Bethesda Centre is slated to close on May 31, 2012, unless it can raise $1.5 million dollars to bridge a funding shortfall and establish a five-year endowment fund for the home.

“As a teen, I was pregnant with Justin, alone and scared,” said Pattie. “Bethesda gave me the help I needed during that time and the skills to care for Justin as well. I want to make sure that other babies in the London area have a chance to survive and to achieve their dreams. It is so important to me that we save this home, since there is nothing else like Bethesda Centre around London, and without it, I don’t know where either of us would be today.”

The Bethesda Centre offers accommodations, counseling and support to teenage girls during their pregnancy and after the birth of their babies.  The home also includes an independent living program for parenting teenagers, as well as a childcare center.  Teenagers are provided a range of services, from learning parenting and life skills, to prenatal and postnatal care, education and counseling.

The campaign has raised more than $115,000 toward the $1.5 million goal in the two weeks since the effort launched.  To join with Pattie to Save Bethesda by May 31, please visit the Save Bethesda web site atwww.SaveBethesda.org.

Anyone who wants to help Pattie and Justin’s efforts to save Bethesda Centre can go to www.SaveBethesda.org. They also can show their support by liking the Help Save Bethesda Facebook page and sharing it with friends.

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It’s that time of year when we Hollywood Moms, (hopefully!) have a day all to ourselves. Mother’s Day is the day to kick up our feet (or better yet have them massaged) and to be pampered like the royalty we are by our loving, adoring families.

But if that fairy tale doesn’t come true, at least now you can smell like a princess.

Disney has created a new scent just in time for this most sacred of Hallmark Holidays. Behold the royal, shimmering facets of the A Princess Wish Eau de Toilette bottle. With a light spray, cares fade away and dreams dare to come true, all in the sparkling bouquet of precious flowers, juicy berries and golden amber.

Thanks to the generous folks at Disney, one of our Hollywood Mom Blog readers will win their very own Princess Wish Eau de Toilette for Mother’s Day!

Just leave a comment in the reply section below as to why you NEED this fabulous fragrance for Mother’s Day.  Winner will be chosen and posted Monday morning. Happy Mothers Day and Happy Momagers Day!

The Princess Wish Eau de Toilette retails for $24.50 exclusively at the Disney Store

Be sure to check out the Disney Store Blog to stay on top of all the latest goodies Disney has to offer including more items from the Disney Princess Wish collection!

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Jemima Laing (a Plymouth, UK Native) tells us how her son Felix Soper, now 13, was first bitten by the acting bug after landing a part in a theatre production of Peter Pan.

What got Felix started with this whole acting thing was, basically, my innate nosiness.

Collecting him and a friend from drama group on a wintry Plymouth night four years ago, I noticed the friend was clutching a piece of paper which Felix didn’t have.

Questioning the pair, Felix simply replied: “It’s about auditions for the panto Mum, I don’t want to be in the panto.”

Having spent my university years as a dresser at the city’s Theatre Royal, I knew enough to concur that, given his singular lack of singing and dancing ability, panto, that uniquely British institution, really wasn’t for him.

But I still wanted to read that piece of paper.

So as I deposited his pal outside his house I niftily wrested the sheet from him and gave it a quick scan.

Yes, there were auditions for the babes’ roles but, as the production was Peter Pan, the director was also looking for boys to play the speaking parts of the Darling boys.

The prospect of messing about on a pretend pirate ship, being hoisted some 20 feet off the ground every other night and twice on a Saturday, with the added bonus of missing a fair bit of school was like catnip to an eight-year-old ; Felix decided he might actually like to have a go.

So my father was roped in to give up the following Saturday to take him to the audition and to the surprise of us all – not least Felix – by the end of the day he had landed the role of Michael Darling, (a swiftness of timescale from initial audition to confirmation of role we have not encountered since).

So Pizza Express, our default destination for celebrating good family news, was duly visited, licences were sorted, costume fittings were arranged and a normal family Christmas holiday period of a fortnight of eating and precious little else was willingly jettisoned in favour of the demanding theatre schedule.

At his first night I found it impossible to believe my titchy boy would really be able to remember his lines and hold his own on that enormous stage in front of more than 1,000 people.

But hold his own he did, even when suspended a heart-stopping number of metres above the stage on his way to Neverland.

"What I will say is that an ability to remain consistently a precise half beat behind everyone else is a criminally underrated skill, there really ought to be a box for it on the Spotlight form."

The sole saving grace of seeing my firstborn dangling from a great height was that his precarious position prevented him from attempting the impossibly intricate dance routine taking place below.

On his return to terra firma a tiny bit of dancing was required in each show, but we try not to talk about that.

What I will say is that an ability to remain consistently a precise half beat behind everyone else is a criminally underrated skill, there really ought to be a box for it on the Spotlight form.

Unfancy footwork aside, he really enjoyed himself during the two-month run, even the drubbing he was quite rightly given by a chaperone for an unscheduled ad lib didn’t put him off.

I ticked him off for his antics too while secretly marvelling at his nerve, especially when Paul Nicholas, who was playing Captain Hook, decided to keep the off-piste contribution in the show.

And while he wasn’t bereft when it ended it was clear he had relished the experience.

There was general agreement in the family that he might have some talent and we decided we should try to find ways to let him do something similar in the future.

As opportunities for acting in our neck of the woods on the south Devon coast are pretty few and far between, I approached a couple of agencies in London on the off-chance.

To our amazement one offered to take him on and we clambered aboard that figurative rollercoaster on which all other parents of performing children are fellow passengers.

This metaphorical fairground ride has taken Felix all over the place during the past four years, most recently a part in feature film The Awakening which opened in cinemas earlier this month.

