Evelyn Vaccaro

ULTIMATE DIVER CHALLENGE AND MY DIRECTORS DEBUT

2009-07-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

Just want to say a VERY big thank you to all of you who have sent your congradulations regarding my latest gig as host of THE ULTIMATE DIVER CHALLENGE. I also heard from the producer/owner of the show that she has received lots of emails from "my fans". THANK YOUUUUUUUU!

Here's an exciting update: The show will be judged by former contestant Rudy from Survivor, actor Nicholas Coster (whom I get to do a fun spot with during the show) and Julie Riffe (a world champion free diver). I'm also working with an amazing underwater cinematographer/superman diver, Jim Pearson which I am really looking forward to. My dream is to swim with the whale sharks which I really hope we can get to while we're there!

Some more fun news, I just directed my VERY FIRST MUSIC VIDEO! Can you believe it? Me a director? Its been a dream of mine since I was a child, always glued to the screen watching MTV. In fact, I've been directing music videos in my head ever since. I fully produced the whole thing from start to finish with the help of the amazing band and by shoot day, had a talent pool of over 30 including my main dancers (for my big choreography piece), featured models and extras (some of my extras were actually musicians from American Idol who had come along in support of the band). I had a full crew consisting of 3 great camera operators with a head DP, an Assistant Director/Storyboard Developer, an amazing choreographer, Myke Michaels (world famous make up artist and head of the make up artist union) along with Trent Cotner (another well known Make-Up Artist), two hair stylists, a grip, a gaffer, four PA's (one PA was a friend of the band who is the guy who provides rappers like Snoop Dog with the low riders for their videos). And EVERYONE worked for free in support of myself and the band. Isn't that so cool? How did I get so lucky? I now have a whole new group of wonderful friends, the kind of friends I always want in my corner of the ring.

Now this is the funny part, I had 5 hours to shoot a video that most people said would take, at the least, 2 days! In fact, I got some pretty funny looks by people in the industry when I told them what I had plan to do in those 5 hours. But at $175.00 an hour for the location and a ton of other expenses (paid by the band), I didn't have two days. And you guys know me... When I set my mind to something, that's it, I'm going for it with all I've got! I took on the challenge, loving every minute of it, and got every shot needed in my 5 hours thanks to my amazing crew and band! Whew...

With that said, I think producing is definitely in my future. And I'm already on the look out for the next music video to direct.

Thanks so much for your support guys.
: ) Ev

IT PAYS TO BE NICE

2009-05-15T19:07:00.001-07:00

When I received a call from an assistant at Warner Brothers here in LA with an invite to audition for MIAMI TRAUMA, a new show on CBS coming out this fall, I was, needless to say, so AMPED, I immediately grabbed my skates and ran out the door! And boy was I nice and ready, almost as if I was expecting the call after my submission.

So there I am on the Warner Brothers lot practicing my moves, feeling super confident about getting the role and just warming up when another model came over, practically in tears, upset that she had not had a chance to get her rollerblades and knew that she would most likely not book this gig. Well, she sure did bump into the right person that day. You see, that was all I needed to see and hear and before you knew it, I was offering my competition my rollerskates so that she could have a fair shot at the role.

Of course, this had the other model shocked that I would do such a nice thing, risking my own chances at this role. 'You'd do that? she said. 'You'd loan me your skates, knowing that they only need one of us? she continued. 'No one does that but thanks!' Sure, there's no doubt, I was definitely taking a chance on handing over the part, and in an industry that is quite shaky at the moment for all of us actors, but showing her support was the only thing I felt right about. So I did it! And not only did I give her the skates but I totally picked up her spirits, telling her to 'GO DO YOUR THING...You look great!'

Now this is when it gets funny...You see, this was my first time on a real movie lot and I was completely unaware that the walls around me were thin and part of the set. Little did I know that my conversation with this other model was totally being heard by the folks that were auditioning me. And they didn't hesitate to tell me how impressed they were with my kind gesture.

I did book the job that day simply because I was the stronger of all the skaters. But I'm pretty sure that model will turn around and help the next girl or guy out next time, if given the opportunity.

The best part was that the entire day, Kenneth Fink, a huge Warner Brothers director who has directed CSI and tons of other hit shows, kept complimenting my work and even took time out to say goodbye before he left set that day. Something tells me if I bump into him again, he'll remember me.

We're stronger in numbers folks...Always help each other out...Send others positive vibes and ALWAYS share goodness!

