Leslie Ishii's Entertainment Career Blog

Occupy Your City!

2011-10-14T18:27:00.000-07:00

Solidarity with Occupy Wall Street in NYC

Tomorrow, Saturday, October 15, 2011, is International Action Day to stand in solidarity with Occupy Wall Street in New York!

Join millions and billions around the planet who are standing up tomorrow to support the 99% of the global population protesting against the greed of the rich 1%.

Log onto www.facebook.com or www.twitter.com and go to my page or follow me and find how you can join us in Los Angeles or search to find the nearest International Action Day near you!

News Flash Galore:

2011-10-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

There comes a time...

UPDATES:

East West Players Asian American Theatre (EWP)

Classes at EWP are underway:

The Fundamentals of Acting Series has begun. Join the series and become eligible to be cast in our annual EWP Studio Lab Project. Apply your skills to the rehearsal and public performance process at the end of the series.
We have grown to have a two-tiered Voice and Speech course. There is a beginning Fitzmaurice Voicework course and I teach the Intermediate/Advanced course for those with experience in voice and speech work and/or who are working professionals. This work will jump start your acting and/or creative careers! Plan to join us!
www.eastwestplayers.org click on education and conservatory

I am slated to direct the next EWP School Tour Show. The tour usually rehearses late January, early February. I am very excited! The play is currently in development. Stay tuned for updates!

Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF)

It is official that I'll be heading to OSF in April to fulfill an assistant directing position under director, Christopher Liam Moore. The show is "The Very Merry Wives of Windsor, Iowa." The adaptation is by Alison Carey and the show will perform on the Elizabethean outdoor stage. I am so excited I'll be working with top-notch artists to gain experience and expertise as a director! http://www.osfashland.org/index.aspx

Fitzmaurice Voicework

Fitzmaurice Voicework goes to Vancouver BC for it's second annual International Freedom and Focus Conference.
I am co-director of the conference with Noah Drew. Both native Northwesterners, we are eager to show-off our beautiful environment and pristine air. What better place to free up the breath and the voice?
Look for more details soon and plan to join us in late July or early August!http://freedomandfocusconference.org/Freedom_and_Focus/Welcome.html

Theatre Communications Group (TCG)

A core group of artists of color continue to meet to strategize and plan for the next TCG Conference next summer.
Strategies for increased visibility and diversity throughout the theatre industry are currently underway.
October 21st is the launch date for an industry-wide survey to garner information for further advocacy and strategizing. Leave a comment and way to reach you if you are a POC in the theatre industry and would like to receive a survey to support POC development and visibility.
Exciting new plans for are forming. Check back for updates!

Madrid to LA to New York to LA to Texas

2011-10-02T15:59:00.000-07:00

In Spain on right, friends, Martin, Anna, and Noah--their best sides.

Arriving from Barcelona, summer breezes, Sangria flowing, the Prado, Flamenco, Tapas and Johnny Rockets in Madrid with my friend and colleague, Paula Ramirez, was the way to leave Spain if you're going to have to tear yourself away from this country of full bodied richness--

I made my way back to LA just long enough to do laundry, check in on our household and then fly away, thank god, to New York and the lush, Hudson Valley. I took in one of the last showings of the Broadway show, "Jerusalem" and can't wait to pour over this incredibly well expressed language of those living on the fringe in the UK. I highly recommend a good read of this theatre piece if you missed the stage play. And even if you didn't.

"War Horse" was a must-see! I won't spoil it as it will be touring to your area in the next year, I'm sure! The stage craft and ensemble work is some of the best I've seen and I am so thrilled that our young audiences of LA will get to see this show of such magic and compassion.

Wesley Mann as Detective Fix and Ryan Quin as Passportu.

"Around The World In 80 Days" was a real highlight as I saw my husband, Wesley Mann, tear up the lawn at the tent of the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival in Garrison, NY. I tell you, he is at his best when he can ride an elephant, chase after suspects, search for clues and climb scaffolding above the audiences!! Wes and the show was so engaging!

I had great meetings with friends, mentors and colleagues in "the Cit-ay" where we caught up, talked shop, made plans and ate the best available as only one can do in the Big Apple.

Home again, home again, jiggetty jig--only to start teaching, assist in Fitzmaurice workshops, set up guest teaching, and find my way to Texas to help out family, take in great jazz and meet and make more plans with colleagues in Dallas at SMU!

Nephew, George in the Martin High School Marching Band.

It's a full life here deep in the heart of Texas where I took in marching band (a religion) competitions. Oh the vibrations of the drumline, the depth of the Tuba sections, the impact of the brass sections and the virtuosity of the woodwinds draw me back to my days on the field. There's nothing like it. I witness my nephew on the field in competition first in the early morning preliminaries, then that evening, once again, under the Texas night sky, grass beneath his feet, marching to create sequences and patterns on the field that are a visual manifestion and analysis of the music itself.

Martin High School Marching Band getting ready for finals.

A chill moves up my spine when the drum major blows the whistle, the drum taps count off and the band executes the miriad/thousands of manuvers that create this show; the culmination of this summer's and fall's practices in the Texas heat waves, the thunder showers, the morning, night, weekend, after school rehearsals and football halftimes. They made the finals! Their first time in four years and eighth place out of thirty-some bands throughout Texas. Thrilling!

My gifted anime' lovin' nephew shows me his drawings and it is also a wonderful highlight. His non-conformist, vulnerably deep and pure artistically expressive drawings are a revelation to me. I feel as if I know him, really see him and his work is gorgeous. The details; hair, folds in clothing, eyes that are mirrors to the character's soul, shading, color, or not, every line that reveals the inner soul of his artistry. The study and practice, the vision and vulnerability, the desires and dreams of an artist all shone thoughout his portfolio.

Author, Heather Brewer and my nephew, Will.

