Cielo Vision

Ester T. Ferman

Find out how local actors in the mid-Atlantic and the Southeast got their start in the entertainment industry. Many of them have worked in film, on television, or on the stage. Some have degrees in acting, some took private lessons, and some are just winging it. Whatever the approach, if you have a desire to act, it is never too late. Learn from these conversations how much fun it is to be on set.

  1. 09/26/2024

    Mixed Bag 2

    Listen to newly released clips as we take a look back in this Mixed Bag episode for Season 2. There might be some good life advice, and there might also be time for silly questions in the mix! You never know what topics will come up on all of these different episodes. Hear from a singing wench, a hobbyist, a great grandmother, a financier, an EMT, a stage performer, a singer, a screenwriter, a Nicaraguan, a programmer, a coach, a singer, a realtor, an instructor, a collector, a comedian, a standardized patient, a mascot, and a bonnie lass. Literally - all walks of life! Meanwhile, if you missed any of these episodes the first time around, here are their links: Eliza https://youtu.be/bzvi9G2vC3o Brandon https://youtu.be/IrQR0HlymSc Miss Mary https://youtu.be/1lZlKjgj6lY Andre https://youtu.be/M21dVwM55R0 Matt https://youtu.be/1qgEhN_HjxY Leslie https://youtu.be/e2Vfv55ctaE W. Keith https://youtu.be/JWjeeEBjc38 Kimia' https://youtu.be/EStuKMyTGYQ Alejandro https://youtu.be/KSf0nzLejbA Kathy https://youtu.be/U5n_KtEebpo Scott https://youtu.be/ykt7yvMfUvg Loretta https://youtu.be/PXzAhT9Jg50 Jack https://youtu.be/HBtpD1bg2fg Dawn https://youtu.be/lqEQo4nPz9c Steven https://youtu.be/s_3j3bS3gSk Dan https://youtu.be/LyG5_HcuAIQ Lisa https://youtu.be/_DYp23sejCA Jesse https://youtu.be/Pq-85fSsRv4 Adriana https://youtu.be/1-7fMgS2qS8 Come back to this channel for Season 3 this winter. Make sure to get the alerts! Disclaimer: All content provided in this podcast is meant to inform and to entertain. It does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any other organization, agency, employer, or company. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    13 min
  2. 09/12/2024

    Adriana Sturdevant

    Title: Adriana Sturdevant Summary: Adriana Sturdevant’s career spans various mediums including stage (when she was a tween), television, film, and print. She is also known for her work in commercials, industrials, and being on posters at the DC Metro stations. Adriana recalls her initial acting gig was on the set of Jack Ryan, where she learned the ropes and networked with other industry professionals. She touches on her journey to becoming SAG eligible, landing on a giant billboard, and the chaotic but thrilling experiences of the 48-hour film festivals. With a deep love for period pieces, Adriana shares her favorite moments portraying different eras. She speaks candidly about her experiences on set, and the challenges and triumphs she’s faced along the way. Follow Adriana: Facebook   Topics Discussed: -- Comradery on set 1:39 -- Becoming SAG-E 2:20 -- Being on a billboard and posters 2:54 -- Period pieces 4:11 -- TV shows and a soap opera 4:57 -- Headshot advice 7:50 -- Stressed sets versus fun sets 9:56 -- Classes, auditions, and zoom callbacks 11:54   Resources mentioned: Headshots with DJ Corey Photography - DJ Corey Photography Train at Capital Coaching -  Acting Teacher | Gaithersburg | Capital Coaching Studios See all the Emmys won by Pat Moran Casting - About (patmorancasting.com)  Send submissions to Taylor Royall - Submissions — Taylor Royall | Betsy Royall Casting and Photography   Episode transcript  Follow for show updates: Mi Cielo Productions | Facebook Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cielo-vision/id1667373627 Listen on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/267c42d3-31a4-4147-afb7-b31edfa62d6e/cielo-vision   Disclaimer: All content derived from Cielo Vision is meant to inform and to entertain; it does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency or organization or company/employer that they work for. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    18 min
  3. 08/29/2024

    Jesse Milliner

    Title: Jesse Milliner Summary: Jesse Milliner is a talented actor who trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He has appeared in various stage productions, including Hamlet, Taming of the Shrew, Lake Boat, and From Prison To Stage. He has also starred in films such as There Is a Monster and has worked on popular TV shows like We Own This City. Jesse's dedication to his craft and versatility as an actor have earned him recognition in the industry. From auditions to on-set adventures with notable actors like Jon Bernthal and Anthony Mackie, Jesse's anecdotes offer a behind-the-scenes look at the acting world. The episode captures Jesse's passion for his craft and his dedication to pursuing challenging roles in the industry.  Follow Jesse: Facebook Topics Discussed: -- Actor training 0:30 -- Stage experiences 1:35 -- Speaking role in We Own This City 3:25 -- Being a mascot on TV 8:54 -- Musical talent 9:38 -- Lead role in a movie 10:24 -- Joining the union 12:03 -- Celebrity encounters 15:03   Resources mentioned: Enroll at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art RADA Find acting jobs at Dragonuk ConnectsDragonukConnects Send your submission to Pat Moran Casting Submitting (patmorancasting.com) Enroll your kids in Olney Boys and Girls Club obgc.com Watch Bill Tilgham and the Outlaws for free https://youtu.be/uVx7e5_J21w?si=iSGNVSJnHQ9RCWup Watch There Is A Monster for free There is a Monster | Xumo Play Episode transcript Follow for show updates: Mi Cielo Productions | Facebook Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cielo-vision/id1667373627 Listen on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/267c42d3-31a4-4147-afb7-b31edfa62d6e/cielo-vision   Disclaimer: All content derived from Cielo Vision is meant to inform and to entertain; it does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency or organization or company/employer that they work for. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    18 min
  4. 08/15/2024

