Laura Rusch - New York Fashion Week!

Check out these shots below of IMTA alum model Laura Rusch. She modeled in a huge runway show in New York city at the historic Hudson Theatre. The GIDC (Garment Industry Development Corporation) and Showroom NY celebrated their 25th anniversary with a runway show featuring 15 designers. Laura was one of five models wearing the latest collection from designer Kahri. The collection Kahri - Words Left Unspoken Fall 2009 Collection was during New York Fashion Week. Laura is the model in the blue.

Laura competed at IMTA Los Angeles in January of 2009 and she has a contract offer from Bellissima Models to spend the summer modeling in Bangkok! She was in New York following up with MMG who booked her onsite for the Kahri show! Laura is only 14 years old! Those who work with her say she is lovely inside and out! She received 10 callbacks at IMTA. She also received Honorable Mentions Awards for Makeup, TV beauty, Jeans, Ready for My Closeup and Runway!

Three IMTA Alums Nominated for a Young Artist Awards!

Joesph Castanon, who competed at IMTA in 2006, is nominated for Best Performance in a TV Movie, Miniseries or Special Supporting Young Actor division. This nomination is for the mini series Comanche Moon which aired on CBS, where he portrayed Newt. This is Joseph's fourth nomination- he won Best Performance in a Television Series (Comedy or Drama) - Guest Starring Young Actor Award for Ghost Whisperer in 2006!

Moises Arias competed at IMTA in Los Angeles in 2005 with his brother Mateo. He is nominated for a Best Performance in a TV Series (Comedy or Drama) Supporting Young Actor Young Artist Award! This nomination is for his hilarious role as Rico on the popular Disney TV show Hannah Montana!

Connor Kramme is nominated for Best Performance in a Short Film Young Actor Division. This nomination is for his role as Matt in Alex's Halloween! Connor competed at IMTA in 2007 and just came back this year to present awards at the IMTA convention in Los Angeles!

IMTA alums who won Young Artist Awards in the past include Sofia Vassilieva in 2006 for Best Supporting Young Artist Award in for Best Performance in a TV Drama and in 2004, Alyson Stoner for Best Young Ensemble in a Feature Film for her role in the movie Cheaper by the Dozen!

All of these talented young actors competed at IMTA where they were scouted by the exceptional industry professionals, agents, managers and casting directors who were at IMTA looking for new talent to represent! We Congratulate all of you and look forward to the Young Artist Awards on March 29th!!

Katie Holmes is on location in New York City!

Katie Holmes, Feb. 23, 2009
On location for The Extra Man

Katie Holmes is on location in New York shooting her new movie, The Extra Man! Her costars include the very funny and talented John C. Reilly, Kevin Klein, and Paul Dano. The comedy is based on the novel by Jonathan Ames. Shooting is happening now on location in the Chelsea district of Manhattan. You can read more about the film's plot, cast, director and read production details on Variety.

Katie competed at IMTA twice, in 1993 and 1995 . She returned a couple of years later to present awards at IMTA and debuted the first fifteen minutes of the pilot episode of Dawson's Creek. The entire ballroom was riveted by this ground-breaking stylish teen drama and Katie received thunderous applause! On that special night, she gave us a very nice interview saying:

"Let's just say a girl from Toledo, Ohio wouldn't end up cast
in a Hollywood movie if it weren't for IMTA!"

You can read a darling letter from Katie Holmes from the IMTA Archives right here exclusively on THAT IMTA BLOG!

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IMTA Spotlights...
Feature Film and Television Star
Katie Holmes...

Katie Holmes attended the IMTA New York Convention in July '95. She signed with Onorato/Guillod Entertainment and was cast in the Ang Lee feature film, Ice Storm with Kevin Kline, Sigourney Weaver and IMTA discovery Elijah Woods, which is slated for a summer release. Katie has recently been cast in the lead role in a new television series "Dawson's Creek" which will air this fall. We have just received the following letter from her and felt it was so incredible that we wanted to share it.

"For years I have spent some time sitting in front of the television from 7:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. listening intently to John Tesh and Mary Hart inform me about which star was filming what new movie, who was dating who, and who was the rising new actor or actress. Hollywood and its numerous success stories seemed extremely far away and definitely from a world that I would never come into contact with.