We attend a book signing of Heather Brewer's "The Slayer Chronicals" and Heather is a true inspiration to those who have ever felt lower than low and more of an outcast than the ones cast farthest out. She writes of revenge but in her live action life, doesn't lash back at those who hurt her back in the day. Instead she tells her "Minions" that actions ripple out and you can choose to make good ripples or bad ripples. She says, "Make good ripples." Several fans yell out, "Will you marry me?!" And she answers, "I told two other Minions I'd marry them at the last signing, but yes, I'll marry you if they don't mind."

Heather signs my nephew's book and he offers her a pencil drawing of one of her main characters from her first book series and she looks him straight in the eye and says, "You're an artist. Oh, wow. Have you considered Art School? You are so talented. You need to seriously consider Art School! Thank you so much--I will hang this gift in my office..." All at once my nephew seems to be thrilled to be standing here with his shero and vulnerable from being truly seen as an artist. I was so grateful we experienced Heather and her encouragement to all of her fans/Minions.

She shares a story of how she returned to her old junior high for a book signing and could have been mean to a daughter of a classmate who was cruel to her back in the day at this school. Instead she treats this daughter and the siuation with kindness and a little amnesia. She reminded us we can grow beyond our humilations, our shame, our pain of experiencing cruelty from others during school. She is a wonderful model of not passing on her pain and hurt. Clearly, she found a way to transmute her experiences into writing these wonderful books. Now, she and the Minions no longer feel alone in the world. Young adults all over the world are inspired by her book series. I love Heather now too! Thank you, Heather for the powerful transmission you offered my nephew! www.heatherbrewer.com

Echo...Echo...Echoooooh...

My niece and I laugh and laugh as we feed and care for their high maintanence parrot, named Echo. The kids are a fun, fun breeze to care for but the parrot...!@#?! Highlights from Min's sleep over and running club at her elementary are delights and great reminders that nuturing carefree time in one's life is a profoundly rich and important endeavor.

Min's excellent bow hold.

With Violin lessons at UT, Arlington and orchestra every day at school, my niece's teacher says she is a natural with an awesome bow hold! I saw it with my own eyes!

Check this out! Here is a link to Min's favorite Anime virtual pop star, Hatsune Miku: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTXO7KGHtjI

We marvel at how their tiny, tiny dog can steel and eat four pieces of bacon! A bacon thief in our midst!!

Chibi, the dreaded bacon thief

Looking forward to what this next week brings with school, lessons, band practices, homework, meal time conversations, youtube show and tells, baking gluten-free brownies, zoo keeping, and trips to Dallas to visit with colleagues again at SMU!

Echo and Chibi stand off.

It's a full life--a great one that I love living!!

Everything I do, I love! I wish this for all of you!

Deep In The Heart Of Texas with Dave Matthew's Best, Jeff Collins--Saxophone Extraordinaire!

2011-10-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

The skies at night are big and bright at the Levitt Pavilion where Leslie recorded and more than listened--she experienced the experimental, rippin', sometimes 2 saxed, fun-k-ee stylin's of Jeff Coffin, guest artist and grammy award-winning saxophonist of the Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, and a Dave Matthews Band. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gIlLOowyP0

Jeff Coffin on Tenor Saxophone, Tim Ishii conducting the UT, Arlington Jazz Orchestra.

Under the direction of Tim Ishii, Jeff's North Texas State University classmate and UT, Arlington's Jazz Studies Director, the UTA Jazz Orchestra played to a burnin' hot finish at this packed outdoor venue!

Tim solo'ed on the spot at Jeff's request and the two burned the floor! Audiences were yelling, "We love you!"

That night, everything was bigger and better in Texas!!

Check out Jeff Coffin & the MU'TET Live! (A special edition 2 cd set.); www.jeffcoffin.com
Check out UT Arlington, Jazz Faculty Group album; Produced by Tim Ishii; www.uta.edu/musicjazz

From Iowa to Barcelona

2011-07-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

Leslie's "Watashi Niwa Jishinga Aru: I Have A Spine" traveled to Iowa City and was performed at the Working Group Theatre in their Under Construction New Works Festival!

This infant of a new work found it's first steps with wonderful and diverse audiences. It was paired during it's theatrical run with Sean Christopher Lewis' humorous and touching solo work, "Just Kids." A big thank you and shout out to the Iowa community angels, Working Group Theatre and crew, Sean Christopher Lewis, Jennifer Fawcett, and Martin Andrews and his family.

Lovely Iowa in the Spring was where May Day baskets were mysteriously left at doorsteps, daffodils and tulips were in full bloom, and new works were also blossoming.

Then, spring gave way to summer and Leslie is continuing the development of "Watashi!" She is officially invited to perform the next incarnation of this solo work at The Freedom and Focus Fitzmaurice Voicework Conference in Barcelona, Spain!

Leslie is a co-organizer of this conference and is a presenter as well. The workshop she will present is "Finding Your Voice; Finding Your Story." In this workshop she shares her method of creating devised work born out of the Fitzmaurice Voicework approach.

Stay tuned for more because with Leslie, there is always more!!

"Doing what I love and loving what I do!"

She's Everywhere At Once!

2011-07-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Busy is inadequate to describe Leslie's life--
Fully engaged at full tilt is more like it!

Leslie has been seen in Douglas, Alaska, hiking and teaching at Perseverance Theatre's artist training intensive, ASTI (Alaska State Training Institute). Many thanks to all at Perseverance Theatre, Art Roch, Shona Strausser, Leon Ingulsrud, and Dan LeFranc. (What happens in Douglas stays in Douglas.:)))

In the lower 48 she was also seen at the 50th birthday/conference celebration of Theatre Communication Group (TCG)! Yes, they are the organization that publishes "American Theatre Magazine." TCG break out sessions, plenaries, meals, taking in Radar LA Theatre festival, and East West Players Asian American Theatre's awesome "KRUNK FU BATTLE BATTLE" with theatre colleagues from Alaska and all over the world was a practice in being everywhere at once.

Directly following the TCG 50th Conference, the National Asian American Theatre Conference and Festival, hosted by East West Players Asian American Theatre, topped off the month of June and energized and built a new direction for the Asian American theatre movement! Talented AsAm artists from all over the world performed and worked tirelessly to make this conference the best one yet!

