The IT Factor Philadelphia Introduces Alycia Kaback’s Blogger Friend Dani

Alycia Kaback, Philadelphia modelingAlycia Kaback loves the little slice of life journal where Dani writes about just about everything!  Dani’s a really cool girl with great goals. She was born on February 3rd and is currently twenty-five years old. She is currently majoring in biology at school, aspiring to focus her studies on microbiology, all while caring for her five-year-old son named Jason and a one-year-old named James!  Alycia Kaback thinks she is such an inspiration! She’s also super cute. Some people call Dani, “Midget” beacuse she’s on the short side — she says, “There’s no way around that, and no prettier way to word it, because without shoes on I am… not that tall, not at all.”  When Dani was growing up, she hated being short… but she says, “now that I’m an adult, and especially over the course of this last year, I’ve come to appreciate and like being short.”  Alycia Kaback loves that!  At The IT Factor Philadelphia we work hard to show that all sizes and shapes are beautiful. That’s why Alycia Kaback opened a commercial division called Kaback Model Management because modeling isn’t just for the 6 ft tall.  Read Dani talking about Alycia Kaback Model Management.  

The “It” Factor Productions and KMM is currently casting and looking for a wide variety of looks and age ranges from kids to adults. To take the next step, fill out the following information by visiting http://modelingagenciesinpa.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIP Talent Connect’s Jessica DiGiovanni on Regis and Kelly

Philadelphia acting, Jessica DiGiovanni, VIP Talent ConnectAlycia Kaback recently received another update from VIP Talent Connect Talent Jessica DiGiovanni.

Regis and Kelly….What??

So I woke up this morning to the news that David Hyde Pierce was on Regis and Kelly today to promote our show, CLOSE UP SPACE!! Not only did he mention everyone in the cast, they showed footage of which I appear in! Very cool!

Here is the link to the Regis and Kelly video:
DHP on Regis and Kelly

Also MTC made a promo video for the show of interviews with the cast, playwright, director and producer along with rehearsal footage. Pretty neat.

Here is the link for that:
CLOSE UP SPACE Promo

This is the show website. Click on the ticket tab for deals and rates. We are selling out fast and I want to make sure you guys don’t get shut out!! 
CLOSE UP SPACE WEBSITE

Thanks again everyone for all of your support and taking this ride with me! I’m so glad to have you all with me for it!
All my love!
Jess

Alycia Kaback met Jessica DiGiovanni at the VIP Talent Connect offices in Philadelphia.  Jessica went to several of our VIP Networking Summits  and has seen great success since.  Follow this link to read more on what’s been happening with Jessica DiGiovanni since she met Alycia Kaback. 

The “It” Factor Productions and KMM is currently casting and looking for a wide variety of looks and age ranges from kids to adults. To take the next step, fill out the following information by visiting http://modelingagenciesinpa.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alycia Kaback Review of Entertainment and Beyond Blog

Entertainment blogs, entertainment adviceAlycia Kaback has recently started using the Entertainment and Beyond blog as an important resource for information about the industry.  This blog features many articles on all aspects of entertainment as well as practical advice about participating in this sometimes complex world.  Here is another entertainment tip from Alycia Kaback: Have a dinner of interesting people – At VIP Talent Connect we do this six times a year. After every summit we have all the speakers and staff (including our top scouts) at a private dinner in New York. It is a fun night and as a company we solidify our relationships with both our staff and the industry experts. Plus we always manage to connect some of our industry experts who will do business together later. It is a great way to create good will and have fun at the same time. Read Entertainment and Beyond on Alycia Kaback.

 The “It” Factor Productions and KMM is currently casting and looking for a wide variety of looks and age ranges from kids to adults. To take the next step, fill out the following information by visiting http://modelingagenciesinpa.com/

VIP and Alycia Kaback Make A Difference During the Holidays for Sick Children

Alycia Kaback Makes A Difference, Toy DriveAlycia Kaback’s Women’s Empowerment is starting their 1st Annual Toy Drive to benefit St. Mary’s Medical Center.

