Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake O’Flaherty.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started my acting career in 1995 doing TV commercials, and after 20 years in the business, and over 200 national commercials and TV shows, I decided I wanted to branch out and start producing original theatre and start a theatre company with Artistic Director Bryan Rasmussen at The Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks. We created a safe place for actors to create 10 minute original comedy plays every Tuesday night, 12 weeks of rehearsals followed by 6 weeks of shows. We have been selling out the 99 seat theatre on Tuesday nights for 5 years. From there we created HOLLYWOOD SHORTS, 10 minute original comedy plays written by Emmy winning TV writers & starring more recognizable TV stars. Then we created DEAD PILOTS SOCIETY, 3 thirty minute TV pilots that never aired, also written by award winning TV writers, who would then direct them starring lots of well-known TV actors who were looking to get back on stage but in a small commitment of a 6 week show that ran only on Wednesday nights. Now I produce shows at theatres all over LA, but only original productions. I am currently working on a web series that I wrote & star in called FAILURE TO PARENT, with General Hospital’s Carolyn Hennesy that has some interest to be turned into a 1/2 hour comedy series. I am currently writing my first full length play with award winning playwright Tom Misuraca called SUICIDAL BLONDE that hopefully will open before the end of this year. I am also still continuing to act, as I just finished an episode of LETHAL WEAPON, which will air soon as the season 3 premiere. Keeping busy, positive and productive in the entertainment business is one of the keys to success. I can’t just sit around waiting for the phone to ring, I need to create my own original content.
Has it been a smooth road?
No way has this been a smooth road. I have made lots of little mistakes along the way, but fortunately for me I have chosen lots of great people to work with and surround myself with, for support and guidance. It takes a village as far as I am concerned.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
My business is the entertainment industry and I am specializing in producing theatre shows, writing my own play & web series and acting in TV shows and commercials. I am most proud of the amazing theatre company members at The Whitefire Theatre who have grown and achieved lots of success in their own ways. What sets us apart as a theatre company is that all the actors participate in each show on stage, help cast the plays, work backstage and work together as an ensemble in every way. There are no divas. The comedy plays are all original works that have never been performed before.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
LA is a great place to be able to do all these creative works of art. Lots of diverse, talented, hardworking people live and work here in LA, and it is the land of opportunity in regards to the entertainment industry. If someone was just starting out, I would suggest getting a really good survival job that you enjoy first, so you are not stressed about the bills, and have the finances to support your career in the beginning stages with classes, headshots, etc. Do lots of live theatre to gain experience, and learn from your fellow actors. LA has so many opportunities to choose from, it really is all about you taking the time to focus, work hard, be kind and network! Don’t waste time thinking about the traffic or any other negative aspects, it will only distract you and slow you down.
Contact Info:
- Address: Whitefire Theatre
13500 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 - Website: www.whitefiretheatre.com
- Phone: 818-990-2324
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @jakeofla
- Facebook: Whitefire Theatre Company
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