I'm Baaaaaccckkkkk-quick update

Ok it's been over a year since my last blog entry and sooo much has happened. This past year has been an amazing whirlwind.  I recorded and was featured my first gospel album for sale(Amazon and iTunes) now with Broadway's Tituss Burgess. I've spent the past six months traveling the Caribbean on the Norwegian Star as a principal singer. Instead overloading all at once with the details and mountains of pictures I will be posting over the next couple of weeks. But now I will leave you with a two videos and a picture from my new photo shoot with the amazing Kevin Thomas Garcia. Until next time..still sipping on tea...green tea to be exact ;-)

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NCL Cabaret Chain Of Fools

Broadway Rocks Diva Night

Progress and the process!

Heeeeeey ya'll....see I'm getting better awl ready lol. Soooo last week I started reading a book called "The Artist's Way''. It's a 12-week program that is supposed to free your creativity and inner artist. You will do exercises that will unblock the fears, hang ups and silence your inner naysayer. I am on week 2 and already my eyes have been opened to so many things. I have established the things that I want to accomplish without allowing my left brain to tell me it's impossible and erasing it. I have reached back to the younger me and dealt with the harsh criticism that has discouraged me or silenced some of my ambition. Whether you are an artist (performing or visual), lawyer, counselor, teacher or minister this book will benefit you. I will update you with my progress every now and then. And let you know when the program is up how it turned out. Before you start reading you must be dedicated to the change you will experience and to the progress. There are exercises you have to keep up with and complete in order to successful with the program but IT IS WORTH IT! Invite friends to read it with you and loved ones.  Here it is...... http://www.overstock.com/Books-Movies-Music-Games/The-Artists-Way-by-Julia-Cameron-Paperback/66368/product.html?cid=202290&kid=9553000357392&track=pspla&kw={keyword}&adtype=pla

In the meantime check out a video I made for my friends who bully me on twitter for You Tube videos. I won't say no name ahem  Bruce n Barry lol. Until next time ::sips tea:: I'm out #BeBlessedNBooked

It's been a long time I shoudn't left you...lol

Hey guys....I know I know it's been long time at least 3 months..so let me update ya ::Bey voice:: From December 19 -February 26 I was doing Hairspray at the Show Palace Theater in Hudson Florida. I had a wonderful time spent my birthday with an amazing and talented cast. Also I got my first callback for a new roadway show which was a big step for me. It's crazy how quickly this year has gone by and the changes this year has brought.
In October I was going through a rough patch thinking I should reevaluate my life and career. I know I was being hasty but being in an career that you have a job for 3 months and then no job for 6 can be frustrating. I prayed and told GOD if something didn't breakthrough by Nov.1 I would take that as a sign I was in the wrong profession. In November I booked Big River and I got the news from a friend I haven't seen since high school..small world right? But it was just the motivation I needed to keep going. After the first day of rehearsal I went out of town to see my bestie Sir Brock in Radio City in Nashville. That's when I received the offer for Hairspray! After long consideration and multiple conversations with GOD, my agent, mentor/brother, my dad, mom and besties; I decided Hairspray was the best choice for me. And it was! I learned so much, grew so much as an actor and dancer and even got another job offer praise GOD. Ok I promise to update more often but I don't want to kill ya'll with a lot of text. Soooo I'll let pictures and videos speak for itself lol.

Also huge shout out to my brother Ephraim for booking yet another Broaway Show Disney's Newsies which opens March 29th. I saw the dress rehearsal and it was AH-MAY-ZING!!! but here's a clip of them on Good Morning Amercia ;-)....well I'll be back in a few das I have missed ya'll. You know what it is ::sips jasmine green tea:: Be blessed #WeAreTrayvonMartin

QUICK UPDATE

I want to do something different for my big news....So give me a day to post it I'm working out the kinks lol...but in the meantime check out me playing around at my vocal lesson with my favorite vocal teacher and the fiercest teacher in the world Tituss Burgess I loooovvvvveeeee him!!!!

