Tyler Mark Matkowski

Tyler Mark has worked as a performer, choreographer, dance teacher, and as an event & entertainment creative with a career that has taken him all over the world.www.TylerMark.com Instagram/Twitter/TikTok @tylermarkprod

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Things That Actually Help When You're In a Fight With Someone You Love

Not relationship advice. Just things I've noticed actually work.

Timing matters more than most people think. Trying to resolve something serious when you're both already worn down is not going to go well. It's okay to say let's talk about this but not right now.

Most arguments are about something deeper than whatever you're actually arguing about. The surface thing is rarely the real thing. Getting curious about what's underneath usually moves things forward faster than debating the details.

Wanting to be right and wanting to actually resolve something are two very different goals, and you can only really pursue one of them at a time. The ones who figure that out early have better relationships.

Staying in the conversation even when it's uncomfortable is the whole thing. Most people either blow up or shut down. The third option is staying calm and staying present and it takes real practice.

That's it. Not complicated. Just hard.

www.tylermark.com | Instagram @tylermark.creative

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Why I Built StarStudded Productions

I've spent most of my career in rooms where something incredible was happening on stage. The Tony Awards. The Latin Grammys. Disney productions. Broadcast events. Concerts. Galas. A Jennifer Lopez performance in a stadium during a global pandemic streamed to millions of people.

At some point I stopped just being a part of those moments and started building them for other people. That's what StarStudded Productions is.

It's not a talent agency. It's not just an AV company. It's a production company that thinks about the whole experience. The lighting, the sound, the entertainment, the flow of the night, the moment that makes everyone in the room stop and look up. All of it.

I started it because I believed events deserved better than the checklist approach most people were taking. I still believe that. Every event we touch is built from the concept up and every element is there for a reason.

That's the whole thing really. Build it with intention and it shows.

www.tylermark.com | Instagram @tylermark.creative

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What Good Communication Actually Looks Like

Most communication advice is obvious the moment you read it and forgotten the moment you close the tab. So instead of a list of tips let me just tell you what I've noticed actually makes a difference.

People who communicate well are almost always better listeners than talkers. They ask questions and sit with the answer before jumping in. They're not waiting for their turn to speak. They're actually trying to understand what's being said.

They're also honest without being harsh. There's a version of directness that's just bluntness dressed up as confidence and that's not it. Real directness is clear, calm, and considerate of the other person even when the message is hard.

They pay attention to more than words. A text can't tell you how someone is actually feeling. Neither can a perfectly polished email. The people who communicate well know when a conversation needs to happen out loud and they don't avoid it.

And when things get tense, which they will, they stay in the room. They don't shut down or blow up. They stay engaged with the problem without making it personal.

That's really it. Listen, be honest, pay attention, and stay in the room. Easier said than done but worth working at.

www.tylermark.com | Instagram @tylermark.creative

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The Contract Gets You the Gig. The Relationship Gets You the Next One.

I've worked with a lot of clients over the years and the ones who keep coming back aren't always the ones with the biggest budgets or the most exciting events. They're the ones where something clicked beyond the paperwork. Where a conversation turned into a real working relationship and the event became something we were both invested in.

A contract is just the starting point. It covers what's expected, what's delivered, and what happens if something goes sideways. All of that matters. But the contract doesn't tell you that your client is stressed because their board is watching this event closely. It doesn't tell you that they've had a bad experience with a production company before and they're nervous about trusting someone new. It doesn't tell you what they actually care about underneath all the logistics.

That stuff comes from paying attention. From checking in not just when you need something but when you want to make sure they're okay. From remembering details about their event that they mentioned once in passing and bringing it back up later because it mattered to them. From being honest when something isn't going to work the way they imagined and offering a better solution instead of just going along with it.

The events I'm most proud of weren't necessarily the biggest ones. Some of them were modest in scope but enormous in care. And almost every one of them led to another conversation, another event, another opportunity. Not because of what was in the contract but because of what happened around it.