Proud to be AsAm!!

Rave Reviews for "Crimes Of The Heart!"

2010-11-17T21:15:00.002-08:00

"Three solid sisterly performances...Fresh and vibrant as ever." LA Downtown News

"The cast makes Henley's script shine." Rafu Shimpo

"An absolutely splendid staging." StageSceneLA.com

"Crimes Of The Heart" is a smash-hit...Leslie Ishii's direction is spot-on!"

StageSceneLA.com

Where: East West Players Asian American Theatre

120 Judge John Aiso Street

Los Angeles, 90012

When: Now through December 5th

Wednesday - Saturdays, 8pm

Sunday Matinees, 2pm

How: www.eastwestplayers.org

Or Call: 213-625-7000

Enter the code: CRIMES45 on the website or call and mention it and get a discount!

CRIMES OF THE HEART!

2010-11-08T22:27:00.000-08:00

CRIMES OF THE HEART

OPENS!

This talented cast and highly acclaimed design team bring "Crimes" to life in a new way! Come on down; we're going to the deep South!

Did you know that Asians have been in the South for centuries! See this mixed heritage Southern Asian family confess their crimes!

I had a blast directing this show and it is a wonderful evening or afternoon in the theatre! Commit to "Crimes Of The Heart!'

When: Wednesday, November 10th - December 5th, 2010
Where: East West Players Asian American Theatre
120 Judge John Aiso Street (between Temple and 1st)
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Call: 213-625-7000 for tickets
Or order at: eastwestplayers.org

CRIMES OF THE HEART @ EWP!

2010-09-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

With the first official production meeting under our belts, we are off to a great start with "CRIMES OF THE HEART!

Creative Team:

Shigeru Yaji, Set Design

Lonnie Alcaraz, Lighting Design

Garry Lennon, Costume Design

Peter Erskine, Composer/Sound Design

Ken Takemoto, Properties Master

We're moving into the casting process this coming week!
It's a really exciting time!

Visting this blog and eastwestplayers.org for updates on productions and programs and tickets!
Or call: 213-625-7000 for information and tickets!

Blessings!

"MYSTERIOUS SKIN!" A Must-SEE at EWP!

2010-09-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

"Mysterious Skin"

Prince Gomolvilas

directed by

Tim Dang

I just saw the preview last night and wow! It will only get more brilliant and finely tuned by opening next Wednesday, September 15, 2010!

You must see this show. With Prince's new play and Tim's leadership and directing, they have just ushered in a new era at East West Players! This show transcends edgy and moves into the arena of IMPORTANT WORK with sensitivity, depth, and truth regarding a very complex subject. Please don't miss this show. In this case, theater is bringing about powerful change; it's creating awareness and healing!

Mysterious Skin

When: September 9th - October 10, 2010

Where: East West Players Asian American Theatre

120 Judge John Aiso Street

Los Angeles, CA 90012

For more ticket information go to: eastwestplayers.org

Or call: 213-625-7000

Embracing Change!

2010-05-21T15:13:00.001-07:00

State Farm Insurance is embracing change and so is Leslie as she opens their latest commercial where she nearly forgets to collect her change when purchasing a magazine. The newstand owner, an actor named Jameson, is honest and calls her back.

"Like a good neighbor, State Farm is best!"

HawthoRNe!

2010-05-21T15:06:00.000-07:00

"HawthoRNe"

Tune into the final episode of the season of HawthorRNe.

Look for Leslie to be the hard-a_ _ one in the group to cause trouble for the hospital!

You'll find HawthoRNe on TNT.

"It was an honor and pleasure to work with and on Jada Pinkett Smith's hospital drama. The entire cast and crew were wonderful! Watching Ed Bianchi direct was a master class in watching a scene be honed and layered with depth..." Leslie

More details coming soon!

News Flash!

2010-05-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

"CRIMES OF THE HEART"

Leslie was offered to direct the Pulitzer Prize Winner, "Crimes Of The Heart" by Beth Henley, at East West Players Asian American Theater's main stage in Los Angeles.

She accepted the job and will begin auditions in September of this year.

"Crimes" will open in early November.

Look for more exciting updates as the design team and cast are assembled!

Flashing!

2009-12-11T13:39:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who tuned into watch "Flash Forward!"

ABC and the Flash Forward team are keeping us in suspense---I believe we have to wait until March to see what happens next! Ahhhh!

Stay tuned as I am planning to finish PART III--Lost Behind The Scenes and complete with photos!

Happy Holidays and I'll continue to keep you posted on all news!

Leslie

PBN Watch!

2009-12-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

Painting By Numbers is Outward Bound!

Karen Samski and I finished our 6th draft of "Painting By Numbers" and we are starting the submission process!!

We are researching and selecting playwriting festivals and theaters to which we will query and submit our play.

Please send us good juju as we begin the next phase of our journey with our passion for playwriting included on this path!

Thank you to Prince Gomalvilas, Jeff Liu, The David Henry Hwang Writers Institute at East West Players, and our classmates for the support and push to keep our process moving forward!

Blessings All!

"Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!"

2009-12-11T12:03:00.000-08:00

Let's Go Fly A Kite!

I just spent yesterday helping to get over 2,000 4th and 5th grade students into the Ahmanson Theater here in LA to see Mary Poppins. It was so great! When Mary Poppins flew overhead the joyous sound of thousands of children was deafening!! I was so moved by there exuberance and innocence when Mary Poppins tells the Banks children that everything is possible.

Then, Center Theatre Group and Disney saw to it that every child had a healthy snack and lunch provided during their field trip.

A HUGE thank you to the Young Audience Program Team at Center Theatre Group who made sure that the diversity of Los Angeles was represented in this awesome student audience. The teachers and their chaperones are my heroes as well. There were twenty-nine buses, many schools carpooled, some took the train and walked!!

How's that for being economical and green!?*#!

