Today we’d like to introduce you to Terry Berland.
Terry, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My first job was as an assistant in a Casting Department at a Madison Avenue ad agency. I worked my way up to Head Of Casting for BBDO which was the third-largest ad agency in the world at the time. I eventually moved my business to Los Angeles where I partnered in a commercial division with Liberman/Hirschfeld Casting. At the time, they were casting Seinfeld and many other iconic shows. That business then morphed into Terry Berland Casting. Throughout the years I have cast many voice over and on-camera commercials, animation, independent films and theatre. I love giving actors work opportunities. I love the creative process of starting out with an empty canvas, searching for the right talent and watching the project take shape with the right actors making the concept come alive.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It took a lot at the time to be given the full title of casting director. When I started out you had to earn that title. When ad agencies dissolved their casting departments, I went out on my own, and although I have always had a strong, successful business, I have had my ups and downs that the general public could not see. No client lasts forever, and I have had my losses. I have pursued clients that I did not get, but gotten great clients and projects that I did not expect. I have had to be flexible with all the changes in the commercial business environment, and flow with the changes, including conducting business in the current environment.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Terry Berland Casting – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I am a Casting Director specializing in on-camera commercials, voice-over and independent films and theatre I cast whatever is in need of talent. I am known for my creativity and bringing great talent to projects. Probably the most recognizable iconic casting that I’ve done is the voice of the Taco Bell Chihuahua. I can look at a script and imagine what characteristics an actor will need to make each role work.
I am also an acting teacher. I teach talent how to act in television and VO commercials. I have started thousands of talent off in their careers all around the country. I’ve seen most of the United Stated though my teaching and met wonderful people in the industry along the way. I am also co-author of the book “Breaking Into Commercials” which is on its third edition.
What sets me apart: My advertising background lends to my deep understanding of how to analyze a script and direct talent in a casting session or in a coaching session. My passion is to help actors achieve their goals. I am enjoying a proven track record of successful casting and teaching actors how to act in a commercial that gets them agent representation and better changes for bookings. I’m always listening and finding ways to stay fresh.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
In the current environment, my goal is to keep actors working, keep casting and teaching. I’m gong to continue creating and expanding a community empowering actors.
Contact Info:
- Address: c/o Castaway Studios
6380 Wilshire Blvd. #100
Los Angeles, CA 90048 - Website: www.terryberlandworkshops.com. and www.berlandcasting.com
- Phone: 3100275-0601
- Email: email: info@berlandcasting
- Instagram: @berlandcasting
- Facebook: Terry Berland Casting
- Twitter: berlandcasting
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/terry-berland-casting-and-workshops-los-angeles-2
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