Canedy Knowles
"I am where I am because of AGR. Period. Yes, I had great training. Yes, I had some decent credits, but Jen taught me about the business and helped me understand who I was when I walked into an audition room. Her encouragement and guidance has been invaluable. The journey at AGR has given me confidence in who I am and what I have to offer-which allows me to stay present in the moment- and a trust in my instincts because those instincts and impulses have been nurtured and honed by countless intensives and working with Jen. I am forever grateful to the entire AGR experience for making me the actress I am today."
Kevin McCormick
"I have been working on the craft of "acting" since 2007 and over a year ago I started looking for places that offered an opportunity to get in front of casting directors and agents to bring my career to the "next level". I searched online and saw the website and all of the opportunities the AGR offered. The first time I went to AGR was an 'agent night" and it was there I met Jen and the AGR staff. From the first moment I met Jen I knew what a genuine and caring person she is. She is in the business of helping actors succeed by creating these opportunities so we as actors can show our talents. I can honestly say that Jen and her staff create a safe and warm atmosphere and are true professionals in every sense of the word!! Since my time attending AGR events I have signed with an agent, a manager, booked major roles on the CBS series "The NYC-22", "Nurse Jackie", "Louis CK", "The Americans" and more. If you are an actor who wants opportunities to show your abilities to people "in the business" then I truly recommend attending AGR events. Thanks Jen and all of the staff at AGR!"
Derek Michalak
"There is NO Better place to build industry relationships than AGR! When you do the Consultation with Jen, you will receive golden nuggets that will set you up for success. AGR has the personal touch that all the others are lacking which to me show's how much they care for every individual who walks through their doors. From the intimate classrooms to the specific scenes Jen will give you to knock it out of the park. Why not bring your A game instead of being handed some random scene? You must be prepared in this business and AGR removes all of the guess work for you. Often imitated, but never duplicated, AGR is a class act! A big thanks to Jen and all of the staff!"
Jennifer Onvie
"I was frustrated before I came to AGR. I had the right idea of how to present myself, but not the tools to do so. After I attended multiple intensives, The Monday Night Class, and The Manager Night, my career is now going in the direction I wanted it to be when we sat down for that career consult near a year ago. So almost a year has passed and where am I now? I'm signed with a manager that is invested in me, I'm a recurring character on 2 HBO shows (The Leftovers and Crime), and I look towards my future with a more active focus knowing that I have the power to make things happen for myself. I look forward to the next year."
Jason Carvell
"I've been travelling for much of the last couple of months, but the last two weeks in NY have been busy. I've finished the narration on two series and two specials for the National Geographic Channel, and I just heard today that I've been cast in the comedy feature 'Stereotypically You' starring Kal Penn and Aaron Tveit. You'll finally get to hear my native British accent ;-) As always, thank you Jen, you are an angel."
Max Jenkins
"I wasn't so awesome at TV auditions right out of school. I took a ton of casting director intensives, and quickly found that AGR was the best place to develop my skills. The sweet staff, the way classes were set up for maximum actor comfort, the relaxed, affable industry people - everything combined to create the best possible atmosphere for making big, bold choices, daring to fail, and forging relationships. AGR was my laboratory. A few years later, I'm appearing in my first series regular role on 'The Mysteries of Laura' with Debra Messing, and just completed a guest part on the third season of 'Orange Is The New Black' that was written for me. It took a lot of hard work - and I feel lucky I found the best place in New York to put my nose to the grindstone."
Pamela Bob
"As an actor who has primarily a theatre background, I found breaking in to the on-camera world virtually impossible. Through working with Jen and AGR, I have learned how different on-camera auditions are to theatre auditions, yet at the same time, understand and become comfortable with it. As a versatile actor, I know I can play many different kinds of roles, so defining one type was tricky for me. Through AGR, I have learned the importance of not just specifying my type, but specifying which type is the most effective for me in TV/Film land. Understanding how to choose sides, and becoming comfortable auditioning on-camera has been a confidence booster. I also have gained more insight about what is expected in the industry, have acquired agent connections, and now have connections with casting directors that would have never seen me before AGR. Through their feedback, I further understand how I am seen in the industry."
