Peter DeAnello

"I have worked with Mark Grove for over a decade, first in providing on camera talent for his projects. The abundance of expertise, talent and enthusiasm that he approaches every project with never ceases to amaze me. In the independent filmmaking world, many people try to wear multiple hats...Writer, actor, director, producer, stunt coordinator, special effects technician, make up artist...It takes a rare individual to accomplish all that without compromising the quality of his work. Mark is one of those rare talents who is able to successfully juggle the overwhelming number of responsibilities and demanding schedule of an independent filmmaker. Mark is succeeding in a business where so many fail. His vision, as well as his ability to turn that vision into reality, is creative and limitless. I strongly suggest working with Mark in any of his many endeavors."

Peter DeAnello
Big Fish Talent

Mark Middlebrooks

There is understandably some reticence at the idea of a school flying their students 40 feet into the air for the sake of dramatic effect.   “The liabilities!”  Any reluctance on my part was dispelled immediately when I met the professional team at Asgard Entertainment.  Mark, Sara, and Lucky came in to our school to consult with us on special effects for our production of Willy Wonka, Jr. and I will never forget as I tried to cast the vision for the Fizzy Lifting scene, not only did the team embrace the vision, but embellished the vision by offering to recreate the entire scene from the movie, set and all.   By the time our show reached production, we felt like we were “on location” with this scene.  That in itself is enough to inspire me to use this team for every future special effect I will ever encounter in production, but there is more. 

Lucky not only spent considerable additional time rigging the scene, but offered to help with other scenes as well, and when it was clear that he was going to be required to be onstage for the safety of the actors, he volunteered and provided his own show appropriate costume!  Our very own 6’ Oompa Loompa.  The crowd loved it!  The students loved it, and perhaps most important with the help of Asgard Entertainment, we were able to create an experience for students (and audience alike) that I have no doubt will live on for a lifetime. 

I can’t thank you guys enough for the unforgettable experience of working with you.  I can’t wait for the next production! 

And if you are having any concerns about liability…we did our due diligence and there is nothing to be concerned about…this team exemplifies safety and professionalism.  Our students always felt comfortable and safe, the audience was in awe and I’m still “flyin’ high!”

Mark Middlebrooks
Music and Drama Director
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American Academy