(You can read my account of seeing Felix on the screen for the first time here bit.ly/tZUlhg )

When I told Felix (who has been reading up on chaos theory) I was writing this article it was he who reminded me about the piece of paper his friend brought out of the drama class, murmuring mysteriously: “A butterfly’s wings, Mum. A butterfly’s wings”.

And while what has happened since is hardly akin to the unwitting creation of a tornado, that single piece of paper – which only my propensity for prying ensured I had sight of – has set us on a path which is proving interesting, thrilling, occasionally disappointing but most of all really good fun; yep, so far we’re all enjoying the ride.

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Rising Child Star, Daija Owens co-stars in NBC's "Best Friends Forever." Click here to watch the hilarious preview!

Premiering tonight on NBC, Best Friends Forever, is a hot, new sitcom about old friends, new beginnings and awkward situations, brought to us by executive producer Scot Armstrong (Old School, Hangover 2). If you like to laugh and you want to see the child actor who will be the next big thing, trust us and tune in for the series premiere Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at 8:30/7:30c on your local NBC affiliate.

Jessica St. Clair (“Bridesmaids”) and Lennon Parham (“Accidentally on Purpose”) star as Jessica and Lennon, best friends who live on opposite sides of the country with the men in their lives. When Jessica is overnighted divorce papers, Lennon convinces her to return home to Brooklyn and back into the apartment they used to share. It doesn’t take long for the girls to fall into old habits: movie marathons and late night girl talk sessions – none of which is good news for Lennon’s live-in boyfriend, Joe (Luka Jones, Upright Citizens Brigade). Joe tries to be understanding but begins to feel like a stranger in his own home. Meanwhile, Jessica is trying to get used to her new single life. Will she have to start buying matching sets of underwear again? Also, reconnecting with old friends like Rav (Stephen Schneider, “Happy Endings”), who may or may not have feelings for her, is more complicated than she thought. All of Jessica’s new efforts are met with the critique of the friends’ precocious nine-year-old neighbor, Queenetta (Daija Owens), who is not at all shy about doling out advice on their life choices.

Daija Owens, 8, is a native of Los Angeles, who’s had a knack for performing since a young age. Since Daija was three, she’s expressed herself by being unintentionally comical. Her funny facial expressions have always piqued the curiosity of her family who never know what she will do next to make them laugh.

Owens began her acting career at age six when she landed a role in her grade-school production of “The Wizard of Oz,” in which she played one of the Munchkins.  When she’s not acting, Daija enjoys spending time with her two older brothers and her sister, making new outfits for her dolls and playing with her friends. This talented newcomer is represented by Pamela Fisher at Abrams Artists Agency.

Best Friends Forever is produced by Universal Television and American Work, Inc. Along with Armstrong, St. Clair, Parham, Alexa Junge (“Friends,” “United States of Tara”), former child star Fred Savage (“Party Down”) and Ravi Nandan are executive producers. Donick Cary is consulting producer, while Keith Raskin serves as producer on the series.

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I’d love for you to check out my guest post over on Jen & Barb Mom Life who have teamed up with Coca-Cola to bring their show that answers the question, “What techniques you employ to encourage your children’s passions?”

Follow the ladies on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/MomLife

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Annie is casting Girls, ages 6-12 of all types and ethnicities, who are great singers, dancers, and actresses.
Just bring your personality and spirit!

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012 (10:00am-4:00pm) Sign-in begins at 9:00am. Please do not arrive earlier.
WHERE: Los Angeles Ballet Center, 11755 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
Get Map & Directions

Audition Check list!

• Headshot and Resume, stapled together back-to-back. If you do not have a headshot, bring a current photo with as much information as you can tell us about yourself.
• Sheet music for the song you’d like to sing. If you do not have any sheet music, you can sing Happy Birthday. First, you will be asked to sing acapella. Then, if you are called back, you’ll be asked to sing the same song with piano accompaniment.
• Snacks and beverages to stay energized
• An outfit you feel comfortable in that shows off your personality Please do not come in costume
• A pen or pencil and a pad are always useful in case you want to write anything down
• An adult to stay with you throughout the audition process
• Your smile (remember you are never fully dressed without it)

Leaping Lizards!! Auditions in NYC last year for ANNIE the Musical!

Can’t make it to Los Angeles? Audition online here! 

For more information on audition dates in Chicago and Houston, TX, please visit the official site  AnnietheMusical.com

Follow Annie on Facebook and Twitter!  

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Hollywood Moms are always on the go helping the other members of our family whether it’s getting them to school, off to work, soccer practice, music lessons, auditions, cleaning up after them or getting them fed – the list is endless. But remember if you don’t take care of yourself first, you can’t take care of any of them later and taking care of yourself includes keeping those new years resolutions about getting fit.  I’m going to talk a lot about “getting fit” this year so as we head off to the gym, let’s do a quick inventory of our fitness supplies.

Gym bag checklist: Sneakers- √ Towel- √ Water bottle- √ Ipod- √ Deodorant – double √ Flip Flops – Got my Okabashis!

Whether you are using them for a post workout shower or for a last minute hot yoga class, the Okabashi is the perfect, lightweight addition to your gym packing list.  With so many hidden germs at the gym, protect your feet with these unbeatable shoes that retail for less than $20. I use them as slippers around the house, for driving, gardening, at the beach and more. You will fall in love with these shoes.

Okabashi features:

• 100% recyclable and contains 30% recycled material (Good for the Planet!)

• Supportive with a massaging insole that helps relieve foot and back pain. (Good foot relief post workout!)