The Wait

Hey guys.......
I know it's late but I haven't been on in soooo long. I even missed my 1 year blog anniversary smh shame on me. But I'm back!!! Sooooooo let me get to it. I have still been auditioning like crazy since I've been back from Little Shop. I took a short break for the holidays and had a wonderful time. I have some good news to tell ya'll but until everything is finalized I have to keep it under wraps. But when the time comes you will be the first to know! Until I can share my big news..........I'll just share this Fierce shot by Nicole White. Just a teaser from our photo shoot. She's amazing check out her work. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicole-White-Photography-Design/144007808986701

Dedication to the Inspiration

Ok so today I just wanted to take the time to blog about my inspiration in the entertainment field. He is the one that is constantly pushing me to become a better me. The one who says "you were born to do this" even when I don't believe it my damn self. He just landed the role of "Benny" in Off-Broadway's "RENT" and I was honored to escort him opening night. He was absolutely O-MA-ZING and gave Benny a symapthetic quality that many haven't t done. I'm soooooo proud to say I know him and even more proud to say he's my brother. I never knew the little messy, shy boy who I shared a bunk-bed with. Who acted like the WB frog (dance when no one is looking and stop when you want him to perform) would become the Artist he is today. Here he is in AWL of his glory.........Mister EPHRAIM M. SYKES

He speaks so lovely don't you agree 2:19min lol

Blue and Green Jacket :-)

Throwback lol

My Boyfriend and brother on the right of me (my right-hand man)

His First lead role in a movie

Him in Memphis a Farewell Tribute
I love you and words can not express how grateful I am <3

Sneak Peak

ShowTime

Ok...this past 3 weeks have been like a roller coaster ride. Two full weeks of rehearsal 10am-7pm and one tech week better known as "Hell Week". Those days consisted stop-and-go rehearsal from 12pm-12am. Talking about tiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeeeeeeddddddddd(tired) lol. Two-week rehearsals can be very stressful if you don't play your cards right. Try as best as you can to be familiar with the play and score(read it and youtube the hell out of it). This way you have an idea how the show looks, sounds, the plot and get a overall feel for the show. The show previewed on Friday July 15th and premiered on Saturday. During hell week, we would've never thought the show was going to come together. Everyone scared and on edge. Emotions on high+tension+small malfunctions= all the makings of a great show, weird right. Opening night was Fantastic!!! We seem to be so in tune with each other and remember everything we knew we would forget once the bright lights flooded the stage.  I was so happy to see my family at opening night, them being there made everything real. I am in my first long-run show and it's really opening night. During rehearsals I felt no real nervous energy, not even mic'd up during hell week. But as the lights went up and I saw their faces a rush a adrenaline ran through me.

Ok so let me upload a few pictures and my favorite reviews of the show. Besides I know ya'll are tired of reading by now lol.
http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2011-07-19/news/bs-ar-johnson-little-shop-20110719_1_seymour-audrey-strange-plant
http://broadneck.patch.com/articles/little-shop-delivers-on-talent-and-fun
LadyBroadway

The Big Break!!!

HELLLLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ::waits for echo::
I know it's been so long since I blogged I probably have no followers :-(. I have neglected you for too long but for good reason. If you are still out there I appreciate you. So let me jump right in.

So I went on a month hiatis...but before then I was extremely busy doing auditions, callbacks, dance classes and singing back up for Tituss Burgess. You are corect The Tituss Burgess, you may have seen him Broadway's Little Mermaid as Sebastian. He is also my vocal coach. I also sung back up for Adrienne Warren you saw her as Loreal on Broadway's Dreamgirls. ::sigh:: the month of May was extremely busy. After those performances I went to Florida to visit my family for awhile and while I was there I received a call that i booked the part of Chiffon in Little Shop of Horrors in Annapolis, Maryland. Needless to say I was extremely excited!

I am here now rehearsal  and it is day3 of rehearsal. My cast is absolutely amazing! I can't wait to continue my journey with them and grow as an actor and singer. Rehearsing can be exhausting but I am up for the challenge.

Oh yea before I got I was signed to Bloc Agency of New York on cinco de mayo ::throws confetti and does a litttle dance:: check out my profile http://nyc.blocagency.com/talent/legit/martina-sykes

Alrighty people I'm about to find something to eat and go over this music until next time ::sips tea:: I'm out and Be Blessed! ~with man this is possible..with GOD all things are possible~

Refreshed And Ready

Ok...so again I must apologize for not updating you like I should but these have been some of the toughest weeks . I have had some down days with bad auditions and great auditions but was not right for the part. One key thing about auditioning is you just have to get your name out there. Even if you're not right for that particular part, if you do a great job the casting director WILL remember. My brother told me before I moved to NY "Auditioning is your full-time job, a show is the vacation." That has to be the truest statement I've heard so far. Auditioning is a skill and practice makes perfect.

