The Official Blog of Melissa Strom

Melissa Shoots Once Upon A Diner

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:42:00 +0000

Before the mad holiday rush, I was able to work on a project. I played Susan in the film Once Upon A Diner. The film was shot on location in Long Beach, CA. My character is getting a hair cut at the salon when her hairdresser dashes out. With her salon cape on, wet hair and half her hair cut, Susan begins searching for her hairdresser in the local strip mall. While on the hunt she runs into an old fling outside the neighboring diner. The scene was fun to shoot because I got to wear a wig. Between takes people watching kept asking me if I cut my own hair for the movie! A lot of people thought the wig was my real hair including some of the crew. To make the hair look wet my wig was sprayed constantly with glycerin to give it that special saturated soaked look. I can't wait to see the scenes cut and edited. The film was directed by Ellie Salama. More news to come about this project.

Happy Holidays to you! Health and Wealth in 2010. I celebrated a birthday the day after Christmas... so since Thanksgiving this holiday season has been jam packed with more trips, family, gifts, TX snow, love and laughter then EVER before! And I wouldn't have it any other way! (Last year I was doing a show and was unable to travel home for the holidays so this year being with the family was special.) Out with 2009 and in with 2010. I have a feeling that this year is going to be one of the best!

CW Airs Valentine

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 20:46:00 +0000

Recently, the CW Network aired the last four episodes of the television show Valentine. In the show Greek Gods exist in the modern world doing whatever it takes to bring soul mates together. I play Trudi in Episode 5 entitled "Summer Nights." Trudi has lost her dog and finds it the arms of a man that she's mysteriously drawn to. The scene includes actors Kristoffer Polaha (Danny Valentine) and Marie Westbrook (Gwen) and was filmed on location at the Huntington Library and Gardens. Valentine was created by Kevin Murphy and episode 5 was directed by Fred Gerber and written by Melissa R. Byer & Treena Hancock. To view a clip of the scene please visit the reel section of my website and click Valentine.

Wrapped Reconcilation Feature

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 20:32:00 +0000

Just wrapped the Indy Feature- Reconcilation. I play Nurse Stephanie and worked three days on the film. Reconciliation is the story of a father and his son reuniting after twenty four years. Through the love, grace and strength of God, hatred and old wounds are overcome and forgiveness flourishes...This is a fabulous, emotional, and poignant script written and directed by Chad Ahrendt.

The parts of the film where I appear were shot on location at a local church in downtown Burbank. The church location doubles as the chapel and hospital in the film. I wore multiple sets of scrubs (comfiest costume ever) and my props included hospital charts, clipboards and a stethoscope. This project marks the first time I have played a nurse.

Everyone working on the project was warm, genuine and friendly. Reconciliation's producers include Keegan Wilcox, Damon Zwicker, Chris Jones, and Chad Ahrendt. Thanks to all the cast and crew-I had a great time working with you!

On a side note:
Yes... when I wasn't shooting Reconciliation I did in fact bike ride 30 miles along the South Bay to celebrate the holiday.
Happy Fourth of July! Go America.

Salvation Reading

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 22:10:00 +0000

I had the privilege of playing the character "Carla" during a reading of the feature script SALVATION. Written by Bernie Van De Yacht the story centers on a restoration stove and the characters that it comes in contact with. The dramatic story is based on actual events.

Sal*va"tion\, n The act of saving; preservation or deliverance from destruction, danger, or great calamity. Definition by Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary.

The reading took place in Hollywood at The Lot (formerly Warner Hollywood Studios.) The other actors were fabulous in their roles. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of such a special event. Reading "Carla" was a great experience. Thanks Bernie!

MS TAKEN

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:18:00 +0000

I recently worked on a project for Columbia entitled MS TAKEN. I play the character Carrie Warner. In the scene my character has been abducted and restrained against her will. Confused and scared, Carrie is confronted by a mysterious girl, Vanessa (another prisoner) who relay's information about their captures and surroundings. As she struggles to free herself Carrie explains that she was mistaken for another girl named Kari Ann Wagner. Directed by Jason Paycoff and overseen by guest director Jeff Wadlow (dir. of NEVER BACK DOWN and the upcoming POINT BREAK).

While filming we used black gaffer tape- on camera it looks like leather straps similar to hospital restraints. A couple times when the camera was rolling I broke through the tape when I was trying to break free. We'd have to cut and re-tape my hands- making for some entertaining out takes!

