Bryn-Erin Ward wants to help you be the next star.
And the Royal City actress is happy to be part of a package that could kick-start your career.
The veteran TV and screen entertainer is donating her star power to the “So you want to be a star!” package up for grabs at the Hyack Football Tailgate Auction.
In fact, Ward – perhaps best known as Neve Campbell’s nerdy best friend Libby on Party of Five – wishes she had this kind of a star starter-kit when she embarked on her career in the 1990s.
“I would have loved to have won this package – it’s quite spectacular,” said Ward.
“This is like getting the insider’s scoop on how to be an entertainment professional.”
Ward, who has worked with everyone from Cameron Diaz to Dick Van Dyke, is one of several sponsors who have pooled their resources to produce a package that includes lessons in voice, hip hop, dancing and acting. It also includes a makeover, a session with a professional photographer and video audition.
The package comes complete with the winner getting a wrap party/audition at a nightclub downtown.
Ward, a realtor for Re/Max Advantage, says her two-hour session will teach the package purchaser acting skills, how to establish an acting career, the steps needed to launch it and other tips on how to be a professional.
“To have a package like this is huge. To have a professional photographer alone is huge. Proper headshots and promo photos are very expensive,” she said.
The 11th annual Hyack Football Tailgate Auction sponsored by River Market at Westminster Quay takes place on Oct. 26 at La Perla Ballroom. This year’s fundraiser features a wine tasting reception hosted by Pacific Breeze Winery, live music and an appearance by B.C. Lions “Felions” cheerleaders as part of a salute to the Leos’ 60th anniversary.
Other prizes on the auction block include a Hawaiian holiday donated by Westland Insurance and a Caribbean cruise donated by Odenza Carnival Cruise.
One big reason Ward is happy to help with the auction is her daughter Shane’s experience as a cheerleader in the Hyacks football program.
“It’s been a wonderful experience for Shane – it’s given her a chance to combine her love of sport with her love of dance. Her confidence has skyrocketed,” said Ward.
“It’s not just about football – I love that the Hyacks are reaching out to the arts and entertainment communities of the city.”
And you don’t have to be gunning to be the next Canadian Idol to benefit from acting lessons, she adds.
“Acting lessons have helped me in my career outside of the entertainment industry. It’s helped me with my people skills, my public speaking and confidence. These are skills that can help you no matter what you do in life,” Ward said.
For more information on the Hyacks Tailgate Auction, visit: www.hyackfootballtailgateauction.com.