That's the part of this work nobody talks about enough. Anyone can execute a run of show. Building a relationship in which a client trusts you completely with something they care about is an entirely different skill, and it's worth developing.

www.tylermark.com Instagram @tylermark.creative

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What's Working in Live Event Entertainment Right Now (And What Isn't)

Let's skip the fluff and talk about what's actually landing at events in 2026.

One big moment beats two hours of mediocre entertainment every single time. I've seen it over and over. Plan for impact, not just programming.

Custom entertainment is in. Building a performance around your brand, your theme, your audience. Not just booking a generic act and hoping it fits. That's the difference between an event people remember and one they forget on the drive home.

Hybrid AV is still a thing and still being done badly by most people. If your virtual attendees feel like an afterthought, they are. Invest in the production and it shows.

What's running out of steam? The photo booth as a main attraction. The passive DJ set nobody is actually listening to. Entertainment that asks nothing of the audience and gives them nothing back.

Nonprofit and charity galas are honestly producing some of the most creative events happening right now. The expectations are high and a lot of organizations are rising to meet them.

That's the landscape. Bring intention to what you book, and it'll show.

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Turning Rejection into Resilience: A Guide for Aspiring Performers

Rejection is a common part of a performer’s journey. It can be disheartening to hear “no” at auditions or face frequent setbacks in your artistic pursuits. However, the key to success in the world of singing, dancing, and acting often lies in your ability to turn rejection into resilience.

Tips for Building Resilience:

Mindset Shift: Instead of viewing rejection as a personal failure, see it as an opportunity for growth. Understand that even the most successful artists faced rejection early in their careers.

Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that rejuvenate your spirit, whether it’s yoga, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.

Positive Attitude: Cultivate a positive attitude and maintain belief in your talent and potential. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you.

Keep Learning: Use rejection as a chance to learn and improve. Seek feedback from auditions and take acting, dancing, or singing classes to enhance your skills.

Set Realistic Goals: Break your long-term goals into smaller, achievable milestones. Celebrate your successes along the way.

Remember, resilience is a valuable trait that will serve you well throughout your career. Every “no” brings you one step closer to your next “yes.”

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The Audition Feedback Loop: Using Nos to Improve Your Craft

Receiving a rejection after an audition can be tough, but it’s essential to remember that feedback can be a powerful tool for growth. Here’s how you can turn those “nos” into opportunities for improvement.

Steps to Gather and Use Feedback:

Ask for Feedback: Don’t hesitate to request feedback from audition panels or casting directors. They can provide valuable insights into your performance.

Take Notes: Record the feedback you receive. Note both positive comments and areas for improvement.

Reflect and Adapt: Analyze the feedback and make a plan to address the areas that need work. Consider enrolling in workshops or seeking mentorship to hone your skills.

Practice and Re-audition: Apply what you’ve learned in your practice sessions and re-audition when the opportunity arises. Show that you’re committed to growth.

Stay Persistent: Rejection is part of the journey. Keep auditioning and seeking feedback. Over time, you’ll see progress and increased success.

Using feedback effectively is a crucial skill for any performer. It demonstrates your dedication to improvement and can lead to breakthrough moments in your career.

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Perseverance Pays Off: Success Stories of Famous Performers Who Faced Rejection

Rejection is not the end of the road; it’s often just a detour on the path to success. Here are some inspiring stories of famous performers who faced rejection but persevered to achieve greatness.

Success Stories:

J.K. Rowling: Before becoming a renowned author, Rowling’s “Harry Potter” manuscript was rejected by multiple publishers. Today, her books are beloved worldwide.

Meryl Streep: The iconic actress was turned down for roles early in her career. Now, she holds the record for the most Academy Award nominations.

The Beatles: This legendary band was initially rejected by record labels. Despite setbacks, they went on to become one of the most influential music groups in history.

Fred Astaire: The famous dancer and actor was told he couldn’t act or sing. He persevered, and his talents graced the silver screen for decades.