We shot MS TAKEN at Raleigh Studios in Hollywood. Casting was overseen by Gina Gallego- thanks Gina for bringing me in! I enjoyed working on such a challenging project. I'll post or link as soon as I get a copy.

You're In The Movies

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:26:00 +0000

Here is a copy of the print advertisement that I did for the XBOX 360 game, “You’re in the Movies.” The game can be purchased at local retailers or online for $39.99. The pictures were taken in a studio in Pasadena. The project was a lot fun to work on because we got to react and pretend to play the XBOX game. A big thank you to Weber Shih, the photographer on the shoot for sharing his copy of the ad.

Microsoft describes the game below:
You're in the Movies brings the cool factor to kitsch as you live out your dreams of becoming a scream queen, zombie, or kung fu fighter. Premiering exclusively on Xbox 360® this holiday season, it's the first and only game of its kind to transport players into a magical world of cinema mixed with the hilarious world of improvisation. Using the Xbox LIVE Vision camera, players' actions are captured and placed into short, riotous films that highlight the unique and often dubious acting talents of friends and family. Performances never end up on the cutting room floor and are never the same. With You're in the Movies, you're about to be a star—if only straight to DVD. Get ready for your close-up.

Goodbye Canarsie Official Selection

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 18:58:00 +0000

Excellent news! The film Goodbye Canarsie has made a big screen splash around Los Angeles. The film screened this past week at the AFI Showcase at the Landmark Movie Theatre. I play Frankie in the film. Set in the 1970's, Goodbye Canarsie follows a trio of Jersey fast talking mobster wannabes trying to get to Los Angeles and get out of trouble.

Goodbye Canarsie has also been invited to screen at the Newport Beach Film Festival. The film is scheduled to screen at the Edwards Island 2 Cinema through April 30th.

Congrats to everyone involved in the making of the film. Bravo!

Melissa in MTV ORBIT BIG PAK Promo

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 01:02:00 +0000

Melissa recently shot the MTV Movie Award and Orbit Gum Big Pak promo. She plays a starlett on the red carpet. The promo was filmed at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, CA. The spot is directed by Edward Paige.

Shot like a music video the spot follows 'Big Pak' a London underground rapper walking the red carpet and coming in contact with paparazzi, stars, starletts and the Orbit's girl. The shoot lasted through the night, wrapped at 5am while being a mere forty one degrees outside. Despite the conditions the shoot was amazing, friendly, professional and I was in the best of company.

Tune into MTV this May to catch the promo and see Melissa walking the red carpet. Also watch the spot during the MTV telecast of the Movie Awards May 31st hosted by Andy Samberg. Yes and there was Wrigley's Orbit Gum Big Paks on set. "For a good clean feeling, no matter what."

Click on title of this blog to link to the MTV Movie Awards online! 'BIG PAK: So Pluckin' Quick Witted'- Check out Big Pak & Orbit Studios on Myspace Music. Thanks to Edward Paige, Erin Demarco, New Remote, MTV, Lauryn Nicole (for being so cool to work with) and the promo's cast and crew.

Catch Strom on Desperate Housewives

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 22:14:00 +0000

Great news the Desperate Housewives episode successfully aired last Sunday. Thank you to everyone for calling, texting, emailing and writing such heart felt congratulations on my performance as Nikki on the episode. My deepest gratitude for your candor and support!

If you missed the show last Sunday my episode-Episode 17: The Story of Jessie and Lucie is exclusively playing on abc.com. Click on the title of this blog to watch the episode in its entirety!

If your just interested in seeing a clip of my performance please visit my website's Reel section and click on Desperate Housewives!

Melissa Strom on Desperate Housewives

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 20:12:00 +0000

Melissa will play Nikki March, 15, 2009 on ABC's Desperate Houswives 5th season. Shot on a Universal back lot sound stage- episode #517: The Story of Lucy and Jesse was directed by Bethany Rooney and executive produced and created by Marc Cherry. Melissa plays opposite series regular Felicity Huffman.

Please stay tuned for updates and info about Melissa's experience shooting the episode and official air dates. Please tune in and enjoy the episode- 8/9c Sunday March 15, 2009- it is not to be missed!

Click on the title of this blog to visit the official Desperate Housewives site!

