We had the good fortune of connecting with John M. Keating and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi John M., what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I don’t think I really had a choice! Ever since I was a little kid I loved to create and play, whether it was drawing or playing with my action figures and creating intricate stories. I used to sneak on my TV late nights to watch stand-up comics on The Tonight Show and acting and comedy were something I always wanted to do. So I’ve always dreamt about and wanted to act/do comedy/write/etc. I love the collaboration of being a part of something bigger than yourself and creating something that resonates with people. Even if that resonance is just that it made them laugh or feel good for 22 minutes.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’ve been coaching actors for the past 10 years and I absolutely love it. I try to work on the mindset of auditioning as well as just the performance. There are a lot of talented actors but unfortunately, we have a habit of getting in our own ways a lot of the time. I like to focus on how to serve the script and character you’re playing while also being able to bring yourself to each audition.

If I’ve learned anything in this crazy business it’s that all you can do is be of service. The less you make it about “you” the better the work and the better you feel. As an actor, you’re not going to be right for every role you audition for and that’s OK! Your job is to bring yourself to the role and let people see how you would do it. It may be what they are looking for, it may not, but it will be a good performance that will get you more auditions down the line. That’s a win. Celebrate the wins where you find them.

Above all, you don’t have to do anything to “stand out”….YOU are enough.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I absolutely love Palm Springs! It is exactly how I imagined California would be when I was growing up in Boston. There’s a ton of stuff to do in museums, restaurants, bars and clubs. Also, you can just chill out and relax if that’s your vibe. It’s my favorite spot in California.

Closer to home, I love going to Dodger Stadium for games and out to the Santa Monica Pier. I think one of the real hidden gems of good food and drink is Culver City. Every time I venture out that way I have a blast.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I definitely want to Shoutout my wife Amber Keating. She’s a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has her own practice. On a daily basis, she gives me the strength and courage to keep on, especially during tough times. She’s my biggest cheerleader but also will call me out when I’m not being my true self. She’s amazing!

Website: https://jmkaudition.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkeats

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnMKeating

Image Credits
Theatrical Headshot by Greg Crowder Photography

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