Upstage Blog

If you've been scrolling through casting sites lately, you've probably noticed a surge in listings for vertical short-form series. These non-union projects are popping up all over Los Angeles, and you might be wondering what they're all about and whether they're worth your time. Let's dive in.

These are bite-sized dramas designed primarily for mobile viewing, with episodes typically lasting just a few minutes. The vertical format is specifically designed for mobile devices held in a vertical (portrait) orientation.

This trend originated in China, where micro-dramas have become a billion-dollar industry, and it's now gaining traction in the US.

Key Features:

Format: Filmed in a 9:16 aspect ratio to match the typical smartphone screen orientation, enhancing the viewing experience on mobile devices. 

Episode Length: Episodes are typically brief, often lasting around one minute, making them easily consumable during short breaks or on the go. 

Target Audience: Aimed at mobile users who prefer quick, engaging content that fits into their fast-paced lifestyles. 

Content Style: These dramas often feature fast-paced storylines with dramatic plot twists to quickly capture and retain viewer attention. 

Why LA?

Several factors have led production companies to create micro-dramas in Los Angeles:

• Access to Talent: These dramas are often looking to cast Caucasian actors - but not always. LA has a large pool of talented actors.

• High-Quality Production Facilities: The city's infrastructure supports efficient and professional productions.

• Creative Freedom: Operating in the U.S. allows filmmakers to explore a wide range of themes and storytelling techniques. 

Key Considerations for Actors:

• Non-Union Status: Most of these projects are non-union, meaning they don't adhere to SAG-AFTRA guidelines. This can affect pay rates, working conditions, and residuals.

• Compensation: Pay varies widely. Some roles offer up to $450 per day for a lead role, while others pay less. Always assess whether the compensation aligns with your experience and financial needs.

• Skill Enhancement: Participating in these fast-paced projects can improve your acting skills, such as comedic timing and improvisation. Some actors have found that this experience helps them gain attention in other auditions.

• Stunts and Intimacy Requirements: Some roles might involve stunts or intimate scenes. It's essential to read the script carefully to ensure you're comfortable with the requirements.

• Career Impact: While these roles can provide on-set experience and exposure, be mindful of how they fit into your long-term career goals. Balancing your resume with a variety of roles can present a well-rounded and appealing profile to casting directors and agents.

Final Thoughts:

Vertical short-form series offer a unique avenue to gain experience and visibility. However, it's crucial to approach each opportunity thoughtfully. Evaluate the project's credibility, understand the terms of engagement, and consider how it aligns with your personal and professional objectives. Making informed choices will help ensure that your participation benefits your acting journey.

For a firsthand account of working in this format, check out this actor's experience.

For more insights into the trend, here's additional information.

If you want to watch some, try these platforms: ReelShort, DramaBox, FlexTV, and YouTube Shorts.

Most writers focus on finishing their script, but selling a TV show takes much more than just great writing. It’s about packaging the project the right way, knowing who to pitch to, and making it as easy as possible for decision-makers to say yes.

I'm working with a writer-client on a high-stakes political drama. Initially, it was written as a spec script—a way to showcase their voice and storytelling skills. But after seeing its market potential, we decided to position it as a fully developed TV series pitch. That meant not just refining the script, but building a complete pitch package that made it easy for producers and streamers to see the vision, the viability, and the potential success of the project.

Step 1: Creating the Pitch Package

Once we decided to take the project to market, we needed more than just a script—we needed a clear, professional pitch deck that could instantly grab attention. This included:

• A one-page summary with the logline, series overview, and why the show is timely.

• A 10-slide Canva pitch deck with visuals, character bios, and episode structure.

• A concise verbal pitch to sell the show in under 3 minutes.

• A clear list of ideal production companies and streaming platforms to target.

This process helped us refine the show’s core concept and make sure it was not just a great story, but a marketable TV project.

Step 2: Making It Easy to Share – A One-Stop Webpage for Pitching

One of the biggest challenges when pitching is keeping everything organized—making sure producers and execs have instant access to the right materials without digging through emails.

To simplify this, I created a dedicated Google Sites webpage where all key documents are housed in one place:

• Embedded Google Docs – The one-pager and verbal pitch script are easily accessible.

• Canva Pitch Deck – A fully interactive, scrollable deck that loads instantly.