2009-04-16T22:40:00.000-07:00

Vaccaro to host new national television show

By Christian Avard

Making it in show business is no easy pursuit. But for Evelyn Vaccaro, of New York City, good fortune and hard work have paid off. Vaccaro is a former RSN/TV 41 television host at Mount Snow who left the Deerfield Valley to pursue new career opportunities.

Vaccaro is about to make a major splash on a major national television network this month. Now Vaccaro is returning to the area to thank the community she got started in and teach others how to succeed in show business.

Recently, Vaccaro was selected as the new host for “A Taste of the Melting Pot,” a four-episode series featuring international foods, dishes, and recipes, from people who immigrate to America. The show is produced at EBRU, an independent television station in Somerset, NJ. Vaccaro auditioned at EBRU and had three callbacks before producers chose her for the show. “The show is out of EBRU in New Jersey and the show is about families that relocate to America but brought their traditional ways, their unique cuisine, and their cultures with them. They are all about making America this melting pot that we have,” said Vaccaro.

Vaccaro spent five years at RSN/TV 41. She hosted “Snow Show” as a live on-air host; “Dish It Out,” a show featuring local cuisine; and “Killington After Dark,” featuring nightlife at Killington ski resort. Vaccaro said she gained a lot of on-camera experience at RSN/TV 41. She believes that experience helped win her several roles in on-screen productions. “I pretty much taught myself how to relate to viewers,” said Vaccaro. “I learned how to work a live audience and it helped gain a nice standing for the show. Live camera experience is priceless for someone who wants to continue in this line of work.”

Her experience paid off in other areas as well. Vaccaro hosted several American Film Industry and Warner Brothers red carpet premieres. She has interviewed the likes of Mickey Rourke, Marissa Tomei, Leonardo DiCaprio, William Monahan, Ridley Scott, Michael Caine, and America Ferrera.

Aside from hosting, Vaccaro is also working on her acting career in television and film. Her latest film project is “The Details.” Directed and produced by M.J. Alhabeeb Jr., “The Details” is an independent film about personal relationships. Vaccaro plays the role of Michelle, who, out of concern, raises questions about the intentions of her friend’s girlfriend. “I love independent films and I got it through my acting audition reels. I didn’t have to meet the directors. This was the first time for me,” said Vaccaro.

Vaccaro also appears in a new CBS program called “Miami Trauma.” The show is produced by Jerry Bruckenheimer, famous for his “CSI” and other television series. Vaccaro landed the role of “beautiful beachgoer” and she appears in the opening sequence of the show. Vaccaro says it’s a minor role, but a very important piece. When “Miami Trauma” begins, the opening montage shot features Vaccaro and opens the show. “It’s really cool and it’s great to be working with all the directors. It’s a nice welcoming to Hollywood and to be a part of that.”

Vaccaro has just landed an agent and she is now looking for hosting opportunities at several cable television stations. She is currently pursuing shows on The Travel Channel, HGTV, The Food Network, and The Discovery Channel. Vaccaro hopes to get herself known before casting directors and make the jump back to hosting. When asked if she prefers hosting or acting, Vaccaro said “It’s hard to say. For me, it’s all about entertainment. Whenever I’m given the opportunity to be in front of the camera I love it. As long as I’m entertaining the audience, I’m happy,” said Vaccaro.

This month, Vaccaro returns to her roots in southern Vermont. On April 30, Vaccaro will conduct a free film and television workshop with Twin Valley High School media director Bob Edwards. Vaccaro says it will be a hands-on workshop and participants will learn about working with teleprompters, hosting techniques, and how to break into the business. Vaccaro said she is excited about returning to the area. The workshop for students will be held from 3:30 to 5:30 pm, and for adults and students from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. For more information call Bob Edwards at (802) 464-5255, ext. 124. RSVPs are suggested at tsnkids2@hotmail.com.

“There are so many talented actors, writers, singers, film students, and musicians at (Twin Valley) as well as many students interested in being a part of Bob Edwards’ TV station. Now it’s just a matter of giving them a few tools and ideas to help them reach their goals,” said Vaccaro. “I believe many stars will come from that town. I’m very excited about being able to do this for the students.”

