Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/184869
be cast in AFI student films. More than 100 student and alumni films were cast last year with conservatory members. In late July, the conservatory's summer intensive offered more than 70 different workshops and events. THE DEAL: For $35, any Los Angeles Local member in good standing can take advantage of three semesters of workshops that take place September through May on AFI's campus, as well as the summer intensive. For more information, visit SAGAFTRA.org/laconservatory or call (323) 856-7736. Michigan The conservatory features approximately four workshop events a year, and members have a say on future topics, such as effective techniques with monologues, voice acting and improvisation. THE DEAL: For more information, email michigan@sagaftra.org or call (248) 228-3172. Nevada In place for more than 25 years, the conservatory has been extremely successful in this market and provides a clear benefit of union membership, with workshops from many different teachers and high-profile working actors. THE DEAL: For more information, call (720) 932-8193 or email nevada@sagaftra.org. New England With presentations and training to support members in the growing New England film and television industry, topics include stunt work, turning a non-union job union, marketing and the business side of performing. Additionally, casting directors are hosted several times annually to discuss topics pertinent to the market. THE DEAL: The season kicks off this fall, with more information to come. Events are free or $10. For more information, call (617) 262-8001 or email newengland@sagaftra.org. Panelists speak to a full house at the Los Angeles Conservatory, July 12. New York Valuable skills and tips are shared through 15 weekly conservatory classes, audio/video workshops, private sessions and seminars. Topics include acting for commercials, teleprompter, improvisation, auditions, cold reading and more. THE DEAL: With a season that runs September through August, conservatory membership is a smart bargain for savvy New York Local members at $30 a year. For more information, call (212) 827-1448 or visit SAGAFTRA.org/nyconservatory. Ohio Pittsburgh With workshops usually once per quarter in Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati, topics include low-budget filmmaking, self-taping sessions, scripted readings and other expertise offered from staff, members and industry professionals. Members also have an opportunity to network and gather advice directly from employers. THE DEAL: Conservatory announcements are emailed to members and most are at no cost to active members. If you have ideas for future events, email ohp@sagaftra.org or call (412) 281-6767. Philadelphia The conservatory presents workshops on topics such as the 24/7 newsroom, taxes and the working actor, health insurance, voiceover demos and more. THE DEAL: Events are generally held monthly and announced by email. Fees are sometimes charged to cover costs. For more information, email philadelphia@sagaftra.org or call (215) 732-0507. San Diego This conservatory has events throughout the year, except during the summer, and features guest presentations from acclaimed casting directors, directors, acting coaches and actors. THE DEAL: Conservatory events are announced by email. For more information, email sandiego@sagaftra.org or call (651) 789-8990. San Francisco Northern California This conservatory features, on average, two workshops per month. At the annual in-home studio/Pro Tools demonstration, members learn both technical and creative tips for voiceover work and at Donuts with the DGA, members are provided insightful guidance from the directors' perspective. THE DEAL: Conservatory events are announced by email, free for local members in good standing and fill up quickly due to overwhelming demand. For more information, email sf@sagaftra.org or call (415) 391-7510. Texas The SAG-AFTRA Houston Conservatory, Austin Actors Conservatory and DallasFort Worth ProACT all offer a wide variety of workshops that feature industry leaders and potential employers, plus actor service information year round. In addition, the statewide Script to Screen program — live professional readings by SAG-AFTRA members of unproduced scripts before industry audiences — provides opportunities to showcase members. THE DEAL: An annual fee of $25 allows members to attend any of the workshops statewide. Script to Screen is free and open to the public. For more information, email trish.avery@sagaftra.org or call (214) 363-8300. Washington Mid Atlantic Nearly 30 years old and going strong, this conservatory features workshops covering scene study workouts, background acting, on-camera auditions, narration and much more. THE DEAL: The conservatory kicks off in September and participation is free to all active members. For more information, visit SAGAFTRA.org/locals/washington-midatlantic/conservatory. Conservatories are offered for educational purposes and do not constitute an endorsement by SAG-AFTRA of any product, service or provider. SAGAFTRA.org conservatory_v8.indd 29 | Summer 2013 | SAG-AFTRA 29 8/28/13 2:10 PM