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21 actors and singers took the stage at The Zephyr Theatre in West Hollywood last Saturday, February 11th and went head-to-head in a dynamic and interactive performance competition, part of the Studio's diversity initiative.
The "LA Monologue & Song Slam" returned to West Hollywood, a unique event that combines the power of monologues and the soul of music. This diversity initiative and scholarship program was produced by Studio For Performing Arts LA at no cost to performers, created as an opportunity to give industry exposure to underrepresented talent.
Director Walid Chaya hosted the Slam and was accompanied by four Los Angeles TV and film guest judges who gave feedback live on-the-spot following each performance.
The VIP Judges included:
★ Talent Agent Juliana Castro, CESD Talent Agency
★ Casting Director Ani Avetyan, MAJOR Film & Network TV including "Major Crimes" & "The Closer"
★ Personal Manager Jennifer Russell, Working Talent Mgmt.
★ Creator/Writer George Khouri, Producer of “Black Coffee” on Will Ferrell’s Funny or Die
The format of the Slam required each performer to present a monologue or song timed to no longer than one minute. After the performances, the audience voted for their favorite performer who received a $100 cash prize.
During the awards announcement, VIP Judge George Khouri offered a generous $100 cash donation on-the-spot as a second cash prize which was awarded to the 1st runner up. Additional prizes and studio scholarships were awarded to the entire cast valued at up to $1,000 to each performer.
(Photo: Cast of the 2023 LA Monologue & Song Slam)
Congratulations to the February 11, 2023 winners and participants:
Grand Prize Winner: Jerry Weil
1st Runner Up: Alexandra Werner
2nd Runner Up: Natalia Echeverria
The 2023 Cast:
Blayne
Michael R. Bernard
Amor Christensen
Theresa Croft
Matteo Della Putta
Patrice Duncan
Natalia Echeverria
Shannon Gibbs
Gwenn Hope Rodriques
Saalika Khan
Ian Mark
Paul McCrillis
Autumn Rae Shannon
Kaitlin Sanders
Monique Searls
Leandro Stephan
Vivian Tran
Precious Ugbodu
Jerry Weil
Alexandra Werner
Caroline Wilson
Performers have been invited to exclusive studio programs at Studio For Performing Arts LA with scholarship funding. Many have also already been offered meetings with top talent representatives as a result of participating in this diversity and scholarship program.
(Photo: During the mixer with the cast & audience)
Walid Chaya said, “The 'Slam' is a special diversity initiative with opportunities for performers to network, connect with Hollywood industry including casting directors, talent agents, and managers, and receive on-the-spot advice in a stress-free and casual environment.”
The fast-paced and interactive nature of the event has made it popular for participants and audiences alike. Chaya has previously directed similar Slams on both coasts, also in Washington DC for Moonlit Wings Productions Monologue Slam in partnership with DC’s Women For Film & Video non-profit organization. Chaya’s events bring a fresh perspective to networking.
Studio For Performing Arts LA offers first-rate resources for actors to Elevate Your Craft & Career™ through classes, private consulting and special industry events. The studio’s unique programs help actors meet and learn from industry experts for 'real world' training and tangible business tools.
Walid Chaya mentors actors and draws from his years of experience in the LA, NY and DC production markets. Programs are available online and in Los Angeles and strive to support a diverse and inclusive film and television landscape with affordable and accessible events.
For more information, please visit studioforperformingarts.com and follow @walid.chaya and @studioforperformingarts on Instagram.