Lucinda Rogers
"I just want to say that I love AGR. I love the format, I love the way it's set up. I truly feel like everyone is set up for success there. Everyone is mature, and there is no nastiness or unhealthy competition. I have felt GREAT about every session I've done at AGR. You have GREAT guests and get right to the point -- actors doing sides in front of casting directors. So thanks!"
Dan Franko
"I've been to AGR and a couple of the other similar places, trying to gain a foothold and open doors for myself in NY. While they all offer access and the chance to read for many of the same casting directors, for me AGR is more than that. It feels more like a home...like I'm part of a community. It's a very welcoming place. (Some of the others have a very sterile/businessy feel, and you don't feel like you're part of anything beyond the end of that workshop session). It's clear that you are invested in the growth and success of the actors that come through AGR. I don't see that from the other places. So when I choose to come up to NY and take a workshop, AGR is always my first choice."
Rachael Ma
"As per your suggestions, I revamped my website, got new headshots, and worked on narrowing my type to the witty, sarcastic, girl-next-door that suits me so well. In the past 3 months, I booked a Co-Star in On The Case with Paula Zahn, a small spot in Roseanne Barr’s new show Momsters, and I was the most excited to be cast in a recurring role as the Mayor of Gotham’s sexy secretary on Fox’s new show Gotham. I've been called in for some really fun and challenging auditions including One Bad Choice! Thank you for being accessible, encouraging and consistently presenting us AGR’s with opportunity. What you do, works. Im proof."
Freddy Giorlando
"I just booked my first small principle role in Martin Scorceses Untitled Rock N Roll Project. I shot yesterday , it was amazing! I met my hero and got to work with him. Chatted it up with Bobby Cannavale a bit, I just felt so free :) I really wanna thank you for all your support, love & care. I havent seen u in a while but heres a big E-HUG! Ask & U Shall receive the universe is always listening, so true! GO AGR!"
Ronete Levenson
"Jen has the singular ability to see someone as an entire being first and through that lens, can easily hone in on specific strengths. With her reflection and guidance, I met and signed with my agent and have since been working in theater, film, and television. Jen connects you to everyone you need to know in the industry. She creates a supportive and prestigious atmosphere. Jen gave my career an incredible kick start and I couldn't be more grateful."
Shane Condino
"After my first session at the actors green room I wanted to personally say to you congratulations on the BEST ACTING STUDIO EVER!! Seriously, I can't believe it's taken this long to find you over there but the wait was well worth it. I was sitting in the main room yesterday talking to a casting director and I just kept thinking how well designed and incredible the entire studio is. Stress free, super professional, and FUN. I really like what you've done - it's light years beyond any other place I've ever had a session for casting directors and your recommendations for me for whom to perform for so far is spot on. You've got a wonderful staff and there's a genuine environment of nurturing going on at the AGR and that is of course a spectacular reflection of your accomplishments and care that you've taken to make it that way. You're a serious professional with a functioning heart Jen. I'm so grateful that you exist as an enterprise for the acting community. I've told every actor friend of mine to have a consultation with you and to start taking your classes. Diamond in the rough as they say. Best studio ever - way to go."
Britt Bowman
"I also wanted to personally thank you for helping me throughout my journey. You had a vision with The Actor's Green Room, and it is obvious with all of the success stories that your vision has become a reality. I took your 4-week class almost two years ago. You helped me find an awesome photographer and helped me decide on which headshot to use and really got who I was as a person and as an actress. I just flew to LA after the LAXplore trip to meet with an agent, and I am signing with her! That is all because of you and AGR! I'm going to be able to be bicoastal because I have a buddy pass and can fly standby back and forth for almost nothing. I love NYC so much! I've been developing relationships through AGR for years now, and I've been getting called in! I just booked another career consultation with you in March. (Hopefully, I can squeeze in before then though. Crossing my fingers!) I also just finished filming the lead in an independent thriller that already has distribution, and a lead in an independent comedy! Life has been good!"
