by Karen V. Contino
Entertainment legend Lucille Ball once said, “If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it. The more things you do, the more you can do.”
Scott A. Messina, one of the nation’s premier entertainers and entertainment producers, is one such busy person. With more than 15 years of professional experience under his belt, this vibrant Dr. Phillips resident and media expert knows how to get it done with skill and finesse to spare.
Messina started his nationally renowned, full-service entertainment company, Messina Productions, from scratch; launched an Orlando-based record label named Messina Records; produced two compelling TV pilots, including one with the music industry’s famed Johnny Wright as executive producer; and even has his own instrumental soundtrack, Soulo Time, which is available on multiple online merchants and iTunes.
As if that has not kept him busy enough, he is now launching a groundbreaking new Web site, www.ishowcase.net, aimed at connecting up-and-coming entertainment talent and athletes with industry professionals. The Web site also offers members the opportunity to learn from experts in their fields through coaching and advice.
“I am really excited about launching iShowcase,” Messina said. “Our services guarantee exposure, generate opportunity and provide knowledge. l am very much about helping people by providing them with the proper tools to reach their goals. I want to help others on a grand scale, and iShowcase offers the perfect platform to do just that.”
Kevin Antunes, famed musical director best known for his work with New Kids On The Block, Britney Spears, ‘N Sync, Justin Timberlake and, currently, Madonna, is excited to sign on as an industry expert. He praised the cutting-edge Web site for enabling members to download biographies, photos, audio and video onto their profiles to best represent their talents and personalities to the industry.
Local athletes also can benefit from iShowcase.net.
“Now, with so many budget cuts in our local high schools, a lot of athletes are not getting their proper exposure,” Messina said.
“iShowcase is a wonderful service to leverage high school athletes and help them find their way into top colleges and beyond. Best of all, membership is free.”
Someone You Should Know: Scott Messina
Dr. Phillips resident Scott Messina was born an entertainer and a giver.
By Karen V. Contino
Photo courtesy of Scott Messina
Growing up the middle child in the Washington D.C. area, Scott Messina first began honing is natural ability to entertain pretty much immediately. By 5 years old he was already the family ham and by 13 he was playing upright bass, piano, penned his first song and was profiled along with his childhood band on a local TV station.
Today, Messina, a Dr. Phillips resident, heads Messina Productions, an entertainment production company. And if that wasn’t enough to keep him busy, Messina recently partnered with Bold Sports Events and retired NBA All-Star/Orlando Magic player Nick Anderson to host a highly successful co-ed basketball camp. The camp for players ages 7 to 17 from all over Central Florida, featured retired NBA player Charles “Bo” Outlaw and former shooting guard for the Orlando Magic, Vince Carter. Out of the 166 participants, 96 were able to attend through scholarships.
“My partner Janet Hart and I were thrilled with the outcome, especially after seeing all of the smiling faces and hearing how many of the campers cannot wait to sign up for our next camp,“ says Messina. “It was wonderful to be able to help so many children enjoy the sport they love.“
Messina also volunteers his emcee and DJ services to several local charities including Orlando’s Hospice of the Comforter and B.A.S.E Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation.
“On a spiritual level,I get a warm feeling from helping others,” says Messina. “People both young and old are struggling out there, and dealing with surreal issues, so why not help?”
Every year, Messina also dedicates his time to the Chris Kirkpatrick Foundation’s annual fundraiser. The Wlndermere-based organization was founded by Chris Kirkpatrick, of NSYNC fame, to enhance the lives of underprivileged children throughout the United States.
“Anytime I am planning an event or fundraiser I always call Scott to see if he is available,” says Melinda Bell, senior vice president of Wright Entertainment Group and executive director of the Chris Kirkpatrick Foundation. ‘His personality and skills as a DJ bring an element that has people wanting more when they leave.”
“What Scott has done for my foundation and the kids we help is amazing,” says iqrkpatrick. “He donates his time and equipment to help these kids have one of the best times of their life. I can’t thank him enough for all he has done.”
And Messina admits that above all, his family is what keeps him going despite his demanding schedule. His wife of 13-years, Tammy, and their two children, Kaylee, 12, and Matthew, 8, are a constant source of support.
“Without the unconditional love and support of my family, this journey would have already hit a dead end,” he says.