Real-deal actors thoroughly immerse themselves in character study to prepare for moving, authentic performances. If you’ve got an upcoming role as someone who lives, recreates, survives or does field research in the outdoors then embarking on a wilderness excursion is an ideal, challenging and fun way to develop a character for that Oscar-level performance on set. There is no better way to do character research on a character that you’re playing who lives, works, survives, adventures, or quests in the outdoors than diving head-first into the wilderness itself.
Going with an experienced, professional trip leader and adventure butler with film industry experience (such as myself) means that you would not only enjoy yourself in the wilderness, but would also prepare for your upcoming role with an immersive, visceral and dynamic experience.
Aside from the personal and deeply enriching experience of adventuring in the Great Outdoors, living more closely to what your character would experience will give you the authenticity needed to pull off an outdoorsy person believably. We can even run lines and work out beats at camp or set up survival scenarios you would experience as your character!
What is David's experience in the industry?
I am a trained actor for film, musical theater and Shakespeare, studying and performing in the US, Australia and New Zealand since I was 16. I have worked in theatre and the film industry for over two decades and have experienced the grueling long hours, highs and lows, personalities and demands of being on stage or set for TV, commercial and film production. I honed my craft in the capacity of actor, writer, producer, director and talent coordinator -- I even taught children's musical theatre in two countries! For over a decade I worked in casting and extras casting as well as on set talent coordinating for union and non-union commercials in Los Angeles.
Fun fact: one of my favorite times on set was when I performed in 'The Office'! (For those who are curious, it's Season 9, Episode 2: Roy's Wedding.)
So what does an adventure guide and trip leader do?
Well, think of me as your personal confidant who is by your side from the start to finish of your dream adventure. First you’ll choose your excursion; then I’ll research, plan and book it for you, help you prepare for it, and finally – take you on it! I’ll even do all the driving and cook up your meals in the wilderness. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or it’s your very first time, as an experienced traveler and Wilderness EMT it’s my absolute joy and privilege to assist you and your loved ones to go on your dream vacation in the funnest, safest and most enriching ways possible.
How it works
Let’s get to know each other!
I’ll get to know about your upcoming role and what makes you tick (what a way to start a friendship!) and I’ll come up with some potential itineraries inspired by
you! So make sure to come with your inspirations for the part; that could be a list of places that are similar to where the script is set, a list of challenges your character would experience, or even just some images or a general vibe… share anything and everything that’s important to include in your character study!
Choose your favorite adventures!
I’ll come up with and present to you a few itineraries for your upcoming adventure. You’ll give me your input, pick a couple of your favorites, and then I’ll budget them out for you.
Get ready for your wild time!
Once you decide on your favorite adventure I take care of the rest. I’ll book everything that has to do with your trip (accommodations, reservations, tours, permits…
everything) which means that all you have to do is show up on the day of your trip and have a blast! If you chosen a more physically challenging adventure, I’ll develop a workout plan to train you for it, get you outfitted and even send you a packing list so nothing gets forgotten.
Go on your custom character excursion!
Head out on your adventure with your very own adventure butler (me!). I even pick you up at the airport, do all the driving on the trip, cook in the wilderness, run lines with you, set up scenarios in the wilderness... and I'll even have a few surprises for you along the way.
