Interview with Turner Talent
I recently had the joy of interviewing Kelli Turner with Turner Talent - She and Erica are a truly talented and dynamic duo whose aim is to help actors along their journey so they can succeed in this industry.
It’s Important to Find the Right Acting Coaches and Acting Teachers in Central Florida.
These two are definitely a fantastic first stop in your acting career. I enjoyed hearing their story and passion for helping actors, and I know you will, too!
Image by: Agostini Studios
1. Tell me a few sentences about what Turner Talent is.
Simply a straight forward means to get into the industry safely or for those already “in it” get more castings or coaching or connections! That is our Casting Coaching-Connections program! We break it all down for you with easy-to-follow online videos and resources that will help guide you in the right direction to be successful. You benefit from completing this program with CASTING opportunities, COACHING every step of the way; CONNECTIONS with the right people in the industry.
2. I’d love to hear more about your story! What brought you to where you are today?
I started out in the talent industry when I was just 15, working as a model and actress. Then I learned the production side of the camera, the ‘behind the scenes’ that makes all the magic happen. Over the years, I found myself sharing my knowledge and experience with many people interested in modeling and acting, for themselves and/or their children. I saw the need to bridge the gap for sound advice from someone who has already experienced the learning curve, made the connections, and knew the way around the business.
3. What is the heart behind what you do?
We truly care that people don’t get ripped off! We want people to see how easy it is to try for some fun in the industry like we did, and if they have greater dreams we can be that safe path. My ‘aha’ moment happened in a Starbucks as I helped a friend navigate her questions about getting into tv, film and print work. Whether seeking a new career path or just a hobby, I realized there were so many people like her who didn’t know how to start or even that they needed to know who to trust.
4. If you could give two pieces of advice to a new actor, what would it be?
1. If you are in the industry to become rich and famous you need a Plan B, you have to want to live eat and breathe your craft because you love it and you would do it even if no one ever notices you on the street.
2. JUST do it, start booking not waiting for a bunch of training or photos, that can come along while you just get going! That’s what I tell all my new VIPS!
5. What does a day in the life of Kelli and Erica look like?
We work like a well oiled machine. One of us is always on the “CASTINGS” because the sooner we get our talent submitted the better the change to book. Many people don’t realize that it is not always about “WHAT YOU LOOK LIKE” but the job may need the first 2 dozen “THAT WILL WORK” for a restaurant commercial! We enjoy flexibility since we work as a team and that enables us to work hard for our subscribers since we can work from any device anywhere!
6. What are your dreams and goals for Turner Talent?
I strive to give you the realistic side of this very fun and glamourized business and hope to teach you a way to enjoy it for a long time! Biggest platform is to steer people away from the “Glam Scams” and show them the “real way” into the industry.
7. Are there actors / directors / etc. who have inspired you? How?
I love REAL because in my opinion natural real actors are the most engaging. I’m good friends with John Travolta’s big sister so I’m partial to all his GREAT films but hey he IS an icon, love down to earth Goldie Hawn, classic Kevin Costner and now Will Patton, since that is Erica’s fiancé s uncle!
8. What are you currently reading or working on?
Reading The Girl that was Taken! Never knew I liked murder mystery so much!
Also working on a little screenplay for all my VIPS to be in once we are ready to shoot this short film! ( I think I can get it in the film festivals too- so always fun to walk the red carpet together!)
9. Who would benefit from what you have to offer?
Pretty much anyone! “Babies to 80’s” is a term we like to use since the industry has changed SO much. If you look at advertising, there seems to be a spot for almost anyone. We are always happy to clarify that for someone that may be unsure. But the days of too short, too big, too “normal” looking…are “bye bye felicia” :)
10. How can people get in touch?
General Questions: Info@TurnerTalent.com
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Talent Consultants/ Casting agents
Member Film Florida- Founder of their committee for the Education against “GlamScams”!
Member WIFT
Board Member Brevard Film; Talent
Casting Director for EFAMP /Eastern Florida Alliance of Media Producers