Today we’d like to introduce you to Ebony Dodson.
Hi Ebony, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
September 26th, 2019 is a milestone of my first day of work on set. I was a background actor for the ‘No Offense’ movie. I worked throughout the entire pandemic. I know that is controversial but I started acting 3 months before the pandemic started. I wasn’t prepared or willing to wait very long to get my feet wet in the career path of acting.
I had a mentor tell me to broaden my horizons in the film industry. Acting alone won’t cut it when it comes to finding work or getting paid. I became a production assistant, later on a casting director. I was able to keep busy working on these three positions. Today I’m waiting for a call back from an audition. I’m preparing legal documents for my company Dodson Casting. Recently I just worked as an assistant for TSX Design House for the LA fashion week show at the LA convention center. Things are moving faster than I thought.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a pretty smooth road. Since February 2021 I’ve been working in showbiz at least once a month. I know I’m going to get farther. I just have to keep my head in the game. Keep growing and working. Right now I’m practicing facial expressions for digital animation. I want to take fight choreography courses, krav maga, and learn a Nigerian accent. In 2 to 3 years I want to get in touch with people that can help me gain some footing in Nollywood. Being a Nollywood actress would best suit me because of my family lineage. I’m 60% Nigerian.
As you know, we’re big fans of Dodson Casting. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I’m a casting director. My company name is Dodson Casting. I’m known for casting the music video Black Panther by Daniel Yearwood. The music video got over 70,000 views. Being an advocate for actors is what sets my business apart from others. My company does not work with filmmakers and production companies who do not pay the talent. The only way for my company to do business with anyone is if they agree to pay the talent. I’m proud to have a fat talent roster full of actors who are ready to work to get paid at any moment. I have a studio that is available for me to do in-person auditions. It’s only going to cost $75 for filmmakers to rent it out. That’s a good deal!
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
I learned that your reputation is very important. I used to network a lot to gain business. I always kept my mask on just in case people were taking photos. I didn’t want to be that person that looked inconsiderate. Since I always wear a mask in public one thing I don’t do in public is drink either. I had to make sure I understood that people were watching me. I didn’t want to be on social media dancing in some nightclub with no mask on. I passed out business cards and went home. You got to at least look like you’re following the rules you know.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/dodsoncasting
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/zzzebonyzzz
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ebony.dodson.549
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/23356Btj7vb DODSON CASTING
