Hi Sunburst Followers!

I just interviewed with another major Television Network. They are planning on attending The Sunburst Convention this year.

One TV Network is most interested in current pop star impersonators like Lady GaGa, Katy Perry, Rhianna, Kanye West, Michael Jackson, Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift, Michael Buble, Beyonce, Pink, L'il Wayne, Christina, 50 Cent and other current musical acts.  We don't have most of these coming this year...yet, but if you know 'em, send 'em!  They want to interview these tribute acts.

All the best,

Greg M Thompson/ Producer
The Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Impersonators & Tribute Artists
Orlando, Florida
407-226-9088

        

Hi,

Here is my "Video Invitation" to The Sunburst Convention.  We are just about to "close" ours showcase registrations. We still have spots left, but it's time to arrange the showcase this year.  So, we will offer any left over showcase spots to those who have already registered, if anyone wants a second showcase.

It's got to be a different song, if not a different character.  After that, we will only have "No Showcase" tickets available for those who want to come and take advantage of all that Sunburst has to offer.

I have included in this blog my "Video Invitation".  Sunburst is just about 3 weeks away.  I can't believe it and I cant' wait.  Registrations are coming in everyday....and it's time to work.

The program advertisement deadline has come and gone, but we do have other advertising opportunities including the video, and the absentee table. The Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists in Orlando. Video Invitation by Producer Greg M Thompson

        

Today was the deadline for placing an ad in the Sunburst Convention program. 
I'd like to mention two things since we have our orders.

We have room for the following:

1 x Full Page Ad
2 x Half Page Ads
1 x Quarter Page Ad

 

And finally...here's a combination offer:

Purchase a 90 Second Promotional Video of yours to play DURING EACH DAY'S SHOWCASE for only $150 and get a 1/6 Page Program Ad FREE! 

Offer ends Friday, August 27. Only 6 of these are available. It's especially great for those who will not be able to attend in person. 

Everyone will see your video (live and on the internet) both days, plus all of the agents will have your contact information in the program.

Thanks,
Greg

407-226-9088

The Sunburst Convention

PO BOX 784533

Winter Garden, FL 34778

        

Hey there folks,

We are rocking and rolling with production of The Sunburst Convention for 2010!  It's just about 4 weeks away!

We hope to see you there!  If not, you have until August 22 to get your advertisement needs in!

In the meantime, here's a great V.A.M.P. from Cher Impersonator Betty Atchison!  What a hoot!

Call me if you have any questions!

All the best,

Greg M Thompson- Producer
THE SUNBURST CONVENTION OF CELEBRITY IMPERSONATORS- Orlando

        

Hi Folks,

The deadline for ads in our Sunburst Convention program this year is August 22.  All ads are in full color.  The program book will be given to every talent agent attending plus each entertainer/attendee, and each person who buys an ad.

Here are the prices:

Full page:  $150 (8w x10h)

Half page: $100 (8w x 5h)

Quarter page $75 (4w x 5h)

One Sixth Page: $50 (4w x 3.5h)

BACK PAGE:  Still available at $350. (First one to call gets it!)

Also, if you can't be there, we are offering two other options.  You could choose one or both.

One:  VIDEO COMMERCIAL/ This will be played DURING our showcases each day.  We will also give EACH talent buyer/agent your business card so they know how to get in touch with you.  It should be a 65 second long commercial/video in DVD format.  You will have to mail that to us.

Two:  Our absentee table.  You will contact Lynn Frey at Lynn@SunburstConvention.com to set this up.  Send him 50 copies of what you want displayed.  He will set up your promo material on our promo table available for all talent buyers to pick up.  You will have to ship this to Lynn. It can include your photo, DVD, business cards, whatever you want.  It must all fit into a 18" x 30" space.  It will be set up BOTH DAYS for agents to pick up.  $150.

Other items.

You can sponsor the web cast.  $150.  See the home page of www.sunburstconvention.com.  Go to the bottom of the page.  This is where everyone will go on line to view our web cast.  Your ad will be below the player and will have a direct link to your web site.

-SWAG BAG/ You can sponsor the Swag Bag with your Name, website, phone number and email address right on the side of the bag.  Only 10 spots available.  $100/  We give out 250 bags.