• Easy Contact Button – A simple, one-click email link for questions or follow-ups.

This eliminates the back-and-forth of sending attachments and makes the process seamless for producers and executives. Instead of cluttering inboxes, I can now just send one simple link that gives them everything they need. Also, updates to the docs are updated live on the website, so no more having to go back and forth or worry you have sent the wrong version.

Step 3: Why Writers Should Think Beyond the Script

If you’re a writer looking to sell your project, here’s what you should consider:

• Your script is just the beginning—you need a pitch deck and strategy to sell it.

• Make it easy for buyers—a clean, well-organized webpage makes sharing professional and effortless.

• Know your audience—different streamers look for different kinds of shows, so tailor your pitch accordingly.

• Be ready for questions—understanding the business side of TV will make your pitch more compelling.

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Selling a show isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about presenting it the right way so decision-makers see its full potential.

By creating a centralized webpage for all pitch materials, we streamlined the pitching process—making it easier for producers and executives to review the project and respond quickly.

For writers looking to turn their scripts into viable TV projects, the key takeaway is this: Think like a producer, not just a writer. The more polished and accessible your pitch, the better your chances of getting a real shot at development.

Every project’s journey is different, but the writers who succeed are the ones who understand both the creative and business sides of the industry. If you’re thinking about pitching your work, don’t just write a great script—make sure it’s positioned to sell.

Want to see the website: HERE IT IS

Sundance is always a gamble—sometimes you discover a gem, and other times, you walk out of a screening wondering how on earth that film got greenlit. This year, my picks leaned more toward the latter.

If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You left me feeling emotionally wrecked—but not in the way I hoped. It’s a relentless spiral, a portrait of a woman barely keeping it together as her world crumbles. Rose Byrne is absolutely incredible in the role, but watching her character’s collapse felt more punishing than insightful. It felt like the movie was more interested in making us sit in her suffering, over and over again. We never see her daughter, only hear her voice, which made the film feel even more isolating and almost claustrophobic in its bleakness. I question what I was supposed to take from it - I admire the craft, but for me, If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You was an experience I wouldn’t want to sit through again.

I went into Jimpa hoping for an emotionally rich, layered family drama. The film sets up interesting tensions—family estrangement, identity, generational differences—but unlike If I Had Legs, it then resolves them so easily that they never feel lived-in. The characters spent a lot of time talking about their emotions, but rarely did we see them grapple with anything meaningful. Endless conversations about identity felt more like soundbites than moments of discovery. Jimpa was like sitting through an idealized family therapy session and it left me wishing for something more raw, something that actually felt like the complicated reality of family.

The Thing With Feathers leans so heavily into its metaphor that it forgets to give the audience a compelling story. Yes, grief is messy, cyclical, and overwhelming—but watching characters get trapped in an endless loop of despair without any real development made it feel more like a meditation than a movie. Beautiful cinematography can only do so much when the film itself starts to feel repetitive. I get that some people will connect with its poetic, symbolic approach, but for me, it was a film that valued its message over its momentum. By the time the credits rolled, I felt more exhausted than moved.

Of course, Sundance is all about bold choices, and I get that some people might connect with these films more than I did. They just weren’t for me—but hey, that’s the fun of indie cinema.

I wonder if selecting films based on star power was the best approach. On a MUCH brighter note, I enjoyed three amazing days of skiing (with my sister), which more than made up for this year's Sundance disappointments.

Lights, camera, action!  You probably know by now, that at Upstage Entertainment, we’re all about making dreams take flight—whether it's helping actors shine in Hollywood or collaborating with creative geniuses to bring their stories to life. This week, I’m stepping out from behind the manager’s desk and into the podcasting world with my incredibly talented (and surprisingly good at golf) client, Anthony Torino.

Who’s Anthony, you ask? Oh, he’s just a former military man turned rehab clinic owner, school counselor, screenwriter, and standup comic—basically, a Swiss Army Knife of life experiences. Anthony’s background is like the plot of one of his scripts: raised in a small Alabama town with strict parents, a life shaped by the constant relocations of a military family, and a journey filled with both heartbreak and hope. Losing his true love in a motorcycle accident two decades ago profoundly shaped him, but he’s found a way to keep her spirit close, offering inspiration in his writing and life.

