Look out! Parent please read this. My husband and I went to a audition in San Francisco, for my son, there was a gentlemen who gave a speech about not really sure what he was talking about? he was certainly colorful, for a lack of a better word! then started yelling about how wonderful he was, my husband and I wanted to leave at that point but for my son we stayed to see it through. We then met with the gentlemen that gave the speech 'how wonderful he was' without even looking at my son asked us if we could pay the $6000 the next day if he called us back. After leaving the audition we felt uneasy about it the whole thing none of the so called 'Directors' looked or acted like professionals at all, so we went home and did our research. We did a little digging and found out a few things that parents need to know, first cgtv changed there name due to many complaints, And the man who introduces himself as Adrian's brother Virgil R Mante found out that wasn't his real name. We were shocked at what we found! This man Virgil, is working with kids and was arrested for soliciting prositution and assault! OMG!
PLEASE LEAVE A GREAT COMPANY ALONE!! These celebrities give back their time and work with our kids and young adults to give them a real shot at this business. WONDERFUL CELEBRITIES AND STAFF
Well, I understand it seems strange that a bunch of reviews from parents and students confirming CGTV's legitimacy has recently been posted. This is an open forum and word gets around on social media sites. The truth is that the CGTV camps are currently going on in LA as we speak. Therefore, there are many parents, children and young adults who have just experienced this workshop, or as my son called it- camp, and can share with you an honest review given from their true and recent experience. That being said, I understand the concern some parents may have when it comes to auditioning their child for potentially fraudulent organizations. There are many acting and modeling programs out there that can take advantage of you and it's good to be aware of them. However, being one of those skeptical parents, I have to share in all honesty, and hopefully put your mind at ease regarding this specific organization, that the CGTV Program is 100% legitimate. Their program (which has been around for years) delivers everything promised and more. My son, who was the youngest in the group, learned so much in just a week's time. I saw his acting ability literally transform to a higher skill level by the end of the week. Months before the program even began, CGTV sent exclusive training videos via e-mail to help you prepare for the program (the learning process and training started right away). You needed to know how to slate for an audition, as well as how to prepare for one, have a 1 minute monologue and short commercial memorized, and understand improv technique. By having a foundation of these techniques through the videos they provided, the instructors can dive deeper into the training on day 1 and not waste any time. It is an exclusive group of around 28-30 participants per week, which allows one-on-one training and personal instruction. The instructors are experienced actors. My son received instruction from many of the promised celebrity actors from the Disney and Nickelodeon Shows (Adrian R'Mante, Matthew Timmons, Tanya Chisholm and more...They worked and met with them all). The money you spend up front (just like you would for any class or camp) goes to the instructors for their well-deserved time in training and teaching your child to excel and become a better actor, a photo shoot for headshots, a professionally produced demo reel in a studio, the rental of the studio in Hollywood, the stage and sound booth at ACME Theater and teaching space at Oakwood, t-shirts, tickets to Universal Studios, guest speakers to do a Q&A with the parents who are top casting agents, producers and actors in the industry (I received valuable information during those sessions), etc., etc. Yes, it is money well spent and my son received a PRICELESS experience that will forever change his life. By the end of the week you do a showcase production with everything you learned and the top agents and managers that represent the 5-20 year old demographic attend. When the program was done, we extended our stay in LA, and my son and I navigated our way (with the help of Garmin) ;) through the city to all our callback meetings. Just last week, we made a decision and he signed with a top LA agency and has manager representation. He also already has submitted an audition tape for a film project coming up. This is the real thing. I'm not going to lie- It's not easy. Just like starting a career, advancing in a sport or developing a new business venture, it takes time, money, preparation and dedication. If you truly ENJOY it and want it bad enough, go for it and take the chance. We took a chance with CGTV and it opened the door to so many possibilities. We can't thank Adrian and his staff enough. They truly care about these children and young adults and want to see them succeed. They give your child the knowledge, training and connections to help them advance in this industry and in life. One of the things they taught us during the program (yes, parents, you get lessons as well- I took lots of notes) Is that people take many different paths to find their place. Everyone has their own story on how they got there. The reason CGTV was created was to prepare you for the reality of the acting industry, not to just sell you on the dream and leave you lost. They continue to follow-up with you even weeks after your program is over. I'm not sure if it's a closed group (I joined via a link), but visit Hollywood CGTV on FB and check them out...Real comments and pictures being posted in real time
I was actually on this site researching a different company when I ran across the negative comment posted about the CGTV and although I've never done this before I felt compelled to defend the programs good name.
My daughter recently completed the program and I must say, the program has changed our lives. Within 24 hours of completing the program she had been accepted by a Talent agency. Within 48 hours of completing the program she received her first audition- a taped read for a new Fox Pilot. Her next audition is this Thursday for a clothing store commercial and I am hoping the roller coaster ride does not stop anytime soon.
The CGTV opportunity consists of months of prior preparation and training prior to attending in the week program in Hollywood. Yes, it is expensive, HOWEVER, that being said when you break it down a la carte, you get what you pay for. Where else can you find a high level program tailored to children being taught by actual working actors. Phill Lewis flew into Miami the same day he had been filming on "Raising Hope". You want acting classes taught by a nobody who's career never made it anywhere you can find them starting from $299.00. You want a program taught by working actors who are also caring individuals, who genuinely want to "fast track" your child's career, then CGTV is the way to go.
