VersaVision
Versa Manos is an award-winning Los Angeles-based talent manager and owner of Gorgeous Media Group. She brings decades of entertainment and media experience to a roster of clients, which include actors, writers, directors, and musicians. She is heavily invested in the industry, serving as an executive member of Film Independent, Women in Film, Hollywood Radio and Television Society, and American Film Institute. She previously served as the President of the Talent Managers Association. Join Versa in VersaVision as she brings together insiders and career professionals from across the entertainment industry together to discuss all things entertainment. VersaVision is created and hosted by Versa Manos and produced by Evan Thomas.
Episodes
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tori Griffith: Star of Elkhorn, A New Series on INSP
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
"Elkhorn" is a new period drama on INSP that follows Theodore Roosevelt's journey to the Dakota Badlands, where he seeks to reinvent himself amidst the challenges of the American frontier. The series combines historical depth with compelling storytelling, offering a unique glimpse into a pivotal period in American history. In this new series, Tori stars as Rosie, a character who goes on a journey from rural obscurity to urban ambition.
Tori is a dynamic actress whose remarkable journey in the performing arts began in community theatre in Conejo Valley at the tender age of 11. Demonstrating early promise, she transitioned to television and film by 14, quickly amassing a diverse portfolio that includes over 20 plays, numerous commercials, and short films. Known for her captivating presence, Tori has been a leading figure in Disney's "World of English" and stars in the IFC web series "The Fergusons."
Her illustrious career reached new heights recently with her acclaimed portrayal of Rosie in the TV show "Elkhorn," where she skillfully navigated the intricacies of small-town intrigue, earning praise for her nuanced performance. Looking ahead, Tori is poised to captivate audiences yet again with her upcoming role as Dyta in the feature film "Bau, Artist at War." As she continues to evolve and take on challenging roles, Tori Griffith is firmly establishing herself as a formidable talent and a rising star in the entertainment industry.
This episode was originally recorded live in the VersaVision Clubhouse room on 4/19/24.
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Kimberly Skyrme: Director, Producer, and CSA Casting Director
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Kimberly Skyrme is a Director, Producer, and CSA Casting Director in short; A STORYTELLER. Her 3 decade career started in Casting and includes Regional Casting Director for STARZ ’The Girlfriend Experience' and Netflix 'House of Cards,’ Feature Films ‘Deep Impact,’ ‘True Lies,’ ‘Random Hearts,’ ‘Pelican Brief.’ and Commercials for Under Armor, Bud Light and The Washington Post.
With a keen eye for talent in front of and behind the camera Producing, Casting and Directing became the trifecta of creativity that suited Kimberly’s talents best! In 2023 She completed casting and producing two independent feature films, ‘Christmas Couple’s Retreat’, a Romantic Holiday comedy that debuted on PBS for Christmas 2023 and ‘The Other You’ which was shot under the SAG AFTRA Interim Agreement despite the Union strikes and will start a festival tour this fall.
Kimberly’s is currently in various stages of development with seven feature films she is directing and producing, one of which she is co-directing and producing with the screenwriter. Additionally, she is in Preproduction for ‘Through the Grapevine’ a travel, wine, lifestyle show hosted by John O’Hurley (Seinfeld), and ‘Women Behind the Lyrics’ with Wendy Moten (The Voice). ’Now What’ is her latest adventure with fiscal sponsorship from North Carolina Women in Film and Television. ‘Now What’ like the majority of her projects, support her personal mission to promote strong female content with LADIES ABOVE THE LINE on each production.
Her professional memberships include the Casting Society of America, the Television Academy, New York Production Alliance, New York Women in Film and Television, Women in Film and Video-DC and several Women in Film Chapters Nationwide as well as #GALSNGEAR. She was the President of Women in Film & Television International for five years, a founding member of Television, Internet & Video Association and The Peer Awards. She is on the Board of the Chesapeake Film Festival, The Tennessee International Independent Film Festival, Williamson County Cultural Arts Council, The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts and is the Co-Founder of Women make Music. She is a regular guest of the newly released podcast Casting Confidential.
