Weekly Reporter: Barbara Klein & Dawn Massamillo

[Barbara Klein has been working with children and adults for over two decades, specializing in newborns and young adults. She has worked with many top agents and casting companies in the tri-state area, and she also does direct casting for movies, TV, soaps, commercials and print work. Dawn Massamillo is now assisting Barbara as she looks to discover new talent. Many of their clients appear in principal and background roles, Broadway, radio and voice-overs, print and more.]

What does Divine Talent Management look for?

Barbara: We’re always trying to get new clients for Broadway. We’re casting all the Broadway shows, tours, musical theater, as well as print, commercial, background work, soap operas. We work with sixteen different agencies and unions. We are looking for uniqueness.

What makes the Nijah / New Faces Development talent stand out?

Dawn: The first time I was able to see the Nijah / New Faces Development talent, it gave me such a good vibe. I can't say what Nijah / New Faces Development are doing differently from other places, but their staff are definitely dedicated to the talent. The models and talent look spectacular. For me, first impressions mean a lot and their models and talent always stand out.

Do you think that opportunities to meet industry professionals are important?

Barbara: The meetings are a great opportunity for the talent and the agents. We need to see the talent and the models, and in person you can see the people who really dream big and possess the drive to do it.

Dawn: Well, I like to interact with and see the talent first hand. The people Barbara brings in are now top-notch. I love assisting her and when we're considering new talent, we love to deal with the younger ones. I’ve been working with her for three years, and it's the most hands-on part of the job I get to do.

Do you feel like development is essential for those looking to break into the industry?

Barbara: Of course, and for so many reasons. First of all, there’s a lot of information and encouragement gained when a new model or talent is surrounded by knowledgeable staff when they're starting out. Then, they get phenomenal pictures taken and they're treated like the cream of the crop. They're developed and they're provided with exposure to all the industry professionals. And that's just the beginning. Development provides the talent with so many options.

What else do models and talent need to succeed in this industry?

Barbara: They need that spark, and we can see it within 30 seconds; it's that certain something that makes people stand out in a crowd. It's the 'wow' factor that makes people take notice, whether it’s in a child or an adult.

Dawn: The “spark” that Barbara mentioned, I think we’ve been successfully acquiring talent by looking for that. When you find a model or talent with the right look, that spark and whether or not they can do what is required of them (which usually comes with development), it makes things easier. From the professional point of view, you need punctuality, passion and patience. Those qualities are the keys.