Now, imagine pairing that rich life experience with my own background: a New England boarding school upbringing, an Ivy League education, years spent as a sommelier in London (yes, wine has been a loyal companion), globe-trotting adventures, and raising two sons while championing Korean talent in Tinseltown. Here’s the kicker: Anthony has never tasted a single drop of alcohol in his life. A lifelong teetotaler and a man of iron will, he’s always found his high in the joy of helping others, from guiding his patients to recovery to making audiences laugh. I, on the other hand, have spent years waxing poetic about terroir and tannins. Talk about a study in contrasts!

But that’s what makes our friendship (and now, our podcast) so special. Our conversations run the gamut from politics and pop culture to golf scores and ghost stories. (Yes, we’ve had heated debates about whether the 7-iron is truly the MVP of the bag. Spoiler: It is.) It was only natural that these dialogues would evolve into something bigger, and voila—our podcast was born!

This is not your average Hollywood insider show. Sure, we’ll dish on the entertainment industry (you want to know the good stuff, right?), but we’ll also dive into topics like what it takes to persevere through life’s curveballs, why laughter is sometimes the best medicine, and how two completely different people can find so much common ground over a microphone—and a golf course.

Anthony’s quick wit and heartfelt stories combined with my penchant for storytelling and (admittedly) obsessive need to make a good wine pairing promise a podcast filled with humor, heart, and a few surprises. Whether you’re here for the Hollywood gossip, life advice, or just a good laugh, we’ve got something for everyone.

Our first episode drops soon, and trust me, you won’t want to miss it. Tune in for the laughs, stay for the insights, and maybe walk away with a better golf swing. (Thanks, Anthony!)

Stay tuned for updates and subscribe to podcast - link to come soon—because this is just the beginning. 

Every great story starts with a spark, and the journey of Choon has been nothing short of electrifying. Over the past month, I’ve had the privilege of working with two exceptional creatives, Anthony Torino and Antonia Kim, to transform Anthony’s compelling TV pilot into a visually dynamic AI-powered short film. 

The goal? 

To give Choon a pulse, a teaser that can capture imaginations and open doors to production partners who can bring this story to its full glory.

But what does it actually take to turn a script into something tangible—something that breathes, moves, and speaks? It’s all about collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision.

A Script That Speaks

At its core, Choon is a story about love, memory, and obsession, wrapped in layers of suspense and mystery. Anthony’s script introduces us to Sammantha, a young woman grappling with amnesia after a tragic accident, and Brayydon, a therapist whose intentions are as enigmatic as they are captivating. The narrative unfolds with twists that keep you guessing, and at the heart of it lies a poignant question: can love transcend lost memories?

Anthony brought not just a script but a vivid world filled with complex characters and emotional depth. As a screenwriter, he crafted a foundation that was rich enough to build upon while leaving room for interpretation and creativity—a perfect recipe for collaboration.

Collaboration in Action

Enter Antonia Kim, a creative powerhouse and a technology maestro who I met while I was in Korea last month. With her guidance, we explored how AI could enhance Anthony’s vision rather than detract from it. The goal was never to replace human artistry but to amplify it—using AI tools to visualize the story’s tone, mood, and key moments.

Here’s how the collaboration unfolded:

Character Refinement: Anthony and I worked closely to distill the essence of Choon's characters, ensuring their complexity translated well into visual storytelling. From Sammantha’s vulnerability to Brayydon’s ambiguous motives, we wanted every frame of the teaser to echo the emotional weight of the narrative. We even recorded ourselves reading some of the key scenes - so that Antonia could use it to train her bots.

Visual Storyboarding with AI: Antonia introduced tools that allowed us to experiment with visual concepts, from mood lighting to character designs. AI gave us a cost-effective way to iterate quickly, helping us align the visuals with Anthony’s original vision while staying adaptable to new ideas.

Tone and Atmosphere: Suspense is the heartbeat of Choon. We focused on creating a teaser that didn’t just introduce the plot but immersed viewers in its world—a mix of tension, curiosity, and raw emotion. 

Challenges and Breakthroughs

Collaboration, especially on a project as ambitious as this, isn’t without its challenges.