    Lisa Sponaugle

    Title: Lisa Sponaugle Summary: Lisa Sponaugle is a seasoned actress and model who has worked on various projects ranging from commercials for Geico and FedEx, to independent films such as "In the Blood." Lisa's experience extends to theater and stage readings, demonstrating her versatility as an artist. Additionally, she leverages her skills as a standardized patient at Johns Hopkins, providing valuable training for medical students. Lisa's commitment to her craft is evident through ongoing classes and preparation for auditions. Key themes explored in this episode include Lisa's training in both improv and on-camera classes, her hobbies, and self-care routines. Get insights into the daily life of a working actress balancing artistic passion, travel, and fitness. Follow Lisa: Facebook Topics Discussed: -- First modeling job as a child 0:37 -- Agent and auditioning 1:17 -- Acting classes 2:54 -- Favorite role so far 3:41 -- On-screen death 4:39 -- Family in the business 6:07 -- Standardized Patient work 7:58 -- Hobbies and wellness 11:54   Resources mentioned: Capital Coaching with Katie Killacky:  Acting Teacher | Gaithersburg | Capital Coaching Studios DC Improv: The DC Improv - DC Improv Theatre Lab: Adult Classes - The Theatre Lab Episode transcript Follow for show updates: Mi Cielo Productions | Facebook Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cielo-vision/id1667373627 Listen on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/267c42d3-31a4-4147-afb7-b31edfa62d6e/cielo-vision Disclaimer: All content derived from Cielo Vision is meant to inform and to entertain; it does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency or organization or company/employer that they work for. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    18 min
  5. 08/01/2024

    Dan Verkman

    Title: Dan Verkman Summary: Dan Verkman began his career as a Bill Maher impersonator, and then transitioned into stand-up comedy. Dan then appeared in various films, tv shows, and commercials. With a passion for entertaining and a knack for storytelling, Dan has expanded his creative endeavors into screenwriting, creating the successful short film "Leaf Me Alone." Dan discusses his favorite roles, his favorite moments from classic movies, and his favorite karaoke songs. He also opens up about a personal health scare and provides valuable tips for what to look for when a cardiac event occurs. With all that behind him, he has future plans for a feature film, showcasing his creative evolution in the entertainment industry. Follow Dan: Facebook Topics Discussed: -- Experiences as a Bill Maher impersonator 0:32 -- Stand Up and improv 2:13 -- Favorite acting role 3:23 -- Memorization techniques 4:04 -- Fave movies and fave karaoke songs 5:54 -- Overcoming a health obstacle 8:57 -- Writing and producing a short film 13:54 -- Plans for writing and editing a feature 16:07   Resources mentioned: Take classes at a comedy club - Comedy School - DC Improv Take classes at an improv theater - Improv Curriculum - Washington Improv Theater (witdc.org) Follow the Actors Club - Facebook Watch Leaf Me Alone Extended Cut - https://youtu.be/aAUesBUzS-E?feature=shared Watch Leaf Me Alone on Plex Leaf Me Alone (plex.tv) Xumo – Xumo | All you can stream Cineverse – Cineverse - Your Ticket to a World of Entertainment Delights | On-Demand Content & Free Linear Channels   Episode transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1n6dJLA9_vaI0qwNSgnAT-BLkLqAEQ6Gw/view?usp=sharing Follow for show updates: Mi Cielo Productions | Facebook Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cielo-vision/id1667373627 Listen on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/267c42d3-31a4-4147-afb7-b31edfa62d6e/cielo-vision   Disclaimer: All content derived from Cielo Vision is meant to inform and to entertain; it does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency or organization or company/employer that they work for. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    18 min
  6. 07/18/2024