Melissa would like to thank the wonderful cast and crew of Desperate Housewives, Bethany Rooney, Felicity Huffman, Scott Genkinger and Debbie George. I had a great experience on set and was thrilled to work on the show!

Melissa on the KCAL CBS2 News

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 21:55:00 +0000

A friend and I were stopped and asked to be interviewed for KCAL CBS 2 news by reporter Leyna Nyguyen. The spot aired on the 9pm & 11pm news. It is a fun, energetic and interesting story. You can hear the reporter, the camera man and myself laughing throughout the piece.

I have included the link to the CBS video archive. Click on the title of this blog entry to watch the clip. Enjoy!
To learn more about the featured story on trapster.com visit the official website at

On a side note being interviewed on the same day I bought my new phone was a great way to comemerate purchasing it. What a coincidence!

LA Screenings of The War of Game

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 03:38:00 +0000

The War of Game will screen in Los Angeles this February!

Tough Guppy Productions is proud to announce that The War of Game has been accepted to the Show Off Your Shorts Film Festival, which screens it's films February 7th and 8th at Raleigh Studios in Los Angeles, Ca. Please go to for showtimes. Showtimes will be posted no later than Jan 16th 2009. Pre-sale tickets are $10.00 for the day, or $15.00 for the weekend. I play the character Radiance in the film

The War of Game wins Accolade Award

The Accolade is a non-traditional, virtual venue. Awards go to those filmmakers, television producers and videographers who produce fresh, standout entertainment, animation and compelling documentaries. It is a showcase for cinematic gems and unique voices. For more information on The Accolade Competition go to

Congratulations Brandon, Cast and Crew of The War of Game! Click on the title of this blog to visit the official The War of Game site!

Melissa Plays Fan & the Laundress in A Christmas Carol - Kodak Theatre

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 19:09:00 +0000

I am very excited to announce that I will be performing in the quintessential holiday production A Christmas Carol December 22-January 4th!! The best part is that I will be performing on the very stage where the Oscars are-the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. The Kodak Theatre seats over 3,400 patrons and is the most beautiful theatre that I have ever stepped in from lobby, to house, to back stage to ON stage- breathtaking! The theatre is attached to the Hollywood and Highland complex- how sweet is that?!

The timeless holiday classic is full of spirits, special effects, all your favorite characters...and a few surprises. It's perfect for the whole family! *Artists subject to change

I play Fan, Ebeneezer's beloved sister in Christmas Past and in Act two I play the Laundress in Christmas Future-one of my favorite scenes! The play stars Christopher Lloyd as Scrooge, John Goodman and Jane Leeves. Because of the intense rehearsal period -5 days to stage and tech the show- the cast has become very close. We have also kept each other warm in the freezing soundstage with no windows in Culver City for 12 hour rehearsal days. The experience was very similar to being stuck in an airport-hahaahahah- gotta love theatre people! But the drama was all worth performing in the Kodak.

This project happened very fast from auditions to rehearsal to our one day tech in the Kodak Theatre (most productions have a week of tech to master the lights, set changes, costume changes and to orchestrate movement backstage so no one gets hurt in the dark. We are teching in 12 hours...a Christmas Miracle! Yes- a lot of coffee and praying-the show must go on. The experience has taught me to remain a theatre professional despite setbacks and interesting developments!

We have one day off for Christmas and on my birthday- the 26th of December- I will be doing 2 shows!!! It is an intense performance schedule- packing in 16 shows in less than two weeks!... AND I feel fortunate for the work. I have never seen a production of A Christmas Carol or acted in it so- so you can imagine the whirlwind of activity during this holiday season on and off the stage. I have always gone home to TX for Christmas to be with my family or had family visits during the Jersey Boys Tour, but this year I will be spending Christmas in LA with my friend Cristina and her family- no Strom Family Christmas for me this year-... in a way I will be having 16 Christmases on stage. It will be hard to be away from my family at this time of year-I will miss the traditions and seeing my niece and four nephews...the little rug rats!