Collection will be at our special December Meet & Greet with Casting Director Stephen DeAngelis on December 3rd between 3 PM – 5 PM at our Feasterville location at 210 Street Rd. Suite 2A Feasterville, PA 19053.

This Meet & Greet with Stephen DeAngelis is free, but there is a suggested donation of a gift for Alycia Kaback’s Toy drive to benefit St. Mary’s Medical Center.  St. Mary’s asks that donations are all new, unused, and unwrapped.

Suggested toy donation list:

For Infants (0-1): activity centers, washable soft toys, clothes, large building blocks (wood or plastic), floating bath toys.

2-4 yrs: building blocks, non-toxic art supplies, simple puzzles w/ large pieces, cars & trucks, children’s books.

5-7 yrs: non-toxic artist/craft kits, action figures and dolls, hand puppets, board/card games, construction toys (Legos, K-nex,etc.).

8-10 yrs: electronic learning toys, and held electronic games, model kits, sewing, knitting, needlework (craft kits), construction toys (Legos, K-nex, etc.).

11-jr high: cosmetic/beauty gift bags, computer games/hand held electronics, gift cards (Walmart, Game Stop), table/board games, model kits, craft kits, hand bag (girls)/ backpack (guys).
Thank you and Happy Holidays!!!

Kaback Model Management Interview with Jessica Harris on Signing with KMM Talent

Kaback Model Management, The IT Factor Alycia KabackHow did you get started with The IT Factor Alycia Kaback and KMM?

It was last Spring.  A friend from school called me and his girlfriend was a scout, so they scheduled me for an open call.  At the appointment, they were focusing more on acting and the event, but I looked at the website and did my homework.  I don’t like to do anything without doing research.  The money for the event is a lot, but it is worth it for acting.  I was mainly focusing on modeling, unless acting comes my way in the future.  I had worked for a year on my own, but didn’t have representation or the connections, so I signed.  I’m working full time, and still going to school; school will always be there, but not my looks and age. I want to be a full time model, so I’m dedicated to that.

Is this something you ever thought you could do?

I thought I could because I’ve been tall and skinny all my life, but my parents stressed academics as my main focus.  I’ve always been focused on school, but modeling was always in the back of my mind.  I just didn’t really know how to start, and I didn’t want to disappoint people.  I went to school, but then on a whim I tried out for ANTM because they were holding tryouts 2 stops away in Texas.  It was convenient and I kept making the cuts.  I made it to the top 32, which is the first aired episode, of cycle 15.  I was in LA for a week, and then I was part of the first group cut from the semi-finalists.  I was disappointed, but I was one of 32 out of 15,000 and I had never done any modeling before.  I know that if I made it that far, modeling is definitely something I have potential in, I just need to work on some stuff.  I don’t know how to do it on my own, but I started trying to find jobs and networking.  I have my values and I am strong-willed.  I don’t want to do anything erotica. I know what I want to do and have been working on building my portfolio.  I know it doesn’t happen overnight, but I’m dedicated and excited.  Before, it was a dilemma between modeling and school, but school will always be there.  It will always be my backup but this is my motivation.  If I could do online classes at the same time, modeling is my focus.  I just don’t want to dive in to it and be broke, because this is an investment in order to build your portfolio and go to jobs.  If I had to move to New York to start making money, I’m ready and that is fine with me.

What was it like being on ANTM?

Miserable, cameras are on only 2 hours a day.  When the cameras are off, you can’t talk.  Imagine eating all your meals for a week, and not being able to talk.  When they can talk is what you see on TV.  There is a lot of stuff that goes on behind-the-scenes.  It’s too expensive to run the cameras all day, but the sacrifice is us not being able to talk.  I’ve stayed in touch with a lot of the girls.  I wouldn’t do it again.  They want the emotional, sob story, but I’m a strong willed person and don’t want to sell my story.  It was modeling and TV, and I wasn’t going to alter myself because I have a reputation to make for myself in order to maintain and didn’t want to taint it before I made a name.  I learned a lot, but I wouldn’t do it again.  They are looking for the stereotypical looking girl, super tall, super skinny, weird/unique looking.  I want to do what I want to do and have fun.  It’s not about the attention, it’s about the passion.

