tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post2752553258061348221..comments2009-01-28T10:23:44.566-08:00Comments on Memories of Megann: Best Friend an actor could have....oneactorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01992280503366530702noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-71960720228722199462009-01-28T10:23:00.000-08:002009-01-28T10:23:00.000-08:00I was drawn at first to her well-honed humor, flav...I was drawn at first to her well-honed humor, flavored by that famous "I've been through THAT before" attitude. I soon realized, however, that she loved us - all of us - and her world-weariness was a cover for her deep need to connect, to give unsparingly, and to support us vulnerable actors with her heart as well as her work. Though I knew her only by reading for her several times over the years, I always felt welcomed when I saw her, always given a big hug, and then given a boost to do well just when I was about to step in front of the camera. She wanted me to do my best, and I wanted to give it to her, because she had asked, and because she cared so much to ask.<BR/><BR/>I still can't believe she's gone. It was too sudden, and way too soon. Goodbye, my dear, and thank you for your gifts to us all. <BR/><BR/>Love,Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-76247624528104506522009-01-25T13:16:00.000-08:002009-01-25T13:16:00.000-08:00Eric, what a wonderful forum you've created for al...Eric, what a wonderful forum you've created for all of us to share our collective memories of Megann. Thank you so much for setting this up.<BR/><BR/>Megann touched so so many lives, as evidenced by all the heartfelt comments on this memorial post. She was that rare quality in this industry....someone that treated others with respect, demanded respect herself, and did so with a smile and a healthy dose of humor.<BR/><BR/>I'll never forget the time she rang one morning and inquired if I was busy for lunch....and would I be interested in meeting Cuba Gooding Jr., Hal Holbrook, Charlize Theron, and maybe if I was lucky....DeNiro.....on the set of a film she had cast. I practically fell over myself getting out the door to go pick her up, we drove out to the set on Hwy 30 towards Rainer....I think the working title of the film at that time was "Navy Diver".....but later changed to "Men of Honor" before wide release.....we had an amazing time, spent the entire day watching the filming of Eric's famous "I ate a pie!" scene, the director George Tillman was such a gentleman, asking for Megann's input, including us in all the goings-on, what an amazing experience. <BR/><BR/>When I think about that story, I am reminded about what a selfless person Megann was, absolutely zero drama, never smug nor sanctimonious, always warm, inviting, sensitive, and above all, compassionate. Her loss will be felt by all of us, and by the industry as a whole. <BR/><BR/>Farewell old friend, may your passage into the light be an effortless journey on angel's wings....<BR/><BR/>Much love,<BR/><BR/> ~ AngeloAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-62858203342403592502009-01-18T19:57:00.000-08:002009-01-18T19:57:00.000-08:00I first met Megann on "The Dust Factory" as I was ...I first met Megann on "The Dust Factory" as I was just beginning to get what the production community was about. Later I had a chance to audition with her as I dipped my toe into the acting world on the other side of the camera lens. She was a pro and she leaves us all better at our crafts. Frank DiMarcoFrankhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09015713184209126187noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-15376255576546968732009-01-17T20:31:00.000-08:002009-01-17T20:31:00.000-08:00Miss M:I wanted so badly to be there for your gath...Miss M:<BR/><BR/>I wanted so badly to be there for your gathering m'dear departed!<BR/><BR/>However, I just lost another wonderful woman friend and am hosting her Memorial on Monday and wouldn't do so great to travel so far and grieve so much back to back! I know you understand!<BR/><BR/>I have such great memories of the day we stood up together @ the casting directors and agents gathering @ the Governor Hotel and walked out on the unscrupulous name-calling. I was so proud of us in that moment...<BR/><BR/>And will forever remember our lunches @ McCormick & Schmicks, trying to stay away from the beautiful bread they made! Now, I'm glad we did, life is to short to not eat dessert first!<BR/><BR/>I'll miss you in the world, my friend, but will always remember that our integrity made us friends and know you are now on a greater plane of life and I know I'll see you there, someday.<BR/><BR/>Katherine WilsonKdubluhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10687118377647176199noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-70564099162950447182009-01-17T12:28:00.000-08:002009-01-17T12:28:00.000-08:00I got a phone call from Megann one day, after an o...I got a phone call from Megann one day, after an on-camera class, she just wanted to let me know how talented she thought I was, she told me what a special person she thought I was and someone in the industry is going to notice that soon. Her words were so important to me, they gave me the confidence to push on. I respected her so much and believe in myself a little more because of her words and encouragement. Im a better actor because of her.<BR/>Im so sad that she will not be returning. I kept searching for her, not knowing where she had gone. She just never showed up for class one day......