With all that being said.........everybody and I mean EVERYBODY needs a break to rekindle the flame for their passion. Sometimes life throws you for a loop and the very thing that makes you happy can feel like a burden. Take some time to yourself to gather your thoughts and feelings. For lent instead of sacrificing I decided to add prayer to my day 3 times a day no matter what I am doing. It has helped me tremendously! I also go to open mic nights or events where I can hear people sing. The atmosphere makes me appreciate my art and fall in love with it all over again. It's an environment where there's no pressure, no judging, just people who appreciate your talent for what it is. I was forced to sing at the open mic night last Sunday lol and had so much fun rockin' the stage. Even when I didn't know the words I free-styled.
My joy was restored that night and this week I took that same attitude and passion in my auditions. Casting directors sat back in the chairs, rocked side to side with their eyes closed and said, "wow that was amazing." I'm ready once again to take over New York!!! ::sips tea:: Until next time Be blessed!

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.(Philippians 4:6)

Movers and Shakers

Hello American citizens,tax payers and every one in between...lol


    Today's blog is not about me. I wanted to introduce you to a fellow Gator who is in New York living and pursuing her dreams. We attended the same school for four years, had mutual friends and never said more then two words to each other. Now that we have graduated and moved on, we have discovered we have a lot in common especially the arts. My art of course is performing. Hers is visual and fashion. She is fierce ::Tyra Banks voice:: lol. Let me introduce you to Michaela Boyd, she has a blog that if your into fashion will inspire you and if you're not will make you want to. http://glamourphiles.tumblr.com/ 
     We recently met for lunch and dicussed our dreams, ambitions and tactics on how to accomplish them. She is well on her way #GetIntoHer 
      Until next time ::sips green tea:: Stay up!

Unexpected Blessing

Ok guys...I've been auditioning like crazy and one thing I've learned it is hard being a new actor in this business. You are always last in line because you have not earned your equity card yet and those who have are always seen. Sometimes or even half of the time non-equity will not be seen due to time limits. I have to admit it can be really discouraging at times, but if you believe in GOD like I do, as soon as you feel like giving up he steps in. Two weeks ago I had been to five auditions in only were seen for two. I also dropped my phone on the subway...the pits..I had, HAD IT!I just begin to cry and with the help of my family,friends, boyfriend and kind words from strangers, I made up in my mind I would not give up. The next week the first audition went great and I received an email from my former play RainDogs. The play that showcased in the Hamptons is coming to Manhattan in March. Right around the corner I know #GetExcited. GOD works even when we think he's forgotten.
In other news today is a very special day! Today is my boyfriend's birthday!!! I know I'm mushy but I had to give him a shout out he supports me in everything I do...soooo Happy Birthday Kevin I love you!!!

H.O.T (House Of Talent) gives back

A video of us performing and speaking to the students of our Alma Mater Gibbs High School (PCCA) http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=484444646790

Back to the real (auditioning)

I am finally back in NY and ready to work my butt off! I have been going to every audition I can and it is only the begining. This is the season for auditions. More than I can count. I have also been dabbling in t.v as well. I want to cast my net as far as it can go to have a better shot at opportunities or as we say in the House Of Talent (H.O.T) "booking the gig."
Audition tips....these are quick tips to do inbetween the big audition that will help you book the gig.
1. Research the play. You do not want to walk in there singing a pop song for a "legit" musical theater play such as Evita.
2. Keep learning and perfecting your song. If you are like me and can't afford lessons every week, YouTube is a great tool to help practice and learn material. They have the words, instrumentals and with vocals. my motto: "If it's free..it's for me"
3. Practice in front of your friends and/or family. In our house we have a 16 bar party, where we sing our 16 bars for each other.
4. Finally never stop auditioning. Sure you don't want to waste your time and go to unnecessary auditions but if it looks like it can be for you(research), or even if it is to practice a new song and receive feedback. You never know the show you may not think is for you just maybe the one.

New pics first photo shoot

I've been gone for a min...now Im back!

Dear Lovely Bloggers,
          I have neglected you for far too long. I'm back and I owe you an apology and good news. I've missed thee and I hope you missed me too lol. Ok, time for sharing.