-FREE/  Do you have Swag?  Do you have actual items with your promo information on it?  Like pens, letter openers, key chains, flashlights, cups, mugs, etc?  If so, you can send it in and we'll put it in our Swag Bags at no charge.  It can be for you directly or maybe you have a side business going?  

Write to me directly at greg@sunburstconvention.com if you would like any of the items above.

Thanks.

All the best,

Greg M Thompson/Producer

The Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists

September 22-26, 2010

The Rosen Plaza Resort/ Orlando, FL

407-226-9088

Please join our email list to get immediate updates about our convention.

Just go to the bottom left of this page and type in your email address.

        

Here is an album of Sunburst Showcase photos from last year. If we left you off, please send me a note right away so I can look for your photo and add you. 

Thanks.

Click here...
http://photobucket.com/Sunburst2009

        

        

Hi Folks,

        

If you have not yet made your hotel reservations at The Rosen Plaza Resort for The 2010 Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists, please do so now. You can make the reservation, but they won't charge you. ... << MORE >>

Well....only 79 days to go until The Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists in Orlando.  Gotta get things geared up and ready to go.  We have about 2/3 of our showcase spots already taken up and we are making sure we are set up for those who aren't able to register early and will be getting our "No Showcase" tickets.

        

Hi again,

Well, the $100 deposit offer was extrememly popular.  I mean "Holy Cow!".  So, Jackie and I decided to run it until Monday evening in case a few did not get to take advantage of it.  That means, you can take advantage of the 2009 rates by making a $100 deposit at www.sunburstconvention.com .  After that, we have to go up on the rates by 10%.

Just an update....we have 71 entertainers coming to Sunburst...so far.  That means, we don't have a whole bunch of  showcase spots left....so at least reserve your spot even if you can't make the deposit right now.  We've sold out of showcase spots the last few years, so get your spot reserved today.

We've never had such a response this early in the game.  Normally, most of the registrations come in the month before the convention.  Once we sell out of showcase spots, then we will only be able to offer the "Non-Showcase" ticket.  That means that the entertainer will be able to enjoy every aspect of the convention, but will not be able to actually showcase their act on stage.

BUT...we will introduce them from the stage and they will be in the group photos and still have a "promo table" to present their offerings to the agents and buyers.

I am updating the web site as we speak, making sure photos are up of the folks who are coming. If you want a new photo on the web site, send it to greg@sunburstconvention.com.  I'll get it up soon.

We are working on the seminars now.  It's going to be a banner year!  Excellent speakers on marketing, business and bookings.

Our 8th one!  Wow!

Once again, to register go to www.sunburstconvention.com or you can call me.  But I won't be answering the phone on Sunday.  It's Father's Day...and I've got a gig.  How's that for Father's Day?

Take care my friends!  I hope all is well.  Things are looking good for the economy and our business!

Thanks,
Greg M Thompson/ Producer
www.sunburstconvention.com
407-226-9088
866-391-0480 (Toll Free)

        

Hi,

        

We have decided to make our next Sunburst Web Cast or "Webinar" on Wednesday, May 26 instead of tomorrow night.  8:00PM Eastern Time

        

Hi Everyone,

The next Sunburst Convention Web Cast will be on Wednesday, May 19 at 8:00PM (Eastern Time).  Please join us.  We will be re-playing some great media from our appearances on THE TONIGHT SHOW, RACHAEL RAY, THE DAILY BUZZ, CNN, GROWING BOLDER, LOCAL TV and hopefully more.

I am hosting it myself and will be there to answer any questions about the upcoming event.  PLUS...it's a GREAT and FUN way to reconnect with your friends and meet new ones.

Just a reminder, the Documentary Short "Just About Famous" was shot entirely at Sunburst this past year. It is making its rounds in the Film Festival Market and is being very well received.  A number of us including Jenn Ramsey as Lucy and Roger Johnson as Jack Nicholson and Gary Alan as Jay Leno attended one of the festivals in Sarasota.  The film is GREAT and I dare say puts our industry in the best light I've seen in any documentary or TV Special.  It's great.

As a matter of fact we are showing it at Sunburst this coming year on awards night.  We want to remind you that we are currently taking registrations for Sunburst 2010.

Please mark May 19 on your calendar to join us.  All you have to do to join in the chat is go to www.sunburstconvention.com.  You'll see the player at the bottom of the page.

We provide the venue for your exposure!  Make it work!  Enjoy, promote, network, party, showcase, have fun!