Balancing Innovation with Tradition: The use of AI in storytelling can be polarizing. Our focus was on ensuring that the technology enhanced the storytelling rather than overshadowing it. Every decision—whether visual, narrative, or technical—was rooted in honoring the human story at the heart of Choon.

Bridging Perspectives: Each of us brought different expertise to the table. Anthony knew the characters and plot inside out, Antonia understood how technology could bring it to life, and I served as the bridge—helping to interpret, align, and execute the creative vision cohesively.

What’s Next for Choon?

The AI-powered teaser is just the beginning. Armed with this visual proof of concept, Anthony is preparing to pitch Choon to production partners. This teaser serves as a powerful storytelling tool, allowing potential collaborators to see the characters, atmosphere, and emotional stakes in action.

For me, this project reinforced something I deeply believe: collaboration is the lifeblood of creativity. It’s about bringing together different talents, perspectives, and tools to build something greater than the sum of its parts.

If you’re a storyteller, screenwriter, or creative looking to bring your ideas to life, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s collaborate and turn sparks into full-fledged stories that resonate.

What do you get when you mix a whirlwind two-week trip to Korea, a red-carpet film festival, endless networking, and a lot (and I mean a lot) of iced Americanos? Well, you get a story worth sharing! Join me as I take you through my adventure-packed trip across Busan and Seoul – filled with films, food, fascinating conversations, and future possibilities for Upstage Entertainment.  

Act 1: Busan – Lights, Camera, Opportunities! 

The trip kicked off at the Busan International Film Festival, where the sea breeze meets cinematic buzz. It’s not every day you get to rub elbows with creative minds and industry professionals, and this festival did not disappoint.  

One of the highlights? Meeting the incredible River Williamson– actress and English-language acting coach extraordinaire! We hit it off and even attended the UTA party together, surrounded by some of the industry’s most inspiring folks. Conversations flowed as easily as the drinks, and I found myself discussing everything from my work helping Korean actors and writers in LA and how English-language skills could unlock more doors for them internationally. Spoiler alert: Korean producers were very interested. They often need actors fluent in English for their global projects and, as I learned, finding reliable talent isn’t always easy. This is where Upstage Entertainment’s work can make a real difference!  

Act 2: Seoul – The City of Dreams (and Late-Night Eating) 

After wrapping up in Busan, I took the high-speed train to Seoul – a city that never sleeps and has no shortage of possibilities. I dove headfirst into meetings with entertainment language and acting coaches, swapping ideas on how our students could benefit from learning more about Hollywood’s casting systems, networking strategies, and the unwritten rules of the LA entertainment world. We all agreed – building a network with agents, casting directors, and producers isn’t just an art, it’s a superpower.  

I didn’t just talk business – I hosted a Threads meetup at a cosy café! Actors came to chat, share their portfolios, and brainstorm how they could expand their careers abroad. It was inspiring to see their passion, and I left with new connections and even more respect for the challenges these actors face when bridging the East-West entertainment gap. I also met with two foreign models who shared candid stories about their experiences working in Korea’s vibrant (but competitive) fashion scene.    

Act 3: Adventures Between Meetings – Steps, Snacks, and Rooftop Cheers

When I wasn’t in meetings, I was out exploring Seoul’s alleyways, markets, and parks – clocking in thousands of steps every day. I’m pretty sure my phone thought I was training for a marathon. From scenic mountains to bustling shopping malls, I saw it all. And, naturally, I had to fuel all that walking with lots of food.  

Some of the culinary highlights?  

- Spicy octopus – A fiery dish that made me question every life decision leading up to that moment (but worth it).  

- Korean beef – So tender it practically melted in my mouth.  

-Boiled Sea Snails - you suck it out from the shell.

- Red rice makgeolli – Rice wine that was both beautiful to look at and wonderful to drink.  

- Pumpkin tea – As cosy as a sweater in fall.  

- Grilled pig heart – Yep. You read that right. And yes, I ate it. (When in Korea...)  

No matter where I went, one thing was constant: iced Americano. I must have downed at least 100 throughout the trip. (Does Korea have a secret Americano-addict support group? Asking for a friend.)  

The grand finale of the trip? I hosted a rooftop party to thank my friends and new acquaintances. Picture this: twinkling Seoul skyline, good music, amazing company, and, of course, a few drinks. It was the perfect way to wrap up my adventure and raise a toast to new opportunities ahead.  