Come join me at the Kodak Theatre and see A Christmas Carol. Happy Holidays, Happy Christmas, Happy New Year and "God Bless Everyone!" Click on the title of this blog to link to the Kodak Theatre website.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Monday, December 22 at 7:30 PM
Tuesday, December 23 at 3 PM
Tuesday, December 23 at 7:30 PM
Wednesday, December 24 at 3 PM
Friday, December 26 at 3 PM
Friday, December 26 at 7:30 PM
Saturday, December 27 at 3 PM
Saturday, December 27 at 7:30 PM
Sunday, December 28 at 3 PM
(Sign Language Interpreted Performance)
Tuesday, December 30 at 7:30 PM
Wednesday, December 31 at 3 PM
Thursday, January 1 at 3 PM
Friday, January 2 at 7:30 PM
Saturday, January 3 at 3 PM
Saturday, January 3 at 7:30 PM
Sunday, January 4 at 3 PM

$79.50/$62.50/$50/$28

Children 12 yrs and under are admitted for half price when accompanied by an adult.
Maximum of two children discounts for each paid adult ticket.

Group Discount available for 15+
Call (323) 308-6333

Show Length: Approx 95 minutes with a 15 minutes intermission

Goodbye Canarsie Premiere

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 20:25:00 +0000

I am am ecstatic to to announce that the AFI film Goodbye Canarsie successfully premiered at the Mark Goodson Theatre. It was the first time I saw the film. I was excited gitty to see the completed version. Wow to see myself projected on the big screen was an experience unto itself. Words can't describe- it was so exciting. My mind was flooded with memories of filming and it was fun to see what takes made it into the film!

During the reception it was fun to see everyone I worked with on the film. My friend Darrin Revitz came along for the screening- I made her my official hand squeezer and supporter-love her! The cast signed the the movie poster and took pictures. It was a lot of fun!

Goodbye Canarsie Tag Line: 'When Sal a mafia hitman in training, is sent to kill is childhood friend, Warren Winkler, he is faced with the decision of his life. Will he bite the bullet and finish the job or throw everything away to save Warren's life?' I play Frankie, Warren's girlfriend. The film stars Tomas Pais, Nicholas Mongiardo-Cooper and myself Melissa Strom.

Goodbye Canarsie was written and directed by Daniel S. Muller. Produced by Kirby Stuart and Michael Pelusio. The film's editor Peter Widland. Original score is by Joe Delia. The projects costume designer is Jessica b. Simpson and the production designer is Rachel Payne. Goodby Canarise cinematographer is James Wall. Please visit www.GoodbyeCanarsie.com or click on the title of this blog to visiti the movie's website.

I wish everyone who was involved in the making of this film the best- it has proven to be one of my most favorite projects and most intersting characters I've played. An actor's delight.

MONK Interview With Melissa Strom

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:48:00 +0000

Season's Greetings Everyone! The season is upon us! Yes, I have my twirling Christmas tree with the 600 twinkle lights up...the tree is a sight to see! I am also baking up a storm- already two batches of my special secret recipe brownies...lots of little secrets go into my special brownies...!

I had an opportunity to do an interview for Teresa Murray and The Monk Fan Page. The questions she asked were really great and fun to answer. I talk about my experience filming Monk, what is was like on the set and what it's like pursuing a career in acting.

Actress Melissa Strom guest stars in this season's holiday episode of Monk, "Mr. Monk and the Miracle", which debuted on
Friday, November 28th. She has the small role of the young clerk who gives Monk a vital clue. Melissa is a Texas native. She
sings, dances, acts and even blogs. Her TV credits include Cold Case, The Bernie Mac Show, The O.C. and American Dreams.
She was recently a performer in the national touring company of Jersey Boys. Despite the busy holiday season Melissa
answered all my questions. Here's what she had to say.

Teresa and The Monk Fan Page did an AMAZING job including stills from the episode, pictures and incorporating the interview information. The site has some amazing features and information about the show. I had a blast playing on the site! Click on the title of this blog to read Interview With Melissa Strom; Young Clerk in "Mr. Monk and the Miracle."

A Big thanks to Teresa Murray, the Monk Fan Page and Monk! Happy Holidays!

Catch Melissa's Monk Episode Friday, November 28th!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:08:00 +0000

Mr. Monk and the Miracle, a USA Network holiday event will air this Friday, November 28th. I will be playing "Young Clerk" opposite Monk (Tony Shalhoub). The episode will put you in the holiday spirit- enjoy!...