My Day with a Grouse

2008-11-23T09:03:00.000-08:00

So there I am on my way home from our shoot for 'Dish it Out', just past Halifax Gorge in Vermont, when I come across this Grouse sitting in the middle of the road just beyond a blind turn. Of course, I couldn't just drive past, leaving the poor thing there to be mowed over by the next car so I stop. I quickly made a U-turn, walked over and made my prognosis. Sigh...the bird was alive but barely moving. Then, while completely shaking out of fear of hurting it even more, I pick this gorgeous bird up with one clean sweep and off we go to find help.

On the way through, I found a local who said- with a giggle- that my chances of getting someone to cook the bird up were better then getting it help which, needless to say, was surely not an option for this Grouse. So we trekked on when I suddenly thought...Hogback Museum...they're wildlife Pros! I knew this because I happen to be there one day when someone brought in an injured Hawk.

Now as you all know, this is the time of the year when the museum is closed. So I call my good friend Celeste who quickly gets me the phone number to the gift shop. We continue... And waiting there at the gift shop for us was a super nice man named Ed (previous owner of North River Winery) who was VERY happy to do whatever he could to help save this bird and keep me from shedding any tears.

Now this is when the story gets funny. Just as I began to transfer the bird to Ed, IT DECIDED TO TAKE FLIGHT! And not only did it show us how good it was finally feeling but it also showed us what good aim it had. You got it! While in flight, with everyone chasing it around, it poo-ed on a customer's head before landing back in our arms.

Boy did we all laugh! We laughed for two reasons...One because the bird's shot was like a scene right out of Comedic TV Sitcom and, of course, because we all knew that this frail little guy was going to make it.

We then walked out to the deck and set it free into the beautiful afternoon sky. The bird is now a bit far from its Halifax home but safe from harm.

'BODY OF LIES' RED CARPET Premiere NYC

2008-10-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

This carpet was the hottest yet! It was jammed packed with not only tons of mega stars and film makers but every top reporter, host and photographer from coast to coast. With that said, some of the reporters and hosts missed their shot at interviews with Leonardo, Ridley Scott and William Monahan, as they were being whisked into the theater by their hardworking publicists, but not I. I got them all! One thing I learned about working that carpet is that you have to be prepared to impress them with your questions. If you do your homework or have cool-film-savvy friends like I do, they'll know it right away. Plus, I made sure I looked my very very best in my fancy dress. ;-)

This was my second interview with Michael Gaston and I have to say, he is one of the nicest guys in show biz. Leonardo, although super pressed to get into the theater, was also extremely nice. And yes, he's just as dreamy in person. What a killer smile! Speaking of Leonardo, today was a big day for him. Today was the last day for voter registration which is what he created his PSA '5 Friends' for. When you have a chance, do check it out. Within 1 hour of posting it, 10,000 new folks registered to vote.

William Monahan and Ridley Scott were extremely generous with their time and Russell Crowe was looking as handsome as ever!

BODY OF LIES is the #1 thriller to see this year!

For BODY OF LIES celebrity interiews and movie clips, go to: realtvfilms.com
To have your film promoted on this site and on other video posting sites, contact Gordon Vasquez at: gordon@realtvfilms.com

EMMY WEEK

2008-09-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

I'd like to start off by saying a very special thanks to the Vasquez family for such an incredible stay with them during my first trip out to LA in 10 years. With that said, LA also treated me very well...I met a ton of great folks out there!

The EMMY Suites 'Alive Green Expo Pavilion' was a true hit!
The positive vibes from everyone was incredible- must have been all of those wonderfully wholesome products the vendors were so generously handing out.

Real TV Films rocked it again, scoring interviews with Emmy nominated Shane Sparks from SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE and AMERICA'S BEST DANCE CREW, First Latin Syndicated Radio Show Host Frankie Needles, Kaito Kalin, Jeremy Glazer, Transformer's Tichina Arnold, Vincent De Paul, Chuy Bravo, Brady Bunch's 'Cindy' Susan Olsen and many others.

The parties out in LA were never ending and so were all of the good vibes!

LA, I'll see YOU DOWN THE ROAD...

For more on the Alive Expo Green Pavilion, go to: aliveexpo.com

For more about Real TV Films, go to: realtvfilms.com

NOT AS FRAGILE AS I LOOK

2008-09-06T16:34:00.000-07:00

OK, so who can relate to this?

