sad that it had to be cancelled and hope that organisers don't get too disillusioned with W.A. youth.

Walter PlingeThu, 21 June 2007, 01:37 am

gobagape

> Suggestion - make up a similar competition, however, > this time let's make it ONLY available to applicants > between 30 and 45. Yes please. > there is a horrifying dearth of support/opportunity > /funding aimed specifically at this group. A group, > ironically, that is often more likely to absorb and > thrive on these opportunities. Hear hear. As someone who has spent twenty years struggling as a professional actor (based, variously, in Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney) and who has always had to scratch and fight for even the whiff of a high-end audition, I very heartily concur. Even when I was in Sydney, represented by a professional agent, with an active union membership, and boasting a pretty decent CV, I still couldn't get an audition for "All Saints"... even though I personally (and without my agent's assistance) arranged a go-see at that show's casting consultant, Maizels. The opportunity that has just been pist up the wall by the non-applicants to this competition does NOT come along very often at all! I am currently enjoying only my seventh fully-paid stage acting job in 20 years (lots of co-ops), and yet despite some very humbling reviews, and some positively effusive foyer feedback, the completion of this contract will see me return to my day job as a security guard for the foreseeable future, such is the dearth of authentic professional opportunities - across the board. If there is someone out there who wants to start up a mature-age talent quest with similar opportunities up for grabs, show me the dotted line, dammit! As Oscar (Very Witty) Wilde once said: "I am not young enough to know everything." Sorry, but I'm with Taurean on this one. The Meddoes (who has somehow managed to sign up under two separate usernames, with two separate passwords, and yet is still not able to log in)

Tari-XalyrThu, 21 June 2007, 10:25 am

Neither

I meant no disrespect for the organisers and I tip my hat for making the opportunity available at all. ~ Tari (18yrs old & entered.) P.S. Does everything have a myspace? lol (retorhical) The Writer is a child forever listening at the keyhole of the adult world.

LabrugThu, 21 June 2007, 10:34 am

The Minority

I am sure I speak for all of us when I say we certainly do not think of "all WA Youth" in this same light. Even Tur'o. I am also certain that a few got overwhelmed in what you aptly called life, after all, that happens to the best of us.

What seems odd is that with the number of people asking for an opportunity such as this, it seems very odd and depressing that it should fail. Actually, I am begining to think that comments made in Kerrii's original posting might hold more to the truth.

Can it be that many out there felt this was too good to be true and therefore a scam? This is the curse of modern society I guess when there is so much cause for distrust.

Caution is good, don't get me wrong. This one is hard to figure out though. It seems that some took caution too far however conducting investigations and the like. It's sad really...

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

Home Page
Yahoo Blog Page

Tari-XalyrThu, 21 June 2007, 10:38 am

Now that

Competitions that complement each other. 16-24 & 30-45?? Now the 30-45 would be one hell of a good "grand final" to see. ~ Tari The Writer is a child forever listening at the keyhole of the adult world.

Walter PlingeThu, 21 June 2007, 03:44 pm

All valid.

Hmm. Having had time to mull things over a bit (of course taking the more interesting antagonist path to amuse myself), I arrive at this thought: There is something deeply disturbing about a competition for acting. Instead, why not use the entrant fee to enrol in workshops, then have casting auditions after the workshop period. Doesn't that cost a lot less money? Wouldn't that be far closer to the truth of the industry auditioning process? i.e. a casting agent who selects the best candidates to then propose to a director. Wouldn't this process be far more valuable than a "one shot in a thousand" approach? Is it not far more valuable to educate younger people on what the casting process is? Instead of 99 disillusioned younger people, you have 99 younger people informed, more confident and more prepared for their next audition.

Walter PlingeThu, 21 June 2007, 07:52 pm

bad timing

Logos said "What would be interesting would be to hear from the people who knew about the contest fitted the criteria and chose not to sign up. It would be nice to hear their reasons for not entering the contest." well im one of these people the reason why i was unable to sign up was due this being a very busy and hectic time of the year. i know this might sound like a pathetic excuse but that is also why the majority of my thespian friends from youth theatre companys around perth. this was because from that age bracket we either had tee exams or uni exams. i am very disappointed that i didnt cease the oppotunity x natasha d

Walter PlingeThu, 21 June 2007, 08:54 pm

sorry i had a bit of

sorry i had a bit of trouble posting this

KirileeFri, 22 June 2007, 10:38 am

It has taken me a while to

It has taken me a while to be able to post this (blame my health), but I am so upset to hear that star power has been cancelled for this year. It was amazing, and I would have loved to get to the workshops. I got numerous e-mails about star power and saw flyers all around different community theatres, and I myself told people about it, and encourage them to enter. However, I am dishearten to say that most people I told either laughed because they thought it to be a childish competition or because it wouldn't "accept" they type of performance they were into... but mainly because they "didn't have time". Didn't have time?! Oh come on people... what you do is select a monologue and learn it. If you were to take one hour a week of time that you procrastinate with (and yes, we all procrastinate - like chatting on MSN or watching TV), you actually could do some work on the monologue or song to polish it enough to get to the workshops! If you are serious enough about performing, not even the TV industry, BUT PERFORMING, you need to get off your butts and do some work. I was prepared to do that, even help others... it was a golden opportunity... but because the youth of WA are "too busy", we - the ones who entered (even if it was only to have some fun) - have to watch this golden opportunity slip by. It is a question of passion. You can be an amazing actor, but without passion, you won't get far because let's face it - nobody will be there pushing you to perform and practice... not even your mum. I'm sorry if I sound bitter - but I can't believe how reluctant some people are to grasp something that is amazing with both hands and go with it.

LabrugFri, 22 June 2007, 12:23 pm

From the empassioned

>>they thought it to be a childish competition

Feh, figures. Hey, Kiza - I bet that's exactly what actors thought of "Play School" when they signed up for that. Bet they never thought that they would have any career after that. What arrogance! Who are these people?

>>or because it wouldn't "accept" they type of performance they were into

Makes you wonder what "Type" of performance they were into...

And as for Didn't have the time...

Not to insult those that really didn't have the time, all these are cop-out sayings. Kirilee, I am just glad that there a few passionates out there (such as yourself - a Storm the Stage Finalist) who take a chance and have a go.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

Home Page
Yahoo Blog Page

Walter PlingeFri, 22 June 2007, 01:38 pm

Thanks Jeff.I know that

Thanks Jeff. I know that someone is probably going to write out against me, but honestly - I really don't care all that much. I was commented to once (when I was straight out of school by someone who I thought was an arrogant prick) that today's youth are not motivated. After all this time, I now agree with him. It is like everyone is happy with getting along - in fact, I'm finding it harder to meet anyone my age who are slightly idealist with a raging passionate fire behind it. Why is it that we fear rejection so much? Anyway this is getting a bit off topic... What I mean by the "different" type of performance is pieces that don't come from realistic text, or even sound semi-realistic. Gah! Sometimes I just want to grab people around my age and shake them and yell in their faces "You're young! Take chances! Make mistakes! Just LIVE it!"... something I have done to my brother who is just as straight down the line as I am a risk-taker. It just frustrates me to no end.

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