Laura Cayouette

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Laura Cayouette

Character development questions

Character development questions

There are LOTS of questionnaires available for writers looking to develop their characters, but most of them miss the mark when it comes to finding details that move the story forward. I've written 8 books, but I think it's my 30+ years as a working actor

Is self-taping a waste of time?

Is self-taping a waste of time?

I've been auditioning for paid acting gigs since the late 80's – starting with commercials. By 2010, I'd done over 60 national spots. It sounds like a lot because it is! But you know what's an even bigger number? The 100+ auditions I

Researching online

Researching online

Confession – I love researching. It's one of my favorite parts of the writing process. My research can include interviews, traveling to locations, and trying new things (experiences, skills, occupations, tastes, etc.). But the vast majority of my research is done online. Even if I am meeting someone for

Acting objectives - what's my motivation

Acting objectives - what's my motivation

I often see actors trying to read their lines out loud with different intonations – thinking they just need to figure out which way each line sounds best. Or worse – how they think casting wants to hear the lines. Remember that every person auditioning has the same sides/script you do.

Are you stalling or percolating?

Are you stalling or percolating?

I've taken 20 years to write 1 book, and I've written a 5-book series in 4 years. I've even written a book about how I made that shift using fun techniques. (CLICK BELOW for a free copy) But not every writing delay comes

Detailed acting

Detailed acting

When I'm coaching actors, I'm often asked how to make a performance stand out without being "over-the-top." Many things go into making a good performance great – but details are the key to taking your work to the next level. What is a