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'Cut Above' Casting Services
Testimonials

Mark Escovedo

Hello Lisa,

I just wanted to say Thank You for opening Your door and inviting me into Your home. I'm sure all of Your more seasoned clients realize what a special person You are, providing all of us with a level of respect and sevice that is almost unheard of in this business. As for the new kids, well You've just gone and spoiled them, they have no idea how lucky they are to have found You.

I was a pleasure to finally get to meet you face to face and to to visit Your Home/ office, Also it was nice to faces to the voices I hear over the phone. You have a great staff! I just wish I could of met the dogs, I always hear them in the background during calls, Maybe next time.

Again Thank You !

Sincerely,
Mark Escovedo

P.S. When the weather warms up if You and two of Your staff ever want to go for a sailboat ride let me know, I'm always looking for crew :) I have a tiny sailboat that's fun to put around the harbor (MDR) in.

Matthew Wiberg

Lisa and crew....

I want to thank you for all the hard work you guys do. I know things get swamped in your office and working out of a house can get hectic.

Just know there are a lot of us who thank you for all the hard work you do. In today's world, sometimes we get swamped with our own crap and forget to say thank you. Every single one of you totally rocks and deserve so much thanks. If I could, I would kiss each one of you (guys included...I am confortable with my sexuality...really I am). The party was a great hit (though next time we need to find a HUGE meeting hall and party til the cows go MOOOO!!!) Thank you again for everything...YOU RULE!!!!!!!!!!

Matthew Wiberg

actor/stuntman/background artist extraordinaire "You call I haul!!!"
"When in doubt, ask for a voucher!!!"
"Only the good work in casting!!!"
"All women love me...It's a curse."

Beth Theime

I moved out here about a little over a year ago as a SAG actor with admittedly not a lot of set experience under my belt. I thought being an extra was a good way to go, I could get paid, I could make my own schedule, and I could get some set experience so when I do get some lines I am not fretting about the dynamics of a set, I can just concentrate on my character.

I started out doing all my own legwork, spending lots of time calling, trying to get myself booked on as many shows as I could, but as anyone who has tried this knows, it isn't all that easy. I began to wonder if I should get a calling service but whenever I asked anyone on set there was always a varied answer. One person may love this company but the other person hates it, one person works all the time, the other one thinks its a waste of money. I was a bit confused and wanted to put my money to best use, after all I don't have a lot to spread around! (Not a starving actress but darn close!) Luckily, Lisa was really starting to roll with Cut Above and I found her through Craigs List. I can actually get a hold of her. I can actually speak to her. I hear on her lines how she is working for her clients, particularly the SAG clients. She knows who I am. She doesn't have a lot of us and I am very happy to be a part of that small group.

I would and do recommend her to anyone, union or non-union on set because I know she is a good, ethical, hardworking person and those are rare gems it seems.

I have worked on several sets including Entourage numerous times and it just keeps getting better for work with her. I don't see anywhere to go but up and that is really exciting.

I think I am not the only one of her clients who feel this way, ask anyone who is working on set for Cut Above and you will get positive feedback all the time.

It's lucky I found her and I hope I can continue to work with Lisa for a long time.

Beth Theime
SAG Actor

Terry Hunter

"I wanted to take an opportunity to thank you for thinking of me and subsequently, getting me such a great job on an Oliver Stone feature film. Mr. Stone and I actually exchanged pleasantries during the filming (he spoke first, of course) and in between set ups I had a chance to talk with some of the fire fighters. All in all, a most interesting experience.

I'm so pleased to have begun our association on such a positive note.

It seems that so seldom an actor meets someone like you Lisa. You display a passion and drive for your business that is, in my opinion, what is sorely lacking in so many corners of the Motion Picture business. Additionally, I believe you may have that extra something special which is your intuition. You've a special feeling for this business. That's a rare and precious quality."

Judy Cook (from Background Players)

"The background industry always needs more calling services. We need GOOD calling services. Your unconditional and spirited devotion has saved my ass on many an odd hour. I adore you!"

xoxo - Judy Cook
Background Players
Hollywood, CA

Alberto Hermida

Hi. My name is Alberto Hermida. I am with Cut Above Casting Service, and I just wanted to say its a great calling service...... I'm usually getting called for mostly everything Lisa can find, which is great because just the other day I got a call from Lisa to do a great tv show for HBO called Entourage. It was a 2 day call for $75 each day and a bump if u get wet for $10 ... so I accepted as usual.