Patricia Torres
"I've only been going to AGR for about a year now but I really love what I've learned since then. So many times I meant to sit down and write you a note to just say thank you but just never did it. I just got home from my intensive with a Casting Director and I felt compelled to write something. The Casting Director was fabulous and so much fun! She really had me take my sides in a different direction and I actually love them even more! So amazing. (P.s. the sides were provided by you and everyone thinks they're perfect for me!). I look forward to my time at AGR and feel very welcomed by you and the entire staff. You address me by name when you see me and that's really nice. It's comfortable, supportive, and I've never experienced that before. I feel like a human being who matters, not like a number in a room. Thanks so much and I look forward to more!!"
Greg Accetta
"Upon singing up for AGR's Manager Night I was reluctant to press the "confirm order" button. I have heard numerous actors talk about not paying to meet industry guest and that it is a waste of time and no one gets called in. But I didn't listen and went ahead anyway. We had to choose a scene from their extensive database and/or choose a scene of your own that cannot exceed two pages in length. I decided to go with something that really moved me. A show that I can see myself working on today. When I showed up all the staff was super friendly and have a great talk before we began. What I loved most is that you get WRITTEN FEEDBACK from the actual agents right after you do your scene. Instead of trying to figure out what you could have done differently or play the scenario over and over again, you get to see how they reacted to your scene. After I did my scenes the next day I got FIVE phone calls from different Managers that wanted to meet with me, After all of my meetings I felt the most comfortable and the best fit with one and signed with them this past Friday! Without Actors Green Room this would not be possible! Thanks again!"
Emma Gruttadauria
"Jen and AGR are without question, simply the best! I have been working with Jen and her gang for little over a year and a half and knew right off the bat that this was the best decision I could make as an actor. I love the small classes and being able to interact with Industry Professionals in a relaxed environment that is professional, caring, supportive, informative and above all, fun! Early on I jumped at the opportunity to have a career consultation with Jen and her advice proved to be invaluable. Boy does this woman know her stuff!! With a LOT of hard work, being consistent, using the advice and knowledge gained at AGR, I had all the tools in place to find success. I have just wrapped on an indie feature film where I landed a supporting role working alongside Jose Zuniga and Nick Mancuso. I recently auditioned for a major studio feature film that resulted in being called back for a different, much larger role. I would not have had the confidence in myself to achieve these things without AGR’s support. Now we have AGS! A-Mazing! I met with Josh who made sure that my profile markets me the way it should and let me tell you it works! I was called in to audition for a network pilot directly from Green Screen. An opportunity I would not have had without it. AGR has proven to be the best place for me to network, learn, and continue to grow as an actor. A HUGE Thank You to the entire AGR Family!"
Ilya Konstantin
"I had to send you an email to say thank you. I recently took the Manager Night at the AGR and had a fantastic experience. I was called in by 5 managers and offered contracts. I ultimately signed with a great bi-coastal company! This business can feel very overwhelming and lonely at times, especially when looking for new representation. You and the Actors Green Room are like the ultimate contact, you help make things happen. I'd recommend that any actor use your incredible resources if they're serious about what they do. You get results. For the first time in a long while, I am happy and excited about the future. Thank you again, you are amazing!"
Brian Michael
"Jen you are the best! Thanks for creating this platform. I will definitely let the world know how you and AGR have helped me!
I'm almost done after two and a half years of training at Esper Studio. Right now a lot of my peers are getting anxious because school will be over soon and they don't feel like they are ready to work. They haven't found representation yet or know how to translate training into auditioning and booking. I feel so blessed to be in a place where I can enjoy training and not worry about the next steps. Right now, I have a fantastic manager (who I met at AGR) and 3 agents and am lined up for my 5th commercial callback in 4 months this afternoon. None of which would have been possible if I hadn't started working with you and AGR last year. Nailing down my brand through our career consult and new headshots, the auditioning exercise and feedback from the the Manager and Commercial Nights I attended all helped me find what I needed to be comfortable and on point in the room. What I appreciate most is that I have been able to establish some connections and relationships with the people casting the projects I'm interested in. Now with the Green Screen I know that I have the opportunity to connect with even more movers and shakers."
