New Headshots: Help Needed

Just got new headshots...
I'm the most self-critical person on the planet, but I am actually very happy with these images. :)
I'm trying to sort out which ones would be best to get printed.
Any thoughts? Send me a note or leave a comment!

Thanks!
xo,
~vp

Shine On!

Me, Nina (center) & Scott Fults, 2012

I remember last year, very vividly, when Nina Arianda was nominated for her (second) Tony Award.

Why?

Because I know her. (Lucky me, right?) We both performed in the same small venue in Heidelberg, Germany, Roadside Theater. We never worked the same shows, but when you're in the community, you get to know everyone there and support each other's work.

When a dear friend and also former "Roadsider", Scotty Fults, came to visit NYC last year - we went to view Nina's performance in Venus in Fur.

We sat through an intense work of art that day at The Lyceum Theatre. Not for one second was there a question as to whether or not it was an award-winning performance. I was in sheer awe of Nina and her powerhouse abilities.

She owned that role. She took charge of that audience. It was clear that Nina worked her ass off for that production and she was simply spectacular.

I was so proud to go back stage and meet up with her. She was a mere child when I last saw her in Heidelberg! Would she remember me? I didn't think so... but...

She did! She called me Vicki and gave me a hug. I was shocked! Hardly anyone calls me that nowadays -- but my family and friends prior to 2000 still do. (FYI: I changed my name formally while I was finishing up my college degree. "Vicki" sounded too dimunitive and not "me"... But hey! She also changed her last name to Arianda. That's not her God-given name, either!)

Anyway - Nina won that Tony. She deserved it. I literally cried with excitement when she walked up to accept her award. I am so proud to say that I know a Tony Award Winning Actress! I tell anyone who asks --or even if they don't ask. I'm that proud.

Today, the 2013 Tony nominees were announced. I am excited to say that I have been FB friends with Harvey Fierstein for almost 2 years and I have even allowed him to beat me on Scrabble a few times. Sure, I know that it's not the same level as knowing Nina -but it's still nice to know that thespians support one another, no matter where they go, what they do or how big or little they may be.

I'm also reminded of a recent conversation with Jim Parsons (aka Dr. Sheldon Cooper, Big Bang Theory) telling a SAG Foundation audience that show business is "a lot of celebrating other people's accomplishments." That couldn't be more correct. However, I think that is more of a life lesson as well: Being anything less than happy for others is blocking YOUR chance at success and happiness. When friends, family, co-workers "make it" and are "up there" among the stars – celebrate! You never know if the tide may turn and bring good fortune your way.

Here's to waiting happily and patiently for our ships to come in! --And continued smooth sailing for those who are on the wave of success.

xoxo,
~victoria

Opportunity Knocking?

I believe that I'm really good at balancing the work, the daily obligations -and most importantly, my family. My activities have to be conducted in a way that must fit my life philosophy. There is no choice in the matter, really. Some people can say "an actor's life for me..." but that's for those who don't have any responsibility other than themselves.
I am glad that I have my obligations. I am truly happy that I answer to someone other than me. Why? Because without that structure, I would be misguided.
My family keeps me grounded and my full time day-job keeps me in a routine.
While I like to break from from the daily grind, I also appreciate that I have a job and a way to provide for my family.
I've made a few dollars in the performing arts, but it buys the extras right now.
And... speaking of extras, I have been trying to avoid that all together. It's good income on the weekends, but it's not what I really want.
It is why I will say yes to new opportunities that come my way and I will continue to seek out auditions. I also can't lose by listening.
Like so many others, I just want the best of both worlds. Right now, the planets have been aligning well and I anxiously await to see what the next great adventure might be.
Opportunity comes in the most unexpected places, and almost always when you least expect it.
Here's to keeping it "reel"!
xoxo
~vp