All the best,
Greg M Thompson/ Producer
407-226-9088

        

Greg M Thompson will be broadcasting LIVE at www.SunburstConvention.com  on Monday, April 19.  It will be the first of many broadcasts to answer question and announce additions to The 2010 Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists.  

        

Hi Folks,

        

Well, folks.  

We want to send out a congratulations to Janna and Alana Joos for a very successful convention in Las Vegas last month.

From what I understand, just the change of venue alone brought the quality and fun of the convention up tremendously.  I personally know of more than a few bookings that have already resulted from this convention.  Jackie was there to represent The Sunburst Convention and our company.

But that's them and the Sunburst Convention is us!  We just need to stress that the two events are completely separate from one another with different ways of doing things...different producers, different staff and a different schedule.  TWO DIFFERENT CONVENTIONS!  

We've been trying to drive that home for several years now, but it seems we still get lumped into one, no matter what we do.  Janna and Alana have tried as well, but we'll keep saying it til it sinks in for good!  LOL!

So anyway, I've updated The Sunburst Convention site.  I've added a couple of pages....just what we needed, right?  And we've added a couple of events.

One thing is The Sunburst Bazaar!  Bring your 'for sell' items that pertain to the entertainment industry and sell them.  No charge for a table to sell your wares.  Read more about it on the Sunburst Web Site.  It will be like a mini "Flea Market" for your wares. Old costumes, new costumes, computer stuff, wigs, dolls, memorabilia...you name it!  Of course it will be done in a professional, fun way!  We've already reserved 8 tables....call for yours today! It's FREE for those registered with the convention.

Remember, the PURPOSE of Sunburst is to PROMOTE YOUR ACT!!!  You are your own business and YOU are the leaders of this industry.  That's right, YOU!  You are your own business and it's up to you to do whatever you can to bring in the most business and improve your act to the best of your ability.  You can learn all of this at Sunburst...plus have a GREAT time.  

We set up the convention for you to MAKE THE MOST OF IT!  "Work" the convention, "Work" the buyers....we lay it out for you!  It's there for the taking and enjoyment.  All YOU have to do is take advantage of it!

Sunburst is a LOT more than just a showcase.  Remember, your showcase is 4 minutes...the convention is 4 days long!  Mix, mingle, learn, socialize and network.  That's what it's here for!

The Sunburst Convention is a tool for you to use if you like.  It's a way to instantly network and make lasting impressions on those around you.  Make sure you take advantage of meeting EVERY single person there.  They are ALL potential bookings.  Other entertainers especially!  But don't forget the agents.  We expect over 75 during our showcase days.

Those who attend Sunburst will have exposure to those bookings that are available. Those who do not attend will have to be satisfied that 'attending entertainers' are going to be getting those gigs.  It's like the lottery.  You can't win, if you don't play.  But it's all up to the individual to know what is right for them.

So remember, YOU are the leaders of your own industry.  Sunburst is a tool at your disposal.  It's great for veterans and for beginners and everything in between.  It's like a party with great benefits.  You will NEVER forget all the friends you make while here.

Come show off your talents.  And let our staff take care of you while you are here.

Call us with ANY concerns.

All the best,

Greg M Thompson/ Orlando

The Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists

September 22-26, 2010

The Rosen Plaza Resort

www.SunburstConvention.com 

        

Re: Sunburst Convention Updates for 2010

Hi Everyone,

I hope things are looking great for you this year and you are getting lots of inquiries if not full on bookings.

We have been working on Sunburst 2010 for a while now with some great new ideas and ways to assist you in getting more bookings, education, fun, socializing, networking and more. Visit the site to see all that we have going on. www.SunburstConvention.com />

We've added the "Sunburst Bazaar" and "The Sunburst Passport" to make your experience even more worthwhile.

This is a note to inform you that we have been accepting registrations for The 2010 Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists. We have already recieved many. 

But right now, we need to update our "Who's Coming" page on the web site. If you are planning on coming to the conference this year, please reply to this email and let me know. You DON'T have to register right now, just let me know you have plans on doing so between now and the convention. That way, we can put your photo up on the site. If you decide that you can't make it or have not registered by August 1, we will take your photo down so we don't confuse any buyers who might want to see you there.

You can also "Pre-Register". Just fill out the online registration form and leave out the credit card information. That way, we can put you in the book and start getting ready for your arrival. You will be getting updates and invites to your online webinars and such.