During an amazing Q&A workshop with the casting director from ABC, Disney and Nickelodeon in Hollywood, California actually knows my daughter's name and asked for her headshot and resume for possible future projects, just that connection alone is PRICELESS.
During the course of the 4 months of training and preparation my daughters acting skills grew in leaps and bounds. Adrian and his wonderful staff have perfected the process with training for Commercials, Sitcom TV, Drama TV, Film and Theater. They will teach your child the proper steps to "nail" an audition and as an added bonus, turn out a more confidant individual.
They are the "real deal". If your child has acting in their blood, then you should hope and wish and pray that they make the cut and get accepted into CGTV. It could save you years of investing into the wrong people and can save you years of beating your head against the wall to get introduced to the right people...like I did prior to finding them!
DID THEY COMPLAIN ABOUT THIS SUCCESS STORY FROM CGTV?
Bex Taylor-Klaus Booked a series on “Arrow”, “The Killing”, “House of Lies” and now a lead role on MTV’s “SCREAM”
Bex booked a series regular role on AMC’s third season of “The Killing,” where she plays a tough street kid named Bullet and on CW’s hit show “Arrow,” where she plays the character Sin.
“They are both fierce roles, it was well worth the wait and thanks goes to CGTV!”
Parents of Bex, Elaine and David Taylor-Klaus
Isabella booked a job for an Old Navy Music Video that has had her “running” since the audition in late June. She got to work with choreographer Toni Basil for three days during rehearsal and filming, they also made a “behind the scenes, The Making of Unlimited” and then Old Navy flew us (all three ) to New York City so she could work with the songwriters Benji Pasek and Justin Paul to record the itunes version of the song. Also there was a photo session (for the itunes cover) and voiceover work (for the Old Navy in-store promotions)
We are so grateful to you for everything. Thank you so very much.
Annie, Roger & Isabella
Here is a link to the Old Navy music video (and the behind the scenes)
Hi Adrian, I'm currently filming my 3rd season of EVERY WITCH WAY on Nickelodeon. So just letting you know that I am heading to New York City tomorrow. After doing 3 students films, 5 national commercials and a web series, I have now also signed with a manager. Tomorrow I have an audition in NYC and I’m meeting with the first of three agencies (meeting with one each day from Monday thru Wednesday). My manager would like to get me into TV and film.
I just wanted to thank you for everything you taught me. Wish me luck and I will let you know how it goes!
- Louis Tomeo, age 10
Sydney Fullmer lands LEAD ROLE in “An American Girl: Saige Paints the Sky” and THE NEW MOVIE WITH STEVE CORREL AND JENNIFER GARDNER in, ALEXANDER and the TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY.
Southlake teen Sydney Fullmer, who is starring in the new, live-action An American Girl: Saige Paints the Sky, as Saige, American Girl’s red-headed, blue-eyed 2013 doll of the year attended CGTV. The movie, which focuses on Saige’s love for horses and painting and her fight to keep the arts in her school, screened at Harkins Theatres and became available on DVD and Blue-Ray. The movie also aired on NBC. Jane Seymour plays her grandmother in the movie.
Scam!!! Sitting at my apartment complex watching these poor kids being fed b.s. Parents, save your money... StArt your kids in theatre(free) , acting classes (200.00 month) and take a pilot season and move out here and see if it works for you!!! That's what we did... It worked and we stayed. I didn't pay $6000 for some no name actors to tell me that my kids were talented. Every few weeks we watch these scammers do this to a new group of families!!!! It's sad!!!!
Everything you mention is exactly what happened. Phil said he saw potential, he was impressed and wants to work with me. They gave me a secret $1000 scholarship and asked us to pay $5000. Everything is becoming sketchy and now I am afraid. Idk what to do...
You say it sounds sketchy because they want to HELP you financially so it can work for you. How is that a bad thing? I would be worried if it was the opposite. I've auditioned for other companies and they all want the money upfront and won't work with you. After auditioning for them and realizing everything they offer you, it's worth it. As an actor for many years, they offer a professional acting reel which, to me, is priceless. When you're up for a job or role people, an acting reel can close a deal for you. I am a performer for many years and I know this is how it works. The agents and casting directors that attend are the best in the business. Phill, Adrian and Jonathan know these people personally because this is what they do for a living. It either works for you or it doesn't but I know they are doing their best to make it, financially, work for me and I appreciate Phill, Adrian and Jonathan for that! I feel safe with them because they are the owners and have a ton of work on www.imdb.com which validates them. I would be worried about investing your money into anyone who is not on IMDB. That website set the standard for show business. Good luck everyone!
lol if u just google the reviews like the first sentence of the parents defending the site, u can tell its just copy and pasted from website to website on every complaint page. lol Glad I did my research before i wasted my time going to this bull shit! Also if your kid really got all they desired why not post videos? youtube channels, pictures, also go to his Facebook page, I have more likes than him on my post.... lol
This ""agency"" - CGTV- contacted me via phone [twice] and once by email RE: an audition occurring in NYC this weekend. They claim I had contacted them in the past RE: auditions. The call/auditon age range is 5-21 [far from my acting age range].
They claim a chance to act on a Disney television show. Although I had no intention on auditioning, I chose to research them due to a feeling they are a scam company.
They do not have a website available, only a link to an audition posted on Backstage.com [that has expired], even though the ""audition"" has not happened yet. The listing stated if you are chosen there is ""a fee of $1900-$6000"". Karen Greer Models New York name is attached to this posting.
