Jen Van Epps
Hello Actors and Humans!
I'm really excited to have the opportunity to read with you. Thank you for your trust, time and hard work on your craft. My mantra is that there is enough work for everyone, so focus on the joy of the acting and release the need to book. Magically, bookings go up when you release that. Also remember that this audition is not about this job, it's about the next one. Really and truly. Trying to have non judgement about every audition you get is critical. We've all gotten those auditions that aren't excellent. So, unless it butts up against your moral compass, come to every word with an open heart and mind. Reframe it as an opportunity to make those words shine and an opportunity to craft tin into gold. So dig into story and have fun. If it's not fun and soul igniting, why do it?
I have had the opportunity to work with an Auckland based CD as a reader and assistant . That job has given me some insight on the casting process. I can't claim to be an expert, but I've been behind the velvet rope and love to bring that insight into my own and others auditions. I love the opportunity to empower and uplift people.
I love being present when actors find their voice and intuitive/appropriate choices for the scenes they are working on and life beyond the page. I find that I am constantly learning while helping other actors with scenes. It's really a win win! Let me know if you want me to help you find the scene or if you just want me to shut my trap and just read. ha
Thanks for your time. Check out my bio for more detailed information on my work.
XO, Jen
Jen Van Epps is a native of Los Angeles currently living in Auckland, New Zealand with African American and Chinese Taiwanese heritage. Those roots are undeniably interwoven into her life as an artist, mother and human. Jen has studied various acting techniques in LA, NY, and Auckland: UCB Theatre in LA and NY, scene study with Amie Farrell, Brad Henke, Margie Haber studios, BGB Studios (Steve Braun), and Brita McVeigh and Chekhov with Elena Stejko in NZ. Since moving to New Zealand in 2018, she has continued her work in commercials, tv, film and theatre. Most recently Jen has worked on Cowboy Bebop (Netflix), Mr. Corman (Apple TV), Power Rangers , Destination Love, The Royal Treatment (Netflix), The Wilds (Amazon), Runaway Millionaires (Fearless Productions/TVNZ1), Tales of Nai Nai (HeiHei/MukPuddy) as the voice of Super Panda on Seasons 1 and 2, various commercials as well as the international debut of the smash hit play Emilia. In 2022 keep an eye out for her supporting role in the Blumhouse sci-fi thriller M3GAN and Don't Make Me Go with John Cho.
- Mandarin speaker