Epilogue: What’s Next for Upstage Entertainment? 

This trip wasn’t just about sightseeing or sampling unusual foods (although, let’s be honest, those parts were amazing). It was about forging connections – meeting producers, actors, and coaches who are as excited about the future as I am. The interest in English-language actor and writer coaching is real, and it’s clear there’s a growing need for actors in Korea to sharpen their skills for international projects.  

So what’s next? Upstage Entertainment is ready to step up and be that bridge between Korea and Hollywood – providing training, building networks, and creating new opportunities. With every iced Americano I drank, every conversation I had, and every step I took through Seoul’s winding streets, I saw more clearly that the future is bright.  

Korea, you were unforgettable. And this is just the beginning.  

Thanks for coming along on this little journey through my two weeks in Korea! If you made it to the end, you deserve a virtual iced Americano (or two). Until next time, keep chasing your dreams – no matter where they take you.  

I’m gearing up for an exciting trip to Korea (especially the autumn colours and cooler weather)—with time to connect with industry professionals, explore the entertainment scene, and meet my actor students in person for the first time. I’ve been looking forward to this trip and can’t wait to see what unfolds.

First on the agenda is the renowned Busan International Film Festival. It’s an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in Korean cinema and, hopefully, connect with some of the country's most talented filmmakers, actors, and producers. Networking is a priority—being able to meet and collaborate with those who share my passion for storytelling is something I truly look forward to. Korea has become a powerhouse in the global entertainment industry, and understanding how it operates from within is key to broadening my professional horizons.

In addition to Busan, I'll be heading to Seoul, where I have a series of meetings lined up with entertainment professionals. These discussions will offer a deeper dive into Korea’s creative industry. I hope to gain valuable insights into how I can contribute while learning from the unique perspectives of those I meet. The Korean entertainment industry has a distinct flavour of innovation, and it’s always evolving—seeing this evolution up close is a thrilling prospect.

One of the highlights of my trip will be meeting my actor students in person. After months of teaching them online, finally seeing them face-to-face will be a rewarding experience. Our online classes have been special—they’ve allowed us to step outside the confines of the real world and enter a creative space together, where we explore new perspectives and grow as artists. It’s an honour to be part of their learning journey, and I know that meeting in person will deepen our connection and enhance the experience we’ve shared so far.

Of course, it’s not all work! I plan to take full advantage of my time in Seoul to explore the city. I love to walk around different neighbourhoods, seeing the blend of old and new —the ancient palaces nestled among modern skyscrapers, the busy markets contrasted with tranquil temples. And I’m not forgetting about food! I didn’t have a proper Korean BBQ during my last visit, so that’s high on my list this time. From street food to traditional restaurants, I’m eager to dive into the rich culinary scene, practising and improving my Korean language skills.

This trip is more than just a professional milestone; it’s a chance to immerse myself again in a culture that has intrigued me for years. As I dive deeper into the Korean entertainment industry, my goal is to learn, listen, and engage with those shaping the future of film and television in Korea. I want to understand what drives their creativity, what challenges they face, and how I can contribute to their vision while growing in my own career.

If you have any trip suggestions or would like to arrange a time for a meeting, please don't hesitate to let me know!

At Upstage Entertainment, we believe that great acting comes from being present, truly listening, and responding authentically in the moment. This week, I've been preparing to work with my Korean actor students to develop these essential skills through a powerful repetition exercise. While mastering these techniques can be challenging in a non-native language, I was thinking that the Korean concept of nunchi—a cultural cornerstone of social interactions—could be a game-changer in their acting journey.

Understanding Nunchi: The Art of Being Present

For those unfamiliar, nunchi (눈치) is a Korean term that doesn’t have a direct English translation but is often described as the ability to sense others’ thoughts and feelings in a given situation. It’s the practice of understanding social dynamics through subtle cues—body language, tone of voice, and the context of what is left unsaid. Essentially, nunchi is about being highly attuned to the moment and reacting appropriately, a skill that is second nature to many Koreans.

In everyday life, nunchi is about quickly grasping the atmosphere of a room, knowing when to speak or stay silent, and understanding others without explicit communication. It’s a silent dance of social awareness, and it’s deeply embedded in Korean culture.