• Guaranteed for 2 years (Good for your pocket book!)

• Made in the USA -Buford, GA to be exact! (Good for the U.S.A.!)

• Dishwasher-safe and machine washable (Good for clean shoes!)

• Antimicrobial agents and odor resistant (Good to prevent bacteria!)

• Anti-slip (Good for locker room showers!)

• Completely water-proof (Good for longevity!)

• The ONLY shoe endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association (Good to be Good!)

Thanks to the very generous folks at Okabashi, one of our Hollywood Mom Blog readers will be winning a pair of these fitness-forward flip flops! Just leave your name in the the comment section below with some of your fitness resolutions for 2012!

For more information, visit their website at www.okabashi.com Follow Okabashi on Twitter!

Good news: Okabashi’s latest line of footwear is dishwasher-safe, which at high temperature kills all bacteria & germs. The Okabashi sandal won't shrink or lose its vibrant color no matter how often it is placed in a dishwasher. In addition, this vegan friendly line is 100% recyclable and is made in the U.S.A. thereby minimizing its carbon footprint.

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MONDAY

Kids scene study/on-camera class with Sara Wood

*ages 10 – 13

Ongoing class, starting January 9th, 2012
6pm – 8:30pm

$40.00 per class or$ 120.00 per consecutive 4 weeks or $300.00 per consecutive 12 weeks

*under age 10 by invitation only

TUESDAY

Kids ages 5 -8 with Coach Kara Amanda Smith

4pm – 5:30pm

~New 8 week session starts January 10th, 2012.  $200.00 for 8 weeks

THURSDAY 
Session starts on January 19th! Kid’s foundational class ages 8 – 10 with Kara Amanda Smith
4pm – 5:30 pm
$30.00 per class or $100.00 per 4 consecutive weeks

SATURDAY

Ages 13 -18 (starting January 7th, 2012)

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

$130.00 per month

For more information, call 818-224-7484

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Jordana Beatty as Judy Moody. Photo Credit: Suzanne Tenner © 2011

Last weekend my daughter Jordan and I were fortunate enough to attend the Premiere of “Judy Moody & the Not Bummer Summer!” at the Arclight Theaters in Hollywood.   Along with the cast Jordana Beatty, Heather Graham, Parris Mosteller,  Garrett Ryan and Preston Bailey, there was an impressive showing of today’s top child stars walking the carpet: Allisyn Ashley Arm, Audrey Whitby, Ciara Bravo, Garrett Ryan, Morgan Lily, Matthew Scott, Brandon Tyler Russell, Tucker Albrizzi, Cameron Boyce, Max Burkholder, Kieran Shipka, Justin Tinucci, Alli Simpson, BooBoo Stewart, Darcy Rose Byrnes, Camryn Magness, Dylan Riley Snyder, Riley Thomas Stewart, Katherine McNamara, Jennessa Rose, Taylar Hender, Fivel Stewart, Tyree Brown and so many more!

Check out our whole Judy Moody journey in pictures here! The film opens nationwide TODAY and if you want a not bummer summer – I suggest you drive directly to the nearest theater and buy your tickets!

ABOUT THE MOVIE

Relativity Media and Smokewood Entertainment Group are proud to bring you this summer’s smash hit, “Judy Moody & the Not Bummer Summer!” In this film adaptation of the popular book series, Judy Moody is planning the most super-duper, double-rare summer break ever… until her BFF’s Rocky and Amy thwart those plans by heading out of town on their own thrilladelic vacations.

Judy Moody warms up to Aunt Opal over Fondue

Aunt Opal Knows how to Party! Earns serious Thrill Points!

Photo Credit: Suzanne Tenner © 2011

Now Judy is stuck at home with her annoying brother Stink and her not-so-adventuresome friend, Frank Pearl. Ugh. But matters quickly worsen when Judy’s parents drop the bomb that they too are headed out of town – without Judy & Stink. Enter mysterious Aunt Opal (Heather Graham), who has agreed to care for her neice & nephew even though she’s never met them and doesn’t seem to know much about children or driving for that matter!  It appears all Judy’s grand plans for a thrill-filled summer have washed up. But with perseverance and help from some unlikely sources, she may just be surprised at how thrilladelic things get!

Photo Credit: Suzanne Tenner © 2011

Genres: Comedy, Kids/Family and Adaptation
Release Date: June 10th, 2011 (wide)
MPAA Rating: PG for for mild rude humor and language.

ABOUT THE PREMIERE

Usually I wouldn’t go on and on about a premiere after party but this one was particularly well done.  Themes from the movie were beautifully incorporated into the amazing after-party in the form of food, drinks, decor, entertainment, design, activities & games. All the kids were having the best time – even the parents were walking around with smiles on their faces.  Then it hit me. All of these Judy Moody inspired booths would be perfect (and EASY) to recreate for your own personal Judy Moody party!  So for those of you Hollywood Moms who love taking the kids to a movie (or when it’s released on DVD, showing the movie at home) and then following up with a themed party, I’ll be posting later on these ideas especially for YOU. For now – peruse our gallery of after-party pictures and download this super cool Judy Moody activity sheet!

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She was nominated five times for an academy award and won twice for Best Actress is a Leading Role for “Butterfield 8″ and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”

Taylor was married 8 times, twice to her great love Richard Burton. About this she was quoted as saying, “I am a very committed wife. And I should be committed too – for being married so many times.”

She holds the record for Life Magazine Covers, having been featured 11 times.

Taylor pioneered the campaign against HIV and AIDS awareness in Hollywood after her good friend Rock Hudson died and The Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation has raised millions of dollars for the cause.