<BR/>I hope there's football, cats and turtles in heaven.<BR/>xoxo Johanna HartAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-51411349469886346002009-01-16T20:03:00.000-08:002009-01-16T20:03:00.000-08:00Truly sad. I had my first audition with her. She ...Truly sad. I had my first audition with her. She made me feel like she had known me for years...and gave me great direction, allowed me to take a few stabs at it.<BR/>Such a wonderful soul!<BR/>I will miss her.<BR/><BR/>GarlandAnonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17960046870104256598noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-77229484925569783922009-01-16T19:16:00.000-08:002009-01-16T19:16:00.000-08:00What a sad shock to learn that such a valued and r...What a sad shock to learn that such a valued and respected member of our community has left us. <BR/><BR/>I was lucky enough to be cast by Megann and also to take class with her. She was unique in making every actor feel special and important and that their acting choices were always interesting. She gave confidence to every student by complimenting and teaching from the positive perspective, peppered with her wonderful stories from The Biz.<BR/><BR/>I wish we had all known she was ill - she would have received an outpouring of love, affection, support, and help. I know that I will never forget her.<BR/><BR/>God bless and keep such a special, friendly, and big-hearted lady. Rest with the angels, Megann, for you are truly one of them.Shttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14122294456837715560noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-25042468731122110492009-01-15T17:50:00.000-08:002009-01-15T17:50:00.000-08:00Megann helped my daughter cast a PSA that she was ...Megann helped my daughter cast a PSA that she was producing about domestic violence in '94. This was before my daughter went on to film school and was pretty much a "nobody" here in PTown. I will never forget her support and encouragement. It would never have been made if it weren't for Megann. She was a good soul.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-8623027916338832672009-01-15T14:05:00.000-08:002009-01-15T14:05:00.000-08:00I loved Megann. She was someone I cared about and...I loved Megann. She was someone I cared about and always wished the best for. Professionally, I can't even begin. Well, I guess I can. I got my first role in the first feature I read for. I had found out Megann was casting, and begged her to let me audition. I had no headshot or resume, and she was having some trouble with the director, so she didn't give me an audition. I found out about a cattle call and went. I ended up in a screener room after being chosen by the DP, and Megann was the screener. When I showed up she said, "Boy, you're persistent." I told her I was gong to be in that movie, and luckily it happened. We got along great after that, and I never felt more confident going into an audition than I did with her. I booked nearly everything I read for through her, and I credit her for helping me do that. She was a real champion of actors, and there aren't many who are.<BR/>Personally, she was one of the sweetest people I ever met. She never wished anyone any harm and appreciated every living thing. She was such a mess once when one of her turtles got lost in the yard, it had burrowed down in the dirt and she didn't find it for two days. You'd think the world had ended. She couldn't tell anyone why she was such a mess, but I don't think she'd mind me sharing it now. I laugh kindly when I remember this now. What a special human being she was. Rest well, Megann, you'll be sorely missed here.<BR/><BR/>Love,<BR/><BR/>RobertAnonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13964390660335035369noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-50920501982108517862009-01-15T14:04:00.000-08:002009-01-15T14:04:00.000-08:00This news is a complete shock and hard for me to b...This news is a complete shock and hard for me to bear. I am still in disbelief. <BR/>Megann’s picture has always been a fixture in my office. I remember the day I took it. She was so happy to be working on the film Thumbsucker, greeted me with a huge smile and took me around to meet people on the set. She made me feel so welcomed. <BR/>Megann just had a gift for making people feel good. As a casting director, Megann was the best, taking care of any need with kindness, understanding and a simple solution that would always work out perfectly for all. As a friend, we spent hours, always late night, talking shop, animals, world issues, and alternative jobs. All my actors loved her. Her heart was huge and she treated them with respect and understanding, giving the actors the chance to do their own thing in the room and make their own choices, before directing them further. It was Megann’s goal to make all talent comfortable to get their best performance. This is why so many actors loved Megann as a casting director and missed auditioning for her later. I was sad when she left the casting circle and now deeply hurt that I cannot see or talk to Megann again. Besides being known as a casting director, Megann was an incredibly smart woman and a creative writer, who supported human rights and animal rights with a passion. She will be missed by so many people. <BR/>-Sandra PeabodyAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-1429422734328730142009-01-15T13:45:00.000-08:002009-01-15T13:45:00.000-08:00I worked on several shows with Megann and was alwa...I worked on several shows with Megann and was always amazed at her excellent instincts in casting even the smallest of parts. She put Oregon actors on the National stage time and time again. We owe her thanks for helping to set a foundation that supported our creative community.