Furthermore, I called the hotline number to ask to have my number removed from their list. As I proceeded to share a brief reason why, I was abruptly and rudely cut off by the young gentleman, who stated ""I don't have time to hear this, I am busy, just give me your number...."".
On another note, their website -- newyorkauditons.com -- they supply some wrong information, thus misleading actors, which is a red flag to me. He didn't want to hear about that either, as when I mentioned it after stating my phone number to be removed, he hung up on me. Very ""professional"".
There is more than one route to steer your acting career, folks -- please know that this is not one of them.
I was actually on this site researching a different company when I ran across the negative comment posted about the CGTV and although I've never done this before I felt compelled to defend the programs good name.
My daughter recently completed the program and I must say, the program has changed our lives. Within 24 hours of completing the program she had been accepted by a Talent agency. Within 48 hours of completing the program she received her first audition- a taped read for a new Fox Pilot. Her next audition is this Thursday for a clothing store commercial and I am hoping the roller coaster ride does not stop anytime soon.
The CGTV opportunity consists of months of prior preparation and training prior to attending in the week program in Hollywood. Yes, it is expensive, HOWEVER, that being said when you break it down a la carte, you get what you pay for. Where else can you find a high level program tailored to children being taught by actual working actors. Phill Lewis flew into Miami the same day he had been filming on "Raising Hope". You want acting classes taught by a nobody who's career never made it anywhere you can find them starting from $299.00. You want a program taught by working actors who are also caring individuals, who genuinely want to "fast track" your child's career, then CGTV is the way to go.
During an amazing Q&A workshop with the casting director from ABC, Disney and Nickelodeon in Hollywood, California actually knows my daughter's name and asked for her headshot and resume for possible future projects, just that connection alone is PRICELESS.
During the course of the 4 months of training and preparation my daughters acting skills grew in leaps and bounds. Adrian and his wonderful staff have perfected the process with training for Commercials, Sitcom TV, Drama TV, Film and Theater. They will teach your child the proper steps to "nail" an audition and as an added bonus, turn out a more confidant individual.
They are the "real deal". If your child has acting in their blood, then you should hope and wish and pray that they make the cut and get accepted into CGTV. It could save you years of investing into the wrong people and can save you years of beating your head against the wall to get introduced to the right people...like I did prior to finding them!
I'm a single mother of two beautiful daughter's, I took both of them to the showcase today and they both received a call back. My aunt is a lawyer and she has informed me not to trust it knowing that I really don't have the money to do it. I would feel like I'm disappointing both my daughter's but how will I come up with 10,000$ for both kids pay bills and support them at the same time. I am so lost and confused right now. what should I do?????????
I went to an audition over the weekend and from the moment I walked in I felt unsure about myself... I'm a little on the poor side of life, 20 years old, pregnant, and watching after my three younger siblings while still supporting my boyfriend in college... But decided "Why not do something for me?" I've already done IMTA (winning Female Young Adult Actor of the Year, along with other awards for monologue, cold read, sitcom, and on camera TV host) and I have an agency I love. Along with attending scholarship-based acting classes in New York last year, I knew acting was my thing, but CGTV set me off. I think it's just the monetary aspect... I have a lot of responsibilities here at home and by the end of the month I'm broke again. I'm hoping income tax season helps; but the opportunity itself seems invaluable. IMTA delivered on its promises, and I got to hear from Phil Lewis himself (not some phone-rep who is trying to sell me something) that I was great and he personally really wants to work with me and wants me to do this program, and I have so much respect for him as an actor/director/producer.
At first I was scared, when I told them it's just too much money and I didn't even have enough for gas to make it back for callbacks that they'd just give up on trying to work with me. Which I was okay with, that's the industry and at the end of the day my family needs me more than I need CGTV. Until this morning, I got a phone call from them saying that they'd discussed for days that they want me in the program, that Phil Lewis stood up for me to do it and took the price down over $2500 and the new deposit went from $1000 to $300. Now that it's within my price range I think I'll be able to do it.
If I could just get a really good demo reel out of the whole thing, maybe some knew headshots... I think it'd be worth it.
This company came up in a Facebook group and gave me red flag heebie jeebies. The company's Facebook page is solely made up of ads declaring you can meet the guy who played Esteban in the Suite Life of Zack and Cody and that they're looking for children and young adults. No other information.
The only positive reviews (and by extension, defensive reviews) are from copy-paste heroes with dubious content and troublesome grammar and formatting. On top of that, the whole thing violates SAG and AFTRA rules. You never pay to be auditioned. You can choose to pay for acting classes which should never be over a few hundred dollars a month at most, but you are not obligated to audition for roles as a part of said class. In the same vein, you are not obligated to take classes in order to receive auditions. On top of that, most acting studios will give you a money back guarantee of some sort. That's just not how the industry works.
If you're feeling nervous or uncomfortable, go with your gut feeling. If you think it's a scam, it's probably a scam.
Go the long way or take shortcuts, but go the right way. Go to open casting calls. Take headshots. Submit them with agents. Take videos of yourself acting. Post them on Youtube. Take acting and modeling classes where you get to meet and talk to the owners of the studio and the instructors ahead of time to decide if it's the right one for you. Audition for local theatre, even if it's just something like working in props or as a background actor. Get yourself out there. Don't be scammed into paying $1,000-$6,000 for a chance to be told you're amazing and to meet one single actor. Don't be suckered in by a "great deal" like a so-called scholarship. You are not going to be amazing at everything and a proper teacher will find your weaknesses and help you to work on them.