I'm almost done after two and a half years of training at Esper Studio. Right now a lot of my peers are getting anxious because school will be over soon and they don't feel like they are ready to work. They haven't found representation yet or know how to translate training into auditioning and booking. I feel so blessed to be in a place where I can enjoy training and not worry about the next steps. Right now, I have a fantastic manager (who I met at AGR) and 3 agents and am lined up for my 5th commercial callback in 4 months this afternoon. None of which would have been possible if I hadn't started working with you and AGR last year. Nailing down my brand through our career consult and new headshots, the auditioning exercise and feedback from the the Manager and Commercial Nights I attended all helped me find what I needed to be comfortable and on point in the room. What I appreciate most is that I have been able to establish some connections and relationships with the people casting the projects I'm interested in. Now with the Green Screen I know that I have the opportunity to connect with even more movers and shakers."
Elana Safar
"I wanted to write an email just to say that I really consider AGR a staple of my education, just like I invested in the 2 Year Acting training at Esper and other lessons with top coaches in NYC. Not only did I book "Damages", I have also auditioned for 5 episodes of Blue Bloods this season. AGR consistently has great readers and a comfortable, stylish space- and the free water is icing on the cake. Last week I had my first big pilot audition- a pretty sizable 3 scene role for "Ironside". Though I have had representation and auditions for years, there is no doubt that the last 1.5 years has really turned up the heat for me--and coincidentally this overlaps with my time coming to AGR! I love the emails you send out because it sends such a supportive message to the community. I'm just waiting until I get the next big job and I can email you and say "YAY! a success story" but until then, i literally just wanted to write you an update because the weekly encouragements you send out are so helpful, like an Olympic coach whispering in your ear."
Ilfenesh Hadera
"AGR was the first place I went to look for representation and the only place I've been since. Anytime anyone asks if I recommend a place to take class, or get advice, or find representation I tell them what a must AGR is. I just don't see how all this would have been possible without you and I am more appreciative than you will ever know for creating such a wonderful, resource rich environment. Thanks for all."
Artie Brennan
"Growing up in New York and being the son of an NYPD Lieutenant I tend to think everything is a scam. When it comes to the acting business more often than not things are. You might think "too good to be true?". Well let me tell you The Actors Green Room is the real deal from Top To Bottom! I recently booked several commercials after a personal consultation with Jen. She told me what my type was, what I should be going for, and that she saw commercials as my "door" or way in. I have been called in several times by heavyweight television casting directors I have met at AGR. I met my wonderful voice over coach when she was a reader in a class I took at AGR(she is now full time staff - Go Jane!). Casting Directors always tell me I look just like my headshot and guess who steered me to Melissa Hamburg my photographer...Who is Jen Rudolph? Correct! After Jen directed me to an audition with Canedy Knowles I got back into improv and I have been performing weekly for 6 months. Also The Actors Green Screen is a new amazing concept. Not only is AGR amazing, but the community that has organically grown from it is filled with the professionals an actor should align themselves with.(It also doesn't hurt that the staff & Jen are mad cool!)...Now, If you read this and think my testimonial is B.S. re-read the first line."
Melanie Martinez
"The Actor's Green Room and Actor's Green Screen are the real deal. Trust me on this one, folks. I have been working with Jen and the gang since before Jen had a gang! I met my amazing headshot photographer Melissa Hamburg thru Jen. I will go to no one else, not only because I am loyal, but because I have consistently booked work with my pics. Trust me. Now we have AGS! Mind. Blowing. Stuff. Have you ever wanted someone to vouch for you and tell industry to keep an eye on you? Jen and the AGS do this!"
Gregg Prosser
"I wasn't sure what i liked about AGR, but after my first experience, I was hooked. I grew up playing on many teams throughout my life and AGR became my acting team. It has several coaches, assistants, and staff members that all want you to be successful. They don't kid around you and tell you your great, DO THE WORK, and you can be successful, thats the mantra. Like all good coaches they lead you in the right direction and leave the rest up to you. There is no greater feeling than booking a job but the true winners are the ones who learn from not booking the job, making the adjustment, and nailing it the next time out. Before AGR, that statement was lost to me, I crashed hard with every defeat. Jen, through her private consultations help me find myself , the actor. I learned not to get discouraged because I learned who I am and the roles that I can play. It was simple cone down the jobs I submit to, keep them in my wheelhouse, and my bookings went up. I used to think you needed luck to be a successful actor, it helps, but the successful actors work hard at their craft, and are always networking with CD's and agents. There is no better place to meet industry personal than the Actor's Green Room. I am Proud to be part of the AGR team."