These stories remind us that rejection is a temporary setback, and with determination and talent, you can overcome it to achieve your dreams.

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Preparing for Auditions: Stepping into the Spotlight with Confidence

Auditions – the gateway to your dreams in the performing arts. They can be exhilarating, nerve-wracking, but always a chance to shine. Let’s talk about how to prepare for these crucial moments.

1. Confidence is Your Foundation Confidence doesn’t just help you stand out; it’s your secret weapon. Remember, the panel wants to see a performer who’s not only talented but also self-assured. Practice positive affirmations, visualize your success, and walk into the room knowing you deserve to be there.

2. Choosing Pieces That Speak to You Your performance piece is your voice. Pick something that resonates with you, that you can connect with emotionally. Whether it’s a powerful contemporary dance routine or a classic monologue, let your choice reflect your unique strengths and passion.

3. Mental and Physical Readiness Mental preparation is as crucial as physical. Research your character, understand their motivations, and immerse yourself in their world. Physically, stay on top of your game with regular workouts, a healthy diet, and sufficient rest. Your body is your instrument – tune it well.

4. It’s All a Learning Experience Every audition, regardless of the outcome, is a step forward. Learn from each experience, grow from your feedback, and keep refining your craft. Your journey in the arts is a marathon, not a sprint.

Remember, auditions are not just about landing a role; they’re about showcasing who you are as a performer. So, take a deep breath, give it your all, and let your talent do the talking!

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Choosing the Right Audition Material: Finding Your Perfect Match

Selecting the right material for your audition is like picking out the perfect outfit for a crucial interview – it can make or break your first impression. This post will guide you through the nuances of choosing material that not only showcases your strengths but also resonates with your personal style.

1. Match Your Strengths with the Material Your audition piece should be a showcase of your best skills. Are you a powerful vocalist? Choose a song that allows you to hit those high notes with finesse. A gifted dancer? Select a routine that highlights your agility and expressiveness. The key is to pick a piece where your talents can shine brightly.

2. Connection is Crucial Beyond technical skills, your emotional connection to the piece is vital. Choose material that speaks to you on a personal level. When you’re emotionally invested, it shows in your performance, making it more authentic and engaging. It could be a monologue that echoes your life experiences or a dance routine that stirs your soul.

3. Consider the Audition Requirements Always tailor your material to the specific requirements of the audition. If it’s for a contemporary play, a classic Shakespearean monologue might not be the best fit. Aligning your choice with the production’s genre and style shows that you understand and respect the casting team’s vision.

4. Keep It Fresh and Unique While it’s tempting to go with popular choices, consider lesser-known pieces to stand out. Casting directors appreciate being introduced to new material. However, ensure it’s appropriate for the audition and highlights your abilities.

5. Practice Makes Perfect Once you’ve chosen your piece, practice it tirelessly. Familiarize yourself with every nuance, every emotion. Your goal is to present it effortlessly, as if the character or the dance is an extension of yourself.

Remember, your audition material is your voice in the room. It should be a reflection of who you are as a performer and what you can bring to the table. Choose wisely, prepare thoroughly, and let your talent do the rest!

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Audition Etiquette: Making the Right Impression from the Start

Your talent is vital, but how you conduct yourself during an audition can be just as crucial. Audition etiquette goes beyond mere manners; it’s about demonstrating your professionalism, respect for the process, and understanding of the industry. This post will explore key aspects of audition etiquette that can help you make a lasting positive impression.

1. Punctuality Is Paramount Being on time for your audition shows respect for the casting team’s schedule and your fellow performers. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early, allowing yourself time to settle in, warm up, and review your material. Remember, in the theater world, being on time means being early.

2. Preparation Speaks Volumes Walk into the audition room prepared and ready to perform. This means having your material well-rehearsed, bringing any requested items (like headshots or resumes), and being ready to adapt to any last-minute changes or directions.

