RECALL for Web Series LAW OF NATURE -- Aug 24

As Bruce the Fish Lake Park proprietor, this witty look at a traditionally Canadian institution known as resort ownership in the bush/woods/north etc...I'll be challenged to suppress my true "hoser" ism background....or maybe better still I should bring it to the surface!

Beauty eh!

Funny 2nd round of sides to learn...should be good....hoping for great day!

Audition for Educational Corporate video Aug 24

As the spokesperson, in a series of training videos....there'll be lots of teleprompt reading which is great as I have done several of these in the past.

One solid page of business jargon and Jack Welch quotes for the audition and things should be fine....

Will draw on my days working in the ad agency game for several years....finally might help me!

stay tuned hopefully for some good news.

Booked!!! National Canadian TV spot for a cold remedy product

Filming on Monday August 24th @ a pharmacy with airing to follow shortly, in time for the Fall/return to school/sporting season perhaps!

more details to follow as I learn them....nice!

FORENSIC FACTOR New season starts AUG 21....check out my episode "Picture Perfect"

...playing Special Agent Tommy Ray (white hair and all, pay attention people or you won't recognize me, just kidding, it's a co-lead role) of the Florida Department of law Enforcement who chases down Nelson Serrano after several years and finally gets his man.

Justice is served. SA Ray is a real life hero.

10pm Friday AUG 21st, then later that same night into the wee hours of Saturday at 2a.m.

Tune in and then let me know your thoughts, either on here or via facebook!

2 auditions on Friday 14th : project "Science" as the game show contestant, then one for ALEVE (now avail in Canada) as the golfer

Wow....a busy week and hoping to land something soon.....

Stay tuned...

2 Auditions on Aug 13 Thursday: TV Pilot called "The Laws of Nature" and a TV commercial called "Project Health".

2 Auditions on Thursday: TV Pilot 2:40pm, "The Laws of Nature" and TV commercial 1:10pm "Project Health" (for a US hospital airing in Virginia only).

Stay tuned for good news let's hope!

Audition: Wednesday Aug 12, for "Project Parktastic:" a PSA

A funny TV campaign about the greening of the City.

Should be fun...

Stay tuned, give it my best shot, all in one "host, car Sales guy, and Lawyer" one actor, all 3 parts.

We shall see!

Project PowerPad (tm?) call back on Monday Aug 10

Funny campaign, where I'll do my best Alec Baldwin/Justin Batemen combo performance.

Working hard to land this gig, very nice project to have.

Stay tuned.....

Wrapped shooting KODAK Digital Photo Frames!

Desert Storm Military man, full garb and semi automatic machine gun in hand, there I stood on a wintery set in the middle of a farm in Orangeville, ONT in August!

"OK, now you just killed 20 people, show me that smile!"

Too funny. Hope I can be seen in the final spot.

Details of airing to follow. North American release and interent use.

Cast as Uncle Tommy in a Kodak Digital Photo Frame TV campaign. Shoots w/o Aug 10

Kodak wardrobe moment Friday 130.

Smile much? I'll be doing more of that now!

Stay tuned for details.....I'll be the Desert Storm trooper, full miliatry fatigues....probably won't even be able to recognize me. We shall see.

Auditioning as Joseph Cannon opposite the lead (his wife) in VIVIAN CANNON P.I. Aug 5.

Vivian Cannon falls into her new profession through a broken heart. Bells started going off in Vivian’s head when her husband Joseph Cannon began losing his passion for her bed, preferring to stay out with his new partner long after the cocktail hour. The only profession worse than cops for cheating on their wives, was that of the detectives who lead them. Joseph and his partner Russell Quint were two of the best. Vivian always liked Russell and truth be known, Russell had a soft spot for Vivian. This gave Vivian some peace of mind. She knew Russell would discourage any extracurricular activities her husband might consider.

A stray bullet from Joseph’s gun changes all this. Unable to return to active duty, Russell opts to take a payout from the department. Forced into early retirement but choosing to stay close to the action, Russell opens up a watering hole for the “men in blue” called “The Rusty Copper”. Joseph’s new partner, Shaun Givens, is a real vixen. A force to be reckoned with; her ambition equalled only by her sexuality.

Vivian’s first case; her own cheating husband. The divorce settlement was quite lucrative which opened her eyes to how much people would pay for information that causes them so much pain.

I've read 3 scripts so far and this looks to become a really great series. Stay tuned should I be cast, for shooting schedules and further announcements over the next month or so.

Audition Aug 4 - POWERMAT - Wirless recharging device....funny stuff TV campaign

A mix of Alec Baldwin and Justin Batemen type characters....reactions to this fantastic (relatively) new item that can recharge electronic devices thereby eliminating all the cables that drives us insane.

Very incredible thing that designers even now are building into homes and desks and wall etc....Google it if you must.

Stay tuned. Really hoping for this one.

AUDITION-- project "Telecom" Friday July 31

Another initiative from the Rog(ers) aka "rahj" Mahal, this time for Parental Control on the TV remote---a channel blocker.

"Dad" blocks (XYZ) and son enters a moment later trying to view only to be denied. Dang!

standing by.....

AUDITION-- Project HELP --a 1 hour TV fund raiser for poverty stricken childen living with disabilities

What an amazing story of Duke and Scott who've traveled to Africa, seen the devastation that a child living with a disability must endure in this region, and then compound that by having to live in poverty. incredible that these gentlemen are compelled to make changes. It's a small gesture to be a part of their efforts, but humbling at the same time.

Whoever gets the role as host will be a better person for it.