The fact of the matter is, everyone that goes to this SHOWCASE DOES NOT HAVE TALENT. This let's you know that if they are telling everyone the same things about seeing potential in them, that this is a scam to make money. I'm sure that some people do have talent, and should move forward, however, EVERYONE does not and should not be called back. But the fact that they do call everyone back, let you know that this is a money making business.
This company roams from city to city using unsolicited emails to recruit new people to rip off, and kids to devastate while in their town. They pay celebrities to endorse them and pay local talent agencies to let them piggyback, making them seem like an agency, of which they are not. Apparently they buy email addresses from other entertainment-based agencies that people have had contact with.
The email says it’s actually from their chosen local agency, but they have nothing to do with it. It states they’re looking for kids age 5-17 that want to be on tv, and actually uses the words “an exciting opportunity to meet and audition with…” Insert name of paid nickelodeon/disney actor). The truth is you meet the celebrity but the “audition” isn’t conducted with them.
Cgtv is never even mentioned until you respond and get a confirmation email. Even then, it’s just sneakily thrown into the content and the local agency is still identified as the sender.
The email also includes the following cleverly-worded snippet:
Important: the audition is free, however, you will be responsible for your travel and expenses, etc. If you end up going to los angeles to work directly with disney & nickelodeon actors for one week in hollywood this summer and to audition for some of the top agents & managers in the business!
After an afternoon of smoke and mirrors, which includes a simple monologue audition and introduction to the celebrity at a hotel, parents are given a brochure. It’s then that it’s finally divulged they are merely selling pseudo “talent camps” in l.A., which cost $1000 to $6000 depending. According to the brochure it’s basically an instructional youth camp for aspiring actors.
They aggressively pump up the kids/parents with the idea that the child is not only one of the chosen few, but is outstanding and that they are excited to work with them. This merely sets them up for the big close of sale. In actuality they tell everyone that. All kids are chosen, and they’ll take anyone’s money for the camp; talent is irrelevant.
Lastly, the person that becomes the point of contact and tries to close the sale after the “audition” is a man named virgil, who claims to be the brother of the company owner Adrian r’mante). After researching, virgil turns out to be virgil winebarger, who has arrest records in florida involving prostitution and battery. See links below:
When virgil called to close me after my daughter returned from the phony audition, i had already done my research. I asked him the questions that showed him he had been exposed, told him i’d heard enough and hung up on him. He then proceeded to send me a harassing text, stating that he wouldn’t work with my daughter for all the money in the world.
I responded very harshly and profanely, telling him i wouldn’t let my children near someone like him, and warned him that he’d better not contact me again or his legal troubles would resume. He then continued to harass and threaten me, stating that he has a “huge legal”, whatever that is.
He couldn’t even type. His texts sounded like they were composed by a 2nd grader, full of grammatical errors and missing words, barely decipherable. At the end he actually sent me a picture of a child that he claimed was his for some ridiculous reason.
Parents: don’t let your kids near this man or this company. Any true professional would completely ignore someone that hung up on them, for they have no time for games. He obviously is at the opposite end of the spectrum from professionalism.
They call me the same way saying the same things. They make the call back for tomorrow but they told me that they wre gonna give me scholarship, and we're gonna discuss everything tomorrow. What do you think?
I Was told the same thing yesterday. I made the call back and Phill really wants to work with me and seen a lot of personality and gave me good ratings, and that we could do a scholarship to help pay but still haven't gotten a call back on that. To me if someone really wants to work with you they'll do it because you'll make the money back of course so they said yesterday.
after reading these comments i'm not sure anymore. Phil told me and my friend the same thing. He said I did good and saw great potential in me. I wonder if he just tells a lot of people that to get their 5k? seems like you need money to make money..
I went through the same process and feel confident!
You say it sounds sketchy because they want to HELP you financially so it can work for you. How is that a bad thing? I would be worried if it was the opposite. I've auditioned for other companies and they all want the money upfront and won't work with you. After auditioning for them and realizing everything they offer you, it's worth it. As an actor for many years, they offer a professional acting reel which, to me, is priceless. When you're up for a job or role people, an acting reel can close a deal for you. I am a performer for many years and I know this is how it works. The agents and casting directors that attend are the best in the business. Phill, Adrian and Jonathan know these people personally because this is what they do for a living. It either works for you or it doesn't but I know they are doing their best to make it, financially, work for me and I appreciate Phill, Adrian and Jonathan for that! I feel safe with them because they are the owners and have a ton of work on www.imdb.com which validates them. I would be worried about investing your money into anyone who is not on IMDB. That website set the standard for show business. Good luck everyone!
CGTV Reviews
All Parents need to read this!
Look out! Parent please read this. My husband and I went to a audition in San Francisco, for my son, there was a gentlemen who gave a speech about not really sure what he was talking about? he was certainly colorful, for a lack of a better word! then started yelling about how wonderful he was, my husband and I wanted to leave at that point but for my son we stayed to see it through. We then met with the gentlemen that gave the speech 'how wonderful he was' without even looking at my son asked us if we could pay the $6000 the next day if he called us back. After leaving the audition we felt uneasy about it the whole thing none of the so called 'Directors' looked or acted like professionals at all, so we went home and did our research. We did a little digging and found out a few things that parents need to know, first cgtv changed there name due to many complaints, And the man who introduces himself as Adrian's brother Virgil R Mante found out that wasn't his real name. We were shocked at what we found! This man Virgil, is working with kids and was arrested for soliciting prositution and assault! OMG!