About her life she was famously quoted as saying, “Everything was handed to me – looks, fame, wealth, honor, love. I rarely had to fight for anything.”  She was also known for saying, “When people say, ‘She’s got everything’, I’ve got one answer – I haven’t had tomorrow.” Rest in Peace Ms. Taylor.

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Former child actor Christian Bale also took home the gold as Best Supporting Actor for his performance in “The Fighter.” In atypical fashion, Bale was teary-eyed as he emotionally thanked his wife Sibi and daughter Emmaline: “I didn’t think I was like this. [Thanks to] my wonderful wife and our little girl, who’s taught me so much more than I’ll ever be able to teach her.”

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“So your kid wants to be an actor. A ‘real’ actor; a ‘professional’ one. I hear this a lot. And the questions I get next range from ‘Should I?’ to ‘Why the hell would I?’ to ‘How do I?’ Well, I’m going to lay it all out here as directly as I can.  Let’s name your kid Clive (yes–after Clive Owen, my favorite actor who is also my fantasy boyfriend).”

“Here’s the deal: if Clive wants to professionally act, your life will be driving Clive to auditions at the drop of a hat; schlepping him and any other kids you have to rooms full of adorable bubbly kids who have been trained to intimidate Clive and tell him he looks tired when the audition calls for a perky bright-eyed kid.”

More hilarious true tales on the perils of raising and being a child actor can be read here:

http://www.kveller.com/blog/parenting/so-your-kid-wants-to-be-an-actor-tough-noogie/

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The Dray's Clients, Milly and Becky Rosso.

Finally!  Here is the long-awaited second half of our exclusive interview with seasoned television and film producer Irene “The Dray” Dreayer. A brief reminder of her many credentials follows:

• Has produced 600 half hours of Primetime TV.
• Is currently producing the new original movie “Hunky Santa” for ABC Family.
• Formed her own personal management company in Los Angeles, representing writers and actors.
• Discovered twins Tia and Tamara Mowry and transformed them into the breakout stars of the series “Sister, Sister,” which she Executive Produced for the WB Network.
• Discovered Tia and Tamara’s younger brother Tahj, who went on to star in “Smart Guy,” a series for the WB Network.
• Served as Executive Producer on “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” on the Disney Channel for 3 seasons, and then “The Suite Life on Deck.”
• Discovered and Manages Milly and Becky Rosso, ( “The Suite Life,” “Legally Blondes”)

In addition these accomplishments, the Dray is now providing one-on-one mentoring to aspiring child actors via her new program, “The Dray Way,” a unique and revolutionary program unlike anything previously available to aspiring young talent.  Hollywood Mom Blog readers are exclusively offered the lowest prices on The Dray Way sessions. Make a note of discount code HMDW-135Skype, and be certain to use it when you sign up, to receive another $20 discount off the all ready reasonable rates.

HMB: Should some children wait to pursue acting as adults? Or do you feel that a person is innately an actor or not an actor regardless of age/ development?

The Dray: You may have this natural-born ability, but like any other activity, you must develop the talent.  Somebody can have a natural musical ear to play the piano, but it will take many years of practice to become a great pianist.  As for acting, you begin with having the acting “bug” whether you are young or old.  With commitment along with honing your skills (ie: acting, vocal and dance classes), your child, regardless of age, can take this dream and make it a reality.  Acting may come easier to some kids but at the end of the day, one must ultimately put in the hard work and dedication to go from an actor to a great actor.

HMB: You’ve said that often you will evaluate talent and determine whether that child is “ready” to pursue a professional career. In your memory are there actors who unsuccessfully pursued professional careers as children but later “made it” in their late teens or early adulthood?

The Dray: In my experience, I cannot recall that happening…but I would have to research it.

HMB: Justin Timberlake, Alyssa Milano, Christina Ricci, Leonardo DiCaprio, Drew Barrymore, Ryan Reynolds, Scarlett Johanson, Neil Patrick Harris and Jody Foster were all successful as child performers and as adults.  In your professional opinion what qualities/traits must a child performer have in order to transition effectively from “child actor” to “working actor” in their adult years?

The Dray: Many of these actors who survived the transition from a child actor to an adult actor never stopped “learning and practicing” the art of performing.  Even the biggest stars are always working on their craft to become better actors.  Just because you don’t have a job or are not working on a TV show, commercial, play or motion picture, does not mean you should cease continuous development, whether it be acting, singing or dancing.  In addition, actors who trust their instincts and get solid advise about what roles to take have the longevity. Actors must be very selective about the jobs that come their way.  The actors you mentioned would turn down a role in order to wait for the “great” role by having the courage to use the magical word “no.”  I personally feel that it is so much better to do a small role in a great movie or TV show than to agree to a leading role in a mediocre film.

HMB: Will you tell us what your feelings are on the “open call castings” that have become so popular for feature films recently?  Do you think casting from the general public via video submission is a genuine attempt to discover new talent, a marketing gimmick or perhaps a little of both?

The Dray: When looking for fresh talent I say…You never know.  That golden child who lives down the street from you, who has no access to an agent or talent manager, could be the next academy award-winning actor.  Many times casting agents/producers have exhausted their acting pool and venture out to the general public in hopes of finding what they are looking for. For example, the young girl Emma Watson who starred in all the Harry Potter movies, was plucked right out of her classroom in London…she had the right look!  This was the result of an “open casting call” at her school in London.  The tremendous success of American Idol, America’s Got Talent, and YouTube kid phenomenons are basically open casting calls!  This only validates the process.  Like I said, you never know!

HMB: In your own words, please tell the HMB readership what “The Dray Way” is and what it entails?