AUDITION-- Centrum Multivitamins July 30 for a TV campaign

As "Dad" this role is admiring the ever so healthy Mom doing cartwheels.

We're hoping for a call.....please stand by

Audition---FLASHPOINT---CBS/CTV Prime time TV series---episode Behind the Blue Line as SIU Officer---Tuesday July 28

What an exciting opportunity.

Google "Flashpoint TV series" if you're unfamiliar...you can watch episode online if you haven't seen it....it's an awesome show, great talent, very high production values and this particular script is the season finale....so you know it's a cliff hanger! I read the script and it's truly got pretty heavy stuff for regular viewers who will no doubt be surprised.

Hopefully...hoping....cuz without hope, what have we got....

Audition---Digital Photo Frames Monday July 27

As the Uncle in the military, a moment captured and played back in these new digital photo frames where the owner can upload photos and create a slide show, even add music etc....very cool.

Stay tuned....

Audition---Rogers Home Phone---Monday July 27

Kind of a fun campaign....

stay tuned

"AFTERMATH--No Spin" - Shoot Wrapped

...has just wrapped day 5 of filming "AFTERMATH: The Day the Earth Stood Still." aka "No Spin." and is spent! Fantastic production, great week, hard work, high energy, tons of laughs, great crew....just an awesome awesome week.

Stay tuned for news about airing and trailers and photos. Add me to your Facebook friends too!

AFTERMATH - No Spin--- wrapped Day 4---now Chicago Dad is saving lives from flooding! Sweet.

Da Bears!

Chicago comes to the rescue. Flooded streets with high on the food chain sea life now penetrating the safe zone....people are forced to evacuate in hip high water struggling to get to higher ground for safety. Stormy, choppy waters to contend with, but I endure and save as many as possible.

Bad news.....only one more day of filming left to go.

the crew has been so high spirited and wonderful to be around. It's been a long 2 weeks for them (one for me) and the long days have NOT detracted from the vision and end goal.

THIS WILL ROCK when completed.

Stay tuned...

AFTERMATH-No Spin --wrapped Day 3 of 5---so awesome this is

Chicago Dad and Father Denver just don't get along. For a host of reasons, and the intense rivalry and bitterness culminates in a brawl. Love it.

The heat is getting to everyone (the show's heat not the 'real' environment)...sleep, over heated, starved, soon to be hopelessly committed to certain doom, we press on eeking out a meagre survival while trying to maintain some sense of decorum and a family setting.

This show is so cool.

More news on filming as it happens and news of airdates will be posted eventually. Discovery and National geographic channels to start...?

stand by for news of Day 4 shortly.

MR Submarine CALLBACK Wednesday----Good news bad news ??? Cuz I'll currently be on set.Arrrgggghhhh!!!!

While filming AFTERMATH this week, I've been notified of my breakdown and call sheet for day 3 of 5 for me, and wouldn't ya just know it.....I've been invited back for a Mr. Sub TV commercial, but I can't get away from set/location to do it....just too busy! Dammit!

It's good to be working, nice to be in demand, better when ya can do it all....and it's such a great campaign too...

Alas....perhaps I may get cast without the callback...ya just never know. Fingers and toes crossed on that one! Shoots July 27.

Standing by.......

"AFTERMATH 2: No Spin" (as it is correctly called--now wrapped Day 2 of 5!

Today we shot the insanity that has taken over the city caused by sleep deprivation resulting in endless car crashes and certain death. We're living in a virtual zombie like environment now and I drove upon an accident scene and hopelessly & lethargically offered assistance. WTF is going on!!!!!!!!!!!!!????????? Must ......get........ sleep..........

Back at it tomorrow for more exciting stuff, Day 3, now living in in what is believed to be our final sanctuary ....we've been reduced to harvesting rainwater, working in the deadly sun and so on....is there anyone out there?

Off to Seneca College in King City for our shooting location Day 3.

AFTERMATH: The Day the Earth Stood Still ~~ wrapped Day 1 of 5

This show is gonna be soooooooo cool.

Discovery and National Geograpghic channels at some point in the future stay tuned for updates, google searches etc all good ideas.

Synopsis: once the Earth stops rotating....let's take a look-see at what exactly the aftermath may be upon the environment and humanity itself.

Nice. Very cool. It's hot!

IKEA -- Recall Audition on Friday 17th.

Awesome, and hoping to land this one!

Break my leg.

Thanks me.

Stand by for good news hopefully.

Sunday July 19, 8pm HISTORY CHANNEL---Zero Hour

See me keep cool with nerves of steel as disaster looms in 'Zero Hour - 'Falling Star Columbia' on Sunday, July 19 at 8 PM on History TV.

As Leroy Cain, Mission Control Flight Director, and last person in contact with the crew aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia, Zero Hour counts down the final hour of one of the most catastrophic events in the history of space aviation when that very space shuttle, the most advanced vehicle ever built, disintegrates in a fireball in the sky over Texas.

Tragic yet edutaining at the same time.

Audition: "IKEA" --- Monday July 13th

will be auditioning for an "IKEA" television spot on Monday.

Stay tuned for news on this one. Very clever campaign from the inspiring work behind this client's every campaign.

Audition: MR SUB --- Monday July 13th

I've been invited to audition for a "Mr. Sub" TV commercial on Monday. VERY FUNNY campaign. SO would love to be cast as part of this agencies work for this client!

RECALL audition for "BREAKOUT: Texas 7"

got recalled for "BREAKOUT: Texas 7" TV series, and will be auditioning on Monday July 13th.