    Steven Soto

    Title: Steven Soto Summary: Steven Soto wears many hats in the fields of acting, singing, and writing. Steven is of Caribbean descent, being half Cuban and half Puerto Rican, which greatly influences his cultural background and artistic pursuits. He received his training at the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts, where he honed his skills in both theater and film. Steven is known for his patience, persistence, and determination in pursuing his acting career while juggling his responsibilities as a father and husband. He emphasizes the importance of writing one's own content and taking control of one's artistic pursuits. Steven discusses his experiences with accent work, manifesting his dreams, and balancing his passion for acting with his other roles in life. Follow Steven: Facebook Topics Discussed: -- Singing abilities 0:37 -- Actor training 1:49 -- Speaking Spanish on set 3:07 -- Training for accent work 4:44 -- Memorable stage experiences 6:19 -- Life lessons 9:27 -- Writing your own content 11:03 -- Hobbies like travel, sports, and toys 15:36   Resources mentioned: Submit for casting calls through Carlyn Davis - Carlyn Davis Casting – Carlyn Davis Casting See a show or get involved at GALA - HOME | GALA Hispanic Theatre | Washington, DC (galatheatre.org) Train at the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts - The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts - Acting Classes, School (theconservatory.org) Experience drama therapy with Kristen Pilgrim - Clinicians | Expressive Therapy Center Apply to Montgomery College - Montgomery College | Montgomery College, Maryland   Episode transcript Follow for show updates: Mi Cielo Productions | Facebook Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cielo-vision/id1667373627 Listen on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/267c42d3-31a4-4147-afb7-b31edfa62d6e/cielo-vision   Disclaimer: All content derived from Cielo Vision is meant to inform and to entertain; it does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency or organization or company/employer that they work for. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    19 min
  7. 07/04/2024

    Dawn Douglas

    Title: Dawn Douglas Summary: Actress Dawn Douglas is a multi-faceted individual with a background in Fine Arts. She transitioned into acting after being encouraged by a fellow actor who happened to live along her mail delivery route. Her first job was on the TV show Homicide. Dawn has worked in various TV shows , films, and theater, including Marvel's Luke Cage, The Wire, and the Tony Awards. With her extensive experience in acting, stunt driving, and stunt work, Dawn has also ventured into being a licensed NRA pistol instructor and teaching motorcycle safety. In her spare time, she loves painting and glasswork. Follow Dawn: Facebook Topics Discussed: -- PBS appearance 0:28 -- First gig on Homicide: Life on the Street 2:19 -- Stunt driving on film 3:27 -- Stunt work on Marvel’s Luke Cage 4:36 -- Stand In work 12:02 -- Pistol instructor and motorcycle instructor 13:05 -- Harassment at work 14:50 -- Expensive hobbies 20:57   Resources mentioned: Pat Moran casting office: Submitting (patmorancasting.com) Learn more about Emmy Winning Stunt Coordinator James Lew: About (fightscameraaction.com) Learn more about stunts: Stuntmen's Association | Stuntwomen's Association | Premier Stunt Coordinators Contact SAG-AFTRA: Contact Us | SAG-AFTRA (sagaftra.org) Contact IATSE: About Us - IATSE, The Union Behind Entertainment Episode transcript Follow for show updates: Mi Cielo Productions | Facebook Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cielo-vision/id1667373627 Listen on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/267c42d3-31a4-4147-afb7-b31edfa62d6e/cielo-vision Disclaimer: All content derived from Cielo Vision is meant to inform and to entertain; it does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency or organization or company/employer that they work for. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    22 min
  8. 06/20/2024

    Jon Patrick Leary

    Title: Jon Patrick Leary Summary: Actor Jon Patrick Leary shares with us a diverse range of life experiences and adventures. He has worked as an actor, model, surveyor, FedEx driver, and realtor. From getting arrested in his youth to working on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Jon's stories are filled with mischief, humor, and valuable life lessons. He has a passion for old cars and vintage motorcycles, and he is an active participant in the Distinguished Gentleman's Club, which raises money for men's health. He discusses his foray into the arts, including meeting John Waters and doing some voiceover work. Jon is known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and easygoing nature. Follow Jon: Facebook Topics Discussed: -- First short film at a cemetery 1:18 -- Partying with John Waters 1:37 -- Wild antics with beat up cars 2:53 -- Fear of heights 7:41 -- Voiceover work 8:51 -- FedEx adventures 11:25 -- Real Estate life 12:06 -- Riding for charity 14:17   Resources mentioned: Check out events and classes:  Creative Alliance | Arts & Education Programs & Events in Baltimore Raise funds with the Distinguished Gentleman’s Club: Baltimore MD - The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (gentlemansride.com) Get involved in Charm City events: Signature - Baltimore Magazine   Episode transcript Follow for show updates: Mi Cielo Productions | Facebook Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cielo-vision/id1667373627 Listen on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/267c42d3-31a4-4147-afb7-b31edfa62d6e/cielo-vision Disclaimer: All content derived from Cielo Vision is meant to inform and to entertain; it does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency or organization or company/employer that they work for. We are not liable for the content and services provided on external websites.

    18 min

About

Find out how local actors in the mid-Atlantic and the Southeast got their start in the entertainment industry. Many of them have worked in film, on television, or on the stage. Some have degrees in acting, some took private lessons, and some are just winging it. Whatever the approach, if you have a desire to act, it is never too late. Learn from these conversations how much fun it is to be on set.