The Dray: THE DRAY WAY is divided into two parts. The Dray and The Way. “THE DRAY” is the moment I meet parents and their kids, getting to know them, their history and most importantly assessing where the family as a whole stands in regard to going on this journey.  Is it the child’s dream or the parents? Are they aware of what’s in store and where to begin?  Also, helping parents make some key decisions in regard to their child’s career, no matter what stage they are in, beginning, intermediate or just about to get the dream job.

Once all of these questions have been answered we get to THE WAY. Now this is where the critical work begins because I am able to coach the child as well as “train the parents”.  Wishing and hoping for their child to be come a star is fine but parents must see what lies ahead for them – the overall picture.  During THE WAY, I’m able to move into in depth coaching with a child in every aspect of preparation ranging from how to effectively audition to understanding the mental preparation it takes to get the job.

HMB: How will these one-on-one skype sessions benefit aspiring young actors?

The Dray: The bottom line is…I tell the truth to the child and the parents. Many times kids and their parents think they’re ready to compete for roles. I cannot tell you how many times I have said “not yet.”

It is astonishing how biased some parents can be thinking their child is ready to seriously audition.  I’m able to explain to parents with total honesty and support how “not ready” their child really is and then I guide them to the right training and strategy that needs to be done.

HMB: When you evaluate child actors via your program, are you able to glean what type of actor that child “should” be as in commercial vs. theatrical, comedy vs. drama, television vs. film. Etc. and if so, will you share that information with the child in their session with you?

The Dray: Yes, this is exactly what I do. I guide kids to pursue a direction I think they will have the most success. After 30 years of producing tween and teen TV shows and discovering top talent, I feel confident in accessing what direction a child should be heading. It’s an instinct and talent I have had for many years.

My one-on-one Skype sessions are as different as the kids themselves. A month ago, I had a Skype session with an eleven-year old boy and his mom.  He read a scene for me, sang a song and danced during our session. He was quite good but I felt something was missing.  He had an agent, was going out on auditions, but hadn’t been able to land a job.  Both he and his mom were very frustrated. He was mostly auditioning for comedic type TV roles. But I sensed something behind that happy face, beautiful smile and ambition that was very serious.  After more dialogue and getting to know him, I asked him if he ever went on auditions for dramatic parts.  I saw a dramatic actor.  I sensed there was something more to this picture… an intensity behind those brown eyes.  His mother disclosed that this happy go lucky kid’s father is a paraplegic and that he helps his father a lot.  And there it was, the deep layer behind the forever-reaching smile, and the jokes…the serious layer he could tap into.  At that moment, the young boy and his Mom saw what was right in front of them all along.  A young dramatic actor.  At the moment of realization, the young boy lit up with a huge smile! It was almost as if I gave him permission to go there.  It was an amazing session and an incredible breakthrough for this talented kid!

HMB: What will be covered during the sessions?

The Dray: Parents (and kids) can expect to get answers to basic questions about the business, and guidance on what to do with their talented child. It can be first steps, or helping a young career that is at a standstill.

I access a child’s ability, talent, skill-set & desire before getting down to the real work of developing their craft.  I talk with the child & evaluate where they are today to help the parents identify the next steps in their development, training & career path.  I also coach kids for specific auditions. I read “sides” and rehearse with the child so they feel confident and totally prepared when they walk into that audition.

Multiple Skype sessions allow me more time to work with a child to help build self-esteem working specifically on image, presentation & developing better acting skills. I work with parents to manage their own expectations, giving them the tools they need to support their child. I coach kids and their parents on how to handle the high-pressure meetings, casting calls & auditions with confidence. In addition, I help parents navigate the “business of the business,” agents, managers as well as work permits and Unions.

HMB: What should a child have prepared prior to their one-on-one session with you?

The Dray: It’s helpful to have a scene or monologue prepared which does not have to be memorized.  If they sing, then select a song of their choice.  Parents and kids should familiarize themselves with the blogs I have written and the FAQ’s from the Dray Way site so they can be prepared to ask questions from their end.

HMB: What tangible information will students depart with upon concluding their work with you?

The Dray: Parents and their kids will always get the truth from me. They will know where and how to begin this journey. What to do and what not to do.  I tell them honestly if they are ready or not…and how to take the next step no matter what stage in the process the child may be.

HMB: Do you recommend “Dray Way” refresher courses and if so, after what period of time should this be done?

The Dray: Yes I do and it’s based on what level the child is at when I first meet them on Skype.  If they need more work, if additional questions have come up, if they want me to see how much they’ve grown or are preparing for a big audition then they should Skype with me sooner than later.

HMB: Is there any written information, ie books, workbooks, worksheets, etc. available to your “Dray Way” students?

The Dray: We just launched a series of 6 video Webinars on The Dray Way site (http://thedrayway.com)   And, an ebook is in the works…coming soon!

HMB: After meeting with and evaluating a child that you feel perhaps has little or no talent and/or needs to seriously work on their craft, will you share that with them or their parents as well?

The Dray: Absolutely! I will always tell the child and the parents the truth without destroying the dream.  I believe that pursuing the performing arts when you are young fosters self-esteem and confidence throughout one’s life. Giving a book report, talking in front of the class or in a boardroom or a meeting. So few children become stars, but acting and performing are invaluable skills one has for a lifetime.

HMB: What is the best piece of advice you can give aspiring young actors?

The Dray: Work hard, train, and be prepared. Don’t rush the process. When it comes to meeting casting directors, agents and show producers, its easy to easy to get in the door but much harder to get back in the door if you’re not ready. Again, be prepared!  First impressions are everything.