"AFTERMATH" the docudrama---Cast and start filming July 20

I've accepted the role of "Chicago Dad" in the docudrama 'AFTERMATH' planning to film 5 days starting July 20, and thanks James Rait, Crystal Kramer, Gary Lang and Cream Productions. It's an awesome concept, fantastic script and am really looking forward this one!

No audition required. Nice.

Audition for Project HOGS -- July 8

Manufacturer of "HOGS" can only mean Air Hogs to me. That's fun!

stand by....we'll see after Wednesday.

audition for Project "ENERGY" on July 8

What does Hank from King of the Hill and this campaign have in common?

Haven't seen the script, but I surmise its about propane and propane supplies, possibly!!

Stand by for news

Toshiba Laptops---RECALL---July 6

Performed again with Isabella who I also auditioned with the first time.

Went pretty well even though I cannot do the Russian squat dance!

there were 4 other guys there, who all amazingly looked similar to one another and unlike me altogether, making me wonder why I was the odd duckling....they were a lot shorter than I at 6'2" (probably they were 5'9" at most) and all were showing definite receding hairlines, but all showing slightly less around the middle than I.

My thinking is, I am too big for the picture frame; me dancing hip hop thinking I am sooooooo cool and happenin' whereas the daughter slouching in her loveseat/couch/recliner continues to focus on MTV show and occasionally shoots me the "yeah right Dad, what planet are you from?" looks......so I am very high in relation and proximity to her eyelines, and thus it creates a fair gap or amount of space/distance between us to connect....but I know I over analyze things....cuz......well cuz.......

ya just never know now do ya!

It was fun, I did my best, made em smile and enjoy my work which is what I think they wanted as a reaction.

So we shall see. Break a leg to me (and to you Isabella). Or whomever gets cast, we'll be watching!

Audition for FORCE hockey equipment manufacturer

On Monday July 6....having seen the script, featuring several NHL stars...possibly linked to the Olympics or start of new NHL season in the Fall '09/Winter 2010.

Be a real nice gig....hoping....waiting....

Audition for Toshiba--July 3

fun spot of "hipster Dad" NOT!!!

standing by hoping to be cast.

SHOOT "Project C"

From June 16.....Pharmaceutical corporate video series for anti depressant treatment.

Nice and fun one day gig.
Thanks to all.

Audition for BREAK OUT ---TV series recountiung real prison breaks

From June 5

Audition for NIKE TV spot

From June 4th

Break Out audition---TV series recountiung real prison breaks

from June 1st

TV Show pilot taping....AWESOME AWESOME DAY...OMG am I hurtin'

from.......Wednesday, June 3, 2009

I cannot imagine bootcamp.
I have seen hell and it's name is "me trying to be a dumbass."

I refuse to grow up, and further refuse to act my age!

OK enough. The day was a lot of fun. The 2 days afterwards? not so much.

Go team Blue, Booooooo Yellow and Boooo Red.

We kicked ass in the Growler event, bull dogging our way to the finish line. Hauling 600 lbs of dead weight behind me on a grid iron...on a hosed down flooded and bloody saoking and slippery wet, impossible to gain any any footing, on hand and feet only (no knees)....right after my dog had to do the same stunt but on DRY LAND, and only hauling 2 lbs....... but like that dumb ass hound dog at the end of its rope on Bugs Bunny, when it strangles itself and flips upside down landing on its back, so too did Bub, dammit and they weren't rolling tape.....too bad....now THAT would made some awesome you tube out takes, or legal matter on the disclaimer "no animals were hurt during the filming of this program! But hey Bub is a scrappy little doo! But she did get shy after that 'round-the world' toss. Too funny.

Moving along....to the Dirty Dog event.....Bub was the best in class...top notch performance....highly skilled and ran the obstacle course in the best time by far, inluding, around the pylons, up the ramp, down the ramp, across the balance beam, into the pool, fetch the ball, over the steeple chase hurdles, around the horm, through the tunnel, leaping over the mud, and uponto the podium. Fantastic!

then uh oh...I had to repeat that stunt, but made harder....crawl up over and across while eating ju-jubes off the planks....on all fours through the water, fetch in a bob-for-the-toy fashion, then abs down prone across the rolling barrels, and burst through the wall and crawl thru the tunnel filled with feathers and high speed fanning action, then craawl thru the mud under 18 inch tarp and finally onto podium.

OMG...doesn't reading that just make u exhausted....try doing in the shape and condition I am in, and compete aginst 2 super fit youg adult 20 somethings and their dogs....Jordana with Murphy and Andrew with Ryder, but worthy competitors but let's face it, nothing says champions like experience of this old dog... dawg!

Finally the interviews with the guest hosts....very funny performances from Ayumi Iizuka and Jeff "Boomer" Phillips.

Thanks so very much to everyone fpor making the day so enjoyable. Good luck with the plans to sell it and have this idea become a reality.

Steff Millman( Assoc Producer), Shellie Rubin (Prod Mgr), Barry Davis (Series Producer), Leo Scheman (Director), Kevin Healey (Exec Producer), Christopher Elias (DoP), and so many more.

Leave now!

Audition for BEAT THE DOG -- a TV Pilot (featuring Bub the mutt and yours truly?)

from back on .....Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Interesting opportunity for me and my dog...........

While Bub can do several trained tricks and stunts, I thought it would be interesting to audition her for a role on a show.

So we went to the park in Toronto to meet the CD Mercedes De Castro, and 'performed' for her.

Fun and borderline being humiliated some might say, but what a gas!