It's worth mentioning that it is possible to share and for everyone to be fed--their imaginations fed and their hungry mouths too!

Blessings to all during this holiday season and happy sharing with those you know and love and perhaps those you don't know as well!

Lots of love and laughter!

Leslie

"Flash Forward" Watch!

2009-12-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

Flashing Foward!

Keep your ears open, especially, starting tomorrow night, Dec. 3rd, Thursday on ABC's FLASH FORWARD! Check your local listings!

If you blink, you might miss my Priestly self. But keep your ears open as I have more voice over than on camera time! If you don't see me this week, please check back next week!

It was a really great shoot with Michael Nankin at the helm of these episodes! Other friends, such as Elizabeth Sung and Hira Ambrosino are in these episodes as well!

Go Asian Actresses!! AND of course, John!! Go John Cho!! Your friends and community are behind you all the way!!

As always, thank you for your support and feel free to comment and ask questions!!

Lots of love and gratitude,

Leslie

Walgreens and Dancing With The Stars!

2009-12-02T14:41:00.000-08:00

Walgreens and Dancing With The Stars go together!!

Happy Holidays!

While watching DWTS, I saw the Walgreens commerical I'm in. The saucy Snowman calls me Janet!

Look for it and stay with the commerical, it's funny how the Snowman offers his services/self in the kitchen!

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Leslie

Brainsofminerva.com!

2009-11-16T22:39:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone who logged into Brainsofminerva.com to read and comment on the article I contributed: A Clarion Call to Dream and Plan Big!

There has been some nice blogging/commenting action. If you read the article early on, return to read the blogging and see where I have answered some questions from the e-readers.

Feel free to ask me questions! I love the discourse that can go on in these forums!

Thank you again for contributing to the success of the article!!

Blessings,
Leslie

Brrrr...It's Frosty at Walgreens!

2009-11-09T18:53:00.000-08:00

Look for a Walgreens commercial to begin airing around the holidays!

I just shot this last week, before Halloween and I share the screen with a fresh Snowman at a party!

The holidays are coming fast and Walgreens will provide everything you need!

Frost-a-liscious times to you all!
Leslie

FLASH FORWARD!

2009-11-09T18:48:00.001-08:00

If you're a Lostie, then you're probably a fan of Flash Forward!

Look for a guest spot that I did in Episode #110! (Probably end of November or early December.) I am very blessed in this episode, literally.

I was up against a number of very distinguished silver haired men for this part and to my surprise, they went a different way and cast me! Needless to say, I am grateful!!

Thank you to ABC and director, Michael Nankin!

Thank you to all of you for tuning in! Thursdays, ABC! (Check your local listings for times.)
Les

Brainsofminerva Article!

2009-11-09T18:40:00.000-08:00

Dear E-readers,

I wanted to annouce a hot new website/blog called: Brainsofminerva; The Guide To The L.A. Actor Hustle.

It is a great site for clicking up with hip information regarding the industry and they asked me to write an article!! It will be posted tomorrow, Tuesday, November 10th!

Be sure to blog at the end of the article to let us know what you think!
Then return to this blog and let me know what you think as well!

Check it out: Brainsofminerva.com

As always, thank you for your support and interest in all of my goin's-on!

Leslie

News Flash!

2009-07-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

DISNEY、BC TELEVISION GROUP SCORES
60 PRIMETIME EMMY NOMINATIONS

Nominees include ABC’s Lost!

JULY 17, 2009 - The Disney 、BC Television Group (DATG) captured a total of 60 Primetime Emmy nominations with ABC Television Network receiving 56 Emmy nods.

Supporting Actor in a Drama Series nominations went to Lost’s Michael Emerson.

Lost also received nominations for Drama Series and Writing in a Drama Series and ABC Entertainment Marketing’s “The Dharma Initiative” will compete in the Creative Achievement in Interactive Media-Fiction category.

The 61th Annual Primetime Emmy ceremony will take place on Sunday, September 20, 2009.

For a complete list of all nominees, please visit: www.emmys.com.

www.disneyabctalentdevelopment.com

Chang Family Poll

2009-07-02T17:18:00.000-07:00

The LOST fans are powerful!

The fans requested a way to make it known they want the Chang family to be in Season 6!
The folks at the LOST Interviews site responded!
They have created a poll to keep the Chang Family alive on LOST!

Visit the site and vote!

Here is the link: http://thelostinterviews.blogspot.com/2009/06/keep-chang-family-story-alive-in-6th.html

LOST fans are the best!!

You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll kiss no fortune goodbye! It's Free!

2009-06-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

"Painting By Numbers"

Playwriting is the new cool!

If you can write it, then say it and play it!

Final revisions are being made and casting completed for our play reading!

Playwriting Instructor: Prince Gomolvilas!
Director: Larissa Kokernot!

All star cast: Tamlyn Tomita, Sab Shimono, Ewan Chung, Mike Hagiwara, Lisa Fredrickson, Zachary Knower, Armelia McQueen, Tracy Burns, Sharon Omi, Helen Ota, Lily Rains, and Greg Watanabe

Come on down! No reservations required.
JUNE 30th, Tuesday, 7:30pm
East West Players
120 Judge John Aiso Street (Between 1st and Temple)
Los Angeles, CA 90039

This play was selected by the David Henry Hwang Writers Institute Rewriting Development Workshop.

LOST Petition for the Chang Family!

2009-06-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

Again the fans have spoken!

Fans have blogged and asked if there is a Chang Family Petition available to sign to keep the Chang Family around for Season 6. If you know of one, please blog and let each other know!

Or please post and let each other know if you know of a way to create this for the fans.

Lost Interviews might be able to help you! Let them know you want a petition as well! (Link on the left)

Thank you to our brilliant fans for your interest in LOST. You keep us going and keep us on our toes!!!

Many blessings,
Leslie

Expanding My Network!

2009-06-09T16:30:00.000-07:00

Hold the phone!

I am getting more tech-savy!

My friend, Thea Ivens, has been coaching me today to get clicked up!