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Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture: Josh Hutcherson (Kids are Alright)

Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Hailee Steinfeld (True Grit)

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Ariel Winter, Nolan Gould, Rico Rodriguez (Modern Family)

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series: Graham Philips, MacKenzie Vega (Good Wife)

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series: Kiernan Shipka (Mad Men)

And in addition to these current teen and child actors, a number of former teen and child actors are also nominated for their brilliant performances:

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: James Franco (127 Hours)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Natalie Portman (Black Swan)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Hilary Swank (Conviction)

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Christian Bale (The Fighter)

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Mila Kunis (Black Swan)

Natalie Portman (Black Swan)

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture:

BLACK SWAN (Fox Searchlight Pictures): WINONA RYDER / Beth Macintyre, MILA KUNIS / Lily,
NATALIE PORTMAN / Nina Sayers

THE FIGHTER (Paramount Pictures and Relativity Media)
CHRISTIAN BALE / Dicky Eklund, MARK WAHLBERG / Micky Ward

THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT (Focus Features)
JOSH HUTCHERSON / Laser, MIA WASIKOWSKA / Joni

THE SOCIAL NETWORK (Columbia Pictures)
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE / Sean Parker

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries

CLAIRE DANES / Temple Grandin – “TEMPLE GRANDIN” (HBO)

WINONA RYDER / Lois Wilson – “WHEN LOVE IS NOT ENOUGH: THE LOIS WILSON STORY” (CBS)

Jane Krakowski (30 Rock)

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series

30 ROCK (NBC): JANE KRAKOWSKI /Jenna Maroney

MODERN FAMILY (ABC): SARAH HYLAND / Haley Dunphy

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Irene "The Dray" Dreayer with her child star family: Dylan and Cole Sprouse (The Suite Life on Deck), Milly and Becky Rosso (Legally Blondes) & Tia, Tamara (Sister, Sister) and Tahj Mowry (Smart Guy).

To say that television and film producer Irene Dreayer (known simply as “The Dray” to her extended family of child stars) is an expert in her field is a drastic understatement. Here is brief overview of her professional credentials:

• Formed her own personal management company in Los Angeles, representing writers and actors.
• Discovered twins Tia and Tamara Mowry and transformed them into the breakout stars of the series “Sister, Sister,” which she Executive Produced for the WB Network.
• Discovered Tia and Tamara’s younger brother Tahj, who went on to star in “Smart Guy,” a series for the WB Network.
• Served as Executive Producer on “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” on the Disney Channel for 3 seasons, and then “The Suite Life on Deck.”
• Has produced 600 half hours of Primetime TV.
• Manages a few select young actors including Milly and Becky Rosso, ( “The Suite Life,” “Legally Blondes“)
• Is currently producing the new original movie “Hunky Santa” for ABC Family.

Whew! Is that a resume or what?  And in addition to all of this, the Dray is now providing one-on-one mentoring to aspiring child actors via her new program, “The Dray Way,” a revolutionary program I personally cannot wait to share with our readers.  And thanks to Irene and her team, Hollywood Mom Blog readers are being exclusively offered the lowest prices on these sessions. Make a note of code HMDW-135Skype, and be certain to use it when you sign up, to receive another $20 discount off the all ready reasonable rates.

When I first met Irene, I  was immediately struck by her warmth, sincerity and confidence.  It’s easy to see why “her kids,” as she calls them, love her so much. Here is this first information-packed portion of our two-part interview with the Dray:

HMB: Which came first for you, talent management or executive producing children’s television?

Dray: Talent management came first. I’ve always had an eye for talent.  It’s really my gift. Executive producing shows came second and came from discovering talent and finding them the right shows to star in. I represented some of the kids I put in my shows, and some I did not.

HMB: What drew you to managing kids and producing children’s television, as opposed to working with adults?

Dray: First of all…I love kids!  I don’t have children of my own, so I was drawn to kid talent and have treated these kids as if they were my own.  Because I am forever young at heart, I have always been able to relate to tweens and teens.  I have represented adult actors and writers as well but, I find the “kid world” of entertainment much more fun!  There’s a big need for quality  “family” programming… so the shows I produce are fun for the whole family.

HGB: Over the years you’ve managed the Mowry girls, currently manage twin sisters Milly and Becky Rosso and worked with twin brothers Dylan and Cole Sprouse just shy of a decade on “Suite Life.”  Do you feel it is easier for twin kids to break in and make it in Hollywood than their single child counterparts?

Dray: I discovered Tia and Tamera at the age of 13, and although I did not manage them, I sold the show “Sister, Sister” staring the girls as my first set of twins.

It’s astonishing that I have discovered 3 sets of twins and executive produced television shows starring all of them!  It is not necessarily “easier” for twin actors to be discovered, although it can be advantageous, especially when they are young. Many times a set of twins is actually playing only one character, as this is helpful in balancing a shoot day due to limited hours, schooling and the ever-present crying game.  Mary Kate and Ashley, for example, were probably the most famous twins who portrayed one character on the show “Full House.”  The 3 sets of twins I have discovered and produced starred in their own show as twins.  There’s clearly a fascination and appeal for the audience watching identical twins, boys or girls.

HMB: Do you prefer discovering and molding twins versus individual kids?

Dray: No, not necessarily.   It just happened to turn out that way.  There is no difference for me…a star is a star.

HMB: Cole Sprouse and Debby Ryan told me that the Rosso twins were discovered in the audience of “Sweet Life.”  Then I read on your website that you were the one who discovered them. Can you tell us how this happened and whether they had any acting experience prior?