I wrestled Bub, we had a team meeting in which she walked right out of camera, which no one could have scripted any better, and the piece de resistance....Bub climbed a climb...right after I showed her how!

We waited for the call back...for 6 days, nothing came....and right after the day I had my bleached blonde hair returned to its normal colour....I got the call, "You're booked" Nice! (The bleached blonde hair was a role on a show I just completed a week earlier).

So now we're working towards May 23rd shooting day!

Ruh Roh!

finally tech issues overcome!

Long delay getting sorted out at last...and now I'm back baby!

www.garybiggar.com for demo reel and other fine things

Forensic Factor "Picture Perfect" is now wrapped!

...meaning I am now living among society as a full headed blonde man.

Looking forward to seeing how the world receives me in this state, some will be in the know, most will not. Interesting experiment about to unfold.

As for the shoot, it was a long week only because I had to add traveling into and out of Toronto prior to rush hour in order to be on set safely (ahead of) on time.

Thanks to Laurie and Sally for approving me (& presumably Karen and Pam as well?) to be involved and to have the opportunity to portray one of today's living heroes in Special Agent Tommy Ray, Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Stan and Craig for making me look good in the lens, and to Kelsey & Barb in Wardrobe, Omar in M/U & Hair, and Ian for my sound support.

Mike Armen and Ryan and Sari for ensuring I was always on time and in the right location too!

And to Andreea for providing the story line and keeping fully informed with the shooting sequence logistics and dialogue.

And to my acting partners, Robert, Bryan J, Terry, Brian S, Paco, Barry, Carlos, Marcel, Gene, Pat, Kelly, Chelsea & Chantal.

Stand by for news of when it might be airing, likely no earlier than fall 09. Check out www.discovery.ca Discovery Channel.

Forensic Factor "Picture Perfect" episode is wrapped after 2 of 4 days...

....and things are seemingly going well so far.

After having had my hair bleached white (that actually looks more blond than white) but it certainly is a new look for me.

Portraying Special Agent Tommy Ray of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement who lead a team in the investigation of 4 murders and ultimately the conviction of Nelson Serrano has been a wild ride so far.

Facebook will reveal some of the on set photos taken and the images of the new me!

I might even keep the blond thing going and let the natural colour just grow out. Of course that means new headshots and so on....


Day one was rainy in the morning and with much filming being done outside things got delayed and set back for 2-3 hours. the crew worked feverishly to make up the time and we proceeded to "shoot" the murder scenes and my return to the scene of the crime days later, trying to picture in my mind just how this all went down.

We also filmed some the interrogative scenes where Tommy questioned employees at the plant.

Day 2 saw us change locations on a much sunnier day, we filmed the arrest of Serrano, and few scenes with my visits to the parents of one of the victims that all helped to co-ordinate the eventual piecing together of some of the puzzle.

Sadly I didn't get to perform "Starsky" move sliding across the hood of a car, but I'm working on wearing down the director, at least for an out take if time permits at the conclusion of the week.

Off to the Royal York Hotel in Toronto for day 3!

Stay tuned.

BOOKED! New TV commercial campaign for Chapman's Ice Cream!!

Sweet!

This is so gonna rock! Fun concept and that always makes for a great day (shooting Saturday 25th) generating all the good stuff for spot "Ice Cream Banquet--A black tie affair"

Thanks Teresa and Terrence for having me in.

Looking forward to meeting my new family on Saturday!

Audition for COMCAST print/web campaign today.

Web and print campaign to be shot by a renowned photographer from NYC – recently generated/produced/created/photographed campaigns for Banana Republic, Max Azria and Apple, along with editorial for French Vogue!

52 talent will be chosen so the range of looks is wide....hopefully I fall well enough into one the ones they're searching for.

stand by.........

Chapman's Ice Cream Call Back Audition yesterday went deliciously well

Terrence and Teresa hosted me for another round of auditions for my favorite ice cream maker, Chapman's (from Markdale, because I'm from Owen Sound, and that's close enough to "support the team."

Still without my Tux, I performed another round of solid scenes and humourous yet serious facial communications.

Then, Chantal and I were paired to do the "Black Tie Affair" together. Great job partner!

Oddly, I was previously scheduled to be paired with a 'previous wife' (i.e. Terry Nason and I played spouses in a Jaffa Orange Drink spot 3-4 weeks ago). Unfortunately, Terry had to be at another function and the time slot was not compatible for her, and she had to change her 1:40 time to earlier (12:00) so didn't get seen together on this one.

Another talent I know, Pam Farrauto was also called back for this and I didn't see her, but it would fun to work with any of these great talents!

Standing by.......shoots April 25, so hopefully my next post on this subject is one that has me "cast/booked"!

Cast - Underworld Gangs - Shoots April 25 or 26

Selected from my head shot & resume which is nice!

I've done another episode for this team in the past about the Irish Mafia. I'm not even sure which this one is about.

With so many auditions ongoing, I hope to be in a good situation and will be able to land and schedule all of them!

Tied another score: Forensic Factor 2 - Cold Blood 2 - Underworld Gangs 2 - Bikers 1

Standby........

CALL BACK - Chapman's Ice Cream!! Nice

This would be so 'cool' to do, fun spot and locally aired.

Back into T.O. for Saturday 1:40pm.

Hopefully some good news shortly thereafter to announce.

Stand by.......

Audition today for "Project Vitamins" husband with a secret, as he steals away to play golf

my 4th audition this week alone.......hopefully I will report back some great news momentarily...

Stand by on this one....I have a good feeling!