What are some of the jobs you’ve done so far?

I just signed with KMM last week.  My appointment was on Wednesday, and did a fashion show on Friday.  I haven’t done anything major yet, but a friend of mine, Elizabeth Valentine who is with Colby Models, is doing stuff.  I’m ready.

What have you done personally?

May of last year was when I did ANTM.  I worked on my portfolio, and did a lot of trade and print work, because it can get expensive.  I’ll find photographers that I’m satisfied with and work with them.  I’m very personable and meet new people on model mayhem.  I am proud of myself for being a hussler.  I look for photographers who are also looking to build their portfolios and we both benefit from them.  I’ve learned how to retouch myself and I’m happy with where my pictures are at.  Since I’m new, and have my portfolio, I can start working soon.

Jessica Harris, KMM Talent reviewsWhat has been your favorite job you’ve done so far?

I like high fashion photoshoots when you have a wardrobe stylist, makeup stylist and hair stylist.  I’m a girly-girl so I like getting dolled up.  Tyra said I have a commercial face, so I like getting done up and being able to be creative and quirky, so big photo shoots I like.  All I have to do is show up and then work it for the cameras.  I want to do runway, but I’m kind of nervous because I’m not a size 0 and I won’t be.  I have a butt, and I’d like to keep that.  If it’s appropriate, I want to do runway.

Favorite/idol models?

Heidi Klum because she’s done what I want do do.  She’s a personable person and is gorgeous.  She has a family, is successful, and has grown it into a business.  She stays in shape and is beautiful, and is the epitome of what I want to do.  I’m a Swiss citizen and she speaks German, and I speak German.  The more that makes you stand out and the more willing you are to learn, is a good thing.  I’ve been complemented that I do what it takes to get the shot and I’m fun to work with.  I don’t want to be one of the girls who complain and since I’m a model I don’t really have a say.  I’m not high maintenance or picky.  I hate when models are because it’s not the models choice.  Models are the clay that we mold to fit what the photographers want.  I want to make that process delightful for everyone.  When people like you, and you produce great work, you get more jobs.  I don’t have a finish line.  I just want to keep going until …

What do you look for in photographers?

I don’t like ones that just snap and don’t stay anything.  It’s so many frames and you probably only got 2 good shots.  I like photographers that take their time and work with the lighting.  Ones that give some direction and produce shots that most times don’t even need editing.  Photographers that appreciate the art aspect, value the process, and are skilled and knowledgeable.  If it’s just snap snap snap, you forget what you’re doing with your face.  Different photographers look for different things, so as long as they can communicate, then we’re good.

Are there any jobs you wouldn’t do?

Porn.  I used to say I wouldn’t do nude, but I have done a nude shot.  You can see everything and nothing at the same time and it’s a beautiful shot.  It’s the artistic illusion.  When it’s artisitic, I don’t really have a boundary.  But some people take it too far and it can become trashy.  If I’m not comfortable, I’ll speak up.  As long as it fits my values, then it’s fine.  I’ve seen a lot of pictures where boobs may be out, but it’s a beautiful picture and its high fashion, and that is what you achieved, so that’s fine.  In this day, edgy is in and so is sex, so as long as its artistic, it’s fine.

What was the fashion show like?

Rushed.  It’s very fast moving and exhilarating.  It was fun and it was a smaller fashion show.  As a model, you do all types of jobs and you have to be able to adapt to the different settings.  We didn’t know where we were walking until we got there, but I go with the flow and that is part of the runway.  It’s always more enjoyable when you like the clothes you are modeling, so that made it easier.

Who is your inspiration and why?