This blog is now networked with Technorati and Facebook!

Look for my updates everywhere!

Still more to come as I learn from my brilliant techno-geek (affectionately used) students and friends!

Blessings,

Leslie

Technorati Profile

LOST Interviews!

2009-05-27T21:20:00.000-07:00

Fan Generated Interview

LOSTPEDIA

The fans have spoken!

The fans generated questions and their representative, Sam, contacted me and set up the interview. You can find the interview posted on:

http://lostpedia.wikia.com/wiki/The_Lostpedia_Interview:Leslie_Ishii

It is really interesting to find out what the fans want to know!

Read the interview and come back to this blog and comment and/or ask more questions!

Have fun! The Lostpedia folks are great and cover so many interesting aspects of LOST on their website!!

Another interview is coming! Stay tuned!

Leslie

Coming Soon: LOSTpedia and LOST Interviews

2009-05-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

The Fans Have Spoken!

I have been approached to take interviews with LOSTpedia and LOST Interviews!

It's really great! The fans submit questions and I answer them.

Stay Tuned on their websites as well as this Blog for the interviews! I will announce on the Blog and on my Facebook page when they are released!

Desperate LOST Connection

2009-05-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

Hugs and Kisses to Scripted TV FANS!!!

I am learning there is a Desperate Housewives and LOST connection! Who knew there were fans who find DH and LOST their two favorite shows, but then, who wouldn't love some of TV's two best scripted shows!!

Check out the Desperate Housewives Messages Boards and comment! There are fans who are making interesting connections between DH and LOST!

Scroll down on this blog and find a link to the DH Message Boards!

JUNE 30th, Tuesday--Save The Date!

2009-05-06T17:43:00.000-07:00

"Painting By Numbers"

Leslie Ishii and Karen Samski

Playwriting is the new cool!

If you can write it, then say it and play it!

Join me and my writing partner for a reading of "Painting By Numbers," a play inspired by Jane Austen's novel "Persuasion."

Presented by: David Henry Hwang Writers Institute at East West Players Theater

When: June 30th, Tuesday evening, @ 7:30 pm
Where: East West Players Theater (EWP)120 Judge John Aiso Street
(+ 2nd, in Little Tokyo)
Los Angeles, 90012
No reservations required.
EWP: 213-625-7000
eastwestplayers.org

LOST Again!

2009-05-06T01:07:00.000-07:00

Tune in to LOST Tomorrow

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Find out what happens to Lara Chang, Miles and Dr. Chang!
Be sure to check your local listings for show time!

Be sure to return to this blog and let me know your thoughts!
What did you think of the episode? Were you correct about Lara Chang and what happens to her?

Soon, I'll have Part III of Lost, Behind the Scenes up and I would love to know your comments!

Thank you again to all the fans for tuning in! You keep us on our toes!

Also, soon, I'll be interviewed by Lostpedia and Lost Interviews! I'll link you up when the interviews post!

Happy Viewing!

Mtn Dew Shoot!

2009-05-05T22:27:00.000-07:00

Update: Look for a Mtn Dew spot to air this summer. It promises to be cool!

The shoot was fantastic! I had the best time with another actor, Jameson Reeves, whom I later shared the screen with. It was a night shoot and Jameson and I saw the lens at around 5am!

Before our turn in front of the camera, we stayed up all night watching director, Mr. Tarsem and Stunt Coordinator/Fight choreographer, Steven Ho and his stuntmen, shoot the fight sequences that will eventually become anime fight scenes in the commercial! The stunt men were, Yoshio Izuka and Sam Looc. They were amazing! Using the same concept of shooting in front of a green screen where images can be computer generated onto the green areas, the stunt men were in green suits and holding green dowls as weapons. The anime characters will be computer generated onto the stuntmen and their dowls. The Pepsi Cola Company seems to be teaming up with the Blizzard Entertainment Gaming Company. Radical Media Productions took great care of us the whole night!

I can't wait to see how the commercial turns out! Jameson and I are at the end of the spot and we are hoping they make a sequel! Comment here on this blog and let us know if you would like to see us face off!

Desperate Housewives and LOST

2009-05-05T22:18:00.000-07:00

I received so many phone calls and emails from friends who enjoyed the episode! Yeah! Thank you to everyone for tuning in this past Sunday!

Did you think I would hide dinner rolls in my purse? Well, ask my brothers--when I was a child, and out at a restaurant with family, I would wrap left overs in a napkin and put them in my pocket. I didn't have a purse at that age. Then, I would take them out in the car and eat them. Apparently, they felt taunted. Hey, I was a slow eater!

If you missed the episode, click over to abc.com and catch up! The episode is called "Bargaining."

It was a fun scene to shoot! Comedic! All of the ladies were delightful to work with and the hair and make-up team a dream to work with as well. You wouldn't believe the amount of work it takes to maintain such stylized looks over the course of a shoot day! Big hair, big make-up! Oh! The lashes and hair spray! These folks are hard working and well deserved of much praise and recognition!

The director, Mr. Grossman, was a dream to work with. I love that he gave me props (compacts of make-up and lipsticks) to work with. Even though these props are only seen for a glimpse, it really helped me bring the reality of the character and situation to life. It was amazing how fast Eva could disappear into the bathroom stall and shut the door! We actually shot the scene in a bathroom at the Caballero Country Club in Tarzana, California!

Thank you again for your support and tuning in to Desperate Housewives! How should Asian Woman strike back after being humiliated by Gabrielle (Eva Longoria's character)!?!
Please post your comments. I would love to know!

Don't forget---LOST this Wednesday night! Check your local listings for show times!
Check to see if your theories are correct? See what happens to Lara Chang, Dr. Chang, and Miles!

Desperate Housewives

2009-05-05T21:48:00.000-07:00

I received so many phone calls and emails from friends who enjoyed the episode! Yeah!

Thank you to everyone for tuning in this past Sunday!