Cast!! as Special Agent Tommy Ray in the Forensic Factor's Nelson Serrano Murder Trial episode!

Wow!

This is a real honour to portray this hero in this production.

If you're at all curious google: FDLE Tommy Ray or Nelson Serrano etc.

Shooting begins April 28 for 3 or 4 days.

Thanks to everyone who helped make this happen and I'm excited and looking forward to getting back together with the FF team!

I've tied the score....Forensic Factor 2 - Cold Blood 2 - Underworld Gangs 1 - Bikers 1

Won a Qualifying Poker game that gets me into the weekly $300K game

With a prize pool of a minimum $300,000 I've qualified by coming 2nd in a small stakes "$3 rebuys" game.

I played with my starting $3 buyin amount and tripled my 3000 to 9000 on the 3rd hand, rode that for a long time, then added another 3000 to sit at around 11-12 until the break (end of first hour), I added another 4500 chips for $3 building my stack to 17K at the break. Eventually there would be 4 seats offered as prizes in this game dues to the number of players 'rebuying" and building up the pot size. I finished 2nd.

I now advance to play on Sunday April 19, 12:45 PM in a game that guarantees at least a prize pool payout structure of $300,000 and that could go higher yet.

I've been in the zone recently and hopefully another nice cash will come out way!

Shuffle up and deal!

Auditioned today for Chapman's Ice Cream--airing in Canada

Is this heaven?

I get this role and OMG, I swear I will be willing to be paid in product. Will work for food, definitely applies here!

It's a Black Tie Affair......

One Take and out (again).

Nice.

Standing by...........

Auditioned today for: SKODA auto airing in Europe

With my 'wife' Amber, we drive along the countryside chatting idly about nothing really when suddenly I see something in the rear view mirror, Hmmm. Side view mirror glance, hmmm what? Where? look, look again, what the hell?" and scene!

Scene 2

getting out the car, kick a ball over to ET....react as if "what the hell is that anyway?" but not disgustedly so, just curiously subtle. Whereas the wife reacts as if its the cutest thing ever in the whole world!

Scene 3

as per scene 2, roles reversed. I am the happy smiling "it's so cute" reactor.

One take per scene, and I'm outta there!

Quite happy, we shall see, for Europe ya just never know what they're looking for.

Auditioned today - Forensic Factor - Nelson Serrano Murderer case in FLA

OK, how much fun is this? It's 1130pm on Tuesday nite and get the notice and sides to learn for audition at 1105am the next morning. Time to get at my homework!

The lead investigating officer, Special Agent Mr. Tommy Ray from the Florida Department of Law Enforement (FDLE) is a blondish/whitish /silverish-haired never -give-up kind of guy, who has ultimately proven to be a true hero, while simply doing his job. It's heart warming to know that such individuals exist for the betterment of humanity

Being up for this lead role has he excited at the opportunity.

So I am reading, reading, reading, watching Dateline, MSNBC, googling etc......and I begin to think how I can 'become' him.

The morning arrives and I'm good with the lines and blocking for camera in my mind. I also learned late last night a friend/colleague will be my scene reader. Nice! (great job Brian)

So I'd getting dressed begin to make, then pour my coffee. As I reach for the sugar I accidentally knock the lid of the flour jar off spilling residual flour in the process across the counter. Eureka!

My hair colour!

So out comes the bowl, filled and in goes my head. Shaken not stirred! Get the hairspray to matte is down and hold in place, and carefully drive away.

HOWEVER, needing to stop for gas, I get out and Whoosh a cloud of powder whirls around my face, it's excess flour escaping from my 'doo.' Too funny indeed.


So finally I arrive and Crystal welcomes me with a big "hurray!" and the Producer blurts out an uncontrollable guffaw knowing I've created a monster atop my head! "Oh how I wished I could've watched you make that Gary!" And not knowing now if I've completely embarrassed myself or shown commitment to doing whatever it takes in the spirit of Tommy Ray. Alas let's get it on and let the chips fall where they may. I am all business, matter of fact and try to display the character as much as possible in the few moments I have in the room with several key decision makers.

Scene went well enough I think, and I was quite happy with it. They don't call me "One take Gary" for no reason. (I'm kidding of course, because I'm sure there have been some real stinkers where they saw me and after one take, wouldn't dare ask me to torture them again!)

Stand by for some hopefully positive news.

So far in this crime drama score/race/castings it's:
Cold Blood 2 Forensic Factor 1 (and I'm looking to tie the score!)

Happy (belated) Birthday Surprise Bash! April 11, 2009

With a core of 8 of the 'guys' from all the way back to High School.......and for some of them farther than that....someone just has to suggest birthday party and we're good to go!

Mix into that, a "well co-ordinated severals months in the making" gathering of 100+ people to partake in festivities, live band Jensen & Walker with Fly coming in late to play later in the evening. Amazing sound had people rockin on the floor all night long!

Even during the Fire Alarm!!! Nice going Kuke.

So we had a nice dinner and cake at Alice's with Bag, Reg, B-I-L, Toast, Livvy, Evvy & Hansum. No Teeje and no OhMyBosh, dog sitting!

Time to "pop-in" thanks to Kathryn telling us it would be a surprise for JLon Johnny L for a quick brew and raise a glass to celebrate his 50th....but we're location challenged. Tuscany's apparently. We drove past the plaza and didn't notice it, so we went to Shopper's for directions. Sent us to 'another' Tuscany's across town, and it was closed under renovations. So thinking it was time to head home, for some reason, and urging from the passengers, we tripped back to the first locations, and what do ya know if we don't see a few friends outside. Lucky us.

