All posts by "Ilana Rapp"

Senior Writer
Ilana Rapp is a media-savvy Generation Xer with instinctive wit, quick humor and a taste for deep human emotions. As a former (child) actress with Broadway, film and television credits, she is adept at, well, lots of things. She currently blogs on The Huffington Post and writes entertainment pieces for NYCastings. She is a huge fan of the television show V. Ask her why her favorite number is 22. Follow Ilana on Twitter @LizardLadyNJ.
Xolo Maridueña and Tanner Buchanan in Cobra Kai

Child actors have been a staple in the film industry for many years, bringing dynamic energy and fresh talent to the big and small screens. While the focus for many ...

Auditioning can be a nerve-wracking experience for any actor, but for child actors, it can be even more challenging. As a parent, you want to help your child succeed, but ...
Broadway's Alex Wyse of Good Night, Oscar. Photo Credit: Tyler Gustin.

Alex Wyse is a multi-talented Broadway actor, writer, director and producer known for his relentless work ethic and creative drive. With a diverse skill set and a passion for storytelling, ...
The-Impact-of-Diversity-and-Inclusivity-in-Childrens-Entertainment-Ethnic

We released an article about Why Diversity Matters In Storytelling. This was based on a spectrum geared toward adults. Now, we’re going to talk about the impact of diversity and ...
Jack Nicholson In 'The Shining'

Actors who feel they can re-write the script is a phenomenon where actors, often with significant influence or clout, believe that they have the authority or creative license to modify ...
NYCastings-The-Power-Struggle-Actors-vs-Casting-Directors

The power dynamic between actors and casting directors can be debated til the end of time. While both actors and casting directors play crucial roles in the industry, the power ...
NYCastings-Why-Acting-Is-the-Most-Ridiculous-and-Fun-Profession-Out-There

Acting is one of the most bizarre and ridiculous professions out there. It involves pretending to be someone else for hours on end, all while wearing clothes that someone else ...
Why-Diversity-Matters-in-Storytelling-Bollywood

There’s been a growing emphasis on storytelling in the entertainment industry. Whether it’s in film, television or theater, audiences are drawn to stories that are emotionally compelling, thought-provoking and memorable. ...
NYCastings-Masked-Theater-The-Flash

Masked theater is a form of performance where actors wear masks to portray characters, tell stories and improvise. Think Phantom of the Opera. We have a lot to talk about ...
NYCastings-Viewpoints-Ensemble-Based-Theatre-A-Guide-to-Using- Time and Space

Dance and acting are two distinct art forms that have been combined in various ways throughout the history of theatre and performance. The combination can create a powerful experience for ...
Kristen Stewart in Crimes of the Future

In Part I of this series, we discussed Conquering Weaknesses and Celebrating Strengths. No actor is without weaknesses or areas in which they can improve. It’s important for actors to ...
Michael-Douglas-in-The-American-President-Conquering-Weaknesses-Celebrating-Strengths-A-Guide-for-Aspiring-Actors

To be a successful actor, it’s a must to have a clear understanding of your strengths and weaknesses. Knowing your strengths will help you to showcase your talents and stand ...
Navigating-the-Social-Challenges-of-Show-Business-children-standing-on-exercise-mat-practicing-yoga

One of the biggest challenges for children in show business is maintaining a healthy social life. From time constraints to geographic barriers, there are many obstacles that can prevent children ...
Behind the Curtain: What Families of Child Actors Go Through

Behind the curtain — the real lowdown of what show biz families go through — is a topic rarely discussed. From the early days of Hollywood to the present, child ...
Shomari Love in Homicide City

Shomari Love is a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry, with a reputation for excellence as an actor, producer, and director. His passion for the craft and his dedication to delivering ...
Dustin Hoffman in Tootsie

Drag acting is a form of performance art that involves performers, often members of the LGBTQ+ community, dressing up in exaggerated costumes and makeup to portray characters of a different ...
The Great Gatsby. Photo Credit Mark Senior, Helen Maybanks, Sam Taylor

Immersive theater is a form of live performance in which the audience members are not mere spectators but active participants in the unfolding of the story. In immersive theater, the ...
Grant Hall. Photo Credit Audrey Slinger.

Many of you may recognize Grant Hall from his role as Kyle on Freeform’s hit series, Grown-ish. What you may not know is that Grant’s journey to success has been ...
Steal-Inspiration-From-Your-Favorite-Actors

Actors are often inspired by the performances of other actors, and it’s not uncommon for aspiring stars to imitate their favorite actors in order to build their own acting techniques. ...
Lurking-in-the-Background-Gets-You-Nowhere-and-Everywhere

Shhhh. That’s my first thought that comes to mind when I think about lurking in the background. Call it sneaky, creepy or dirty, but to me, staying quiet is a ...