Did you think I would hide dinner rolls in my purse? Well, ask my brothers--when I was a child, and out at a restaurant with family, I would wrap left overs in a napkin and put them in my pocket. I didn't have a purse at that age. Then, I would take them out in the car and eat them. Apparently, they felt taunted. Hey, I was a slow eater!

If you missed the episode, click over to abc.com and catch up! The episode is called "Bargaining."

It was a fun scene to shoot! Comedic! All of the ladies were delightful to work with and the hair and make-up team a dream to work with. You wouldn't believe the amount of work it takes to maintain such stylized looks over the course of a shoot day! Big hair, big make-up! Oh! The lashes and hair spray! These folks are hard working and well deserved of much praise and recognition!

The director, David Grossman, was a dream to work with. I love that he gave me props (compacts of make-up and lipsticks) to work with. Even though these props are only seen for a glimpse, it really helped me bring the reality of the character and situation to life. It was amazing how fast Eva could disappear into the bathroom stall and shut the door!

We shot the scene in a bathroom at the Caballero Country Club in Tarzana, California!

Thank you again for your support and tuning in to Desperate Housewives! How should Asian Woman strike back after being humiliated by Gabrielle (Eva Longoria's character)!?! Please post your comments. I would love to know!

Don't forget---LOST this Wednesday night! Check your local listings for show times!

Check to see if you theories are correct? See what happens to Lara Chang, Dr. Chang, and Miles!

VOTE NO!

2009-05-05T20:21:00.001-07:00

Dear Screen Actors Guild Members,

Please vote "no" on the theatrical contract!
With this current contract proposal there is no way to become vested! It feels like it is a "good" contract for our times, but it is bogus! It leads us to eliminating residuals. How will we and younger generations qualify for health insurance each year and become vested if residuals vanish? Residuals are the key to making a decent living and retirement!

IT IS ALWAYS A GOOD TIME TO STAND UP FOR YOURSELF! Don't be a victim and don't let the board allow you to believe that "this is as good as it gets given our times." There is no validity to "making up ground on the next contract." The ground is rarely made up unless there is a huge ground swell of support. So why wait! NOW is the time!

This is no time for a bake sale mentality! We are in a better position of power than ever before! Businesses and Corporations are going down right and left and we have the leverage! We blew it by allowing the board to oust Doug Allen. This was a power player that had dealt with the big wigs. It was our big chance to move forward into the big leagues to achieve real terms! NOW it is more important than ever that we stand and be counted and come together to back each other and a real contract that will allow us to validate our profession and make a decent living. My profession is not a hobby for the rich!

Be Courageous and lead with your intelligence and your integrity!
Vote NO on this contract!

Annoucement:

2009-05-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

Augusto Boal

We Will Miss You!

Rio de Janerio, May 4, 2009:

Brothers and sisters in arms, companions in the struggleOur beloved comrade Augusto Boal, that tireless sower of seeds, who travelled the four corners of the earth scattering the seed of the Theatre of the Oppressed, is on yet another journey. He set off in the early hours of the second of May. He spent the First of May, May day, in a vigil of solidarity with the workers fighting for a fairer and happier world, a world of solidarity.He set off on this special journey, for which reason he was not able to be physcially present at any event. But, as was his habit, he lived, loved and worked to the last drop of his energy, leaving ready -for publication- the new version of his book, The Aesthetics of the Oppressed. He also left express instructions that no event should be cancelled because of his absence. ’Isn't that the very point of Multiplication?

“Yesterday, on the third of May, we held a farewell ceremony . The cremation of his body marked the start of a new phase of the Theatre of the Oppressed, in the physical absence of the Master himself. We wept, we talked, we sang. Celse Frateschi declaimed, beautifully, a passage from Arena Conta Zumbi. We sang a song written by Nuno Arcanjo. And Cecilia Boal, with all her strength and vitality, told the world that her husband should be remembered as the warrior that he always was. We dried our tears and acclaimed Boal's leaving.His body has gone, but not his presence! This Saturday, the 9th of May, from 5pm to 8pm (Brazilian time), we will ratify his presence with a homage, at the Centre of the Theatre of the Oppressed with music, poems, performances and videos. At 7pm we stop to make a minute of ovation to Boal´s honor. We will celebrate the life, the struggle, the productivity, the work of Augusto Boal and the continuity of that work. We ask and stimulate everybody to do same homage to him in this Saturday.Who wants write a message to be exposed in Boal´s honor mural, please send it to claudetefelix@ctorio.org.br until 3pm (Brazilian time) on Thursday.

It will not be easy to follow our Master, Partner, Friend and Comrade in the Struggle. But what has ever been easy in the trajectory of the Theatre of the Oppressed?Ethics and Solidarity will be our foundations and our guides. Multiplication will be our strategy. And our goal will remain the mounting of concrete social actions to bring about the transformation of oppressive realities.
*Viva Augusto Boal
*We will go on
Barbara Santos, CTO Rio

Mountain Dew

2009-04-28T23:15:00.000-07:00

I am shooting a Mountain Dew commercial!
So, I am a bit booked these days but promise to be back ASAP with my next article: PART III; LOST, Behind The Scenes.

Lostpedia Blog: Lostpedia on Twitter

2009-04-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

Lostpedia Blog: Lostpedia on Twitter

Visit leslieishiiblog.blogspot.com for behind the scene articles regarding shooting LOST and playing Lara Chang!

Desperate Housewives Reminder

2009-04-22T22:35:00.000-07:00

Asian Woman on Desperate Housewives!

Keep your Tivo's set for Sunday, May 3rd, 2009

(Be sure to check your local listings for show time.)

The first week in May is a big one! Showings on Desperate Housewives and LOST!!

Guess who's "Asian Woman?" Yours truly!!

What do you think Asian Woman should do? Watch and find out!

Thank you for tuning in!

LOST Update!

2009-04-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

"Follow The Leader," Episode #15 of LOST

Set your Tivo's for Wednesday, May 6th,2009

(Be sure to check your local listings for show time.)

