I remember the failures far too often and forget the feats of sheer will. I remember being so scared, like now. I remember being in over my head and the only way out , was to go through it.

I needed to be reminded that I am made of some pretty strong stuff. And if I made it before when so much was against me, I can beat this.

So, next week in NYC, I plan on remembering that I am alive and love many people who return the sentiment.

Normally, I am not a hugger (much like Harry Korn), but on this trip don’t be surprised if I tackle you in the street.

I haven’t said much on this blog for one reason.

I know that in our advanced technological age this blog can be duplicated everywhere. And I wasn’t ready to be truthful about some stuff.

What I can say now is this…the above picture was taken 10 months ago before I left for my LA adventure. I was packing for an unknown amount of time. The room, the luggage, most of those things in that picture are all gone now. In 10 months a lot of what I knew to be has changed. I am so unsure of most things these days and this picture, filled with things that are gone sums up my current state.

I think this up-heavel is needed for growth. I think that although I am uncertain and scared about me, my feelings, my future, and my over-all purpose, I am growing.

I will not allow my uncertainty to be my downfall. Anything is possible in an uncertain state…right?

This master-class will consist of two 2 1/2 hour sessions (an 8-13 year-old group at 12pm and an 14 year old/adult session at 4p.m.).
Karen will lead 5 students through a rigorous and in-depth personal session in front an observing audience. The price for the 5 student slots will be $100. Those 5 students will get a taped session and packet of industry information to take home with them, along with personal pointers from Karen as she helps them hone their audition skills. The observing group is unlimited and will be a charge of $50. They will be privy to the entire process and will be able to benefit from other students personal sessions. Karen will hold a 30min. Q&A at the end of each session solely for the observing group. At that time she will answer any specific questions the observing group has.

The proceeds of this master-class will benefit the new Rick Olivo Studios and a scholarship offered by The Life Share Organization focusing on Art therapy for Heartland Children. Heartland for Kids – is an area agency for children in Lakeland. This scholarship will enable children to attend art therapy classes at Rick Olivo Studios.

For more information on The Life Share Organization, go to http://www.lifeshareinc.org/

A BRIEF MESSAGE FROM KAREN OLIVO

“The purpose of this master-class is to walk 5 students through an audition for TV/Film. I will be tailoring each session to their specific needs, working with their strengths and weaknesses. While customizing their sessions I will also be giving general tips on auditioning with confidence. The observing group will be present for each session and will watch the actors work with me. At the end of the session I will open the floor to the observing group for a question and answer session.”

**The observing group is perfect for actors who are having confidence issues or are beginners in the field. They will get the opportunity of learning how to spot their bad habits and tricks to making each audition count, by watching me work with other actors.”
Karen Olivo is currently playing hot-shot lawyer, “Cassie Reynolds” on NBC’s Harry’s Law, starring Kathy Bates. Karen has been seen on CBS’s The Good Wife as “Giada Cabrini” as well as numerous featured roles on CSI: Suspect Behavior (opposite Forrest Whittaker), Law and Order: SVU, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, CHASE, and CONVICTION. Karen Olivo is the 2009 Tony Award Winner for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical for her portrayal of “Anita” in the 2009 Revival of West Side Story directed by Arthur Laurents. She originated the role of ‘Vanessa” in IN THE HEIGHTS, which won the 2008 Tony Award for Best New Musical. She recently was honored by being asked to perform at The White House for President Obama’s tribute to American Musical Theater. This past year she joined Lorna Luft and New York Pops conductor Steve Reineke to re-create Judy Garland’s famed 1961 concert at Carnegie Hall. Karen attended the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and has been a working New York actor for over 15 years.

I am giving the WSS shoes to a friend to auction them off for charity.  (the pair I broke my foot in).

The other 4 pairs are up for grabs, but let’s make this interesting…

go to my tumblr page (www.fuckyeahkarenolivo.tumblr.com) to state why you need them. And follow me on twitter to get updates on other items I am giving away.

post a picture, make a video, be creative… the best 4 posts will get my show shoes.

CONTEST ENDS MONDAY FEB. 26TH at 8a.m.

I am sitting on my couch, next to a really great guy, watching the Knicks kill the Lakers. I am watching this Jeremy Lin kid. He was the 4th string point guard, undrafted, still living on a couch…and I am inspired. He is performing like an All-Star!

I heard him speak at the half. He spoke of his team-mates and how he needs to work harder for them.

I think that is the key.

Discard your ego, work your hardest, and opportunity will find YOU!