Kimberly studied Theatre and Directing at American University, currently teaches THE GUIDEPOSTS a Scene and Character Development Master Class for Actors based on Michael Shurtleff’s book AUDITION as well as INSIDE OUT a course that investigates the emotional and psychologic elements of a character and circumstance that will enhance performance, create originality in the interpretation of the dialogue, on camera and in the room.
She frequently lectures, nationally and internationally at film festivals, conferences, colleges and conservatory programs about The Casting Process, Independent Film Production, the Collaboration between Casting Directors and Directors, Directing Talent and the state of women in the Industry. This episode was originally recorded live in the VersaVision Clubhouse room on 4/12/24.
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Meet Irie Williams - Casting Associate at Kim Coleman Casting
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Irie Williams is a producer, writer, and casting associate at Kim Coleman Casting. Hailing from Detroit, Irie has worked in casting for 3 years working on projects for Tyler Perry Studios, Marvel, Hulu, Apple, ABC, and Disney.Most recently she cast Disney+'s CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN, Tyler Perry's A MADEA HOMECOMING, and the Netflix feature film A JAZZMAN'S BLUES. She has also cast for multiple TV series including Tyler Perry's YOUNG DYLAN, SISTAS, and RUTHLESS. Irie has also worked as an associate producer on the series OUTTA POCKET.This episode was originally recorded live on 6/16/23 in the VersaVision room on Clubhouse.
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Meet Casting Director and Author Lisa London
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Lisa London has been a Casting Director for 30-plus years and has cast over 100 successful film and television shows. Alongside her casting business partner Catherine Stroud, many notable actors she has cast early on in their careers have gone on to become stars; such as Miley Cyrus in Hannah Montana, Jonah Hill in Grandma’s Boy, Emma Stone in The House Bunny, Selena Gomez in two Disney Pilots, Jennifer Aniston in her first feature, Mark Ruffalo in the CBS series Due South, and Brad Pitt in an episode of Freddy’s Nightmares. Lisa has cast many films including Identity Crisis, Strong Daughters Strong Fathers, Buster Brooks, Old Henry, and several movies for Adam Sandler’s company including The House Bunny and Grandma’s Boy.
Lisa is currently teaching monthly in-person and on-line audition classes where she helps actors with many aspects of their careers such as audition technique, improvisation exercises, making bolder choices and breaking down scenes. She helps actors to build confidence in themselves including assisting them to turn their goals into realities. You can find out more about her classes on her website.
Lisa also wrote a book, From Start To Stardom (The Casting Director’s Guide For Actors). The book is the 411 Guide on the business of acting. It includes how to get started as an actor, tips on taking the best headshots and creating your resume, how to go about getting an agent and/or manager, the steps to auditioning, what are the keys to successful self-taping, what does the casting director look for, interviews with industry professionals plus so much more. The book is available on Amazon.
VersaVision brings on inspirational working entertainment industry guests to speak about their work in Film, Television, Commercial, and Theater productions with host and veteran entertainment mogul Versa Manos. Through our interviews with casting directors, managers, agents, actors, producers, publicists, writers, directors, and many other specialists we endeavor to shine a light on the magic and inner workings of Hollywood and beyond, offering earnest advice and motivational words by speaking to these prolific game-changers.
This episode was originally recorded live on 3/29/2024 in the VersaVision room on Clubhouse.
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
Meet Robin Nassif of Media Artists Group
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
Beginning her career in television casting at Normal Lear’s Tandem Productions, Robin Nassif began her career casting with Marc Hirschfeld. She then worked as Manager of Casting at ABC supervising and casting many hit shows including MOONLIGHTING, THE WONDER YEARS, TWIN PEAKS, GROWING PAINS, SISTER SISTER, and FULL HOUSE.Robin was promoted to Director of Casting at ABC in 1988, supervising over 150 pilots, including ROSEANNE, HOME IMPROVEMENT, BOY MEETS WORLD, and DREW CAREY. She set up ABC showcases for executives introducing them to the legendary talent including Kevin James, Tim Allen, Ellen De Generes, Mark Curry, Jon Stewart, Rosie O’Donnell, Will Ferrell, Margaret Cho, George Lopez, Chris Tucker, and Adam Sandler. After ABC, Robin formed her own independent casting company, Nassif & Baca Casting, where she and her partner Patrick Baca cast many projects including HALLOWEEN and STARGATE: ATLANTIS.