Remember, we are putting together a great conference with lots of education, opportunities and showcasing. It's up to you to make the connections and impress the attending buyers. But the conference is about the business in general. If you get bookings, GREAT! That's the gravy....attending is the goal!

All the best,
Greg M & Jackie Thompson/Producers
The 2010 Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists
September 22-26, 2010
Orlando, Florida
www.SunburstConvention.com

        

Well, folks....time to jump into Sunburst!  

We want to send out a congratulations to Janna and Alana Joos for a very successful convention in Las Vegas.  They produce a convention in Las Vegas call "The Original Celebrity Impersonators Convention".  It's not ours....it's theirs.  I say that for a reason...read on.

From what I understand, just the change of venue alone brought the quality and fun of the convention up tremendously.  I personally know of more than a few bookings that have already resulted from this convention. Plus...those in attendance are having a really good time, on top of the benefits they are getting.

It seems the camaraderie is stronger than ever and everyone is having a great time. Tonight are The Reel Awards.  Remember, that is separate from The CIC, but since Janna Joos took over the CIC three years ago, she combined the two events into one week.

But that's them and the Sunburst Convention is us!  We just need to stress that the two events are completely separate from one another with different ways of doing things, different producers, different agents and talent buyers (for the major part), different staff and a different schedule.  TWO DIFFERENT CONVENTIONS!  We've been trying to drive that home for several years now, but it seems we still get lumped into one, no matter what we do.  Janna and Alana have tried as well, but we'll keep saying it til it sinks in for good!  LOL!

So anyway, I've updated The Sunburst Convention site.  I've added a couple of pages....just what we needed, right?  And we've added a couple of events.  Jamie McKenna came up with the idea of doing a "Passport".  This will be given to all attendees to insure they get the MOST out of the convention that we have to offer!

The second thing is The Sunburst Bazaar!  Bring your items that pertain to the entertainment industry and sell them.  No charge for a table to sell your wares.  Read more about it on the Sunburst Web Site.

Remember, the PURPOSE of Sunburst is to PROMOTE YOUR ACT!!!  You are your own business and YOU are the leaders of this industry.  That's right, you!  You are your own business and it's up to you to do whatever you can to bring in the most business and improve your act to the best of your ability.  You can learn all of this at Sunburst...plus have a GREAT time.  

Sunburst is a LOT more than just a showcase.  Remember, your showcase is 4 minutes...the convention is 4 days long!  Mix, mingle, learn, socialize and network.  That's what it's here for!  Once again, we'll be broadcasting the showcase and "Awards Banquet" on the internet.

The Sunburst Convention is a tool for you to use if you like.  It's a way to instantly network and make lasting impressions on those around you.  Make sure you take advantage of meeting EVERY single person there.  They are ALL potential bookings.  Other entertainers especially!  But don't forget the agents.  We expect over 75 during our showcase days.

If it's not your cup of tea, that's okay.  We are having our 8th convention nonetheless and it's going to be bigger and better than before...like each year before.

Those who attend Sunburst will have exposure to those bookings that are available. Those who do not attend will have to be satisfied that 'attending entertainers' are going to be getting those gigs.  It's like the lottery.  You can't win, if you don't play.  But it's all up to the individual to know what is right for them.  If you can't make it, you can still have your "commercial" played DURING our showcase each day.  Check out the changes!

So remember, YOU are the leaders of your own industry.  Sunburst is a tool at your disposal.  It's great for veterans and for beginners and everything in between.  It's like a party with great benefits.

Come show off your talents.  And let our staff take care of you while you are here.

Call us with ANY concerns.

All the best,

Greg M Thompson

        

Hi Sunburst Folks,

Just went to see AVITAR......if you haven't, go now.  Run, don't walk!  GREAT!

So, we have a couple of surprises this year at Sunburst coming up in September, but we can't tell you yet.  However, we are updating the web site so go and look when you have a chance.  I've added another page just for 1st timers at Sunburst.  It was suggested to me that we pay more attention to leading 1st timers down the Sunburst path.  We have always suggested if anyone has a question, to ask us, or anybody else who has ever been.  But, some may be shy.  So I"m putting up a 1st timers page on the site.

I am really trying to get more look alikes to attend.  We have so many who perform and I think that those who don't do an act think this is not for them.  Oh, just the opposite!