Christina Saragaglia
"I am in the final round of auditions for a series regular on a original series. I had my 3rd callback today. One of the producers actually came out and took me aside afterwards to tell me how much they loved my read and my look, and that they wanted me to stay and read for another role they are developing because they want to find the best fit for me. I'm up for a tv show against girls who are probably repped by top agencies. Progress can feel great! I can officially say that classes at the AGR and the feedback I've received from industry folks have been so valuable. Even if I don't book the role, this experience has showed me that I am CAPABLE of holding my own in these auditions, and I am ready for bigger and better things."
Melissa Jackson
"We have yet to meet, but I wanted to share my week at AGR and give a huge THANK YOU for the doors that you've made possible to swing open! I'm totally taken back by this amazing platform you've created for actors--Your a true Pioneer of this generation. You've created a vessel for us to display our work and shared your network---What more could an actor ask for? Anyways, a friend said you must to AGR--I said well okay let me give it a whirl! I went to your site and all classes were filled and a private with you was a ways away, doesn't matter I will just be on every wait list and took first available with you--April 10th appointment!...I'm going to just read all there blogs and try to pick the best sides and see what happens...nothing to lose:) I will try to make the best of it, until I get my concrete advice from Jen.I was able to get in on a cancellation last Saturday. I was very excited and your staff was super lovely and calming when arriving for the intensive. I'm just so thankful and wanted to share that with you. Look forward to meeting you and following this journey with AGR!!"
Virginia Wilcox
"The Actor’s Green Room is a great service to actors/agents/casting directors/the world. They create an environment of respect, encouragement and camaraderie; so that each actor can be given the opportunity to do their best work in the audition room and agents/casting directors can find some awesome people. Learning, growing, building relationships… that’s what Jen has made The Actor’s Green Room all about. They employ top-notch readers who are giving you some great choices to react to and are super fun to connect with. There’s no better feeling for an actor than to walk away from an audition, knowing you’ve just played a great scene with a great scene partner. You can rest well knowing that you did your part the best that you know how. The rest is up to the Universe."
Alana O'Brien
"I really liked the format of the evening and how personal the small size of the group felt. Also, I LOVE that we watched the other actors on a monitor from a different room, it gives the actor who is on-camera a much more authentic auditioning experience (having a bunch of other actors staring back at you during an audition has never happened to me outside of an acting class) and the actors watching can see how an audition looks to producers who only get to watch the tape. I will definitely be back for more intensives."
Sas Goldberg
"I have always been resistant to do these workshops before, concerned that it would be me with 100 other people and I wouldn't really get any individual attention. I have to say last night completely changed my perception of these workshops. Although I have representation and do go out on auditions, the past year has been incredibly slow for me, and I have decided to take matters in my own hands and start being more proactive about my career. Last night not only taught me so many things, but helped me get my mojo back. I think you run an incredible program and I am so happy I decided to try it on a whim. In a business that is often cut-throat and brutal sometimes, it was nice to be in such a supportive and fostering environment."
Jon Bender
"Having taken a bit of a break from the acting scene, to focus more on myself in modeling, I knew I had the tools an actor needs but wasn't sure where I could take the time to apply them. Having been referred to the Actor's Green Room, I made it a point to check out their daily Facebook contests to try and win a spot for their Commercial/Print night - much to my luck, and tech savvy searching, I won! You're probably thinking..."Facebook, really?" but you would be surprised how easy it is just by keeping an eye out and your creative caps on. I recently attended the TV/Film Agent Night, which was my first step to get back on track. It's affordable for what you receive: 10 agents in one night? It's as if you're going to a speed-dating event...but with agents. My favorite? You have the benefits of getting their feedback, rather than not booking an appointment. They tell you what needs work, if your headshot and resume match up and if you chose the right material/know your type. Jen makes you feel like you can conquer the world (or at least the room) just with a reassurance that you're worth it and you're talents can surpass your own expectations. It's a long road to success, but with the right about of perseverance, preparation and dedication you'll make it out all right - with AGR, they'll help you get into the door and make you step up your A-game."