First day went pretty well - got my $85 for 8 and some over time which lead to over a $100 ... Now on Friday it was awsome. I had a chance to make so much and its because I'm a very helpful person who just likes to take initiative.... So on Friday the weirdest thing happened.

They were shooting a shot and one of the main A.D.s was messing around by the pool area and drops his phone so as soon as I had seen that phone about to hit the water I jumped for it to the pool and got it for him... it was funny because at that time it was raining and it was really cold when I jumped in. So at the end of the night I got a sag voucher.. so instead of making my $100 or so i made like $300+ for being helpful .....

So what I'm trying to tell all you guys is never turn down a job because its not paying well because u never who you'll meet ... And always help people out as much as u can cause it all comes back to u ...

Kristan Berona

"I am not normally wild about using calling services, especially new ones, but after I spoke with Lisa and witnessed her dedication to her clients and the casting directors, I changed my mind! I can always rely on her people showing up, looking great and arriving on-time. She always picks up her phone immediately and she is always totally cool to book with!"

Kristan Berona
Vice President
Sande Alessi Casting

Dennis Honda

Lisa and Crew, I'm sending a letter of thanks to you and your staff for always looking out for the best for your clients. After booking me on the movie "Montana" which I was originally cast as a chinese cook, the director picked me to play the character of an asian philosipher (Son Yan}. When the production assistant took me to my own trailer I was pleasantly surprised. The real surprise came when he handed me a three day contract to act in the movie. It's been a great experience to get lines and gain confidence in the acting field. I want to thank you all again for what you do.

Sincerely,
Dennis Honda

TGrey MacNeil

Dear CAC,

It has been fun years at CAC with many memories of meeting new friends, and great networking, you are the connection to the world for your clients, and without you, me and all your clients would not be where they are today.

You've handed a starving actor a full plate of opportunities to fulfill our dreams, that have come true, and you are always fair with everyone. You have the talent of professionalism, and the gift of a good heart as well, and I am glad to have followed you into your networking services, I have got more work from you then any other services. On top of that you accept the person that I am, with many obstacles I have in life, you always kept me going to push through those obstacles, not go around them.

Thank you Lisa and staff for believing in me, and showing me that I have what it takes to be a successful actor!

Cheers TGrey MacNeil
aka "Scotsman in Hollywood'

Scott F. Anderson

I signed up with Lisa a while back in hopes of getting my third SAG voucher. I didn't know what to expect because I was used to finding work for myself. I was surprised at the amount of personal attention, and the overall kindness I was treated with. I was working frequently as non-union up until I was booked on "Oceans 13" where I got not only my third SAG voucher, but 14 more!

Now I work as union background exclusively for "Cut Above" Casting Services, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Scott F. Anderson
SAG Actor

Angie Leaf

Lisa,

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me the SAG voucher today on "Numbers". It really means a lot to me. I have been thrilled from the beginning to be working with you and today only reconfirmed my feelings.

Thank you for all of the long hours and hard work. I know this can be a thankless job, but please know that I am very THANKFUL to know you.

Hugs,
Angie Leaf
Non-Union

Susan Garcia

Hey Lisa,

Thank you so much for all the information that you provided to us on Monday, you have made my son, JR, so happy. He could not stop talking about how professional you were, how nice you were to all, and yes including me, his mom. I was absolutely impressed with the amount of intregrity, professioanlism and sincere dedication that you have for what your company is doing. J.R. is a great kid who loves life and loves the movie industry, thus being part of the reason he is attending California State University Northridge for Cinema and Television Production. So Thank you for all you do to help your clients, or should I say family, since that is the way you made us feel.

I am sending you some pictures of Ashliegh that I thought you might like, incase you have an opportunity to place Ashliegh with your casting friends, until your "Cut Above" Kids is up and running.

I know that it is not often said enough about who much your thoughtfulness is appreciated, so for all those who have not thanked you are give millions back, and for those who have you are definately very deserving of many more.

Thank you and call me when you are ready for Ashliegh, she is a great kid also and very mature for her age (mind wise) and will not let you down, and for J.R. you have definately place a smile among his handsome face.