AMAZING OPPORTUNITY with CGTV
PLEASE LEAVE A GREAT COMPANY ALONE!! These celebrities give back their time and work with our kids and young adults to give them a real shot at this business. WONDERFUL CELEBRITIES AND STAFF
CGTV IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Well, I understand it seems strange that a bunch of reviews from parents and students confirming CGTV's legitimacy has recently been posted. This is an open forum and word gets around on social media sites. The truth is that the CGTV camps are currently going on in LA as we speak. Therefore, there are many parents, children and young adults who have just experienced this workshop, or as my son called it- camp, and can share with you an honest review given from their true and recent experience. That being said, I understand the concern some parents may have when it comes to auditioning their child for potentially fraudulent organizations. There are many acting and modeling programs out there that can take advantage of you and it's good to be aware of them. However, being one of those skeptical parents, I have to share in all honesty, and hopefully put your mind at ease regarding this specific organization, that the CGTV Program is 100% legitimate. Their program (which has been around for years) delivers everything promised and more. My son, who was the youngest in the group, learned so much in just a week's time. I saw his acting ability literally transform to a higher skill level by the end of the week. Months before the program even began, CGTV sent exclusive training videos via e-mail to help you prepare for the program (the learning process and training started right away). You needed to know how to slate for an audition, as well as how to prepare for one, have a 1 minute monologue and short commercial memorized, and understand improv technique. By having a foundation of these techniques through the videos they provided, the instructors can dive deeper into the training on day 1 and not waste any time. It is an exclusive group of around 28-30 participants per week, which allows one-on-one training and personal instruction. The instructors are experienced actors. My son received instruction from many of the promised celebrity actors from the Disney and Nickelodeon Shows (Adrian R'Mante, Matthew Timmons, Tanya Chisholm and more...They worked and met with them all). The money you spend up front (just like you would for any class or camp) goes to the instructors for their well-deserved time in training and teaching your child to excel and become a better actor, a photo shoot for headshots, a professionally produced demo reel in a studio, the rental of the studio in Hollywood, the stage and sound booth at ACME Theater and teaching space at Oakwood, t-shirts, tickets to Universal Studios, guest speakers to do a Q&A with the parents who are top casting agents, producers and actors in the industry (I received valuable information during those sessions), etc., etc. Yes, it is money well spent and my son received a PRICELESS experience that will forever change his life. By the end of the week you do a showcase production with everything you learned and the top agents and managers that represent the 5-20 year old demographic attend. When the program was done, we extended our stay in LA, and my son and I navigated our way (with the help of Garmin) ;) through the city to all our callback meetings. Just last week, we made a decision and he signed with a top LA agency and has manager representation. He also already has submitted an audition tape for a film project coming up. This is the real thing. I'm not going to lie- It's not easy. Just like starting a career, advancing in a sport or developing a new business venture, it takes time, money, preparation and dedication. If you truly ENJOY it and want it bad enough, go for it and take the chance. We took a chance with CGTV and it opened the door to so many possibilities. We can't thank Adrian and his staff enough. They truly care about these children and young adults and want to see them succeed. They give your child the knowledge, training and connections to help them advance in this industry and in life. One of the things they taught us during the program (yes, parents, you get lessons as well- I took lots of notes) Is that people take many different paths to find their place. Everyone has their own story on how they got there. The reason CGTV was created was to prepare you for the reality of the acting industry, not to just sell you on the dream and leave you lost. They continue to follow-up with you even weeks after your program is over. I'm not sure if it's a closed group (I joined via a link), but visit Hollywood CGTV on FB and check them out...Real comments and pictures being posted in real time
YOU SHOULD HOPE CGTV CALLS YOU BACK!
I was actually on this site researching a different company when I ran across the negative comment posted about the CGTV and although I've never done this before I felt compelled to defend the programs good name.
My daughter recently completed the program and I must say, the program has changed our lives. Within 24 hours of completing the program she had been accepted by a Talent agency. Within 48 hours of completing the program she received her first audition- a taped read for a new Fox Pilot. Her next audition is this Thursday for a clothing store commercial and I am hoping the roller coaster ride does not stop anytime soon.
The CGTV opportunity consists of months of prior preparation and training prior to attending in the week program in Hollywood. Yes, it is expensive, HOWEVER, that being said when you break it down a la carte, you get what you pay for. Where else can you find a high level program tailored to children being taught by actual working actors. Phill Lewis flew into Miami the same day he had been filming on "Raising Hope". You want acting classes taught by a nobody who's career never made it anywhere you can find them starting from $299.00. You want a program taught by working actors who are also caring individuals, who genuinely want to "fast track" your child's career, then CGTV is the way to go.
During an amazing Q&A workshop with the casting director from ABC, Disney and Nickelodeon in Hollywood, California actually knows my daughter's name and asked for her headshot and resume for possible future projects, just that connection alone is PRICELESS.