Detective Adrian Monk believes in such things as hand sanitizer, disinfectant spray and color-coordinated jelly beans. But does Mr. Monk believe in miracles? Find out as a special episode of Monk arrives just in time for the holidays. Catch the premiere of "Mr. Monk and The Miracle" Friday, November 28 at 9/8C only on USA Network.

Please click on the the title of the blog to link to the Official Monk Home page for fun Monking extras, the show teaser and lots more. Also check out a Monk fan site called The Monk Fun Page brought to you by Teresa Murray for inside Monk scoop and details.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving filled with joy, laughter, food, friends, family AND a huge slice of pumpkin pie!

Mr Monk and Melissa

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:43:00 +0000

Hello to you! Currently, it is unusually warm here in Los Angeles. We are having a case of The September Summer (at least that is what I am calling it!) Speaking of cases I have always been a fan of the television show Monk. When I did Jersey Boys in SF, I would wait out the rain watching Monk Marathon's on USA in my cozy studio on Geary Street. It doesn't get any better than Tony Shalhoub as the obsessive compulsive detective who uses unconventional means to solve mysteries, murders and baffling cases. Monk is scheduled to come back on the air January 2009 to complete it's seventh season. Wow, seven seasons!

Yesterday in 104 degree heat, I am delighted to inform you that I shot the holiday episode of Monk entitled "Mr. Monk and the Miracle." The episode was written by Peter Wolk and directed by Andrei Belgrader. I play a small role as a young clerk in a recycling center. My scene is with Mr Monk himself. The crew and and cast took over an entire mini strip mall and recycle redemption center. Dressed for winter and shooting in the crack of the valley- the heat made shooting on location a little rough- but after a while your mind gets warm and tells your body to remain steady (I call that mind over heat wave!) There was a huge crane holding a light scrim above us that diffused the bright sunlight and created some shade. The crew supplied everyone with gatorade, water and wet rags to keep cool. I had a great time acting with Tony and being on set! The script is really great and I am excited to tune in during the holiday season and watch the episode (official air date to be determined, but I am assuming near Christmas!) To learn more about Monk and watch clips please click the title of this blog to link to the official Monk website.

Thank you Corbin, Anya and Amy of CFB and of course Tony and Andrei and the entire cast and crew of Monk. It was a great day. So glad to be a part of the episode.

Switching gears now! I have had the opportunity to see a lot of theatre lately. I love to see shows especially if my friends are in them. I get so excited for them. I've seen Vanities, the Musical (Elizabeth was so great), Dreamgirls in San Diego (Charl was amazing), I've seen Memphis in La Jolla (MBW was outstanding) and with my good friend Darrin I saw This Beautiful City at the Kirk Douglas, CTG. Whew- it has been a busy month of doing what I enjoy- acting and watching acting and yes, I do declare, I am officially back! So thankful and so good to be back...

Melissa on VALENTINE

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 23:28:00 +0000

It was Valentine's Day early for me! I am excited to report I filmed an episode of the new TV show Valentine (airs on CW)! I play "Trudi" in the episode entitled "Summer Nights" written by Melissa Byer and Treena Hancock. Get this- the episode is scheduled to air the same night as my episode of Cold Case- Sunday November 2, 2008. That's just crazy! Things may change with football and the election, but for now November 2 baby on CBS and the CW! To learn more about Valentine click on the title of this blog to link to the shows website and to watch a coming attraction.

Get this -again. It just so happens throughout my Valentine day, I ended up reuniting with people I've had the pleasure of working with! Frank and Kara (friends), Dierdre (Falcon), Christine (Cindy and the Disco Ball with!), Robert (USC) - it was like a reunion and I wanted to burst out in "It's A Small World," but didn't want to scare the executive producers-hahaha. We filmed in Pasadena at Huntington Library Gardens- apparently some rich Mr. Huntington- who collected art, sculptures and gardened (a lot) opened his estate for the public. I'm sure glad he did because it's kinda like garden paradise in the middle of smog LA. It reminded me of the Dallas Arboretum. I don't know if it was the allergy medicine or what, but I felt like I was on cloud nine all day!

My scene partner was an adorable pup named "Trixie" aka Lastat. This little fluff ball sat on my arm all day. He french kissed me which is kinda gross, but I went with it and then kept my mouth closed the rest of the day. Great dog. Human wise I acted with the wonderful and talented Kris and Marie. I couldn't have asked for such great scene partners.