3. Respect Everyone in the Room Treat everyone you meet with kindness and professionalism, from the receptionist to the casting director. The performing arts community is interconnected, and your reputation matters. A positive attitude and respectful demeanor can make you a memorable candidate.

4. Keep It Professional in the Room During your audition, focus on your performance. Avoid overly casual banter or personal stories unless it’s appropriate or encouraged by the casting team. Your primary goal is to showcase your talent and suitability for the role.

5. Handling Feedback and Direction Be open to feedback or direction during your audition. This demonstrates your ability to collaborate and adapt, qualities highly valued in the performing arts. Show that you can take direction well and adjust your performance accordingly.

6. Exit Gracefully Once your audition is complete, thank the panel for their time and exit the room calmly and confidently. Avoid lingering or asking for immediate feedback. Your exit is as important as your entrance – it’s your final chance to leave a positive impression.

Audition etiquette is an extension of your professionalism as a performer. It shows casting directors not just who you are as an artist, but also as a potential collaborator. Remember, auditions are as much about finding the right personality fit as they are about finding the right talent.

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Overcoming Stage Fright: Embracing the Spotlight with Confidence

Stage fright, that fluttery feeling in your stomach before you step on stage or into an audition room, is a common experience for performers. But it doesn’t have to hold you back. In fact, with the right approach, it can even be harnessed to enhance your performance. This post will offer strategies to overcome stage fright and channel that energy into a captivating presence.

1. Acknowledge and Accept Your Nerves The first step in conquering stage fright is acknowledging it. Understand that it’s a natural response to a high-stakes situation. Accepting your nerves as a part of the performance process can help demystify them and reduce their power over you.

2. Prepare Thoroughly Preparation is your strongest ally against stage fright. The more familiar you are with your material, the more confident you’ll feel. Regular practice, including mock auditions or performances, can help you feel more at ease with your material and reduce anxiety.

3. Develop a Pre-Performance Routine Create a pre-performance routine that helps you relax and focus. This could include breathing exercises, stretching, vocal warm-ups, or visualizing a successful performance. Find what works for you and make it a consistent part of your preparation.

4. Focus on the Performance, Not the Outcome Shift your focus from the fear of judgment or failure to the joy of performing. Concentrate on immersing yourself in the character or the piece, and let the pleasure of performing be your driving force.

5. Use Nervous Energy Positively Channel your nervous energy into your performance. Often, this energy can add an extra level of excitement and dynamism to your presentation. Embrace it as a source of vitality and passion.

6. Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques Mindfulness techniques, like deep breathing and grounding exercises, can help calm your mind and center your focus. They allow you to stay present in the moment, reducing the impact of anxious thoughts.

Remember, stage fright is something most performers experience at some point. By embracing and managing your nerves, you can transform them into an asset rather than a hindrance. With practice, you’ll find that you can step into the spotlight with confidence and charisma.

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Handling Audition Feedback: Turning Critique into Your Superpower

Feedback in auditions can be a goldmine for growth, whether it’s praise or constructive criticism. How you handle and utilize this feedback can significantly shape your journey as a performer. This post is about transforming audition feedback into a powerful tool for personal and professional development.

1. Listen with an Open Mind When receiving feedback, the first step is to listen actively and with an open mind. Resist the urge to defend or explain your choices during the audition. Remember, feedback is not personal; it’s about your performance, not your worth as an individual or artist.

2. Ask for Clarification if Needed If certain aspects of the feedback aren’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Understanding the specifics can help you make more targeted improvements. However, do this respectfully and at an appropriate moment.

3. Reflect and Analyze After the audition, take time to reflect on the feedback. Analyze what went well and what areas need improvement. Be honest with yourself – self-awareness is key to growth.

4. Turn Feedback into Actionable Steps Convert the feedback into actionable steps. If the critique was about a lack of emotional depth, for instance, consider taking acting workshops that focus on emotional expression. Make a plan on how you’ll address each piece of feedback.