You’re in a really nice club/restaurant in NYC (don't want to reveal the name of the club to save owners from embarrassment and possible criticsm), everyone’s groovin’, you’re having a well-deserved nice time with your girlfriends and then, the staff neglects to pick up the fiberglass-encased 10 inch rectangular menu off the floor that has fallen off the counter and managed to wedge itself in the doorway and directly in your path. WHAM!!!! You go flying over the thing, cracking your back, hip and wrist on the concrete floor while getting a nice slice across both ankles from its sharp edge. YEP, that’s exactly what happened to me last Thursday night. Fortunately, the only ones who witnessed it were a few staff members and the 20 girls I was out with that night for the Fashion Rocks Concert at Mansion (totally different place from where this happened). And somehow, although soar as ‘you know what’, I managed to walk out with a smile. I can't say that for the other girls,though, as they were all pretty upset for me. Special thanks to the 'ice skating beauty'(she knows who she is) for looking after me.

With that said, as soon as began my flight into the air, I tightened up every muscle I had which is what I believe kept me from possible hospitalization. Can’t explain why I didn’t split my head open this time though. Good thing because that has already happened once before while up in VT, just as the ball dropped on New Year’s 2000, and it's not fun. And no, none of this was from being "tipsy" as I’m not a big drinker. Both times, I simply tripped over something that SHOULD’NT HAVE BEEN THERE. :-) Aggggghhhhhh!

Man, I still remember the look on the Manager’s face Thursday night when it happened. He looked like he had just seen a Whaleshark jump out of the Hudson River and bite someone’s head off. Or maybe that’s what I was seeing… I did just bang my head so who knows? Needless to say, I’m sure that’s not what any manager wants happening at their establishment.

As the manager made his way over in a panic, probably expecting me to freak out on him, I just smiled- while in pain- and said ‘No worries mate, you have a very nice club here…Can you show me the exit?’ And as you can imagine, he was VERY relieved that I was so cool about what had just happened.

So there’s my story. I'm still VERY soar in "certain areas" but I'm alive.
Hey, and it’s a good thing I don’t mind poking fun at myself because now everyone will know about my most undignified fall in NYC. Oh well, at least it made good practice for my 'Lucy' routine. :-)

Stay well everyone and MAKE SURE YOU STARE AT THE FLOOR AT ALL TIMES WHILE YOU'RE WALKING! ;-)

Nice Quote of the day!

2008-08-02T16:45:00.000-07:00

"Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius and magic in it." -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe:

DARK KNIGHT Premiere

2008-07-20T07:19:00.000-07:00

DARK KNIGHT Premiere in NYC

The carpet was BUZZING...And we worked it! We were up against every celebrity and non celebrity reporter out there trying to get their interviews, and managed to get ours! Spoke to THE Michael Caine, Aaron Eckhart (TWO FACE), Nestor Carbonell (THE MAYOR), Chin Han (LAU) and Rob Buckley (Lipstick Jungle) who were all awesome!

As for Heath Ledger, his presence was very much alive there. The amount of support from everyone was incredible, especially from the fans who were SCREAMING out the love!

Thanks to Gordon Vasquez from Real TV Films for scoring us a spot on the "Black Carpet" and for those slammin' edits. Thanks, too, to the Publicists and Producers from Warner Brothers who were very welcoming.

ANTIGUA 'ROMANTIC RHYTHMS 2008'

2008-07-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

ANTIGUA...ANTIGUA, what a beautiful island with its gorgeous pink sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, abundance of sweet mangos, and locals that never stop smiling. Thanking the Ministry of Tourism, the wonderful Derede Samuel-Whitlock, Dean Fenton, Mary Brennan, Jeanette Chin, the folks at Jolly Beach who were so hospitable, attentive and friendly; the exceptionally stunning Hermitage on the west coast of the island for such a lovely meal, and everyone who made it possible for me to experience this wonderful place!

Romantic Rhythms 2008, Antigua's first International Music Festival, was a true hit! A very special shout out to Lionel Richie, his amazing guitarist Ben Mauro and band, Kenny Rogers, Maxi Priest, Bryan McKnight, Shaggy, Keisha Cole, Junior Gong, Musiq Soulchild, Destra, El A Krun, Taxik and all of the others for their amazing performances. Well done!

Do yourself a favor and visit the island of Antigua and Barbuda and see for yourself why you’ll return for years to come.

PS. Here's a little secret, flights are now leaving from JFK on Delta two days a week all year round and the tickets are truly reasonable! Go get your tickets for Carnival 2008 and maybe I'll catch you there!

Today

2008-06-24T22:35:00.001-07:00

Today, I'm just happy to be here...Happy to be able to laugh, to dance, to be here for those who need me and just breathe.