As we near the end of the season and anticipate the finale, be sure to tune in to see what becomes of Lara Chang, Miles and Dr. Pierre Chang!

What do you predict now?

There is wind of a special program that will possibly include some Lara Chang footage with Miles and will be a bonus along with the season finale!

Thank you for tuning in for Episode #13---stay tuned! It only gets more interesting!!

LOST Update

2009-04-22T22:18:00.000-07:00

"Follow The Leader," Episode #15 of LOST Set your Tivo's for Wednesday, May 6th,2009

Be sure to check your local listings for show time.

As we near the end of the season and anticipate the season finale, be sure to tune in to see what becomes of Lara Chang, Miles and Dr. Pierre Chang!

What do you predict now?

There is wind of a special program that will possibly include some Lara Chang footage with Miles and will be a bonus along with the season finale!

Thank you for tuning in for Episode #13---stay tuned! It only gets better!!

PART II: LOST, Behind The Scenes

2009-04-21T20:44:00.000-07:00

Thank you for returning to learn more about the process that was going on behind the scenes of Episode #13, "Some Like It Hoth." We left off with me having just gotten the script and heading into a make-up and hair test session.

The make-up and hair/wig test was an interesting journey in itself. First, I sat in the chair as the Master Hair Department Head, Doreen Schultz Marchetti, and her assistant, Debra Rego, worked to wet my hair and put a kind of laquer in it to get it as flat against my head as possible. It required some elbow grease. Once all the hair was contained and as flat against my head as humanly possible, a skull cap/skin was carefully applied. I looked like Veeger from the past Star Trek movie.

Then, the Master Make-up Department Head, Steve LaPorte, began to utilize a range of color to stiple my head/skull cap to make it appear like the skull of ill Lara Chang. After this step was completed, the very delicate process of applying the wig was next. Adhesive solutions were tried to find the right combination so the wig wouldn't pucker or gap. The reaction of the skull cap material was also monitored to make sure it could endure the adhesive solutions. The wig itself, strands of a range of black, white and gray hair woven into fine netting, needed to fit against and adhere to the skull cap very smoothly to appear as though it is of my own head/scalp.

Fine instruments similar to dental tools were used to smooth and fit the wig to the skull cap. Finally, adhesive was used to tack down the wig netting around the edges of where my hair line ends around my face and the back of my neck. During this time, Doreen and Steve were discussing this delicate process and the very careful/respectful handling of the wig and skull cap. They also speculated regarding my position in the bed. Will the wig bunch up against the pillows I might be propped up with? They considered every angle and how to maintain the adhesive and wig positioning on my head given the possible hours of shooting we might experience. Considering lights and the Hawaii weather, they talked about what persiration will do to the adhesive and the wig. It is a known possibility that a reservoir of moisture could build up and not be allowed to escape because of the laquer and the very close fit of the skull cap and wig. Steve and Doreen discussed all of the possible scenarios they would need to be aware of and prepared for so the shoot would go smoothly and with as little delay as possible if a challenge should arise.

Then, Steve began to create the facial look of the make-up. He applied various darker shading around the eyes and in the hollows of my cheek bones. He stipled on layers of colors that gave my skin a sallow and rutty look. A whole range of sizes of brushes were also used to apply the make-up. He also created an interesting look with my eyebrows. He utilized a material that would block out parts of my brows to give the look of lost hair there as well. He mentioned that he was creating this look in contrast to how I would look in the 1980's scenes when I am looking for the apartment with young Miles. He knew he would make me up with fuller eye brows and wonderful 80's frosty colored make-up that would directly contrast the ill look of Lara Chang later. The layering and detail was phenomenal. I was a blank canvas that became the ill Lara Chang right before my eyes.

Right as we finished almost five hours later, the director, Jack Bender, came into the make-up and hair trailor and sat down in the chair next to me. I met him and said, "Nice to meet you. It's not a great first impression is it?" He laughed. Steve, Doreen, and Jack talked about any adjustments needed to the make-up. Jack asked about some of the shading and Steve shared his research and thinking about his choices. They agreed quite easily on very minor adjustments given the time of day and lighting that was anticipated. The next concern was the amount of time it would take to recreate all of this the next morning. Steve and Doreen assured Jack that they could cut the prep time down to 2 1/2 - 3 hours. They were already considering where they could streamline the process and colors and instruments and materials were already being prepped for the next day.

Jack Bender asked me what I thought and how I felt. I asked a couple of questions about the script and he answered them very succinctly providing the clarity I needed. I expressed my gratitude for this process. I shared with him that I wasn't expecting this journey. I was expecting to get in the chair the next morning cold and not have any lead time to incorporate the look , the script/text with Lara's condition. I told him I love mask work and this was like getting to see the mask develop and appear right before my eyes. To have had nearly five hours to keep looking at the mask and to read the script and begin to memorize lines as this process was unfolding was a real gift and first rate collaboration. Steve and Doreen were surprised I wanted to watch the process so closely. Often actors fall asleep and rest or even want to get up often and walk around. I think needing to learn this character very quickly and all that she would be going through in the shoot the next morning kept me in the chair and compelled to watch every step of the creative process.

Slowly and carefully, Steve and Doreen each reversed the process with solvents to get me out of the make-up, wig and skull cap. Great respect was taken to care for the wig and skull cap so as not to stretch them out of the shapes that Victoria Mudd so beautifully fitted and sculpted. I am given a solvent to get the laquer out of my hair and then I am driven back to the hotel. I still have more work to do.

After dinner, I began to utilize the Catherine Fitzmaurice Voicework Method of destructuring and restructuring to really learn my lines and the character's condition and circumstances at a deeper level. I want to get as far as I could that night to discover how I might bring my process from an intellectual one of memorizing lines to dropping into the body so I can embody the role of Lara Chang. Eventually, I did go to sleep but set my alarm to get up in time to utilize the Fitzmaurice Voicework Method to warm up my voice and body and continue my process of discovery with my character, Lara Chang.

Revisit this blog to read PART III and find out how the shoot went!