So with no forwarning or anything said about JL being inside, we went in to and got hammered by a rousing "SURPRISE" and signage saying HAPPY 50th to the gang.

Individual cards, one big banner, tons of flowing cocktails, biggest birthday cake I've ever seen, and sandwiches that could've feed the entire town, it was a feast!!! It was fantastic! And it was over all too fast, clearly confirming that time flies when you're having fun!

Some faces i hadn't seen for years and the catching up was terrific.

looking forward to doing it again in another 50 years (the end of our 2nd trimester).

O-tay!

Pretty nice gift from Brother Bag to do all he did on a day for us, that was in fact HIS birthday.
What a guy that kid bro is....I owe you large!

(Come to Vegas and do the WSOP with me!)

COLD BLOOD Day 2 and 3 wrapped~~~I've been slacking off with updates. Sorry.

A great week of production last week on COLD BLOOD TV series crime drama re-enactments.

Did my Caruso CSI investigative best, had several laughs on and off set.

Thanks to great crew and talent, James, John, Rob, Simon, Indiana, Nina, 2x Mel, Javiera (?), Don, Matt, Barry, Lidio, Llayne, Rose, Tara, Buffy, Adrian, Linda, Paul and probably a bunch more that I cannot recall at this moment.

looking forward to seeing it on air sometime soon. Maybe My other COLD BLOOD episode will air as well here, The Donnah Winger Story.

COLD BLOOD~Rabbi Neulander Murder~wrapped Day 1

Smoothly in and out to arrest the Rabbi.

back on Wednesday to investigate

"Kiitos" to our Finnish clients and having me participate in their JAFFA orange drink TV spot. That's a wrap!

"Huomenta" everyone (meaning an enthusiastic "Morning" greeting).

The shoot was high energy, professionally produced and a lot of fun, labeit brief. Efficient and tight one might say.

Thanks to Shasta @ Jigsaw Casting for having me in, Shannon @ SpyFilms for the producing/production, and of course, Perrin in wardrobe and Shannon in make-up for making us look great. Last but not least, shout out to my fellow talent, Terry "Hi honey I'm home" and Mike "Did you want me to slap da base mon?? for their terrific performances.

JAFFA, Helsinki 's favorite orange drink that's good to the Finnish!

PS. Kiitos = thank you.

Booked COLD BLOOD - Detective Marty Devlin - Carol Neulander murdered by husband Rabbi

Nice!

Shoots April 6-9.....interesting case, google it.

3 possibly 4 days on set and reading script now.

Stand by for more info because how is this for a tough problem to have: I've booked a Forensic Factor episode shootings exact same time!

I need to get handle on the schedule, case, role, script, contracts and will make decision today.

Stand by!

Booked Forensic Factor Spokane Wa. Bombings--Sgt Norm Brown

Nice!

Shoots April 6-9.....interesting case, google it.

3 possibly 4 days on set with great crew.

reading script now.

Stand by for more info.

JAFFA orange drink BOOKED! TV spot shooting April 2nd.

Awesome!

Recently did an Excel gum for German market, now Jaffa soda for Finnish market.

Can you say Global economy?

Will post some pics on FaceBook after the shoot.

Stay tuned. I'm thirsty now...........gotta run!

Finland's Jaffa orange drink, callback

Appearing once again the heavily stretched role of, and get this, "Dad" I made a return visit to Jigsaw Casting to once again do the eyes down, eyes up, shoot the 17 year old drumming maniac son "the look."

Standing by........

Audition for COLD BLOOD today

Sgt Martin Devlin working the case of rabbi Neulander of New Jersey (accents and all!), who conspired to have his wife Carol, killed in a most bizarre setting of circumstances and twisted relationships. Google that if you're curious for more details.

Standing by..............

Minus 8 trailer now available on FACEBOOK (if link below doesn't work)

www.facebook.com/video/?of=699280700#/video/video.php?v=1137151027689&ref=mf

Forensic Factor Audition Wednesday

The Spokane Wash. bombings.

Detective Sargeant Norm Browne. Lead investigator.

stand by for more news........

Audition for KNORR Sidekicks yesterday

Mmmm soup is good food, in fact, you can never have too much soup I often can be heard saying!

Hi honey, how was your day, Mom's good? That's nice, the kids are all out playing and report cards came home with very nice things in them! Oh that's good, Life is good....This is dinner is good...mmm the sideskicks especially good....

OK OK enough already, it was an SOC role, I was improvising there!

Standing by...

Audition for Jaffa Orange Drink (Finland) yesterday

Thought I'd go the breakdown route all the way and dressed slightly 'debonair' borderline Euro-flamboyant.

We shall see.

Happy belated St Pat's as I wore my Irish green throughout.

Audition for eLearning Monday March 16

Frontline Expert service provider and incensed customer are 2 character options.

Stay tuned.

Project Baking Call back

Sadly this was not a legitimate opportunity as it played out.
The breakdown/concept had changed from teh first audition to going with a younger family look, as I was the oldest person there, and the daughter had downsized from 12 to about 7 years old.

Oh well, look for it soon on TV.

Shaker muffins that gets rid of the mess!! Or something like that.........

Next time.

Audition for "Project Baking" with possible international exposure

For the Baked Goods Manufacturers of Canada that might also go to air in Europe.

Sounds just like my Extra gum spot that aired in Germany!

Can I be a fun and outgoing real Dad? Is that a stretch for me?

Break a leg!

what playing with Poker Pros can teach you.....

.....is invaluable.