<BR/>We will miss her.<BR/><BR/>JPDAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-30745131013463784572009-01-15T09:44:00.000-08:002009-01-15T09:44:00.000-08:00She got me my first (and best) featured movie role...She got me my first (and best) featured movie role. And the subsequent two as well. She even convinced the writer/director of the last one to merge three separate characters into one for me. She was so tuned in to the talent that she saw and so gracious and respectful of us. She greeted me as a friend at every audition. We will not see her like again. She was simply the best.<BR/>Megann made the "Final Casting." <BR/>"Break a Wing", baby.<BR/>GeorgeAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-26951643885649471362009-01-14T20:25:00.000-08:002009-01-14T20:25:00.000-08:00I was new to Portland in 1994. I met Megann thru a...I was new to Portland in 1994. I met Megann thru auditioning for her. We just hit it off. That x-mas I was alone. She called me up, told me to put on my winter coat. She took me to the x-mas row. Instead of driving we got out of the car and walked up and down the street looking @ all the lights and talking up a storm until we froze. We went to get cats together, laughed so hard I thought we would poop in our pants, we cried together when things got hard, drank on her porch @ nite and smoked cigs discussing the film crews that were in town. The industry loved her. From here to Los Angeles we loved watching her work. I loved when she would privately coach me before an audition and most of the time I would book because of her. She would come on sets to see if HER actors were being treated fairly. It was great to see Larry E Day with her too. She knew her craft, knew it well. It was always a good day when we were going to see Megann. And as a friend, a real friend, thank you and I will miss you more than you WILL EVER know. Bye for now, SharonleeAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-66664362594196500262009-01-14T17:09:00.000-08:002009-01-14T17:09:00.000-08:00I'll never forget my first "real" movie audition. ...I'll never forget my first "real" movie audition. I was nervous as hell in the waiting area until Megann came out. She started telling us about one of her kittens discovering the thrill of tortoise tipping. Those of us waiting were in stitches. It really took the edge off, and I'm sure helped me get the part. <BR/><BR/>What a sweet person and a sad loss for the whole film and video community.<BR/><BR/>Tim HillAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-46972618596451752992009-01-14T15:36:00.000-08:002009-01-14T15:36:00.000-08:00I don't remember if she ever got any bookings for ...I don't remember if she ever got any bookings for me, all I know is that even though I have not heard her name in at least a decade, I am sorry she is gone.<BR/>When I got out of college, she was friends with my Mom, who was working at Cusick's Talent at the time. Megann was working solo on casting projects and was always looking for any free help. I was working nights, so I helped her out in the daytime for a while. My experience working with her was invaluable, as I was able see what did and didn't work for auditions.<BR/>But what struck me most while I worked with her was her enormous respect for other people's opinions. I was just another actor with minimal credits, helping her out with answering phones and the like. But she listened to me as if I had been with her for years, and I will never forget that.<BR/>Love ya Megan, thanks for all you've done.<BR/><BR/>-Dan Vhay, Portland, OregonAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-225819686606676382009-01-14T07:42:00.000-08:002009-01-14T07:42:00.000-08:00My heartfelt sympathy to Megann and her loved ones...My heartfelt sympathy to Megann and her loved ones. Both being young in our careers in the early 90s we shared the excitement and enthusiasm for the "big projects" starting to come to Oregon. Thank you for Fade to Black & all the others, your unwavering encouragement, and always believing in the Oregon talent...We will miss you!<BR/>Sibyl Busby LazzaraSibylhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15843025488231734272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-6745271056466998852009-01-13T20:33:00.000-08:002009-01-13T20:33:00.000-08:00She was the gold standard. We have all been touche...She was the gold standard. We have all been touched by our dearest Megann. She has given us many gifts and taught us many lessons. Keep her warmth in your heart, remember her kindness and treasure her memory. Life is too short not to pay compliments and Megann bestowed them freely. I will miss my dear friend....Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-9461148608911670122009-01-13T13:08:00.000-08:002009-01-13T13:08:00.000-08:00What is there to say? Megann was so many things to...What is there to say? Megann was so many things to all of us, a teacher, a colleague, a cheerleader - but most importantly to me, she was my dear friend. <BR/><BR/>Megann was there for me in my darkest moments as well as my most joyous - always with the same gentle and loving wisdom to help guide me through. <BR/><BR/>I can't count all of the hours (usually late at night) that we spent on the phone, sharing the war stories and the humorous moments of our day. I will so miss being able to pick up the phone and hear her voice on the other end, calling me "Cookie" and regaling me with stories of Waldo and the kitties. <BR/><BR/>I only hope she knew how much she was loved and how much she will be missed ~ Peace be with you my friend.....Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-22685808100941551962009-01-13T11:06:00.000-08:002009-01-13T11:06:00.000-08:00Like so many others, Megann always made me feel li...Like so many others, Megann always made me feel like the most brilliant human on the planet. Her energy and enthusiasm were so rare in this business. She stayed positive even when everything was going south. I don't have one negative memory of any experience with her. How often can any of us say that in this life? I am so naming my next cat "Ratzow"! Shine bright, Megann- you are missed. <BR/>~Mercedes RoseAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-65041698979465802792009-01-13T10:32:00.000-08:002009-01-13T10:32:00.000-08:00Megann's spirit and hugs were always a good energy...Megann's spirit and hugs were always a good energy charger. An open ear and open heart.<BR/><BR/>I'll miss her dearly.<BR/>EddieAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-45451093560316215982009-01-13T08:18:00.000-08:002009-01-13T08:18:00.000-08:00I took her TV/Film audition class where she was an...I took her TV/Film audition class where she was an encouraging and attentive teacher. The class always went long because she'd have great stories from her past in LA or casting experiences with celebrities. She was a wonderful addition to the creative community in Portland, especially actors. Rest In Peace Megann.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-35388336926100856172009-01-12T23:39:00.000-08:002009-01-12T23:39:00.000-08:00I got to meet and work with Megann once in a casti...I got to meet and work with Megann once in a casting seminar. She was an awesome lady and I'm glad I got the chance to meet her. It came as such a shock to me when I randomly checked Lana's blog and read about her passing. I still remember several of her stories, including the one she enjoyed telling about how she experienced "being in the moment" while reading off of someone for a cowboy movie. <BR/><BR/>Megann, you will be remembered and missed by many.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-84304577830130732932009-01-12T22:37:00.000-08:002009-01-12T22:37:00.000-08:00For all the times you made me feel I was the best ...For all the times you made me feel I was the best actor in the hallway<BR/><BR/>the times you would try to convince a director I was the best for the part<BR/><BR/>the times you would show up for my singing or tuba playing gigs, no matter the genre<BR/><BR/>will never compare to the time you called me at 2am to help you find your turtle; who managed to go 2 blocks before we found him...at 7amVictorhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04475520470609138521noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-56565798013637454052009-01-12T21:59:00.000-08:002009-01-12T21:59:00.000-08:00I met Megann right after Terror in the Towers. I ...I met Megann right after Terror in the Towers. I was new to acting and took her on-camera class. I'll never forget her six beautiful cats who were always a part of our classes. <BR/><BR/>Over the years as I moved behind the camera Megann supported me more than anyone else. We talked many times about working together on our own project but never got the chance. It didn't matter how long it had been since we had seen each other it always seemed like it was yesterday.<BR/><BR/>A funny story from the Mean Creek wrap party. The production threw a bowling party at Hollywood Bowl. We were down at the far end but we were a very rowdy crowd. People running down the lanes, actors standing on the tables. Megann and I were really trying to bowl and were halfway through a game. Megann got up for her turn, she lined up with a very serious look, threw the ball and before it got to the pins the bar came down and the lights went off and her ball bounced off the bar and back down the lane. They had turned off our lanes and were kicking us out! Megann was very upset because she was sure it would've been a strike.Susan Funkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08072983681483986563noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3816665849667440728.post-5503875940853995692009-01-12T19:43:00.000-08:002009-01-12T19:43:00.000-08:00I have fond memories of Megann as a friend, acting...I have fond memories of Megann as a friend, acting coach, casting director, and also as my former talent agent from URSA TALENT MANAGEMENT. She was an inspiration to me when I was going to UO. I wanted to pursue a career in acting. I attended some of Megann acting classes and she was a wonder instructor. Her improv classes was exciting and different. I always look forward to her next lesson. She was always thoughtful in critque of my work in ways in I can improve my acting skills. She's a wonder person who coach me in this life long journey to become a thespian. I feel as I am a better person since I have met her. I am thankful to have worked on some of the independent film projects she has me involved with. Have a beautiful journey, Megann!! thank you for sharing your wonderful talents in providing us a dream to build on. Thank you for watching us and blessing us with your gracious gifts. Miss you lots! <BR/>With Love, Patrick QuanAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com