            So last time i talked to you I  had auditioned and received the roll as Bonnie in Raindogs. The show was a success!!! The Hamptons was nothing short of beautiful. Sag Harbor is like a town you would see on a Christmas special. I felt like I could leave my hotel room unlocked lol. Here's a link for pictures http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2062437&id=1370970075&l=73c9ac8d57 .
          I was so happy to meet and get-to-know such an amazing and talented cast. They recorded my solo and as soon as I learn how to upload that from iTunes I will post it. As of lately, I have been doing photo shoots, visiting family, friends and my boo lol and continuing to audition.

On to the NEXT!!!

Hey People!
I know it has been a minute since I've written but so much has happened. The play that I was in I had to quit because I felt that it would hinder future opportunities. If there is one thing I have learned from adults is; if you dread going to work everyday choose a different job, asap!
Let's review the time line shall we? So Friday I quit and Monday I had an audition for Respect. I auditioned for that but next door was another audition going on and I being curious knocked on the door and asked was it an "open audition". The proctor replied "no,it is by appointment only but if you are ready now we have an open slot." I said okay and auditioned they seemed to really like me. The next day I received a call from the casting director offering me the part. It's a four-day workshop in Sag Harbor in the Hamptons ::does dance around the room:: I am so humbled and so grateful to the one who does exceedingly and abundantly above anything I can ask or think. I'm a Raindog baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaabbbbbbbbbbyyyyyyyy! check out the website of the new musical http://www.theatreworks.net/raindogs/index.html
SN: Im trying to get over this sinus infection any suggestions feel free to hit me up! until next time ::zoooooooooom:: And I'm out!

Getting down to business

I'm learning the ups and downs of this business quick. Ladies word of advice when you are pretty, you have to come in with a mind set for strictly business. Keep it casual, keep it short and sometimes cut throat. Another great benefit of having a degree is being more equipped to handle fast-talking con men that try to convince you to compromise your morals to get or keep a job. In my opinion, talent and dignity go hand in hand because when you are confident about your gift, you don't have to compromise who you are. I didn't lay on my back to get into one of the hardest universities in the U.S and I won't to be in anybody's play/movie/commercial. I am glad GOD is showing me how these people can be in this industry so I will learn how to deal with them now! It will cut out all the unnecessary foolishness in the future. ::sips tea:: on to the next audition. I'm never getting comfortable in one place/play "got to" keep it moving.

The unexpected

    Sorry I haven't blog but it's amazing how things happen and it happened so quickly I've been caught in a whirlwind. So let me step out to the calmer side of me for a minute.  I have been here since Wednesday as you know. On Saturday my brother called me to tell me I had an audition on Sunday 10:30am. I was excited but nervous at the same time. I didn't expect to have a audition this fast and I didn't have a dramatic monologue prepared. So that night I drank lots of tea and memorized a monologue from a Raisin In the Sun. Sunday I got up early got ready, practiced and prayed some more. So let me paint the picture as Sophia Patrillio would (the Golden Girls) lol my favorite show.
   
     Picture it,Harlem,2010. I arrived early from the subway station on the cool morning. The smell of fresh bacon was in the air as I struggled not to look like a tourist. My brother informed me that the man I was auditioning for had a meeting before me and to call him when I arrived for directions. I looked for the first familiar place where I could sit and get my thoughts together. I saw a Subway restaurant and sat inside for awhile. Across from my table were three people discussing a script. Of course I began to wonder could this be the man that I was auditioning for. No,No, that's too much of a coincidence. But I couldn't help but to have a feeling that might be him. I texted my brother to ask what the man looked like. One of the men got up from the table abruptly and went outside to make a phone call. Turns out he was calling me. I began to laugh when I realized my gut instinct was right, he came back inside and asked me to wait a few minutes. Now in my mind I thought we were going to walk to the theater or his office for the audition. I was wrong! I had to improve,key word,improve my monologue and sing infront of everyone in Subway. Long story short he offered me the part on the spot! I was so excited I almost cried but being the "G" that I am, I kept it contained ::runs around the building to scream and jump around:: Like I said before with" man this is possible but with GOD all things are possible." It was only favor that this happened as quickly as it did.
The show is called "The ShowMen" it is about the famous negro tap super stars the Nicholas brothers. Rehearsals start Oct.30, let's go!!!!!

All in the family

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjhizaij4rY -Ephraim Singing at a event on behalf of his show Memphis
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVhmzDTZS40&feature=related -His choreography for a charity show
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljuIDCHJSD0&feature=related -Me singing at BFE2009