Reading poker books is also extremely helpful, but you REALLY have to discipline yourself to try then do exactly what they preach. It can be expensive, but in the long run, the lessons are bang on, IF you think and do as instructed. It's like lights go on in your head when you have an epiphany and that "AHA" moment strikes you. Tuck it away, then use it as you should. It works MOST of the time. When it doesn't it's just bad luck, or a really weak player, who of course is who we seek to destroy.

Since returning from LA i have played only a few online low limit tournaments. I have reached Final table in all 4 games, 3rd, 5th, 10th and 10th. $3 buy in SNG, 50 players. Then I upped the ante to $20 and played an 80 player game, and won it. Nice payday to help offset LA expenses.

Today, I also played a Canadian HU qualifier event, and came 2nd. There weren't enough players to achieve full qualification numbers but again, the game is getting better and better I feel.

then I returned to earn some Red hot Poker Tour points on the low level $3 SNG's and struck out twice, once with JJ against KK and another with KK against AK. Oh well.

Last game of the day, had me up it one more time. $109 buy into another 80 player game and came 6th on one of the most horrible bad beats ever. Well to me any how for that level of game in that situation. Another nice payday none the less.

Ok here's how it went down: am in the Small Blind while at 1000-2000 (100ante), middle position raises to 8000. I re-raise to 16,000, with 17K back, he has about the same. folds back to him, and he calls. Flop is 8h3s2s, and I shove allin. STOP N GO at worst, IF he had any clue at all. He insta -calls. He shows AcJd (no flush draw, I couldn't believe it) and turns a J then rivers his Ace. OMG. Other players laughed at his insanity at the FT of THAT quality/level of players. Then buddy says, I played it wrong. Not sure how really. He's just weak cuz he couldn't let go of his hand. It truly was a bad call, that just got really really lucky. Oh well. game over and onto the next one (tomorrow).

Send me questions and or comments if you think how I could have played that hand better. Raise more than the 16,000? Bet but not shove on the flop? I don't think he was getting away from his hand regardless.

LA Celebrity Invitational Update

Thursday Feb 26
Crazy flight. But just before that the trip began on a more unique stage so to speak; while sitting in the lounge at gate 161 waiting to depart for LA, I saw a TV spot for Grand & Toy that I had a major role in. How bizarre is that? And it looked pretty awesome I must admit. First time I'd seen it as no DVD was provided to talent that I am aware of. Note to self: Follow up with the producers!

Xrazy lady in seat immediately in fornt of me, screaming at her connection on the other end of hte phone and I quote, " Dude, that's f***ing bullshit, ask your mother because dude it's the law in Oakland that you can have 99 plants growing on your property, dude........just get your mother or post bail and I'll have my dude lawyer friend get at it. Dude the media is gonna love this, dude." Too funny.

All that entertainment aside, I arrived without incident to LA and took my rental car to the DoubleTree Hotel, next door to the Commerce Hotel & casino. Amazing cookies at the Double Tree, just as they promise!

Friday Feb 27th
Ran 5km in the hotel gym first thing today.

At noon I drove to Santa Monica Beach, Ocean Ave Seafood restaurant to meet Poker Pro Kathy Liebert for lunch at 2pm. She had the lobster I had the grilled shrimp salad and it was all good.

We walked to the beach (which is only just across the road actually), and since I traveled this far from home, I was not going to be denied the psychological pleasure of dipping my toes into the Pacific Ocean!!!. So i took off both shoes and socks and walk in the shoreline waves for a brief time. I'm sure Kathy thought this to be somewhat unusual behaviour, but hey, When in Rome....

Then we went up the pier (a la Coney Island amusements etc) and strolled there a bit. We didn't go on any rides, but we did somehow drift toward the arcade. Upon entering I saw the SKEE*BALL game and asked Kathy if she was any good. She insta-snapped back at me "I could beat you!" So of course my reply is, "Bring it girl friend" and we began a challenge that in the first game saw us play shot for shot with yours truly ending up the winner. PokerKat1 claimed to be nervous. Just before starting Kathy had to play for stakes, so as I hummed and hawed, thinking OMG this could be a REALLY bad idea for me, given she's a multi-millionairess. Kathy perhaps sensing my hesitation, might have been kind and only said how about dinner? I agreed, again knowing that that might break this poor starving Canadian AKTOR's LA poker bank roll. Game on. It was close though, 220-180 I think.

Rematch.
Game two this time Kathy wanted to play at our own pace. Double or nothing on the dinners. Agreed. I rapid fired the balls thinking this laissez-faire approach might psych her out & it worked out well, as I luckily rolled up 280 to Kathy's 190 (her needing a 100 ball on her last shot to clinch it but it was a brick).

Kathy then claimed "I don't really like this game anyhow, Basketball is my game" I sensed revenge was a priority for this #1 ranked female poker player in the world, and I was about to get myself into some trouble potentially here. BBall is definitely NOT my game. But I welcomed the challenge knowing I really had nothing to lose. So game on! And what do ya know....I won 18-13. Wow I couldn't believe my luck. Now up 3-0 in dinners!

Kathy was not pleased. "I've never played that bad. That's the worst score I've ever had on that."
"Well I'll give you one more chance. Double or nothing on the BB dinner, but I'm keeping the SKEE*BALL dinners in the bank" I said . She couldn't get the quarters in there fast enough!

And make good good she did, beating me 27-23 this time. So net effect is I am up 2 dinners. Now the pressure is on me to win that trip to the WSOP so I can collect!