Also, we are focusing 100% of the seminars on GETTING MORE WORK!  We'll be talking about marketing, working with agents, working without agents, press releases, barter, negotiating rates, what to charge, etc.

BTW....during the month of April and May, I will be offering $25 off any registration if you recommend a NEW attendee to Sunburst.  Oh, they have to actually register.  LOL!  That's for each one.  Recommend 2 and you get $50 off.

AND.....that new thing that we are talking about could easily cover the cost of attending.  We really can't stress enough how much we appreciate everyone's participation and we strive to make it worth every dime you spend to come.

More to come! Stay tuned!  Oh!  And if you will, please recommend this blog and our web site to everyone you see!

Finally, if you have suggestions on Sunburst, you can reply to this post or send me an email at greg@sunburstconvention.com.  Please be specific if you can.
Thanks.

Greg M Thompson/ Producer

        

Hi Sunburst Convention Blog Watchers!

I'm adding some information here about what I see going on in the biz.  
I want to address some things that are basic.  First of all, marketing.

Please remember that you MUST have certain things in order to get booked.  This is whether you are going through an agent or booking directly.  This is a reminder for us veterans also.  We could ALL use a reminder as we go along.

-Make sure you have a "One Sheet".  If you don't know what that is, write to me at greg@sunburstconvention.com and I'll send you a sample.  It is basically one page that includes a photo of you or your act and a brief description of what you do.  Don't include appearances.  Just tell them what you do.  No phone numbers or contact info.

-Make sure you have a PROFESSIONAL photo.  If your photo is taken in your apartment or ESPECIALLY in front of a door....GET NEW PICTURES!  Professional photos is the mark of a professional.

-Get a video.  If you are Meet/Greet look alike, get video of you inter-acting with guests.  It's a SELLER!  All you need is a minute or two.

-Do a rider if you don't have one.  It just simply says what you need in order to perform.  Dressing room?  Water? Snacks? Meal? Mirror? Table? Chair? 

-List what your local rate is.  Put "Travel charges will apply" so they know they will have extra expenses if they are booking you out of your area.  I usually charge an additional $500 flat fee if I have to leave town, plus a 50% increase in my local rate for out of town gigs.  Example:  If you would do a local appearance for $500....add $500 plus $250 (50%).  That's a total of $1250 for an out of town gig. Then, add "travel charges" like air fare, hotel and car rental or cab fare.  Usually, a car rental is cheaper than trying to take a cab everywhere.  It's easier for the client as well. THEN...you can negotiate if that's too much.  That is ONLY an example. You do what you want and charge what you want.

-Unless you are booking directly with a client, remove all contact information from your materials you send to agents or any talent buyer.

This is just a reminder.  BTW...I LOVE Facebook.  Agents might not like it as it opens up easy access to artists.  But then again...agents work hard at what they do to secure the best talent for the appropriate event.  Folks, don't underestimate how hard an agent works.  AND...remember.  There is a difference between an agent and a manager....you can check my previous blogs for that.  But I'm sure I'll hit on it again.

The "Original" Celebrity Impersonators Convention is coming up in Las Vegas starting March 1-4, 2010.  It is produced by Janna and Alana Joos.  This is independent and seperate of The Sunburst Convention.  She runs her, I run mine.  But we support one another.  If you can make it, go.  It's being held at The Statosphere this year, which I believe is a great improvement from The Imperial Palace.  The room rates are great and Janna has worked hard to plan a great event for you.  It is highlighted by THE REEL AWARDS on that Thursday night...so check it out.  www.thereelawards.com and www.CelebrityImperesonatorConventionS.com .

Keep up the great work.  If you are not getting the bookings you did a couple of years ago, worry not.  Things are looking up according to everyone I speak to.  I've seen it myself.

Thanks!  Take care.  Please post a response to this blog.  Remember folks, I am NOT the leader of this industry as others have tried to put on me.  I offer advice just the same as other people in the industry.  One or two have actually written books and book talent.  I only offer what works for me. I'm a full time entertainer and have not worked for anyone else since 1999.  Take the advices as you need it.

All the best,

Greg M Thompson/ Producer
THE SUNBURST CONVENTION OF CELEBRITY TRIBUTE ARTIST
SEPTEMBER 22-26, 2010
THE ROSEN PLAZA RESORT/ ORLANDO, FL
WWW.SUNBURSTCONVENTION.COM
407-226-9088
GREG@SUNBURSTCONVENTION.COM

        

Hi Everyone!

