Wendy Kurtzman

With more than 25 years of experience in Television and Film, Wendy Kurtzman helped launch the careers of many well known actors including such notables as Sandra Bullock, Reese Witherspoon, Patrick Dempsey and Even Rachel Wood and has worked with many distinguished directors such as Paul Schrader, Diane Keaton, Sally Field, and Roland Emmerich, for whom she cast the blockbuster INDEPENDENCE DAY, starring Will Smith.

Prior to starting her own casting business, Wendy was an executive at NBC and Lifetime. With an acting background and degree in theater from UCLA, Wendy has always been a champion for artists, especially those who are launching from Academia into the Industry.

With a mission to help artists incorporate entrepreneurial skills, creativity and time management, Wendy is currently finishing a book titled "The Executive Actor: 8 seats at the Boardroom Table." The book addresses all aspects of a creative career including financial and mental wellness, creative and business development, marketing and other key aspects to a successful mindset and career. Additionally, Wendy created and has taught at PPA/LA (Pace Performing Arts/LA Intensive), for the past 6 years. This program consists of a strong network of Industry colleagues who teach an Intensive once a year with a mission to bridge the gap between Academia and the Industry. The program includes casting directors, writers, directors, agents, managers, and producers.

Going forward, plans are in the works to launch this Intensive, outside of Academia, through her company, Center for Emerging Artists, so all creatives can access this highly respected program and obtain guidance and feedback from Industry Professionals.