The Repetition Exercise: A Path to Truthful Reactions

In the world of acting, truthful reactions are everything. That’s where the repetition exercise comes into play. This technique, popularised by legendary acting teacher Sanford Meisner, involves two actors facing each other and repeating a simple phrase back and forth. The key isn’t in the words themselves but in how the actors react to each other’s delivery—whether they respond to a shift in tone, a change in expression, or a subtle movement.

The goal is to strip away the pretence, break down internal barriers, and encourage actors to react instinctively and truthfully. It’s a practice that demands presence and awareness—qualities that nunchi naturally cultivates.

Nunchi and Acting: A Natural Synergy

As I prepared to guide my students through the repetition exercise, I realised that nunchi and this acting technique share a common goal: being fully engaged in the present moment. This isn’t just an acting exercise for my Korean students—it’s a way to harness a skill they’ve been practising their entire lives.

However, the challenge lies in doing this in English, a language that may not flow as naturally for them as Korean. The nuances of tone, intonation, and body language can sometimes feel lost in translation. But by tapping into their cultural understanding of nunchi, my students can bridge this gap.

Nunchi allows them to focus less on the words and more on the energy between them and their scene partner. It’s about sensing the undercurrent of emotions and responding to those feelings rather than the literal meaning of the dialogue. In essence, nunchi becomes their secret weapon, allowing them to deliver performances that are deeply authentic and resonate with both Korean and non-Korean audiences.

Navigating Challenges and Embracing Strengths

Working in a non-native language can be daunting, especially when the goal is to react spontaneously and truthfully. Yet, the beauty of nunchi is that it transcends language. It’s about reading the room, understanding subtle cues, and responding in a way that feels natural. For my students, this cultural competency is an invaluable asset.

While they might struggle with the specifics of English dialogue, their innate ability to read and react to non-verbal communication is a strength that we leverage in our sessions. By focusing on nunchi, they can bypass some of the linguistic hurdles and connect with their scene partners on a more visceral level.

For actors looking to incorporate the principles of nunchi into their craft, here are a few practical tips:

Heightened Observation: Spend time observing people in everyday situations. Notice the small details—how someone’s expression changes when they’re thinking, the way body language shifts in conversation, or how silence speaks volumes. This will sharpen your ability to read subtle cues in a scene.

Active Listening: Focus on listening not just to the words but to the emotions behind them. Pay attention to how a line is delivered and what it reveals about your scene partner’s character and mood.

Responsive Reaction: Practice responding to these cues rather than pre-planned lines. Allow your reactions to be influenced by what you observe, even if it takes the scene in an unexpected direction.

Cultural Awareness: Understand that different cultures have different communication styles. If you’re working with actors from diverse backgrounds, explore how their cultural norms can enhance the authenticity of your performance.

Conclusion: A Cultural Approach to Acting

As I watch my students grow through this process, I’m reminded of the power of cultural awareness in acting. By integrating nunchi into our repetition exercises, we’re not just improving their ability to perform in a second language but enriching their overall acting experience. It’s a reminder that the most powerful performances come from embracing who we are, where we come from, and the unique perspectives we bring to the stage.

At Upstage Entertainment, we’re always exploring new ways to connect cultural concepts with the art of acting, and I’m excited to see how this journey with nunchi unfolds. Whether you’re an actor, teacher, or simply someone interested in the intersection of culture and performance, I encourage you to consider how these elements can bring depth and authenticity to your work.

Entering the entertainment industry is an exciting journey filled with opportunities and challenges. For newcomers, whether they work in front of the camera or behind it, establishing trust and building meaningful connections is crucial for long-term success. At Upstage Entertainment, we understand that these elements are the foundation of a thriving career or entertainment-related business. I put this list of encouraging and practical tips to help you on your path to creating strong and reliable relationships in the industry.  About six months into this journey, I’m still using these ideas every day to move forward.

Consistency is Key

Consistency in your work and interactions is essential. People want to know they can rely on you to deliver quality experiences every time. Whether it’s in your performances, communications, or business dealings, maintaining a consistent standard of excellence helps build a reputation for reliability.

Understand Your Audience

Connecting with your audience in meaningful ways can greatly enhance your reputation. Take the time to learn about their preferences, interests, and needs. This understanding will help you tailor your work and communications to resonate more deeply with them, adding a layer of authenticity to your interactions.