My daddy.  He passed away 3 years ago, so as of now he is my motivation because I’m his legacy and I carry on his name and work to make him proud.  Even when he was still alive, he supported me in whatever I wanted to do and modeling is who I am and what I want to do.  I’m inspired to do this because of that belief that he has.  It’s harder when my mom has a specific idea of what she wants me to do, I have to make her proud first.  He will always be proud no matter what I do first.  Most definitely a daddy’s girl.

Looking forward to in the future?

Being a supermodel.  I really want to do runway and big fashon shows.  Not necessarily Fashion Week, because you might not get paid and I’m about getting paid.  It’s live, so you have to be on point.  Making it big and hopefully doing big shows for big designers.

ANTM, Kaback Model Management ReviewsWhat is your dream?

My ultimate modeling dream would be to be a Victoria’s Secret Model.  Only Ford and Elite do Victoria’s Secret (mostly).

I’ve dreamed of doing the Victoria secret’s show with the wings.  If I see it, I can hopefully do it one day.  I’m not discouraged, and I can only work hard to get there.  If I have other things that I do to be proud of, then that’s ok.

Goals in life and modeling?

Be successful.  Modeling-money, good reputation, impressive resume. I want to be successful in whatever other endeavors I pursue.  I want to go back to school. I like research so that’s probably the backup plan.  I find science interesting because you can always learn more and I love to learn.  I want to go to graduate school; I’m not on a strict timeline, but it’s something I want to do.  I want to make my mom proud; she has more rigid views-I want her to have faith in me, and I just have to show her that now is the rough point, but my time will come.

What are your hobbies?

I used to do swim team and became a certified lifeguard.  I like swimming.  I work and that takes a lot off my mind.  I’m good with customer service and sales, so whatever I do incorporates them. I like to go out.  I have a twin sister and now she is in DC for school, so I visit her.  She is my biggest fan, which is nice, but she isn’t into the modeling thing.  My other sister I got her a photo shoot, but I don’t want to push her.

What advice would you give to people about coming in to KMM?

Being hesitant is always good, because it’s safe.  Use that to motivate yourself to do your research.  If you see negativity online, realize where it’s coming from.  If it’s jealousy, don’t listen to it.  If it’s coming from someone who is already signed, then look into it more.  It’s not a scam because it’s realistic and it’s an investment.  It’s gonna help you take the next step that you can’t do on your own.   Not everything you read is true.  If your gullible, the industry might not be for you.  I’ve only been here for a week, but I’m excited for it and know eventually I’ll be a success story.  It’s not 100% just on your management.  You have to have the drive, be on time and work hard.  It’s a partnership.

Has your life changed a lot since signing?

Yes, because my focus is not strictly academics, but not so much because I’m still a newbie. I know it will change a lot more and that excites me.  I’m not waiting anymore, I’m ready and know that my day-to-day life will change.

VIP Talent Connect Industry Expert Featured Valerie Smaldone Featured on IFV News

VIP Talent connect Reviews, Valerie SmaldoneIFV speaks with Valerie Smaldone – 5-time Billboard Magazine Award winner, radio personality,actor, producer, voice over artist and coach (Valerie Smaldone’s website. Ms. Smaldone shares her experiences, thoughts on reinventing one’s self and more.  Valerie was host of Alycia Kaback’s Women’s Empowerment Summit this past summer in NYC and has served as a recurringVIP Talent Connect Industry Expert over the recent years.  Valerie has helped many of Alycia Kaback’s talent over the years and we are very greatful for that! Watch Valerie’s Story here: Valerie Smaldone on IFV News

KMM Talent’s Erica Damiani Exclusive Interview with Ali Talent Scout with Vip Talent Connect

Alycia Kaback book review, Erica DamianiHow did you first get started with The It Factor with Alycia Kaback and KMM?

I was at the mall, looking disgusting in my sweats and with my hair up, and one of your scouts approached me and then I came in to open call.

Was this something you had ever thought of doing?