Sincerely,
Susan Garcia
Mother of JR & Ashliegh Garcia

Norma Jean Riddick

Lisa, I just wanted to tell you how blessed I feel to have found you and your service. Hands down, CAC (and all its staff) is at the fore of casting services considering: professionalism, grace, honesty, ambition, reputation and treatment of your talent pool.

When I walked into your home office, I felt like I belonged there.

Your solid approach to making a difference shines through your smile and your heart.

When I was with my other calling service I felt like I was working for them, not them working for me. I was treated poorly and unjustly on many occassions. CAC is definitely THE service out here and I know that CAC will back me all the way to the top, no matter where that takes us.

I must also say that I value the fact that your service only accepts the most professional and reliable people. Anyone from CAC I've met on sets is truly as professional as I am and THAT is refreshing beyond words. I can spot a CAC member from their wardrobe bag and it's easy to find people to converse with that are not only happy to be at work, but excited about what they do and as equally excited about CAC as I am. If there's one thing I hate, it's unprofessionalism and complainers. I'm happy to be in this industry. I'm blessed to be in this industry. I love my work. I love to create passion and emotions with my acting and comedic abilities. I'm DOUBLY happy that CAC is part of my career.

Bless you for all you do for all of us, CAC is truly a family, not just a business. If you are not with CAC and you are reading this, WHAT are you waiting for? Tell Lisa I sent you!

I LOVE CAC!!

Norma Jean Riddick
Actress and Standup Comedian
"You'll Never Forget Her" ~ Ex Husband
http://www.missnormajean.com
http://www.myspace.com/bevcomedy

Deborah Tyner

Hi Everyone,

It was a pleasure working with you on "Diagnosis X." I wanted to share with you some feedback I consistently heard during the six weeks of shooting. I knew we had a special group of people working on the show. This was reaffirmed on a DAILY basis from talent, parents of minors, and day players who would come into the AD office just to say how much they enjoyed working on the show because everyone they encountered throughout the day was so pleasant and professional.

I feel privileged to have been a part of this amazing team. Thanks for a great experience.

All the Best,
Debbie

Deborah Tyner
2nd Assistant Director
Diagnosis X

Akira Binns

Lisa,

So, I have all three vouchers and while on the set of Entourage I received some EXCELLENT referrals for Agents, Acting Coaches and a place to take my headshots from Jeremy Piven and Adrian. So, after a long drawn out conversation with myself, I have decided to work towards getting my SAG fees paid, and since I am not working that much right now, I am going to get a part time job to do so, as well as take a class a week where the guys suggested I go and take those steps towards my DREAM. You are SO awesome and due to all the sets you have sent me to, I have gained amazing connections and then going to Entourage they basically laid out a plan for me with all the appropriate tools. So, I am going to take these steps and see where it takes me...Hopefully staright to the top.

Thank you SO much for EVERYTHING! You are so amazing, your company and mission is AMAZING!! You work your butt off and you work the "bleep" out of us. I am advertising you on MySpace, because you are the "bleep" and everyone should know it! Love you, Love you, Love you, and THANK YOU!!!! I may come back....

Take Care and Thank you my love!!!

Akira Binns
Non-union actor

Kristan Berona

Lisa, if you could forward to the Greek Kids, I would appreciate it.

I wanted to thank you and your wonderful roster of kids who worked on "Greek". Now that the show is ending this Tuesday, I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you that out of every calling service that I use, you by far have the best roster of people. Your kids who worked on "Greek" showed up every day, never complained and were truly the most professional group of people I have ever worked with. You made this show so much easier than I thought it would ever be. I am so proud of how you have built you business and I know we will always have a great relationship based on honesty and trust.

Your people kicked butt and I just wanted to share that with you!

Love ya sister!

Kristan Berona
Sande Alessi Casting
818-506-5182 (office)

Sheenalee

I have been a client of CAC for about 4 weeks.

I can not believe that anytime I am available CAC gets me out there working. In the past I've had some bad experiences with other calling services, so I have to say I was skeptical in the beginning. But I should have known I was in good hands because after being on-set one day I found a CAC business card on the ground and went right home and called. The next day Lisa had me come in for orientation. While sitting on her couch, I realized right away how motivated and determined she is to getting her clients work.

Lisa has the ability to have a personal and professional relationship while booking you as often as you need. Because of Lisa and CAC I was working on a television show that enjoyed working with me due to Lisa's' persistence of booking me, as much as possible, that eventually at the producers' request I received a featured billing for a one-liner!