Communicate and Connect

Effective communication is the cornerstone of trust-building. Make an effort to stay engaged with your network, whether through regular updates, personal messages, or public posts. Good communication not only builds trust but also enhances engagement and raises awareness of your work and services.

Set and Achieve Small Goals

While long-term goals are important, focusing on short-term objectives can provide daily motivation and a sense of accomplishment. Break down your larger ambitions into manageable tasks and tackle them one by one. This approach not only keeps you on track but also builds momentum.

Build Your Network Through Mutual Support

Networking is a two-way street. Offer your help to others and seek opportunities to learn about their businesses and goals. By showing genuine interest and providing support, you build strong, reciprocal relationships. When opportunities arise, your hard work and generosity will be remembered.

Embrace Change and Adopt Technology

The entertainment industry is ever-evolving, and staying current with technologies can give you a competitive edge. Embrace change and be open to adopting tools that can streamline your workflow and improve productivity. Here are a few time-saving tools I use that have enhanced my daily life:

Calendly: An easy way to schedule meetings

Notion: For planning and organising ideas

Canva: For professional graphic design

Buffer: For social media management and scheduling (I need to use this more!)

Google Workspace: For collaborative work and document management (I track my client auditions, create lists of producers and development executives, casting directors, agents and agencies - you name it, I’ve got a spreadsheet for it)

ChatGPT: and the other AI tools for research, translating and drafting documents

Query Tracker: To track my literary agent queries for my book project

Film Freeway: To track film festivals and screenplay contests

Maintain a Professional Online Presence

Our websites and social media profiles are often the first points of contact for potential clients and collaborators. Ensure they are professional, up-to-date, and reflective of your brand. A well-designed website with clear information about your services, testimonials, and contact details can significantly enhance your professional image. (Easy to say, a little harder to do…)

Be Bold and Take Risks

The entertainment industry rewards boldness and innovation. Don’t shy away from taking calculated risks or pursuing ambitious projects. Being proactive and courageous can open doors to new opportunities and set you apart from the crowd.

Lose your Pride (sometimes) and Don’t be Afraid to Be Persistent

Don’t be afraid to pursue your goals with determination. Sometimes, it’s necessary to put your pride aside and actively seek opportunities. Whether it's reaching out for collaborations or promoting your work, remember that persistence pays off.

Collect and Share Testimonials

Positive feedback from satisfied clients and collaborators can be a powerful tool in establishing your reputation. Gather testimonials and share them on your website and social media platforms. These endorsements not only highlight your achievements but also serve as a testament to your professionalism and the quality of your work.

Seek Endorsements

Endorsements from respected figures or reputable brands can significantly boost your credibility. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from those who admire your work. Their backing can help you gain the trust of a wider audience who may be unfamiliar with your brand.

In today's interconnected world, the entertainment industry is experiencing a welcome shift. Writers and producers are increasingly creating and developing projects that resonate with a global audience, expanding beyond the cultural and geographical boundaries of their home countries. This shift reflects a growing recognition that compelling stories have universal appeal and can engage viewers from diverse backgrounds.

 At Upstage Entertainment, we have witnessed this trend firsthand. Recently, I read a TV series project for a client set in an American city. As I delved into the narrative and got to know the characters and their flaws, I couldn't help but envision its potential as a Korean drama. The themes, dynamics, and plot twists were so captivating that they seemed perfectly suited for adaptation to a different cultural context. Intrigued by this possibility, I shared the script (with permission from the writer) with a Korean producer, who is now considering adapting the series for a Korean audience. I will let you know what happens!

 This example illustrates the exciting opportunities that arise when we think beyond our immediate cultural confines. By embracing a global perspective, we not only open doors to new creative possibilities but also increase the potential for success and recognition in the global market. Your stories have the power to resonate with audiences worldwide.

 If you're reading this post and have a project you'd like to share with a producer outside your home country or if you're seeking an international collaborator, I'd love to hear from you. At Upstage Entertainment, we're committed to fostering cross-cultural connections and helping your stories find their global audience.

 Contact me today to explore how we can take your project to new heights and make it resonate on a worldwide stage. Let's turn your vision into a reality that captivates audiences around the globe.