Well, well, well......it's gone past us again.  WHAT MEMORIES!  I had a great time.  And from the reports I've been getting since Saturday....so did everyone else!

The talent level went waaaaay up and we found lots of talent we did not know was there.

We had more talent buyers there than ever!  We had 105 to register.....about 72 of them showed up and we had another 15 register at the event.  (About 18 of them were spouces).

We didn't even know about the huge storms that came by while we were there.   We were oblivious.   I'm sooo pooped and still trying to wrap things up.

I have great news and a bit of a revelation.  We are sending the artist's contact information, along with a PDF version of the program to even more agents than attended.  However, they have to request it and make their contact information available to the artists.  Some registered, but could not attend....but why keep the artists information to ourselves?  We'll send it out as it's all about getting work for the attendees.

We are also offering the entire showcase video available to agents who did and did not attend.  Those who attended will recieve a HUGE discount on purchasing that video.  While those who did not attend will still be able to purchase it at full price....whatever that is.

Things have changed.  We want to make it MORE worthwhile to attend the convention than ever before.  We will have to limit the showcases, so probably not all attendees will be able to do that...but it opens up the event to more showcases.

I wil be sending updates as we go along.  I want EVERY ATTENDEE to get more than enough work to pay for their trips to Sunburst.....then all the fun will be the FREE ADDED BONUS!!!!!!

More info to come.  We are open to suggestions.....but give us a week or so to digest all that has occured this week!  We've already got upgraded changes being made to be more advantageous to the attendees.

Keep up the good work and THANKS for a fantastic weekend!!!!!!!!

Call us if you need us!

Greg M Thompson/ Orlando

        

Hello Sunburst Attendees and Potential Guests!

 

Here’s an update on the 2009 Sunburst Convention of Celebrity Tribute Artists.

August 12-16, 2009

The Rosen Plaza Resort

 

First of all, if you have not made your reservations at the hotel, you must do so now.  The official cut off day was July 12, but they extended it until today.  Rooms are still available but will not last.  They will honor our rate as long as the rooms are available and they are selling out fast.  Call 407-996-9700 or 1-(800) 627-8258 to make your reservations.  They will ask for a credit card, but will NOT charge you until you check out.  You have until August 9 to cancel your reservations if you need to.

 

Next, we are VERY excited to announce that we have a change of plans!  We are no longer going to the ICEBAR for our Off Property event on Friday, August14.  We are NOW going to BB KING’S BLUES CLUB….which is literally right across the street from the Rosen Plaza.  They are very, very excited to have us there.  They seat up to 1000 guests and they have a LIVE BAND!  We have arranged for us to have half price drinks and we took care of your admission into the club.  The food is fantastic so most of us will go there to dine.  That will be all dutch.  The public is invited and you’ll take loads of photos and have guests buy you drinks if you are in costume.  Will you sing with the band?  I asked….but it’s up to the band.  However, I have a good idea as to what will happen as soon as they see you.

 

SWAG BAGS:  We have three “sponsor” spots left on the bags.  If you want your information on the Swag Bags, it’s $100.  We will give them to EVERY attendee, artists and agents.  It will have your name, character, phone number, email address and web site.

 

It will look like this:

 

LARRY JOHNSON as NEIL DIAMOND/ 407-226-9088

Larry@NeilDiamondMan.com / www.NeilDiamondMan.com

 

SWAG:  If you have SWAG (Pens, pencils, candy bars, erasers, key chains, fingernail files, etc. with your name on it) and you would like to send it to us to put in the bags, there is NO CHARGE.  Send it in and that’s free advertisement for you whether you are attending or not.  If you only want to send 100 items for the agents or 250 to include everyone, that is fine.

 

We have just a few showcase spots left.  Register now to get those spots.  If you are not ready to showcase, get a “No Showcase” ticket and you’ll still enjoy the networking, seminars, parties, press, etc.

 

THURSDAY- JULY 23 at 7:30PM (EST), JOIN ME LIVE on www.SunburstConvention.com to ask any questions about the convention.  I’ll be broadcasting through Stickam.  Just go to the main page of www.SunburstConvention.com and scroll to the bottom.  You’ll see my video player.  There is a button that says “Click Here To Enter Chat”.  Do that and create a CHAT NAME.  You can ask questions and chat with the other participants. 