If you are an actor trying to step it up, or even just looking to have fun and eat some good food while working on-set, CAC and Lisa are what your looking for! I'm so grateful to "Cut Above" and Lisa for all their hard work. And I look forward to bigger and better opportunities thanks to "Cut Above".

Thanks Again-
Sheenalee
Non-union actor

Heather Palmer

Dear Lisa,

I just wanted to thank you for your help the other day with directions to the set of Love Tap. I also wanted to thank you and your team for your hard work and dedication to getting people jobs. You truly are passionate about your job and I think its wonderful. I have gotten so many great jobs through you and have met so many great people and have developed awesome friendships.

Thanks again, Lisa!

Heather Palmer
CAC non-union actor

Robert Dierx

I have never been happier with a call in service as I have been with Cut Above Casting. Even through the writers strike I was getting an amazing amount of work and have never been disappointed by the dedication Lisa and her crew have to their clients. I know I can count on Lisa and her crew to get me amazing work with great productions whether it be movies, television or commercials. Thank you Lisa and the rest of the lovely ladies in the office for helping me get started in this business!

Robert Dierx
CAC non-union actor

Cara Byerly

Dearest Lisa and all the ladies at Cut Above,
I just wanted to thank you for your work in getting me booked on the promo call this past Sunday. It turned out to be such a great experience- a small call, a quaint little town, and a beautiful drive out of the city for a little. The best part was when we got to set and found out that we were going to be paid double (around $300.00 for non-union) what we had initially thought!

Lisa, thank you for the way you all work so hard even late into the night to get us all booked on such great projects! We never know what extra things can happen on set, and Sunday turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Thank you for the great contacts you make, for getting our faces out there, for working hard to find us great jobs. I really appreciate your energy and continued work round the clock to give us these opportunities! I am thankful for all of you ladies, and so grateful to be a part of such a great service.

Thanks again,
Cara Byerly
Non-Union actor

Jerry Maldonado

Hi Lisa!! I just wanted to thank you and your crew for a tremendous job and all the hours of hard work you guys put into taking care of us members of CAC. I knew I was in the right place the day I went to your place for orientation. Another girl and I didn't get the message that you cancelled the orientation that day, but you made the time to give the whole thing yourself!!! That made an immediate positive impression of us and you had an open and warm attitude about doing the orientation.

I've been with your service for a little over a week and already on my 6th day strong of work. I'm starting to hear some of the gripes of other BG's that are unhappy with their booking service. I can honestly say that I was ready to go with one of these other services before my sister and father recommended your service to me, and I'm sure glad I made the right choice. As you know my dad is a Hollywood make-up artist and had nothing but positive remarks about your service and I value that. Now he can tell the other BG's on his set that he has 2 of his kids with CAC and very happy!!!

I'm definitely letting others know I'm with Cut Above Casting and proud of it!!!! Keep up the good work!!!

Jerry Maldonado
CAC- non-union actor

Kendrick Thompson

Lisa,
Within six weeks of joining Cut Above Casting, I had four SAG vouchers, a wealth of on-set experience, and good standing with a number of reputable casting directors. More importantly, I had become a member of a close-knit community of young professionals. Of all the extras I have met since starting this work, and I've met many, the only people with whom I have forged any lasting friendships have been other Cut Above clients. This service is selective, and Lisa only accepts the most competent and reliable actors onto her roster. Casting directors keep calling to book Cut Above clients because, through an unrivaled reputation, they know to expect the highest caliber of background actor for their productions, and that they will receive exceptional service from Lisa and her staff. If you make yourself available every day with this company, you will work, you will succeed, and you can be assured that a first-rate crew will be handling the essential details of your career.

Kendrick Thompson
SAG Actor

Heather Palmer

Dear Lisa,
I joined CAC a little over a year ago and still remember that day as if I was yesterday. I am no longer with CAC, and even though this letter is past overdue, I wanted to express my thanks to you.

I cant even begin to tell you how grateful I am that I found a service such as yours. I came to Hollywood not knowing how to get started, and through your service I have met a tremendous amount of people and made some great friends, all which have helped me learn the ins and outs of this business. Not to mention you and your words of wisdom when I was uncertain.

I have and will always recommend your service for those that are trying to get started in this crazy business. I hope we keep in touch through the years, and who knows, maybe someday I will return :)

Many many many thanks to you!

Love
Heather Palmer