Dray: When we’re taping a show like Suite Life in front of a live audience, we hire a comedian to entertain the audience while sets are being moved.  One particular taping, our “warm-up guy” (as they are referred to) asked the audience who was here from out of town.  The Rosso twins, Milly and Becky, had just moved to Los Angeles from England a few weeks prior and raised their hands…of course at the same time.  The warm-up guy asked them their names and where they were from and yelled out, “Oh!  You’re twins!”  The “twin-meister,” yours truly, pole-vaulted into the stands to meet them.  I asked them if they have ever acted or had dreams to become stars and they said no, but admitted that they loved to sing, dance and entertain.  They thought stardom was an unattainable dream.  I met with them the next day in my office and I saw just what I needed to see: They were beautiful, adorable…and British!! And they had a desire that came from them, not their mother.  I said to myself, Dray, these girls are very special and registered high on the “Draymeter.”  I knew I could market them.  They had just enough dreams, desires and commitment.  I put them in acting classes immediately.  As a result they were cast as reoccurring characters, Jessica and Janice on Suite Life of Zack and Cody and Suite Life on Deck.  They also starred in the TV movie “Legally Blondes” for MGM and Disney. I was right!

HMB: What qualities do you look for in child talent as a producer and as a talent manager? Does “the Dray as talent manager” look for the same things in child talent as “Dray the executive producer?”

Dray: First and foremost…it has to be the child’s dream not their parents’.  I look for commitment and passion. I determine if they are marketable, unique, different and something we haven’t seen before.  Many times I meet with kids and they’re just beginning and have no representation.  If I feel (using the Draymeter) that this child is unique and saleable, I would jump in as a manager.  If it is a long road, I may decide that managing the child is something I might not have the time to do.  It’s really a case-by-case decision. Again, if I feel that they’re worth pursuing, then yes, I will consider management.

HMB: What look or type is popular or trending right now for kids in television?

Dray: Being REAL!!  We want to cast kids that other kids consider like themselves and can relate to… tall, short, fat, thin, popular, nerdy.  Not everyone is perfect.  Kid actors that are “character-types” are seen more and more on television.  As a producer, I constantly put pressure on our casting staff to find those young actors that are “different” and “unique” and what real kids look like today.

HMB: As a television producer, for Disney specifically, do you prefer hiring children who are triple threats (actors, singers, dancers) or do you evaluate talent on acting ability and “potential” in those other areas?

Dray: Of course being able to do it all is fabulous, but it depends on the part.  You don’t need to have all three unless the role requires it.

HMB: How important are a child’s parents in your decision to hire a given child actor?

Dray: VERY IMPORTANT, it’s huge.  I ask myself these questions when I meet a child’s parents: Is this the parents’ dream and not the child’s?  Are the parents looking for a bread-winner?  How do they perceive their child?  Do they consistently interrupt and voice their opinion when it is not requested?  Do they count the number of lines their child has?

HMB: What traits do you look for and/or avoid in parents of child actors?

Dray: I look for their support, cooperation, and the ability to keep their child as normal as possible (ie:  take out the trash…make your bed.) I look for gratitude and understanding. I avoid jealous parents whose dreams are bigger than their child’s, parents who are looking for a bread-winner and those parents who perceive their child as a bigger and better star than they really are. I also avoid parents who are overly opinionated about other parents and their children and who gossip, lie and compare.

HMB: Could difficult parents ever be a “deal breaker” in hiring a given child for a role?

Dray: Absolutely.  I have had to endure extremely difficult parents and had a series cancel due to the obtrusive and horrific way the parents behaved.  Bad behavior is not tolerated.  Parents have been escorted off the lot..  Because of these types of parents, kids have not been hired.  Make no mistake parents, you have your own role to play in this.  And when given a choice between two kid actors of equal ability, guess who will get the part?

Bookmark HMB as a favorite and check back for part 2 of our interview with Irene “The Dray” Dreayer, Executive Producer of The Suite Life on Deck and creator of “The Dray Way!” If you just can’t wait until the next interview, and you want to sign up to speak with the Dray right away, click on this special link and enter code HMDW-135Skype for an additional $20 dollars off! Watch the video webinar below to get a feel for how these educational one-of-a-kind skype session with the Irene come to life, The Dray Way!

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"Suite Life" Executive Producer Irene "The Dray" Dreayer with "Suite Life" Star Debby Ryan

Hollywood Mom Blog is giving the invaluable gift of top notch“inside information” for our Hollywood Moms and Dads this holiday season!

Our friend, Irene “The Dray” Dreayer, Executive Producer of “The Suite Life on Deck” is revealing the Top 5 Mistakes she sees aspiring child actors make. Later this week, we will be sharing the Dray’s newest project, “The Dray Way” mentoring program for aspiring child and teen actors, in addition to an exclusive two-part interview with The Dray herself.

The Dray’s the Top 5 Child Actor No No’s:

1.  The career some kids aspire to is not their dream…they are making someone else happy, i.e. the parents!

2.  It’s great to aspire to have a career like Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Raven-Symoné or Dylan and Cole Sprouse, but you have to carve out your own path and not mimic your idol’s career. Be your own type of performer. The key is to be true to yourself and be proud of who you are.

3.  Being unprepared in auditions. Meaning, not understanding the character you are reading for, not listening in character and not taking direction.  For example, when asked to do the scene a different way, some young actors don’t have the ability yet to do that.  As a result, the actor unfortunately ends up doing the reading exactly the same way.

4.  Don’t arrive at an audition sick…stay home!!  Cough-Cough…a No-No!

5.  If a young actor does have success and they’re not prepared for [success] and don’t understand what comes with being famous.  For example dealing with Paparazzi, constant interruptions in any normal activity, too much exposure on Twitter, Facebook, etc.  I say, keep your personal information to yourself and off these sites.