We walked again, for another 45 minutes or so and finally I needed to head back to the hotel in Commerce knowing that Friday afternoon traffic in LA is a nitemare. And it was. 2:15 minutes to travel 22 miles (40kms).

Saturday Feb 28th CELEBRITY INVITATIONAL DAY
With my RHPT TOC jersey in tow, I was able to get a few signatures on it and a few pics to boot.
Kathy Liebert, Mike Sexton, Nenad Medic, Antonio Esfandiari, Mike Matusow, Gavin Griffin and Chad Brown. Cool.

Others I spotted but no autographs: Chris Ferguson, Andy Bloch, Umberto Brenes, Jennifer Harmon, John Phan, Jerry Yang, Jamie Gold, Gavin Smith, Phil Laak, Jennifer Tilley, Freddie Deeb, Jeff Madsen, Jean-Robert (Bobby) Bellande, Scotty Nguyen, Erik Seidel, Shawn Sheikhan, Todd Brunson, Allen Cunningham

Hollywood/Other: Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond), Richard Karne (Al from Tool Time), Vince Van Patten (host of WPT), Jerry Buss (owner of the Lakers), Jose Canseco, Lou Diamond Philips, Mimi Rogers, Don Cheadle, Tia Carrere

Audition for Walmart

Wal*mart.....had me into Mann Casting the day of my departure to LA.

went pretty well, so we'll see once I get back.

LA Celebrity Invitational Event countdown: 3 days away for my departure....then 2 wonderful days of Schmoozing before poker biz begins!

Staying at the Doubletree Hotel, next door to the Commerce.

Go to www.cardplayer.com for updates of the LA PC and more (possibly).

LA Celebrity Invitational Event countdown: departing in 5 days!

I have a goal. I have a mission. It is to make FT and then maximize my TV time by bringing the whole event down and all the heralded noteriety that comes with it. I aim big. I get what I aim for.

I won't be disappointed.

"SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE" like the actor's circle? or just shared learning....

SUNDAY MARCH 29, 2009
ACTING WORKSHOP:
Marketing Yourself

2 successful Independent Actors divulge their Secrets to Booking Success.



Two independent actors share their secrets how they went from just beginning in the Toronto acting market - no work, no representation to becoming working represented actors. These Toronto actors have a high booking rate and impressive acting resumes in a short amount of time.
50% of acting is business. Learn techniques and strategies to landing auditions and booking the part.


12:30 Doors open, settle in

1:00-2:00 Robert Nolan & Gary Biggar share their secrets on marketing and landing auditions

2:00-2:30 Secrets on how to successfully submit for projects

2:30-3:30 Questions and answer to Casting Director - Crystal Kramer C.D.C., Robert Nolan & Gary Biggar

4:00 Wrap & Clear the space

$49 +GST = $51.45
Special early bird discount $39 + GST = $40.95 if payment is received before Feb 28. Register early to save your spot.

Email:

crystalcasting@yahoo.ca SUBJECT LINE: MARKETING YOURSELF

Harbourfront Community Centre 627 Queens Quay West
SE Corner of Bathurst and Queens Quay.


Special Note about workshops:
*The presence of a casting director at a workshop is neither a guarantee nor a promise of employment. The intent of the class is solely educational. Attending a workshop is not a way to obtain employment as an actor. Such contact as you may have with a casting director at a workshop does not always result in any further contact with that casting director. The casting director has insight into the audition process. It is highly recommended that active working professional actors should be in a class at least once a week to maintain sharpness and skill improvement. Take various workshops and classes to gain the most knowledge in your career.

T - Minus 30 days and counting towards the LA Celebrity Poker INVITATIONAL event Feb 28-March 2, 2009 @ Commerce, CA.

am leaving on Feb 26, so its a month away!

Audition for Project "communicate" (a.k.a. One Click Fix)

Went pretty well today for this professionally casual style of presentation.

It reads well and the training/tutorial video series should be fun.

Standing by....call backs on Friday, shoots Feb 11-12....here's hoping for the best!

cheers

An older spot for UNICO Foods: http://homepage.mac.com/rboddington/Primo_Unico_Finals/iMovieTheater123.html

cut and paste this link into your browser if it doesn't send u automatically....serve, and enjoy!

http://homepage.mac.com/rboddington/Primo_Unico_Finals/iMovieTheater123.html

MINUS 8 trailer revisted: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jxh4egUDBg

It's coming soon..........the recall that is........09/09/09 ?

www.minus8themovie.com

TAX MAN TV Spot online...maybe you've seen it already?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XJRMc0RUBM&feature=related

Check it out!

Wrapped on THE LAKEVIEW, a short film

Another project with the team at 83Pictures, Brett Blackwell and Matt Kloske, of The Turn Card and another educational DVD series for MacMaster U, COPE Program. #rd time's a charm as they say, and this one is a short story about the afterlife.

I play the 'bar/restaurant owner of The Lakeview, and as new 'guests' arrive, I am the gracious host for them. 2 ladies happen to arrive simultaneously and as one is more and more uncomfortable, she calls her boyfriend who comes to 'retrieve' her, only to meet a lock door, and then eventually cross over, only to return to the other side.

it's an interesting concept that makes us think about what if anything happens after we pass on.

stay tuned for news about a screening or festival entries.

Audition for Project bank or credit card...something financial...

it's been a busy Xmas season for me, but on the ice refereeing an insane amount of hockey games and tournments.

It's good to be back in the flow of things now as 2009 begins.

Got home today from an audition for a project that is shooting in Chile for 6 days. Would be nice!

Stand by for news on that one....