Not really, because I didn’t have any connections or know how to get started.  Once David, the scout, came up to me, I was like yes, this is a good thing and maybe I can do this.

Being a part of KMM Talent, what jobs have you done so far?

I was in the Trav featuring Sean Kingston music video for Up and Down.  It was the greatest experience of my life and was so surreal.  All the people stopping to watch us and taking our pictures was such an amazing experience.

What was the experience on set like?

We were on set, at Coney Island, for at least 12 hours and Sean Kingston wasn’t there for the video.  The people on set were constantly giving us direction for what we needed to do and there were a lot of takes.  I was in the video more than I thought I was going to be, which is an amazing accomplishment.

Did you ever think that you would be in a music video or that this would be something you would want to do again?

I never thought of being in a music video before and couldn’t really believe I was going to a casting for one.  I’m constantly checking my emails for jobs to go to, and I’m definitely open to doing more.

Alycia Kaback, Erica DamianiAre there any jobs that you wouldn’t do?

Hair shows because I don’t want to have to do anything or have anybody do anything with my hair now.

Who is your inspiration and why?

Kim Kardashian because I love her and I want to be her.  She is drop-dead gorgeous and is so successful.  Watching her show, you get to see how hard she does work and trying to keep up with all that every day has to be hard.  I would love to do what she does-photo shoots (not runway), commercials, and having a clothing line.  That’s amazing!

What models do you look up to?

Tyra Banks because she is such a huge role model for women regarding weight issues.  She made it a point to make it known that there isn’t anything wrong with being petite or bigger than a size 0.

What are you looking forward to in the future?

Getting more work and eventually getting to the point where all I do is modeling and acting jobs and moving to New York.

If you could be on any TV show or movie, what would you want to be in?

True Blood, I love vampires.  I want to be a vampire.  I love supernatural powers so I think that would be really fun to work on a set that has that so you can see how all that stuff happens.

If you could have any superpower, what would you want to have?

To be a vampire.  I’d want to be telepathic and be able to read people’s minds.

What do you want to be able to see in a photographer that you are doing a photo shoot with?

I want to be able to see his creativity and passion.  I want to be able to see how much he loves what he does and have his personality show.

What do you want photographers or casting agents to get from you after meeting with you?

I want them to know that I’m very passionate about what I do.  I take it very seriously and want to be recognized as a serious model or actress.

What are your hobbies?

I play flag football and sports.  I like hanging out with my friends, going to movies, shopping and spending time with my family and nephew.

Has your life changed a lot since signing with Kaback Model Management?

Not yet, because I’ve only done 1 job, but I’m hoping it will once I start doing more stuff.

What advice would you give to people who are thinking of coming in to an open call for the first time, or are trying to figure out if this is something they should do?

I was totally skeptical at first.  But I realized that it was something I wanted to do, so I went after it.  If this is something that people really want to do, they need to go for it.

Kaback Models Reviews, Erica DamianiWhat made you decide to do this?

Once I was officially paid off and put on the Kaback Model Management website, it was a week or two later when I got emails about a casting for a hair show.  Once I started seeing the emails and opportunities, I thought this was really cool.  Then, when I went to the casting for the music video, and seeing the hundreds of people who went to the casting and actually getting picked, it really motivated me to keep going and pursue this further.

What was the casting for the music video like?

It was very intimidating at first.  I walked in and almost all of the girls were 5’11” legit model types, and I’m only 5’4”.  There were other KMM girls there too and everyone who I met was really nice.  The process of the casting wasn’t complicated, just intimidating.  The first casting we had to dance for 10 seconds, and I was freaking out when I found out we had to dance because I’m not used to dancing.  One of the casting people was the director for the video so he saw us from the beginning.

What’s been your experience working with people in the office?

They are very helpful.  They want to help you and are very supportive.  They are real with you and tell you how it is.  It might not be every day that you hear from them, but they are constantly sending out your info for jobs.  They care about the models.

Who is your favorite actress?