On July 23, 1995 my life changed. This particular Sunday evening, I found myself in the New York Hilton for the International Modeling and Talent Association Convention. I was sitting in one of the ballrooms reciting a monologue in front of about 50 other contestants, as well as Al Onorato, David Guillod and Bobby Moresco, the men who were conducting this seminar on "Prepare to Compete". After I had finished, Al and Bobby offered some direction and had me alter it a little. I used my nervous anxiety to help me become more intense and, following my second performance, I felt elated. It was clear to me that something very special occurred in that ballroom that evening.

About six months later, I found myself in the Los Angeles office of Al Onorato, rehearsing an audition piece for the Ang Lee, film The Ice Storm. David, Al and Bobby had become my business managers following that memorable convention and encouraged me to audition in Los Angeles during the 6-week pilot season. Instead of viewing Hollywood on my T.V., I was there. Being in that untouchable world, experiencing the life of a beginning actress, was surreal. Suddenly this strange path of life seemed so normal. I love it.

My experience grew even more unbelievable. On May 21, 1996 I found myself in a trailer on Park Avenue in New York City, getting my hair and make-up done in order to transform myself into a teenager from 1973. I was anxiously waiting to begin filming The Ice Storm. Suddenly, I was part of Hollywood. I was then inside the walls of the business instead of remaining a curious outsider gazing in, struggling to discover what exactly takes place on the inside. I found myself chatting with actors whom I had read about for several years. After receiving directions by the highly acclaimed Hollywood director, Ang Lee, and talking to Kevin Kline for a substantial amount of time, it was time to begin becoming a professional actress.

My rather eventful and definitely memorable year provided me with such valuable life-long lessons that will forever remain a part of me. Fortunately, I was able to work with extremely focused, conscientious people who are completely unconcerned with the Hollywood myth. They work hard at their jobs and then retreat home to their families. I discovered that the Hollywood portrayed on Entertainment Tonight of exciting parties, premieres, galas, etc. is a distortion. The Hollywood I came into contact with is one of extremely talented people who spend their time participating in acting workshops, auditions, films, etc. in order to perfect their craft. The highly respected actors and directors are solely concerned with their work and concentrate on ways to improve. Although "Tinsletown" continues to be a mystery to all and several have benefited from the fortunate fate that seems to occur only in Hollywood, it remains to be true that even in Hollywood, those who diligently work hard are the people who achieve true and long-lasting success."

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Are you interested in competing at IMTA and seeing if you have what it takes to be a model, actor, singer or dancer? Please fill out our IMTA Information Request Form and browse our list of upcoming local searches.

Haley Bennett in The Haunting of Molly Hartley released on DVD Today!!

IMTA alum Haley Bennett plays the title role in the horror movie The Haunting of Molly Hartley which out on DVD today! She plays a teenage girl, who on the eve of her 18th birthday, discovers that her parents made a pact with the devil to save her life. When the devil comes to collect, she must figure out how she can save herself. The movie is directed by Micky Lidell and also stars Chace Crawford.

Haley competed at IMTA in 2001 where she wowed the agents and managers who were at IMTA scouting for new talent. Haley was also part of the star-studded cast of the holiday event movie Marley & Me! The cast featured Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson as the leads in the romantic comedy. Her first big movie was Music and Lyrics where she acted and sang! Haley is in post-production on a new film called Arcadia Lost. She is currently working on a new thriller called The Hole where she portrays the character Julie Campbell. This scary movie is due out in 2010!

Jessica Biel is radiant at the Academy Awards!

IMTA alum Jessica Biel shined at last night's 81st Annual Academy Awards! She was a hit in an ivory silk duchesse satin Prada dress on the red carpet! The E! coverage Live From the Red Carpet commentators raved about Jessica, saying, "Jessica Biel also wore a light color...I am really partial to it. The big blowsy bow that is coming over and right in at the the waist...I think it is really architecturally interesting. It's striking. It's very dynamic and she stands out on the red carpet."

Jessica was outstanding on stage too as she spoke very elegantly before an estimated billion viewers worldwide and recapped her recent honor of hosting the Science and Technical Academy Awards. As E! online says,"A reigning Hollywood hottie always hosts the Sci-Tech Oscars, with Biel following in the footsteps of Jessica Alba, Scarlett Johansson and Charlize Theron."

Jessica competed at IMTA in 1994 where she debuted her acting, singing and dancing abilities. She signed with an agent and manager who helped her land the breakthrough role of Mary Camden on the beloved long-running WB series 7th Heaven. She has gone on to star in many major motion pictures such as I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry, The Illusionist, Stealth, Elizabethtown, Home of the Brave, Easy Virtue, Nailed, Powder Blue and Next.