Robin stepped into the world of representation, becoming Head of Youth Theatrical at Media Artists Group and has placed series regulars on LIV & MADDIE, AMERICAN SOUL, KNIGHT SQUAD, AP BIO, GHOSTWRITER, and JULIE & THE PHANTOMS. Her Clients have recurred on THIS IS US, RAY DONOVAN, MODERN FAMILY, and CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM and appeared in films including SPACE JAM 2, THE MARKSMAN, LA LA LAND, SPIDERMAN, and THE FAST & FURIOUS. Robin currently has series regulars on Hulu’s UNPRISONED, Netflix’s MY LIFE WITH THE WALTER BOYS, Apple TV’s PRESUMED INNOCENT, and Netflix’s THE CHOSEN. Her actors recur on EUPHORIA, REACHER, GLAMOROUS, AMERICAN CRIME STORY, and ABBOT ELEMENTARY.VersaVision brings on inspirational working entertainment industry guests to speak about their work in Film, Television, Commercial, and Theater productions with host and veteran entertainment mogul Versa Manos. Through our interviews with casting directors, managers, agents, actors, producers, publicists, writers, directors, and many other specialists we endeavor to shine a light on the magic and inner workings of Hollywood and beyond, offering earnest advice and motivational words by speaking to these prolific game-changers.
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Harnessing the Power Within: Meet Director Polly Parsons
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Polly has an extraordinary talent for achieving the very things she wants to achieve, making her dreams come true. She possesses a unique trait that sets her apart with remarkable distinction and dedication to her work. Her innate ability to navigate the complexities of life with resolute determination and focused intent speaks volumes about her character. With a firm mindset and a formidable sense of purpose, Polly exemplifies the power of perseverance and ambition. It is her unwavering drive and strategic approach that not only distinguishes her from the crowd but also propels her toward unparalleled success. In every endeavor, Polly's relentless pursuit of excellence and her steadfast belief in her capabilities serve as a testament to her remarkable knack for manifesting her aspirations into reality.
VersaVision brings on inspirational working entertainment industry guests to speak about their work in Film, Television, Commercial, and Theater productions with host and veteran entertainment mogul Versa Manos. Through our interviews with casting directors, managers, agents, actors, producers, publicists, writers, directors, and many other specialists we endeavor to shine a light on the magic and inner workings of Hollywood and beyond, offering earnest advice and motivational words by speaking to these prolific game-changers.This episode was originally recorded live on 3/15/2024 in the VersaVision room on Clubhouse.
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Meet Casting Director Jane Flowers
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Hailing from upstate NY, Jane Flowers moved to Los Angeles to get her MFA in Acting from UCLA. After she graduated, she got her first casting internship and fell in love with it. Ever since, she has devoted her time to developing a career in scripted TV & Film. From A BAD MOM'S CHRISTMAS and 2 seasons of SEAL TEAM to DAISY JONES & THE SIX and DIE HART, she has worked in many different offices on a wide variety of projects. Nominated for two Artios Awards this year, Jane is proud of how far she's come since taking the plunge into the world of casting.
VersaVision brings on working entertainment industry guests to speak about their work in Film, Television, Commercial, and Theater productions with host and veteran entertainment mogul Versa Manos. Through our interviews with casting directors, managers, agents, actors, producers, publicists, writers, directors, and many other specialists we endeavor to shine a light on the inner workings of Hollywood and offer earnest advice.