During the course of the 4 months of training and preparation my daughters acting skills grew in leaps and bounds. Adrian and his wonderful staff have perfected the process with training for Commercials, Sitcom TV, Drama TV, Film and Theater. They will teach your child the proper steps to "nail" an audition and as an added bonus, turn out a more confidant individual.
They are the "real deal". If your child has acting in their blood, then you should hope and wish and pray that they make the cut and get accepted into CGTV. It could save you years of investing into the wrong people and can save you years of beating your head against the wall to get introduced to the right people...like I did prior to finding them!
Proud Balbi Family
DID THEY COMPLAIN ABOUT THIS SUCCESS STORY FROM CGTV?
Bex Taylor-Klaus Booked a series on “Arrow”, “The Killing”, “House of Lies” and now a lead role on MTV’s “SCREAM”
Bex booked a series regular role on AMC’s third season of “The Killing,” where she plays a tough street kid named Bullet and on CW’s hit show “Arrow,” where she plays the character Sin.
“They are both fierce roles, it was well worth the wait and thanks goes to CGTV!”
Parents of Bex, Elaine and David Taylor-Klaus
Isabella booked a job for an Old Navy Music Video that has had her “running” since the audition in late June. She got to work with choreographer Toni Basil for three days during rehearsal and filming, they also made a “behind the scenes, The Making of Unlimited” and then Old Navy flew us (all three ) to New York City so she could work with the songwriters Benji Pasek and Justin Paul to record the itunes version of the song. Also there was a photo session (for the itunes cover) and voiceover work (for the Old Navy in-store promotions)
We are so grateful to you for everything. Thank you so very much.
Annie, Roger & Isabella
Here is a link to the Old Navy music video (and the behind the scenes)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RybcC2ef2zg&list=PLh3LFxf8c47pWq1qJSVQKpWo_JF2MUlZB
Louis Tomeo on NICKELODEON'S, "Every Witch Way"
Hi Adrian, I'm currently filming my 3rd season of EVERY WITCH WAY on Nickelodeon. So just letting you know that I am heading to New York City tomorrow. After doing 3 students films, 5 national commercials and a web series, I have now also signed with a manager. Tomorrow I have an audition in NYC and I’m meeting with the first of three agencies (meeting with one each day from Monday thru Wednesday). My manager would like to get me into TV and film.
I just wanted to thank you for everything you taught me. Wish me luck and I will let you know how it goes!
- Louis Tomeo, age 10
Sydney Fullmer lands LEAD ROLE in “An American Girl: Saige Paints the Sky” and THE NEW MOVIE WITH STEVE CORREL AND JENNIFER GARDNER in, ALEXANDER and the TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY.
Southlake teen Sydney Fullmer, who is starring in the new, live-action An American Girl: Saige Paints the Sky, as Saige, American Girl’s red-headed, blue-eyed 2013 doll of the year attended CGTV. The movie, which focuses on Saige’s love for horses and painting and her fight to keep the arts in her school, screened at Harkins Theatres and became available on DVD and Blue-Ray. The movie also aired on NBC. Jane Seymour plays her grandmother in the movie.
THANKS CGTV
Sidney and Jeff Fullmer Family
Scam!!!
Scam!!! Sitting at my apartment complex watching these poor kids being fed b.s. Parents, save your money... StArt your kids in theatre(free) , acting classes (200.00 month) and take a pilot season and move out here and see if it works for you!!! That's what we did... It worked and we stayed. I didn't pay $6000 for some no name actors to tell me that my kids were talented. Every few weeks we watch these scammers do this to a new group of families!!!! It's sad!!!!
This happen to me too..
Everything you mention is exactly what happened. Phil said he saw potential, he was impressed and wants to work with me. They gave me a secret $1000 scholarship and asked us to pay $5000. Everything is becoming sketchy and now I am afraid. Idk what to do...
They are trying to make it work for you!
You say it sounds sketchy because they want to HELP you financially so it can work for you. How is that a bad thing? I would be worried if it was the opposite. I've auditioned for other companies and they all want the money upfront and won't work with you. After auditioning for them and realizing everything they offer you, it's worth it. As an actor for many years, they offer a professional acting reel which, to me, is priceless. When you're up for a job or role people, an acting reel can close a deal for you. I am a performer for many years and I know this is how it works. The agents and casting directors that attend are the best in the business. Phill, Adrian and Jonathan know these people personally because this is what they do for a living. It either works for you or it doesn't but I know they are doing their best to make it, financially, work for me and I appreciate Phill, Adrian and Jonathan for that! I feel safe with them because they are the owners and have a ton of work on www.imdb.com which validates them. I would be worried about investing your money into anyone who is not on IMDB. That website set the standard for show business. Good luck everyone!
This is a scam...
lol if u just google the reviews like the first sentence of the parents defending the site, u can tell its just copy and pasted from website to website on every complaint page. lol Glad I did my research before i wasted my time going to this bull shit! Also if your kid really got all they desired why not post videos? youtube channels, pictures, also go to his Facebook page, I have more likes than him on my post.... lol
Read Sag Aftra rules:
http://www.sagaftra.org/content/scams
This ""agency"" - CGTV- contacted me via phone [twice] and once by email RE: an audition occurring in NYC this weekend. They claim I had contacted them in the past RE: auditions. The call/auditon age range is 5-21 [far from my acting age range].
They claim a chance to act on a Disney television show. Although I had no intention on auditioning, I chose to research them due to a feeling they are a scam company.
