REMINDER: See You Tonight at the Mixer!

Got your RSVP for tonight. We have 166 RSVPs, so expect a packed event.

The Sidebar at the Regency Beverly Wilshire is a sophisticated, modern lounge only steps away from Rodeo Drive. A wide selection of wines and cocktails, plus a small menu of select appetizers and scrumptious deserts. Try the dark chocolate souffle. Wines start at $10, beers $6, deserts $14. Happy hour until 7pm features $7 well drinks and $7 appetizers. Limited bar and couch seating. If you want dinner, Wolfgang Puck's CUT restaurant is next door.

The Sidebar
Regency Beverly Wilshire
9500 Wilshire Boulevard
Beverly Hills, California 90212

PARKING: Parking meters on Beverly Drive south of Wilshire are free after 7pm. Inexpensive garage parking at the Beverly Hills city garage on Beverly south of Charleville. Valet parking at the Regency Beverly Wilshire is $12.

Smoking is not permitted at any ScreenPlayLab event.

* How to Meet that Agent, Producer or Director...

Don't bring a script, a headshot, or a flyer to a mixer. It can mark you as desperate. No celebrity is going to arrive with a script or headshot in hand, right? If your headshot fits on your business card, that's fine.

A mixer isn't the place to discuss a deal. It's noisy and there's no privacy. It's best to set up a meeting for later.

As simple as it may seem to take the direct approach, introducing yourself to a VIP cold is the hardest way to set up a meeting. Most people are cautious with people they don't know who want something from them. The person with the power to get you a meeting is the friend of the VIP. Some people get tunnel vision of talking only to those who can help directly. Indirect help, a phone call to the right person on your behalf, is most effective.

* What to Talk about at an Industry Mixer...

No pressure, everyone you meet will be forming an impression of your ability to succeed in the entertainment business. To be fair, you'll be doing the same with them. Embrace that we're living in a meritocracy where success is rewarded and failure is best avoided.

Talk about your successes and how grateful you are to be in Hollywood. As in professional sports, complaining about being in the game is considered very poor sportsmanship. We're all lucky to be here. If you encounter anyone not being "good in the room", let me know so I can help them.

* Meet the Dutch Producers...

Dutch television producers Frank Van Rooen and Rick de Graaf are shooting a reality series for the Dutch National Network about personal experiences working in Hollywood. They may bring their camera tonight, if anyone would like to be interviewed.

Love you guys!