Jennifer Aniston because she is so funny and I love watching the movies she is in.

What advice would you give to people who want to do this but don’t know if they have what it takes?

Never feel like you don’t have what it takes.  You have the ability to do whatever you want to do, as long as you do what it takes to get there.  Zero is not a size and never be insecure with yourself and what you look like.

What are your thoughts on Alycia Kaback and The It Factor?

I think the company and the employees are very caring and willing to help people reach their dreams by being the middle man.  They are connected to the higher guys in NY-the directors and casting agents-and they can get us there to meet them.

Alycia Kaback Announces New Tommy Mottola Film to be Directed by Richard Stratton a VIP Industry Expert

Richard Stratton, Talent Scout for Philadelphia Alycia Kaback is proud to say VIP Industry Expert Richard Stratton, who spoke at the last VIP Talent Connect Summit on September 17th will be directing one of the biggest films of the year!

Richard began his career in the film industry as a writer and line producer on the TV documentary, Fallen Champ: The Untold Story of Mike Tyson, directed by Barbara Kopple. His other documentary film credits include Prisoners of the War on Drugs,The Execution Machine: Texas Death Row, Thug Life in D.C., which won an Emmy in 1999, and Gladiator Days: Anatomy of a Prison Murder, all produced for the America Undercover series on HBO. Crude, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2009.O.G: Joe Stassi, Original Gangster, is currently in production.  Stratton served as technical consultant on the first season of HBO’s dramatic prison TV series, Oz. He was the creator and executive producer of the dramatic TV series Street Time, which aired on Showtime; he wrote and directed The Whole Truth, the Season Two finale of Street Time.  Stratton’s feature film work includes writing and producing the 1998 film, Slam, which won the Grand Jury prize at Sundance and the Camerad’Or at Cannes, as well as numerous other awards. Whiteboyz, which Stratton also co-wrote and produced for Fox Searchlight, was released in 1999. He recently completed an adaptation of Edward Bunker’s novel, Dog Eat Dog, which he is directing. Stratton also wrote The Brand, for Sean Penn to star in and direct.  Stratton is the former Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the world renowned High Times magazine, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2004. His novel, Smack Goddess, written while Stratton was in prison, was published in 1990.  Stratton’s fiction and journalism have appeared in numerous magazines including GQ, Esquire, Details, Newsweek, Rolling Stone, Spin, Penthouse, Playboy and Story Magazine. Nation Books published his latest book, Altered States of America, in October, 2005. He lives in New York City.

Former Sony music big Tommy Mottola has a documentary in the works. The film about the Casablanca Records honcho is nearing completion, according to sources, and is being shot by director Richard Stratton, who’s also co-authoring Mottola’s upcoming tell-all, “The Last Starmaker.” Sources said that the doc, which is backed in part by VH1, will include concert footage and appearances by Celine DionGloria EstefanShakiraClive Davis and Randy Jackson, among others. “The doc is of Tommy’s life, but also documents the history of music, from Elvis to the iPod,” said a source.

Read more here.

Everyone at VIP and KMM Talent can’t wait see it!

Alycia Kaback Presents James Olivieri on Being a KMM Talent

James Olivieri, VIP Talent Scout Ali

 

How did you first get started with the company?

I was scouted on South Street by one of  Alycia Kaback’s Talent Scouts for Philadelphia and it was dumb luck that I was turning down the same corner that she was.  She just stopped me on the street and I came in for an open call and was invited back on Mother’s Day and then just kept coming back whenever I was told to.

Was this something you ever thought you could do or wanted to do?

I knew I could do it, but I never really imagined doing it.  It seemed so far off and out of the ordinary.  Alycia Kaback and The IT Factor gave me the opportunity to see that my dreams were possible.

What made you decide that KMM was the right thing for you?

The people and the surroundings, especially Alycia and how she made me feel when I was here.  I never had a bad feeling about anybody or any of the events or auditions.  At the beginning, it could seem overwhelming about having to pay money to go to VIP Talent Connect Summits, but the more I came in, the more I felt comfortable and trusting towards everybody.