Catch up with HMB later this week for the first half of an incredible two-part interview with one of the biggest talents in town, Irene Dreayer. And Happy Holidays!

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The Hunger Game

Ross stated he hadn’t met with any actresses for the coveted Katniss role but would be doing so shortly. Ross is committed to casting the right girl for the role and won’t “dumb the character down or cutesy her up for the movie,” according to EW. Ross tells EW:  “I’ve talked to Suzanne [Connors, the author of the trilogy] extensively and I feel like I understand the character really, really well. I feel like I know who that girl needs to be.”  He also quelled the rumor that there are already leading contenders for the role. “I’ve read in the press that there are frontrunners but that’s not the case.”

Ross hasn’t ruled out casting an unknown actress either. “I honestly don’t know,” he said. “We’ll cast the right person for the part. Lionsgate has been great in the respect that they don’t feel that this needs a movie star in Katniss’ role. The greatest thing about the franchise and the books being the star is that we can cast whoever we want. So we all feel like we’re just going to cast the right person.”

Gary Ross also explained that the casting will have nothing to do with an actress’ buzz or beauty, “I don’t think that’s the main criterion for Katniss. What makes Katniss attractive is her strength and her assuredness and her defiance and ultimately her compassion. And I don’t mean just physical strength. I mean a real strength as a human being. She knows her own truth. She feels deeply and fiercely. And this is something that the actress has to bring with her.”

My personal experience with Ross is that he will absolutely choose the right person for the role and with great conviction. While working on Pleasantville, I joined my husband Russell and Gary for sushi one evening after wrap. When I (innocently) questioned the casting choice of the lead character, David/Bud Parker, Gary conveyed his extreme commitment to and belief in a-then-unknown Tobey MaGuire for Pleasantville and felt no one else could play the part. And he was right, Tobey was the blend of youthful naiveté and serious acting chops the role required. As Ross himself is a prolific writer and story teller, he won’t be affected by the flavor-of-the-month casting syndrome Hollywood is notorious for, and with Lionsgate backing him, whomever they cast in the role will be an excellent choice. Let the Katniss Games begin!

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Now those three memories are in strong competition with this singular one:  I was quoted for the advertising campaign which has appeared in the Los Angeles Times daily since last Wednesday.  I’ll admit it has me on a Siskel and Ebert or Ebert and Roper kind of high (Two thumbs up!), an experience and honor I never desired but now that it’s arrived, is pretty cool.  That’s it – just wanted to share another amazing adventure on this ride of being the Hollywood Mom and to thank all of you for joining me.

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Elle Fanning at the premiere of THE NUTCRACKER in 3D, with HMB reporters Blaire Goldberg & Jordan Bobbitt

As most of you know, yesterday was the World Premiere of Elle Fanning’s new movie, “The Nutcracker in 3D” and Hollywood Mom Blog not only hosted a giveaway to our readership (Lucky reader Yasmin won 2 Passes!) but HMB also attended and interviewed the stars as they entered the theater.  It was a wonderful night at The Grove LA, where Christmas decorations are all ready up adding to the magical atmosphere.  The family film opens nationwide November 24, 2010. For a detailed synopsis of the movie, cast and hyperlinks please read our original post.

Below is a video recap of the evenings festivities at the premiere. A special thanks to my daughter Jordan for not only working the red carpet as an ace interviewer but for editing this piece in one afternoon. Thanks also to adorable Blaire Goldberg for her deft flip cam coverage and reporting skills, her mother Nicole Hanratty for working her magic with the camera up and down ladders as well as the red carpet and to Pennie and Emme Creager for overall moral support, being seat-saving ninjas and for the ride home. Muaahhhh! Big kisses to you all ladies!

This is what HMB’s winner Yasmin Matten had to say about her experience at the premiere:

Hi Tracy!
We can’t thank you enough for giving us the opportunity to go to the Nutcracker in 3D premiere last night! For several days, I kept eagerly waiting for that e-mail to tell me that I won, and I did! It was my daughter, Amelia’s, birthday and you helped make it a very special day. I had shown her the previews of the movie online and she was just so excited to be there. I didn’t hear a peep out of her during the entire movie! At the end of the movie, Amelia got to briefly meet and take a quick picture with Elle. This will be something really cool for her to see when she gets older.

Since moving to LA last year from the east coast, we’ve been having so much fun with all these “Hollywood moments”. My other daughter, Fiona (6mo), got her first “job” on TV when she was just a month old and we now have both girls with an agency. It’s fun, but it sure takes a lot of you! I promised my friends back east that I wouldn’t turn into a Hollywood mom, but it’s just so contagious! I love reading your blogs with all your great information. I can tell that you put a lot of effort into it. We all appreciate your hard work.
Keep up the great work you’re doing on the HMB! We look forward to more events!

All the best,
Yasmin and Amelia Matten

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Elle and Dakota Fanning

Synopsis: From Academy Award-winning writer/director Sofia Coppola (“Lost in Translation,” “The Virgin Suicides,” “Marie Antoinette”), “Somewhere” is a witty, moving, and empathetic look into the orbit of actor Johnny Marco (Stephen Dorff).

Johnny is living at the legendary Chateau Marmont hotel in Hollywood. He has a Ferrari to drive around in, and a constant stream of girls and pills to stay in with. Comfortably numbed, Johnny drifts along. Then, his 11-year-old daughter Cleo (Elle Fanning, younger sister of Dakota) from his failed marriage arrives unexpectedly at the Chateau. Their encounters encourage Johnny to face up to where he is in life and confront the question that we all must: which path in life will you take.

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