Here is a funny story when I accidently flubbed one of the takes. After a take, director Fred Gerber, came up to me and said something along the lines of "Remember he is a Greek god and has a special power over you- so show how you are drawn to him during the course of the scene." "Settle, Rolling, Speed, Background, and Action (in the theatre you just kinda go) was yelled and we start the scene. I walk to the bench, we exchange words, Kris gives my the dog and I start to "attract" to him. Marie joins us, pets the dog and then it's my line... Except I was so busy being "drawn" ummm I forgot to speak. So I just kept staring, getting closer and closer getting and thinking "this is like the longest take EVER!!!" I didn't even realize I had forgotten my line until after "cut." It was really funny and a little embarrassing. Taking directions to infinite bounds (apparently with out speaking.) I suppose that's what Greek Gods do to mortals. Anyways I hope you enjoy watching the episode and are happy and well!

Thanks to the cast and crew of Valentine for making my experience on the show great and to Brad Delima, Justine Hempe and Jeff Greenberg. Thank you Kevin, Courtney, Fred, Dierdre, Christine, Robert- hope the show is a great success!

And on a completely unrelated topic- I think pomegranate seeds are really gross, hard to eat and over rated. I am never buying them again. Blueberries are way better.

Melissa on Cold Case

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 21:46:00 +0000

Summer has ended, the weather is turning "cold" and the new Fall TV season is a coming! I am ecstatic to announce that I filmed an episode of my favorite TV show, COLD CASE. I play the character Paula in 1981 in the episode "The Dealer" directed by Chris Fisher. The episode is scheduled to air on CBS on Sunday November 2, 2008. 'Paula' is a bridge and tunnel, Good Will wearing, sassy Jersey accent talking, feathered hair kinda gal. Being in Jersey Boys was excellent character preparation- hahahaha.

Greg Plageman wrote an amazing script- the mystery/story is really great. My character 'Paula' is played by two actresses- present day Paula and Paula in 1981 (me.) We shot part of the episode in an abandoned car dealership in Bellflower (greater LA area.) Everyone was amazing to work with in all the departments- hair, makeup, wardrobe, the crew and the actors were all talented and warm people on and off the camera. The attention to detail was brilliant especially how everyone worked together to recreate 1981. I didn't want the day to end. When did TV cameras get so big? They were like large child elephants rolling around on train tracks and there were two of them! It gives camera blocking new importance. I stopped by my agents office after I was back in my neighborhood so she could see my hairdo. To visit the official CBS website click on the title of this blog.

Thanks Paul, Sheila, Shaner Testa, Greg, Chris and everyone at Cold Case. I had a great time on set.

Audience Choice Award

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 21:21:00 +0000

Wonderful news! The War of Game won the Audience Choice Award at the Gangrene Film Festival, Utah this past weekend. Brandon Lawrence the films executive producer and director presented the film and accepted the top honors. Congratulations Tough Guppy productions and everyone who created and worked on The War of Game! Click on the title of this blog to visit the film's official website!

Having an imagination is key to living a complete life, but what if it begins to blur your line with reality? Jimmy is your average guy. He has a girlfriend, great friends, and a good job as a substitute teacher. The only problem is that he is obsessed with video games. Watch as Jimmy toes the line between reality and fantasy as he embarks on a mission to defeat the Masked Warrior in the War of Game- Episode #1"LOL-4-Evs."

Film Festivals

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 13:51:00 +0000

Great news! The film "The War of Game" is officially in the festival circuit. The little film that could will be screened at two different festivals this fall. The film will debut in the Gangreen Film Festival this weekend in Utah. This festival showcases comedy shorts from emerging film makers. So exciting for the projects creators Brandon Lawrence and Jacob Cooney. Visit the Gangrene Film Festival website at www.gangreneproductions.com/festivals

The War of Game has also been accepted in the 14th Annual Temecula Valley International Film and Music Festival September 17-21! This festival spotlights outstanding independent filmmakers and over 14,000 people are scheduled to attend in 2008. Please visit the link to learn more about the schedule and The War of Game screening times at the Temecula Valley Festival by clicking the title of this blog or clicking this link http://www.tviff.com/index.html . As always you can visit the official website for The War of Game at www.thewarofgame.com.