What is the time commitment like?

It is an everyday thing.  You have to always be conscious of what you’re doing and how you treat your body.  “You get paid for the waiting and everything else is free.”  It could be a 10 hour day, but it’s worth it for the end result.  You just have to find a way to entertain yourself while you wait and it’s a good chance to practice meditation.

What are your thoughts about the VIP Summit since you have already experienced one? 

I went to the September 17th VIP Summit and it is such a great place to meet and network with the entire industry ranging from music, film, acting to fashion and modeling.  It’s all under one roof-a one stop shop that is a unique event that anybody and everybody can benefit from.

What are some of the jobs you’ve done so far?

I’ve been to New York with Robert Russell for one-on-one acting classes.  I was supposed to do the Paul Mitchell hair show next weekend but I’m the best man in a wedding.

Talent Scout for Philadelphia with Vip Talent Connect & Alycia KabackWhat was that experience like working with Robert Russell?

Intense.  It’s an hour that feels like an eternity, but in a good way.  It is ground-breaking for me because I’ve never known the ins and outs of acting.  Because he is so knowledgeable and passionate about it, it’s a great experience.

Do you prefer modeling or acting?

 I’m on an acting kick, but I keep both options open.  I was brought in for music, but now I’ve done a 180 to acting.  It brings out a lot of personality that you keep battled down because of routine life. 

I would love to do some big feature film and work with outstanding directors or producers such as Martin Scorcese or the Cohen Brothers.  To work on Arrested Development, who are doing 10 new episodes and a movie, would be my dream as a principal extra or anything with the cast.  To be around that cast and crew would be awesome.

What are you looking forward to in the future? 

Work and just the knowledge that I can acquire from any facet of the industry and any opportunity that presents itself.  To get more in depth with every nook and cranny, whether its acting, modeling or music in order to gain a greater understanding of the industry as a whole.

To rule the world if all else fails!

What are your goals in both life and acting?

To always be myself, no matter what popularity or notoriety I gain.  Just be real to myself and be true to everyone around me and never forget where I come from, all while ruling the world.  To help as many people as I can with anything that I am given.

 In acting, I want to be able to master the craft and dredge up the ability to immerse myself in every role and every action.   To work with masters in the industry in their own craft and learn everything I can from every actor, producer, director, down to everybody-grips included.  Never give up.  It was always a favorite as a kid to direct, write and boss people around with what to do, but I like how being in front of the camera brings out your personality.  You can just learn things about yourself that you’ve never known were there.

 What do you want casting agents to come away with after working with you or meeting you?

A great first impression and a lingering remembrance of me.  To stop the rest of the casting process and say “that’s it we found it.”  I really want them to come away with a greater understanding of my passion and dedication.

What do you like to do outside of acting? 

I enjoy music and I play the guitar, bass, and piano to relieve stress.  I also like to play roller and ice hockey all while rooting for our Philadelphia sports teams.  I enjoy my friends and family as much as possible and just like to have a good laugh.

If you could be in any movie or TV show, what would you want to be in? 

Arrested Development

Any actors/actresses that you look up to?

Gary Oldham because he’s an amazing actor and Jason Bateman for his timing and good comedic character actor.  Brian Cranston from Breaking Bad because he brings such life to any character that he plays, especially in Breaking Bad.  He is so real-he bleeds it.  George Clooney since he’s such a prominent Hollywood icon.

James Olivieri, KMM Talent Success Stories Has your life changed a lot since becoming involved with Kaback Models?

Yes and No.  I have something to strive for now-a path that has presented itself to me.  I’m more open to changing my daily routine, down to diet and learning monologues.

And no because I don’t let anything really go to my head and I never forget who I am.  I’m always “representin’”.  Alycia and everyone at VIP Talent Connect won’t let me lose track of myself and keeps me humble.

Have you thought about what life would have been like if you didn’t come into that open call?