 

Also, if you are attending Sunburst, please go now to www.MyShowNetwork.com and register.  Those attending Sunburst who want to vote on the Sunny Awards AND be eligible for the awards MUST register with www.MyShowNetwork.com .  It’s FREE!

 

PLUS…it’s just another great marketing tool offered to you by Marc Dobson (Neil Diamond TA and GREAT Musician and Singer).  We will be voting on the Sunny Awards through the computer with your www.MyShowNetwork.com account. ONLY those attending Sunburst will have access to the voting page.  Yes, we’ll have a number of computers at the convention so everyone can vote.

 

Press is registering now….we hope you do too.  Remember to make your hotel room reservations now.

 

Oh, if you are duo…yes, you get 8 minutes in your showcase.

Comedians/ 5 Minutes

Musical Acts/ 4 Minutes

Meet/Greet Look Alikes will be presented on stage both days of the showcase.

 

So far, we have over 60 individual qualified agents and talent buyers registered.

 

Email or call if you have questions.

Thanks for your time!

 

Greg M Thompson (also known as Gregory

407-226-9088

        

        

Hi All,


Here is another update.....lots going on.  Jackie and I have been working hard on the convention this week!

Here are the highlights:

Showcase spots are selling out!  Only 75 this year and 55 of them are sold!

Ads are selling out!  Only "half page" ads and below are available!

Considering the economy, we are quite pleasantly surprised at the great number of attendees already this year.  Most wait till the last minute, but we would not recommend it this year.

Check out the site and call us if you have questions!  Press is calling now asking what they need to do to cover the event.

Agents and Artists receive a free SWAG BAG this year.  If you want your SWAG in the bag, send it to:

The Sunburst Convention
8853 Danforth Drive
Windermere, FL 34786

There will be 250 bags.
There is no charge to put your swag in there.  No promotional flyers, or business cards or the like.  However, please put your contact info on your swag like pens, erasers, mugs, candy, bottle openers, magnets, ect.

More new agents and buyers are attending this year.

But if you want to come and make sure you showcase, register now!
Tell your agents and friends to come as well.

If you want to "subscribe" to this blog and have not done so....go to the bottom of this page and look to the left.  Instructions are there.  Thanks.

More to come.....

Greg M and Jackie Thompson/ Producers
www.sunburstconvention.com
407-226-9088

        

        

As entertainers, we love what we do for a living.  We get paid to perform.  My daddy always said "If you enjoy what you do for a living, you will never work a day in your life.".  He was right!  I really enjoy what I do for a living...so I never feel like I really work... and I get paid for it!

But there is always a downfall in our business.  We as entertainers can perform for 1000 people.  999 of them could come up to us and tell us how much they truly enjoyed our performance.  However, one butthead can come up to us and tell us that they didn't like us at all. 

Now...what do we do?  Well, instead of enjoying the compliments of 999 guests....we OBSESS over the one rude comment.  I guess they never heard what their moms told them..."If you have nothing nice to say, then don't say anything at all.'

But we will think about the one rude person's comment and let it depress us.  It will ruin our night.  We, as entertainers, get our egos bruised very easily.  It's a flaw.  We have a need to be accepted by everyone.   We have a need to please.  That is not a realistic goal, however that same need drives us to continue to strive to be the best at what we do.

Well, I am guilty of that as well.  I have tons and tons of friends who love what I do.  They love what Jackie and I do with the convention.  They love our staff and what we stand for.  I dare say we have hundreds of friends and supporters that we know of and just as many more that we've never met.  I find it incredible when I meet other entertainers and I say "Hi, I'm Greg Thompson from Orlando." and they say "I've heard a lot of really good things about you from other entertainers."  You see, I book talent as well.  They tell me they've heard great things about Sunburst and how much fun and beneficial it is, too.

I am guilty of forgetting about these wonderful things if I have one person to say something negative.  And it's happened....and it will happen again.  It will happen to you and me both.  That's the business we are in.

Just ask yourself. "Do I get a lot of bookings?"  'Do I make people happy?"  "Am I happy with my performances?".  Then, forget about the butthead who said something negative to you.