5. Practice and Apply the Feedback Incorporate the feedback into your practice sessions. If you were advised to work on your vocal range, include specific exercises in your routine that target this area. Applying feedback consistently is crucial for improvement.

6. Keep a Feedback Journal Maintain a journal of the feedback you receive, along with notes on how you’ve addressed it. This not only tracks your progress but also helps you identify recurring patterns or areas for improvement.

Handling audition feedback with grace and a growth mindset can accelerate your development as a performer. It’s about embracing every piece of advice as an opportunity to become the best version of yourself on stage and beyond.

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The Role of Mental Health in Auditions: Balancing Mind and Performance

Mental health plays a critical role in auditions, influencing not just how you perform, but also how you perceive and handle the entire experience. This post will delve into strategies for maintaining mental well-being during the audition process, ensuring that you bring not only your talent but also a balanced mindset to the stage.

1. Acknowledge the Stress of Auditions Auditions can be stressful, and it’s important to acknowledge this. Recognizing the emotional and mental demands of auditioning allows you to take proactive steps in managing stress.

2. Develop a Healthy Pre-Audition Routine Establish a pre-audition routine that includes activities that calm and center you. This could be meditation, a short walk, listening to music, or any other activity that helps reduce anxiety and puts you in a positive frame of mind.

3. Stay Connected with Supportive People Maintaining a network of support is crucial. Stay connected with friends, family, or mentors who understand the challenges of the industry and can offer encouragement and perspective.

4. Practice Mindfulness and Positive Thinking Mindfulness practices can help you stay grounded and focused in the present moment, reducing worries about the future or past auditions. Combine this with positive thinking to cultivate a more optimistic outlook on your performances and auditions.

5. Set Realistic Expectations Setting realistic expectations for each audition can help manage feelings of disappointment or failure. Understand that not every audition will result in success, and each one is a learning opportunity and a step forward in your career.

6. Take Care of Your Physical Health Physical health greatly impacts mental health. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in physical activities. A healthy body supports a healthy mind.

7. Seek Professional Help When Needed If you find that audition-related stress is overwhelming or impacting your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Talking to a counselor or therapist can provide valuable strategies to cope with stress and maintain mental well-being.

Balancing your mental health with the demands of auditions is key to not only performing your best but also enjoying the journey as a performer. Remember, taking care of your mind is as important as honing your craft.

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Building a Network in the Performing Arts: Making Meaningful Connections

Networking in the performing arts isn’t just about making connections; it’s about building relationships that are both supportive and beneficial. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, networking can open doors to opportunities and provide essential support throughout your career. This post will guide you through the art of networking in the performing arts industry.

1. Start with Genuine Interests Networking should stem from genuine interest and curiosity. Attend performances, workshops, and social events not just to meet people, but to learn and engage with the art form. This authenticity will make your interactions more meaningful and memorable.

2. Be an Active Participant Don’t just be a spectator at events. Engage in conversations, ask questions, and share your experiences and aspirations. Being active in the community shows your passion and commitment to the industry.

3. Use Social Media Wisely Social media is a powerful tool for networking. Follow industry professionals, engage with their content, and share your own experiences and achievements. Remember to keep your interactions professional and respectful.

4. Offer Help and Collaborate Networking is a two-way street. Offer your skills or help to others when you can. Collaboration on projects or volunteering for events can build strong relationships and showcase your abilities.

5. Maintain and Nurture Relationships After making connections, it’s important to maintain and nurture these relationships. Keep in touch, provide updates on your progress, and be supportive of their endeavors as well. Networking is about building a community, not just a list of contacts.

6. Be Open to Learning and Growing Every person you meet can teach you something valuable. Be open to learning from others, regardless of their level of experience or background. Networking is as much about personal growth as it is about professional advancement.

7. Respect Boundaries and Professionalism While it’s important to be friendly and approachable, always maintain professional boundaries. Respect people’s time and privacy, and understand that not every interaction will lead to a professional opportunity.