Model Leah Hight in Fashion Week!

IMTA alum Leah Hight walked the runway for designer Rachel Comey's recent New York Fashion Week show! Leah was featured in the Fall, 2009 Ready to Wear fashion show that is being reviewed as whimsical and charming by Vogue and Style.com!

Leah competed at two IMTA Conventions and signed with Fusion NYC & Metropolitan Paris. She is 17 years old. Her striking high fashion looks, freckles and 5'10" height have made her a favorite model!

Check out these gorgeous shots and her amazing versatile range!

Trailer released for Lauren Storm's new film!

IMTA alum Lauren Storm stars in feature film I Love You Beth Cooper! She plays Treece, one of the best friends of the lead, Hayden Panettiere who plays the title role of Beth Cooper. Directed by Chris Columbus, this 20th Century Fox comedy is scheduled for release July 10, 2009. It is getting great buzz as excitement builds for the release of this film based on the hilarious hit novel by former The Simpson's writer Larry Doyle.



Lauren competed at IMTA in New York in 1999 and describes her IMTA experience, saying, “I ended up getting a lot of response from theatrical agencies and was asked to relocate to L.A. for pilot season. I tried it out for 6 months and got my first job, so I stayed a little longer and booked again.” Lauren has guest-starred in many television shows such as Grounded for Life, 7th Heaven with IMTA alum Jessica Biel, CSI:Miami, 24, Malcolm in the Middle and Boston Public.

Lauren is widely known for starring as Taylor Hagan in the NBC/Discovery Channel hit series Flight 29 Down, which also stars another IMTA alum Jeremy Kissner. Lauren was in the movie The Game Plan and has been busy with many new projects such as The Jerk Theory, Together Again for the First Time, The Inner Circle and Resurrection Mary.

Jessica White in the 2009 Sports Illustrated Issue!!

Check out these gorgeous photos of IMTA alum Jessica White in the new 2009 Sports Illustrated Swim Suit Issue!!! These stunning shots were taken by Raphael Mazzucco on the beautiful island of Canouan, The Grenadines. Jessica has appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue six times!!!

Jessica competed at IMTA in 1999 where she wowed international agents and got signed! She has modeled clothes for Dereon, the clothing line designed by Beyonce Knowles and been featured in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. She is also the spokesmodel for Maybelline, appearing in print ads, tv commercials and in the beauty departments of stores nation-wide, promoting their line of cosmetics. She appeared in the movie Big Momma's House 2 and on the soap The Young and The Restless. She was a featured guest on The Tyra Banks Show and Tyra named Jessica the face of the future!

Be Seen In Hollywood IMTA Feature Article!

Be Seen In Hollywood, a site that brings exciting and creative coverage and content from the world of Hollywood, recently featured IMTA! Read what author Raphael Maglonzo has to say about IMTA 2009!

"The week-long International Modeling and Talent Associationʼs Convention in Los Angeles, California, at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel concluded as another success in the 22 years of leading the way in finding fresh faces and talents. Famously known as simply IMTA, it maintains the reputation of finding and molding the next superstar and/or supermodel. We are pretty sure that most people in this industry will agree with us when we say that “IMTA is the real America’s next top model”. With its invitation only membership status, the convention has continued to attract the creme de la creme of the industry.

About IMTA:
“IMTA’s first convention was produced in 1987 in New York City. IMTA is known in the industry for providing the most professional event with the best-trained, quality, new-to-market models and actors. The early days of IMTA saw the discovery of actors such as Elijah Wood and models like Joel West. IMTA’s success and influence in the industry are unmatched.

With over twenty years of experience, IMTA is truly a one-of-a-kind event. IMTA is the only modeling and talent showcase in the world with a proven track record of success. Many of todayʼs hottest models and actors launched their careers through IMTA. Katie Holmes, Ashton Kutcher, Jessica Biel, Seann William Scott, Brandon Routh and Alyson Stoner are just a few of the actors who got their start at IMTA. Models such as Jessica White, Bradley Tomberlin, Sara Dawson, Kim Lemanton, Sean Harju and Tyson Ballou are among those models who signed with agents at IMTA”.