Jenny Bennett
"I've been training with Jen and the Actor's Green Room for about eight months now, and I have learned so much - and that's not speculation; I can measure specific progress thanks to the handy videos I get after classes, as well as specific feedback from agents and CDs who've commented on my progress. Whether it's the Monday Night Class, one of the brilliantly organized Agent nights or the more intimate Intensives with key industry pros, every class has contributed dramatically - if you'll excuse the pun - not only to my business savvy as a Small Business of Me, but also to who I am as an artist. It's one of those rare loving, safe environments where an actor can really work on her craft in a proper audition context and get fantastically useful feedback from decision-makers to help her really knock it out of the park. Thanks Jen & AGR folks for making a place where actors can connect with the bizness, and get answers to that time-honored actor worry: "What do they want from me?"
Christiane Seidel
"The Monday Night Class is a fantastic resource in so many ways. The obvious being the improvement of your auditioning skills. The other reason is how the introduction to top casting directors is taking place. And yet another reason is the fun, warm and supportive environment. AGR keeps the classes smaller and more intimate than any other class I've attended. The intimacy of the class makes it possible to have an actual productive conversation between the casting director and the group prior to individually working with him or her in the casting room. What I love is that the rest of the group is able to watch the audition on a screen and to listen to the adjustments, comments and critiques that are given by the casting director. I have learned so much just by observing how fellow actors audition, realizing what works and what doesn't. Even though this kind of fun and easy-going environment might not be what you get out there, it gives the actors a chance to experiment and to dare (to fail), so they can succeed when it gets real. I have been able to improve my auditioning skills in many ways. I have learned to handle copy and the camera with much more ease and to step into an audition room very well-prepared and comfortable. I have met and worked with amazing casting directors. It has given me the introduction to establish a relationships that are so crucial for an actor. I highly recommend taking The Monday Night class. It is a true gem."
Chad Miller
"It's not business. It's personal. This is more than a slogan; it's the very ethos of The Actor's Green Room. Their small classes allow you to build relationships with fellow actors, the staff, and industry contacts. More intimate classes also more time with the casting directors who get to see your personality in addition to your skills. The Casting Director workshop allowed her to see and hear us collectively in a Q/A before she met us individually for our readings. This kind of experience reminds you that casting directors and agents want to see as much of your personality as the persona that you bring to your character. And, speaking of characters, they also offer seminars on video game and cartoon voiceovers. It's a geek actor's Kobol! I feel confident that AGR offers something for actors at any level at any stage of their game. And why shouldn't it? For them, as well as you, it's personal."
Peter Elias
"Participating in the Monday Night Class was one of the best investments I made in my professional acting career. When I look at the audition tapes from my first session and compare them to where I am today, I realize just how far I have come! The no-nonsense, real-world format of the sessions demystifies the audition process and has allowed me to hone my skills and build my confidence. Equally important are the relationships that I have made with some of New York's top casting directors. I have enthusiastically recommended The Monday Night Class to many of my friends and colleagues."
Giada Hansen
"I began working with Jen Rudolph at The Actor's Green Room in October 2006, newly graduated from college that summer, and honestly had little to no experience in auditioning. Back then she offered one on one coaching and after only 2 sessions, I felt confident to throw myself into it. As she would say, 'auditioning is like going to the gym, the more often you do it, the easier it gets, so keep doing it until it becomes second nature.' The 4 week classes are amazing. They are a complete safe and nurturing environment, but also bold and very honest. Whilst friendly there is no room for lax attitude, which is one of her strong points, ensuring that we all get as much attention in front of the casting directors as possible. It is expected that everyone gives their utmost, and thus the quality of classes is extremely high. It pushes all actors to do better. You are in a room with your peers that you are learning from, due to the immediate feedback and re-working of scenes by the casting director, while you are waiting to do your own work. There is no room for being unprepared, and as a result Jen gets the BEST industry professionals."