XBOX Ad

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 21:25:00 +0000

Hello and happy summer to you! I am magnificent this summer and hope you are as well. I was recently fortunate enough to shoot a print advertisement for XBOX. The new XBOX game "You're in the Movies" will hit stores this fall/winter 2008. The shoot took place on a mini sound stage set in Pasadena. We shot against a white background and were dressed in fun and bright colors. I realize what a gift it is to be greeted by a make up department. Lola, an adorable and talented make-up artist with a hip sense of style applied, powdered and blended glorious make-up on my face! She had some really cool tips, products and make up containers!

[Melissa and Lola]

Let me just say...still photography shoots are FUN! There's awesome food, cool music and hip energy. My first shot was a group shot with some other talent. We squeezed onto a sofa and it will appear that we are playing the new XBOX game. I laughed the ENTIRE time because we were all so into a game that we were 'pretending' to play! Smiling, reacting, talking, and XBOXing as the flash bulbs went pop, pop, pop as the photographer captured our image.

For the next shot I changed into leggings and a tank. I had to backbend off a table, lift a leg up into stag position and hold the pose. Hard! I was flipped upside down in silhouette hanging and praying! I even had a spotter which made me giggle because he was upside down which I found hilarious! There will be iconic poses from famous movies on the front cover. This image will serve as the "Flash Dance' pose. The next shot slated was quintessential Marilyn Monroe pose with her skirt blowing up. There was a large fan brought in- a fan people! The fan turned on and woosh- my skirt poofed up and I was almost blown away by the rush of air! The things we do to create an illusion! After that Weber, the photographer, said I could do anything so...we had fun for the last portion of the picture taking. I danced, cat walked, laughed, did an array of poses and NEVER stood still!

[The "Back Bend" Table!]

Buy the XBOX game "You're In the Movies" in stores soon (Markets: Europe Asia Africa.) I will post more XBOX info as it becomes available.

Thanks to Dina, Steff, Weber, Kelly and every one at China, Ayzenberg and Microsoft. I had a great time and look forward to seeing the finished product!

'My Time With Dali' Performance Reading

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 21:36:00 +0000

[Allan Rich & Melissa Strom-Hayworth Theatre]

I had the opportunity to play Monica in the My Time With Dali reading. The screenplay is written by the great Allan Rich. Allan is one of the greatest American character actors who has worked on Broadway, film and television. People recognize him from his roles in the films Amistad, Quiz Show and Serpico. During the McCarthy era Allan was blacklisted and became an expert in selling modern art and opened the Allan Rich Gallery on Madison Avenue. My Time With Dali is based on Allan's real life experiences with the surrealist painter Salvidor Dali in 1970.

[Allan Rich & Salvidor Dali- St. Regis 1970]

I was honored to be a part of this reading because Allan became my personal walking and talking acting and artist encyclopedia. Allan paints pictures by telling the most vivid stories about the Great Depression, the McCarthy Era, old Broadway, his experiences on film sets and his love for acting, teaching, modern art and Wall Street. I enjoyed listening to him recall his experiences about Salvidor Dali in the 1970's. He is generous, knowledgeable and experienced in many avenues- a true Renaissance man. Please click on the title of this blog to learn more about Allan Rich.

[Allan Rich & Melissa Strom- Hayworth Theatre]

In the reading I played the character "Monica" based on Allan's lovely wife Elaine. I really enjoyed rehearsing, reading and performing this story. The script is entertaining, witty and jumps off the page. The reading was held at the Hayworth Theatre in Los Angeles' Historic Wilshire District. The beautiful building used to be a movie theatre and dance studio and has that "old hollywood" vibe.

Thank you Bernie, Allan, David and Dal for giving me the opportunity to be a part of such a fun read. I had a blast. The best to all of you!

'The War of Game' Film Premiere

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 20:10:00 +0000

[Melissa Strom as "Radiance"]

The premiere for The War of Game was held a couple weeks ago in Hollywood. I was unable to attend due to traveling to Colorado and Texas. (I wish I could have been there!) The film's website was launched so feel free to browse through the photography stills, the film's trailer (I'm in the coming attraction) and the character profiles. Click on the title of this blog to automatically link to The War of Game Website.