Part I: LOST, Behind The Scenes

2009-04-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who tuned in or Tivo'ed last night's 13th Episode of LOST!!

Is it what you were predicting? Comment and let me know!

I am awaiting clearance from the LOST Publicity Department so I can post some photos from behind the scenes regarding this #13th Episode, "Some Like It Hoth."

PART I
I can share with you now that it was an incredible journey that started with a phone call on a Friday evening and then Wig Master, Victoria Mudd arriving at my house the next morning to measure and fit my head for the wig that was used in this episode.

Victoria is like Mary Poppins when she arrives. She is magical and carries with her a bag that might as well be Mary Poppin's carpet bag. She reaches in and takes out all of the supplies needed to create a temporary wig cap. She is very fast and efficient. My husband, Wes and I, really relished this time with Victoria. We spoke about the art of stage craft, wig making and makeup and how critical these areas are to creating and telling the stories we all enjoy. Wes shared photos of his latest make up and hair pieces he utilized as Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol" at Portland Center Stage. He and Victoria spoke about their experiences ventilating hair pieces, which is the art of weaving hair into the netting that becomes the wig, beard, side burns, or perhaps a moustache.

Victoria is a very accomplished Wig maker who has worked throughout the Repertory Theater circuit and in Hollywood on many television shows and big budget films. She shared a story of working on Lemony Snicket with Erwin H. Kupitz, the best wig maker walking the planet today in her opinion. Interesting enough, Mr. Kupitz is often uncredited. Hmmm....

So fanatastic to be working with artists who are at the top of their game and so expert at their craft. I learn from every craftsman/woman I am in contact with. I have such respect for each one of these artists.

AND this was only the start of this incredible journey. Within days, my Fitzmaurice certification training was cut short as I was flown to Honolulu, HI with no script in hand. (Thank you again, Catherine Fitzmaurice and Saul Kotzubei, for this flexibility!) I was on the first flight out and arrived around 1pm. I was met at the airport and driven directly to the studios where the shooting scripts were being collated right before my eyes. I sat on a love seat in the offices reading my hot-off-the-press script and then was told I would be going into a makeup and hair test session for what turned out to be the rest of the afternoon.

I just received the script that day, am heading into the makeup and hair test session and learn that my call time for the next morning will be a 5am pick up! How wil I learn this part in time?!

Revisit this blog soon for PART II of this story!

Again, I am awaiting clearance from the LOST publicist to post the photos. Thank you for your patience!
More very soon!
Leslie

LOST

2009-04-16T12:25:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who tuned in or Tivo'ed last night's LOST Episode!!

Is it what you were predicting? Comment and let me know!

I am awaiting clearance from the LOST Publicity Department so I can post some photos from behind the scenes regarding this #13th Episode, "Some Like It Hoth."

PART I

I can share with you now that it was an incredible journey that started with a phone call on a Friday evening and then Wig Master, Victoria Mudd arriving at my house the next morning to measure and fit my head for the wig that was used in this episode.

Victoria is like Mary Poppins when she arrives. She is magical and carries with her a bag that might as well be Mary Poppin's carpet bag. She reaches in and takes out all of the supplies needed to create a temporary wig cap. She is very fast and efficient. My husband, Wes and I, really relished this time with Victoria. We spoke about the art of stage craft, wig making and makeup and how critical these areas are to creating and telling the stories we all enjoy. Wes shared photos of his latest make up and hair pieces he utilized as Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol" at Portland Center Stage. He and Victoria spoke about their experiences ventilating hair pieces, which is the art of weaving hair into the netting that becomes the wig, beard, side burns, or perhaps a moustache.

Victoria is a very accomplished Wig maker who has worked throughout the Repertory Theater circuit and in Hollywood on many television shows and big budget films. She shared a story of working on Lemony Snicket with Erwin H. Kupitz, the best wig maker walking the planet today in her opinion. Interesting enough, Mr. Kupitz is often uncredited. Hmmm....

So fanatastic to be working with artists who are at the top of their game and so expert at their craft. I learn from every craftsman/woman I am in contact with. I have such respect for each one of these artists.

AND this was only the start of this incredible journey. Within days, my Fitzmaurice certification training was cut short as I was flown to Honolulu, HI with no script in hand. (Thank you again, Catherine Fitzmaurice and Saul Kotzubei, for this flexibility!) I was on the first flight out and arrived around 1pm. I was met at the airport and driven directly to the studios where the shooting scripts were being collated right before my eyes. I sat on a love seat in the offices reading my "hot-off-the-press script and then was told I would be going into a makeup and hair test session for what turned out to be the rest of the afternoon.

Revisit this blog soon for PART II of this story!

I am looking to have behind the scenes photos from the makeup and hair test session. Again, I am awaiting clearance from the LOST publicist to post the photos. Thank you for your patience!

More very soon! Leslie

2009-04-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Karen, for being the first follower! You're the best!
Leslie

2009-04-09T14:17:00.000-07:00

Hey Kurt!
Thank you for your comment! Glad to know you're a fan! Keep tuning in---it gets interesting! Leslie

LOST

2009-04-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

At last, set your Tivo's for LOST

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Check out Episode #513, "Some Like It Hoth." Be sure to check your local television listings for show time!

Who am I? When did you see me before? Which episode? Did you predict correctly?

I want to know!

Be sure to write your comments following the episode and click through to ABC.com if you need to catch up on episodes.

Look for photos and behind the scenes stories of shooting this episode after the airing!

Thank you for tuning in and I look forward to your comments! Blog away!

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES

2009-04-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

Again, set your Tivo's for Desperate Housewives!

Sunday evening, May 3, 2009

Look for "Asian Woman" in Episode #521, "Bargaining!"

Look for my behind the scenes "tell-all" after the episode airs!
I want to know if you think "Asian Woman" should strike back!

If you need to catch up, be sure to click through on ABC.com to catch up on past episodes!
Also, be sure to check your local television listings for show time!

Thank you for tuning in and looking forward to reading your comments!