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
The How and Why: A Round Table Discussion with 4 Working Actors
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Join us with Tori Griffith, Baracha, Jeff Mungai, and Kayvai Shai; 4 young working actors for a wonderful round-table discussion on the how and why behind their journey in the industry. Bring plenty of questions as we discuss maintaining the trajectory of your career, the pivotal role of ongoing school refinement, valuable lessons learned along the way, and much more in this informative room.
VersaVision brings on working entertainment industry guests to speak about their work in Film, Television, Commercial, and Theater productions with host and veteran entertainment mogul Versa Manos. Through our interviews with casting directors, managers, agents, actors, producers, publicists, writers, directors, and many other specialists we endeavor to shine a light on the inner workings of Hollywood and offer earnest advice.
This episode was originally recorded live on 3/8/2024 in the VersaVision room on Clubhouse.
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Meet Casting Director and Writer Michael Testa
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Michael Testa has cast over eighty films and television series. His began his career in casting at Stephen J. Cannell Productions on the popular detective series Hunter and worked on the pilot of Everybody Loves Raymond. Since then, he has served as casting director for numerous pilots and television series such as CBS’ Cold Case, the original Roswell, Make It or Break It, Ringer, Chase, Dr. Vegas, Stitchers and Amazon Prime’s Con Man, among numerous television and cable pilots and MOW’s.Film wise, Michael cast The Sundance films Buddy Boy, Love and Sex and Everything Put Together and the indie film hits Latter Days, Sleepwalker, The Young Unknowns and The Archer. Michael cast films Love in the Villa starring Tom Hooper and Kat Graham, Falling Inn Love, Heartthrob and Uncanny for Netflix, the film Invitation to a Murder for Lionsgate , Every Other Holiday for Hulu and the films Like a House on Fire with Sarah Sutherland and Spinster with Chelsea Peretti for Apple TV. He also cast the Paramount Network’s first two Christmas movies A Nashville Christmas, starring Tanya Tucker and Keith Carradine and Dashing in December in 2020, which is fast becoming a LGBTQIA staple.As a writer, Michael has written/sold five screenplays, three of which have been produced, the sexual thriller Don’t Look Back (Amazon), boxing drama Glass Jaw (Amazon) and the Hallmark Channel staple All for Love.VersaVision brings on working entertainment industry guests to speak about their work in Film, Television, Commercial, and Theater productions with host and veteran entertainment mogul Versa Manos. Through our interviews with casting directors, managers, agents, actors, producers, publicists, writers, directors, and many other specialists we endeavor to shine a light on the inner workings of Hollywood and offer earnest advice.This episode was originally recorded live in the VersaVision Clubhouse room on 3/1/24.
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Meet Casting Director Kimberly Skyrme
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Kimberly Skyrme: Director, Producer, CSA Casting Director in short; A STORYTELLER.
Kimberly’s 3-decade career includes Regional Casting Director for STARZ's THE GIRLFRIEND EXPERIENCE, and Netflix's HOUSE OF CARDS, feature films DEEP IMPACT, TRUE LIES, RANDOM HEARTS, PELICAN BRIEF, and commercials for Under Armor, Bud Light, and The Washington Post.
She recently completed casting and producing THE OTHER YOU and is proud to announce the feature film shot under the SAG AFTRA Interim Agreement! She is slated to Direct and Cast five feature films over the next five years
Her professional memberships include the Casting Society of America, Television Academy, New York Production Alliance, and Several Women in Film Chapters Nationwide. She was the President of Women in Film & Television International for five years and is a founding member of the Television, Internet & Video Association and The Peer Awards.
Kimberly lectures, nationally and internationally at film festivals and colleges about the casting process, independent film production, and the collaboration between casting directors and directors.VersaVision brings on working entertainment industry guests to speak about their work in Film, Television, Commercial, and Theater productions with host and veteran entertainment mogul Versa Manos. Through our interviews with casting directors, managers, agents, actors, producers, publicists, writers, directors, and many other specialists we endeavor to shine a light on the inner workings of Hollywood and offer earnest advice.
This episode was originally recorded live on 10/20/2023 in the VersaVision room on Clubhouse.