[Directors Jacob Cooney and Brandon Lawrence]

I play "Radiance" a player in the game who teams up with Jimmy to triumph over the bad guys! "Radiance" is a smart and strong woman who shares valuable information that keeps Jimmy alive. We shot the film in Malibu Canyon State Park this past spring. It was gorgeous, remote and fun to shoot on location. I was climbing trees and rocks, jumping through the creek and hiking to get into position. It was hot and dry in the canyon so being by the creek kept us cool. There were actually local kids jumping into the lake from boulders twenty feet high! The crew also was accompanied by a State Park Forrest Ranger during the shoot. Ranger Lincoln was so friendly and informative and was very interested in the art of film making. We couldn't have asked for a better ranger!

["Radiance" climbing a tree - getting into place! Yeah baby!]

The part of the film that I appear in takes place during the "war." I had to learn how to hold, aim and carry a M52 gun. It was quite the learning experience. I had never played a character that holds a gun. I was the only girl acting on set that day...how come I'm always in projects where the men severely out number the women?!!! Speaking of fellow actors in The War of Game, I had acted with two of the leading men before in some plays at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The world is getting smaller the older I get! The shoot finished right on time as we chased the sun getting the last shots filmed before sunset. The crew was great to work with- professional, happy and easy going! That night, I fell into bed and was asleep the minute my head hit the pillow-whew!

Congratulations to Brandon Lawrence and Jacob Cooney for creating and making The War of Game. I am so happy to be a part of this fun and interesting project. Please visit The War of Game website!

Classy and Fabulous

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa Strom) — Wed, 21 May 2008 23:12:00 +0000

[Garry Marshall and CINDY cast on closing day.]

We closed 'Cindy and the Disco Ball' and in the spirit of keeping "Fabulous" alive for everyone I found an appropriate quote from the quintessential woman, Coco Chanel: 'A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous." I will miss singing to audiences about the benefits of wanting to be "gorgeous." One of the show's reviewers said it best, "Eleanor sings a cute little song called Fab-u-lous that reminded me an awful lot of Stephen Swartz' 'Wicked' anthem "Popular" (Mooche Music.)

"Eleanor" and 'Cindy' got some other great press during the show's ten week run that I haven't shared with you yet! "Melissa Strom plays Eleanor, the evil step sister. Ms. Strom is the delight you love to hate as she flounces about the stage in her denim banana pants, her peasant blouse and her perpetually black mood ring" (Mooche Music.) Speaking of mood rings, I will miss wearing mine greatly. I was always secretly worried the audience could see that the mood ring was really changing to all of these great bright colors while I was on stage. Yes, mood rings really do change colors!

[Christine Lakin as Cindy and Melissa Strom as Eleanor]

My mean character portrayal got a "bad word" out of this critic. "Bitchy, nasty Eleanor (Melissa Strom) is a teenaged diva who feels it is her god-given right to boss poor Cindy around, making her do all the housework" (Sun Community Newpapers.) Well said- it was fun not to be cast as a "sweet" thing for a change. Although I did have fun playing the "mean" one as I greeted the younger audience members I would remind them that Eleanor changes for the better in this sassy saga. If Eleanor can get "I'm sorry" out of her mouth then there's hope for us all. I liked this project because "Eleanor" had a well developed arc, the music complimented the character's journey through the story and the acting in 1975 with the feathered hair, the costumes and props kept it fun and interesting.

[#1 Connie Jackson and Melissa: 70's Makeup for Everyone!]
[#2 Self Portrait in Disco with Bystander Alex Miller]

I also will miss going out into the lobby after the shows and talking and taking pictures with the audience. I mean a ten year old will get right up in your space and tell you what they REALLY thought of the show. That is my kind of critic! Ten times out of ten we got groovy thumbs up and ALOT of questions about my mic, wig, makeup, bell bottoms, the Hustle, my shoes and about Eleanor's 'meanness.' It was also fun being greeted in the lobby by family and friends that had come to support the show. Inevitably, someone would surprise me so it was always a delight to come out after the show. This reprise was the first time my little niece got a chance to see me perform making 'Cindy' especially sentimental.

So for now the shag carpet, latch hook, platform shoes, mood ring, magic eight ball, gum chains and macaroni art are packed away. I guess I'll have to start being nice to people...kidding!

We started rehearsals in February and now its already summer! I could not imagine a better way to spend the first half of 2008. It was fun and I miss it already.
[Chris Prinzo, Connie Jackson, Melissa Strom, Christine Lakin, Alex Miller: A final pose before the final show]