And keep in mind...."Butthead"  may not be happy with what they are doing and may be envious of your achievements.  Maybe "Butthead" is having a bad day. Maybe "Butthead" is an entertainer who doesn't want anyone else to succeed.   Maybe "Butthead" is just a jerk!  Maybe "Butthead" suffured brain damage resulting in sociopathic tendencies  Maybe "Buttheads" underwear is too tight that day.  Who knows?

But there are two sayings we must always keep in mind.  "Don't let the bastards get you down."  And, "Don't sweat the small stuff...and remember, it's all small stuff."

Finally, I have found this saying useful, "It's none of my business what you think about me."

Here's another:  "You can please some of the people all of the time.  You can please all of the people some of the time, but you can't please all of the people all of the time."  My friend Hollie Vest reminds me of this.

Keep up the good work and remeber, don't let the bastards get you down!  Just some thoughts to keep in mind!
All the best,

Greg M Thompson/ Orlando

        

Hi Everyone,

Here's my latest blog about Sunburst 2009.  So far, we have received great reviews of our changes for 2009.
The date is August 12-16, 2009 so mark your calendars.

We have already gotten a good number of registrations in from both talent and agents.
Get yours in early, even if you have to wait until later to pay.

We've got some exciting plans.  We are doing the Comedy Showcase again in Backstage Lounge.  That was a big hit last year.

Also, we are going back to our Welcome/Reception party like the early years, with games, press, entertainment, prizes and door prizes.

We are going "off property" like the first three years as well.  We'll make sure it's fun and worthwhile for everyone!

Agents are invited to the whole thing with benefits for those getting a "Full Access Ticket".
Check out the site...www.SunburstConvention.com for more information.
As of 5/08/09, we have "defined" more of what is going on this year.  I'm 99% sure it's final, but we may be adding some things. 

Registrations are looking very good.  I have another "blog" coming soon to send out more of a definition descibing :Agents, Brokers, Producers, and Managers.
There's a difference in all of them and I would like to share this information that came from my lawyer....it's all good!

Talk to you soon....register early.
Call us if you have questions.

Thanks,
Greg M Thompson/ Producer

        

Hi Sunburst Folk!

We are making some plans for next year and want to get your opinion.  We are considering doing a drastic change to our policy.  Because a great number of "day" attendees attempted to abuse our offerings...i.e. only coming on the day they paid for, we are having to implement a "One price covers all" strategy.

In other words, most of the ones who only paid to attend one day, attempted to "crash" on days they had not paid for.  It's tough as the producer to confront these individuals and say "You are not supposed to be here today and it's not fair to those who actually paid to be here."  It's very embarrassing on both sides.  AND...it' suggests that these entertainers who attempt to "crash" are not professional in their actions.

It won't affect those who come to the entire convention anyway.  Only those who come to one day only.
Honestly, if someone can only make one day, they are not getting the full benefit of attending Sunburst.  We understand that some entertainers can only come to one day because of their schedules.  But we are willing to take that chance that some "day attendees" will not come if they have to pay the full price of the convention.

So, next year, it will be one price no matter what.  It's kind of like going to Disney.  Someone cannot say "I'm only going to ride the Dumbo ride and then leave."  It's the same price for everyone no matter what.

Also, most all other conventions are a one price deal.
We welcome any thoughts on this.

We realize it may ruffle some feathers, but we have figured out that we actually LOSE money on those who attend for one day only.

We are working toward shortening the showcases for both days.  This will make it more attractive for buyers who want to come to both days.  The more agents, the better!  Also, we have some more surprises that we will tell you about along the way.  We have to work out the details.

Also, this will help curb the temptation for those who are not quite ready to showcase to actually want to perform in front of buyers looking for "ready to book" acts.  Really, a conveniton showcase should be only for those ready to book anyway.

So, the cat's out of the bag on this one.
Hope to hear from you soon.

Thanks.

Greg Thompson/ Producer

        

Hi Sunburst Attendees!

This is a new BLOG that I've added to the site!  Please respond with whatever comments you have on our convention.
We'd love to hear from you!

It's great that so many of you have already contacted us and let us know that you've already been booked from Sunburst.   For everyone else, give it some time.  Most bookings come in after the convention.  Make sure you contact those from the contact list I sent you!  They are viable contacts!  Keep up with them!

Keep in touch!  We've already made some plans for next year.  I'm sure you all will be happy with the results!

Make a comment!  This is cool!

All the best,

Greg M Thompson/ Orlando