Life would just be mundane, boring, and monotonous and very routine.  I wouldn’t have the fire and passion to do what I’m doing today in going after my dreams.  I would have pigeon-holed myself into thinking I would be stuck at a desk-job my entire life.  It’s definitely changed for the better.  If I didn’t come in, I would have closed the door to all this opportunity and all the people I’ve met and the experience I’ve gained in such a short amount of time.

Who was the person you’ve met that is most exciting?

Alycia Kaback because she is so lively, down to earth, real and genuinely excited to see everybody move forward.  To see the woman who runs the show and to see how natural and easy she makes everything look was exciting. 

Nikki Blonsky because she is so genuine and determined about everything she does.  From her, I’ve learned to never forget where I’ve come from, as she does.  The advice she gave me was to “never give up” and “if you want it bad enough, you’ll make it happen.”

Robert Russell because he is such a positive influence.  He is the only person who could pump me up via email at 7:45 in the morning about a meeting a week away and I am so excited that I wake up and am on time at work. 

Who would you like to meet? 

Paul McCartney because he is one of the two last living Beatles alive whose been through Knighthood and has done so much for pop culture and charity.  He’s still kicking in the music business and it’s been 5 decades.  Who he knows and everything he knows would be remarkable to hear.

What would be your advice to people wanting to join, but are not quite sure this is the right thing for them?

It always starts with the disclaimer:  don’t believe everything you hear or see that is negative because I’m real and I’ve been around this place for some time.   The IT Factor and VIP Talent Connect like a home and family, which is a great comfortable feeling to have.  Everyone is rooting for you and they want to see you succeed. 

Do you want to someday become a member of SAG? 

At this point, I would say yes.  It’s only another stepping stone to the unlimited knowledge of people in the industry, as well as the information that I could learn from those who’ve gone before me, as long as they waive the membership fee.  It’s just another step to taking over the world!

Clerks Star Brian O’Hallaran for Alycia Kaback’s VIP Talent Connect Summit

Brian O'Hallaran, Clerks, VIP Talent Connect SummitAlycia Kaback was proud to have Brian O’Hallaran of Clerks fame at the most recent VIP Talent Connect Networking Summit.  Brian has been performing in film and theater for over 20 years.  With his first and most known role being Dante Hicks in Kevin Smith’s 1994 indie hit Clerks.  Brian has worked with some of the film industry’s best in Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back.  He voiced the role of Dante for the animated series Clerks on ABC.  He starred in the title role of the very dark comedy Vulgar. He owned a flower shop for the demented in the film Drop Dead Roses. He tackled the role of a former TV superhero in the film The Junior Defenders.  Brian returned to the role of Dante in the film Clerks 2.  He recently took a turn towards the horror genre, sort of, in Steven Mena’s film Brutal Massacre: A Comedy, a mock-u-mentary look at the making of a horror film.  Brian was seen in M. Night Shyamalan’s The Happening.  He was last seen in James L. Brooks comedy How do you Know? with Paul Rudd and Reese Whitherspoon.  Brian has attended numerous film festivals around the world, including Cannes, Sundance, and Toronto.  He has been a judge and awards host at the Nashville, Long Island, Humboldt, and Phoenix film festivals.  He started his acting career in theater.  He has performed in over 50 productions, such as The Beauty Queen of Lenanne, Translations, Dancing at Lughnasa.  Some of his other favorite roles include Stones in his Pockets, Picasso at the Lapin Agile, ART, The Passion of Dracula, and The Crucible.  As a member of the New Jersey Repertory Theater since 1998, he appeared in the world premiers of A World I Never Made, Mike Folie’s An Unhappy Woman and Panama, D.W. Gregor’s The Good Daughter, Submitted by C. C. Randall McCloskey by Ian August, as well as being involved in the development of a number of new plays and films.  He currently has three films in the pre-productions stage of development.  Alycia Kaback and everyone at VIP felt so privileged to have Brian as a mentor!