They do not have a website available, only a link to an audition posted on Backstage.com [that has expired], even though the ""audition"" has not happened yet. The listing stated if you are chosen there is ""a fee of $1900-$6000"". Karen Greer Models New York name is attached to this posting.
Furthermore, I called the hotline number to ask to have my number removed from their list. As I proceeded to share a brief reason why, I was abruptly and rudely cut off by the young gentleman, who stated ""I don't have time to hear this, I am busy, just give me your number...."".
On another note, their website -- newyorkauditons.com -- they supply some wrong information, thus misleading actors, which is a red flag to me. He didn't want to hear about that either, as when I mentioned it after stating my phone number to be removed, he hung up on me. Very ""professional"".
There is more than one route to steer your acting career, folks -- please know that this is not one of them.
PROVIDED ME EVERYTHING THEY PROMISED!
I was actually on this site researching a different company when I ran across the negative comment posted about the CGTV and although I've never done this before I felt compelled to defend the programs good name.
My daughter recently completed the program and I must say, the program has changed our lives. Within 24 hours of completing the program she had been accepted by a Talent agency. Within 48 hours of completing the program she received her first audition- a taped read for a new Fox Pilot. Her next audition is this Thursday for a clothing store commercial and I am hoping the roller coaster ride does not stop anytime soon.
The CGTV opportunity consists of months of prior preparation and training prior to attending in the week program in Hollywood. Yes, it is expensive, HOWEVER, that being said when you break it down a la carte, you get what you pay for. Where else can you find a high level program tailored to children being taught by actual working actors. Phill Lewis flew into Miami the same day he had been filming on "Raising Hope". You want acting classes taught by a nobody who's career never made it anywhere you can find them starting from $299.00. You want a program taught by working actors who are also caring individuals, who genuinely want to "fast track" your child's career, then CGTV is the way to go.
During an amazing Q&A workshop with the casting director from ABC, Disney and Nickelodeon in Hollywood, California actually knows my daughter's name and asked for her headshot and resume for possible future projects, just that connection alone is PRICELESS.
During the course of the 4 months of training and preparation my daughters acting skills grew in leaps and bounds. Adrian and his wonderful staff have perfected the process with training for Commercials, Sitcom TV, Drama TV, Film and Theater. They will teach your child the proper steps to "nail" an audition and as an added bonus, turn out a more confidant individual.
They are the "real deal". If your child has acting in their blood, then you should hope and wish and pray that they make the cut and get accepted into CGTV. It could save you years of investing into the wrong people and can save you years of beating your head against the wall to get introduced to the right people...like I did prior to finding them!
Proud Balbi Family
CGTV
I'm a single mother of two beautiful daughter's, I took both of them to the showcase today and they both received a call back. My aunt is a lawyer and she has informed me not to trust it knowing that I really don't have the money to do it. I would feel like I'm disappointing both my daughter's but how will I come up with 10,000$ for both kids pay bills and support them at the same time. I am so lost and confused right now. what should I do?????????
CGTV
I went to an audition over the weekend and from the moment I walked in I felt unsure about myself... I'm a little on the poor side of life, 20 years old, pregnant, and watching after my three younger siblings while still supporting my boyfriend in college... But decided "Why not do something for me?" I've already done IMTA (winning Female Young Adult Actor of the Year, along with other awards for monologue, cold read, sitcom, and on camera TV host) and I have an agency I love. Along with attending scholarship-based acting classes in New York last year, I knew acting was my thing, but CGTV set me off. I think it's just the monetary aspect... I have a lot of responsibilities here at home and by the end of the month I'm broke again. I'm hoping income tax season helps; but the opportunity itself seems invaluable. IMTA delivered on its promises, and I got to hear from Phil Lewis himself (not some phone-rep who is trying to sell me something) that I was great and he personally really wants to work with me and wants me to do this program, and I have so much respect for him as an actor/director/producer.
At first I was scared, when I told them it's just too much money and I didn't even have enough for gas to make it back for callbacks that they'd just give up on trying to work with me. Which I was okay with, that's the industry and at the end of the day my family needs me more than I need CGTV. Until this morning, I got a phone call from them saying that they'd discussed for days that they want me in the program, that Phil Lewis stood up for me to do it and took the price down over $2500 and the new deposit went from $1000 to $300. Now that it's within my price range I think I'll be able to do it.
If I could just get a really good demo reel out of the whole thing, maybe some knew headshots... I think it'd be worth it.
Forewarned is forearmed
This company came up in a Facebook group and gave me red flag heebie jeebies. The company's Facebook page is solely made up of ads declaring you can meet the guy who played Esteban in the Suite Life of Zack and Cody and that they're looking for children and young adults. No other information.
The only positive reviews (and by extension, defensive reviews) are from copy-paste heroes with dubious content and troublesome grammar and formatting. On top of that, the whole thing violates SAG and AFTRA rules. You never pay to be auditioned. You can choose to pay for acting classes which should never be over a few hundred dollars a month at most, but you are not obligated to audition for roles as a part of said class. In the same vein, you are not obligated to take classes in order to receive auditions. On top of that, most acting studios will give you a money back guarantee of some sort. That's just not how the industry works.
If you're feeling nervous or uncomfortable, go with your gut feeling. If you think it's a scam, it's probably a scam.
