First Runway Show in the States

Had my first runway show in the states this past weekend, and it was a lot of fun. The show itself was to model for Liz Claiborne, Old Navy, and K2, and was also a part of the grand opening of a local talent agency I've joined, OMEG (Okemos Modeling and Entertainment Group). As such, the show was actually held at the Meridian Mall in Okemos, and may have been the first one they've had there. (Yet another sign that Michigan's entertainment industry is steadily growing. )


As I'd only done runway once before, I had to go through a few workshops for the new models to prepare for it, but overall it went really well, and oddly enough, a lot of people had said that I was one of the most confident-looking models there. I guess part of it was that I've had lots of experience doing print modeling and film (and am used to the utter chaos that working on a set can be (especially once egos start bumping against one another, and you are working with massive teams of people), but largely I think it's because I could do it in English. Learning to walk or learn other new skills was easier, understanding directions was easier, and for the first time ever, I knew exactly what everyone around me was saying. There was no guesswork involved. As such, for myself, it wasn't just easy. It was relaxing.

On one funny note however, after finishing my segment of the show, I noticed a plethora of junk food, snacks (and Taco Bell!! ) for us back stage, so I changed back into my tracksuit and was throwing down when my manager called me over and told me to come back up on stage, told everyone I was an action film actor, and asked me to demonstrate my kicking ability. I literally had a mouthful of Taco, a stomach full of Reese Peanut Butter Cups), wasn't stretched out at all, and had been working since 7:30 that morning (had a promo for McDonalds that morning). And I just had to wing it... on a narrow runway stage. Can't say it was the best performance I've ever had, but I can be grateful that I didn't fall off stage...or vomit on anyone. Thank heavens for the small blessings, I guess.