Effective networking in the performing arts is about creating meaningful connections, learning from others, and being part of a community. It’s an ongoing process that can enrich both your personal and professional life.

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Dealing with Rejection in Auditions: Building Resilience in Your Artistic Journey

Rejection is an inevitable part of the audition process in the performing arts. It’s not just about how often you face rejection, but how you handle it that defines your path as an artist. This post focuses on strategies to cope with and learn from rejection, turning it into a stepping stone towards success.

1. Understand That Rejection is Not Personal It’s crucial to remember that rejection in auditions is not a reflection of your worth as an artist or individual. Casting decisions are influenced by numerous factors beyond your performance, such as specific character needs, chemistry with other cast members, or even budget constraints.

2. Allow Yourself to Process Your Feelings It’s okay to feel disappointed after a rejection. Allow yourself time to process these feelings, but try not to dwell on them. Acknowledging your emotions is a healthy part of the coping process.

3. Seek Constructive Feedback Whenever possible, seek constructive feedback from your auditions. This can provide insights into areas for improvement or aspects of your performance that stood out, even if you didn’t get the part.

4. Focus on Growth and Learning Use each audition as a learning opportunity. Regardless of the outcome, every audition is a chance to practice, improve, and gain more experience in the field.

5. Stay Connected with Your Support System Lean on your support system – friends, family, mentors, or fellow artists. They can offer encouragement, perspective, and remind you of your talents and accomplishments.

6. Keep Things in Perspective Try to keep a broader perspective. One rejection is just a small part of your entire career. Remember your successes, and keep your long-term goals in mind.

7. Stay Committed to Your Craft Continue to hone your skills, attend workshops, and stay active in your craft. Staying committed to your art shows resilience and dedication, essential qualities for a successful career in the performing arts.

8. Practice Self-Care Engage in activities that boost your mental and emotional well-being. Whether it’s a hobby, exercise, or simply taking time to relax, self-care is vital in maintaining your resilience in the face of rejection.

Dealing with rejection is a part of every performer’s journey. By building resilience, staying focused on growth, and maintaining a positive outlook, you can navigate these challenges and continue to pursue your passion with determination and grace.

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Celebrating Success in Your Performing Career: Embracing and Building Upon Your Achievements

Success in the performing arts, whether it’s landing a dream role or receiving accolades for your performance, is a moment worth celebrating. It’s a testament to your hard work, talent, and perseverance. This post focuses on how to celebrate these successes and use them as a foundation for future achievements in your artistic journey.

1. Take a Moment to Appreciate Your Achievement When you achieve success, take the time to truly appreciate it. Acknowledge the effort and dedication it took to reach this point. Celebrate with friends, family, or simply give yourself a moment to relish in your accomplishment.

2. Reflect on Your Journey Use your success as an opportunity to reflect on your journey. Think about the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and how you’ve grown as a performer. This reflection can provide valuable insights for your future endeavors.

3. Share Your Success Don’t hesitate to share your success with your community. Whether it’s through social media, a blog post, or in conversations, sharing can not only spread positivity but also inspire others in your field.

4. Set New Goals After celebrating your success, start setting new goals. Success is a stepping stone to bigger challenges and achievements. Think about what you want to accomplish next and start laying the groundwork to achieve it.

5. Stay Humble and Grounded While it’s important to celebrate, staying humble keeps you grounded and open to continuous learning. Remember, every experience, whether a success or a setback, is a part of your growth as an artist.

6. Give Back to the Community Consider giving back to the community that has supported you. This could be through mentoring, teaching, or volunteering. Sharing your knowledge and experiences can be incredibly rewarding and helps to strengthen the performing arts community.

7. Maintain Balance While pursuing further success, maintain a balance in your life. Remember to take care of your well-being and cherish the relationships and activities outside of your career.

Celebrating success in your performing career is not just about acknowledging an achievement, but also about using that experience as a catalyst for future growth, learning, and contribution to your art form.