Go the long way or take shortcuts, but go the right way. Go to open casting calls. Take headshots. Submit them with agents. Take videos of yourself acting. Post them on Youtube. Take acting and modeling classes where you get to meet and talk to the owners of the studio and the instructors ahead of time to decide if it's the right one for you. Audition for local theatre, even if it's just something like working in props or as a background actor. Get yourself out there. Don't be scammed into paying $1,000-$6,000 for a chance to be told you're amazing and to meet one single actor. Don't be suckered in by a "great deal" like a so-called scholarship. You are not going to be amazing at everything and a proper teacher will find your weaknesses and help you to work on them.
CGTV
The fact of the matter is, everyone that goes to this SHOWCASE DOES NOT HAVE TALENT. This let's you know that if they are telling everyone the same things about seeing potential in them, that this is a scam to make money. I'm sure that some people do have talent, and should move forward, however, EVERYONE does not and should not be called back. But the fact that they do call everyone back, let you know that this is a money making business.
This company roams from city to city using unsolicited emails to recruit new people to rip off, and kids to devastate while in their town. They pay celebrities to endorse them and pay local talent agencies to let them piggyback, making them seem like an agency, of which they are not. Apparently they buy email addresses from other entertainment-based agencies that people have had contact with.
The email says it’s actually from their chosen local agency, but they have nothing to do with it. It states they’re looking for kids age 5-17 that want to be on tv, and actually uses the words “an exciting opportunity to meet and audition with…” Insert name of paid nickelodeon/disney actor). The truth is you meet the celebrity but the “audition” isn’t conducted with them.
Cgtv is never even mentioned until you respond and get a confirmation email. Even then, it’s just sneakily thrown into the content and the local agency is still identified as the sender.
The email also includes the following cleverly-worded snippet:
Important: the audition is free, however, you will be responsible for your travel and expenses, etc. If you end up going to los angeles to work directly with disney & nickelodeon actors for one week in hollywood this summer and to audition for some of the top agents & managers in the business!
After an afternoon of smoke and mirrors, which includes a simple monologue audition and introduction to the celebrity at a hotel, parents are given a brochure. It’s then that it’s finally divulged they are merely selling pseudo “talent camps” in l.A., which cost $1000 to $6000 depending. According to the brochure it’s basically an instructional youth camp for aspiring actors.
They aggressively pump up the kids/parents with the idea that the child is not only one of the chosen few, but is outstanding and that they are excited to work with them. This merely sets them up for the big close of sale. In actuality they tell everyone that. All kids are chosen, and they’ll take anyone’s money for the camp; talent is irrelevant.
Lastly, the person that becomes the point of contact and tries to close the sale after the “audition” is a man named virgil, who claims to be the brother of the company owner Adrian r’mante). After researching, virgil turns out to be virgil winebarger, who has arrest records in florida involving prostitution and battery. See links below:
Http://florida.Arrests.Org/arrests/virgil_winebarger_2142295/
Http://florida.Arrests.Org/arrests/virgil_winebarger_2292315/
When virgil called to close me after my daughter returned from the phony audition, i had already done my research. I asked him the questions that showed him he had been exposed, told him i’d heard enough and hung up on him. He then proceeded to send me a harassing text, stating that he wouldn’t work with my daughter for all the money in the world.
I responded very harshly and profanely, telling him i wouldn’t let my children near someone like him, and warned him that he’d better not contact me again or his legal troubles would resume. He then continued to harass and threaten me, stating that he has a “huge legal”, whatever that is.
He couldn’t even type. His texts sounded like they were composed by a 2nd grader, full of grammatical errors and missing words, barely decipherable. At the end he actually sent me a picture of a child that he claimed was his for some ridiculous reason.
Parents: don’t let your kids near this man or this company. Any true professional would completely ignore someone that hung up on them, for they have no time for games. He obviously is at the opposite end of the spectrum from professionalism.
Cgtv casting
They call me the same way saying the same things. They make the call back for tomorrow but they told me that they wre gonna give me scholarship, and we're gonna discuss everything tomorrow. What do you think?
Cgtv casting
I Was told the same thing yesterday. I made the call back and Phill really wants to work with me and seen a lot of personality and gave me good ratings, and that we could do a scholarship to help pay but still haven't gotten a call back on that. To me if someone really wants to work with you they'll do it because you'll make the money back of course so they said yesterday.
i'm scared to go back today
after reading these comments i'm not sure anymore. Phil told me and my friend the same thing. He said I did good and saw great potential in me. I wonder if he just tells a lot of people that to get their 5k? seems like you need money to make money..
I went through the same process and feel confident!
You say it sounds sketchy because they want to HELP you financially so it can work for you. How is that a bad thing? I would be worried if it was the opposite. I've auditioned for other companies and they all want the money upfront and won't work with you. After auditioning for them and realizing everything they offer you, it's worth it. As an actor for many years, they offer a professional acting reel which, to me, is priceless. When you're up for a job or role people, an acting reel can close a deal for you. I am a performer for many years and I know this is how it works. The agents and casting directors that attend are the best in the business. Phill, Adrian and Jonathan know these people personally because this is what they do for a living. It either works for you or it doesn't but I know they are doing their best to make it, financially, work for me and I appreciate Phill, Adrian and Jonathan for that! I feel safe with them because they are the owners and have a ton of work on www.imdb.com which validates them. I would be worried about investing your money into anyone who is not on IMDB. That website set the standard for show business. Good luck everyone!