BeSeenInHollywood.com was there to experience the glitz and glam of the show. Thanks to top runway instructor and fashion show producer, Michael Maddox , the show was a success. As expected, well renowned talented designers such as Sterling Capricio, Dena Burton, and M of M the Movement and EngineeRED by Remy all showcased their stunning creations.

Agencies from all over the world was at hand. Team, Elite, Disney Production, World Top Inc, Epic Records Sony BMG, Leverage, Meredith, Numero, Bravo, IMG, Barbizon to name a few. Shooting backstage gave us a glimpse of how the “controlled chaos” was being handled by Michael Maddox and Lee Patterson with their army of hairstylists and make-up artists.

IMTA’s convention is an event you cannot afford to miss if you want to stay ahead of the competition or just hone your skills and talents. Ask Ashton Kutcher and Katie Holmes and they will tell you personally.

To read the entire article, please visit Be Seen In Hollywood. They also have a gorgeous gallery of images shot at IMTA. Remember to visit their site often for the latest Hollywood coverage, breaking news and insider access!

Special thanks to Raphael Maglonzo and Michael Maddox!

Countdown to Moises' New TV Movie!

IMTA alum Moises Arias stars as Andre in the Disney Channel original movie Dadnapped, with fellow Hannah Montana co-stars Emily Osment and Jason Earles. Dadnapped premieres February 16! Dadnapped is about 14-year-old Melissa Hamilton(Osment) who is jealous of her Dad's preoccupation with Tripp Zoome,the fictional character he creates in his best-selling novel about a teenage super spy. When her dad is kidnapped by a group of obsessive fans, Melissa becomes the superhero who saves her dad and emerges from the shadow of Tripp!

Moises is in production on the feature film Hannah Montana: The Movie a Walt Disney Production based on the hit series. It will be a music-filled comedy adventure about Hannah Montana's popularity taking over Miley's character's life. Moises reprises his role of Rico for the big-screen treatment, which will be released in 2009. Moises plays Rico on Hannah Montana the television show. He was in the feature film Nacho Libre with Jack Black and recently competed at the 2008 Disney Channel Games with fellow IMTA alumni, Alyson Stoner and Kunal Sharma. He also starred in the film The Perfect Game, a baseball movie, which was released this past summer. Scheduled for release before the end of the year is Beethoven's Big Break, in which Arias stars with Jonathan Silverman, Rhea Perlman and Eddie Griffin.

Be sure to tune in to see Moises in Dadnapped!!!

Josh Duhamel in Transformers Revenge of the Fallen Sneak Peek!

Check out the trailer of IMTA alum Josh Duhamel's new movie Transformers Revenge of the Fallen! Josh reprised his role as Captain Lennox in the sequel Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. This Dreamworks film was directed by Micheal Bay and is expected to be released in June 2009. The first Transformers: The Movie was the #1 movie of the summer the year it came out and won an MTV Movie Award!

Josh won Male Model of the Year at IMTA in 1997 where he competed against another very high profile IMTA alum, Ashton Kutcher. After IMTA, Josh landed his first acting job playing the title character in Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray. He soon began acting on All My Children playing Leo du Pres which won him a Daytime Emmy in 2002. Josh left daytime TV for his breakthrough role on the hit series Las Vegas which aired on NBC for five seasons. He recently starred in the comedy movie When in Rome with Kristin Bell!

Stay tuned for more information on Josh and Transformers Revenge of the Fallen!

Raini Rodriguez's film Paul Blart Mall Cop #1 at Box Office for the 2nd Week!

IMTA alum Raini Rodriguez's movie Paul Blart Mall Cop has been in the top ten over the past four weeks, grossing over $$96,886,687 according to Variety! In this hilarious new film, Raini portrays Maya, daughter of Paul Blart played by The King of Queens star Kevin James. The movie is about a mall security guard who no one takes seriously. When he rescues his daughter Maya and a mall worker from a group of organized crooks, he finally gets the respect he deserves.

Raini competed at IMTA in 2005 and won first place in Monologue and Commercial Print Competitions and placed in the top ten for Top Actress of the Year!! She has appeared in the short film Parker, and television shows such as The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, Family of the Year, Huff, Black Shadows, The No Sit List and lent her voice to the animated Disney children's show Handy Manny. Raini has already booked another job and is looking forward to filming her role of Young Tatiana in Gordita Bonita.

Be sure to get to theaters to see Raini in Paul Blart Mall Cop!!