About Essence Entertainment Talent Agency

Essence Entertainment Talent Agency has been Southern California’s elite entertainment provider since 1971. We are proud to feature the very finest professional Dance Bands, Disc Jockeys, Classical and Jazz Ensembles, and Theme Entertainment.

Located in Costa Mesa next to Mon Amie Bridals in the beautiful Country Side Center, Essence Entertainment is licensed, bonded, insured, and is open six days each week to service you. Our full-time professional sales staff is uniquely qualified to help prospective clients in selecting the perfect entertainment for their function, and will assist in planning the special event as well.

Due to our expertise in the entertainment field and our long list of satisfied clients, Essence Entertainment is a preferred vendor at all of Southern California’s finest venues including Ritz Carlton Hotels, St. Regis Resorts, Four Seasons Hotels, Hyatt Regency Hotels, Hilton Hotels, and Marriott Hotels.

Owner Mike Steffens says, “We are successful simply because we care about our clients and the quality of the talent we represent. Each event is an opportunity for us to see if we can exceed the customer’s expectations. Our success is why we are the most referred entertainment agency in Southern California. Our goal is to help each client to have fun and enjoy the process of finding the right music and entertainment for their wedding or special event…and we have fun as well!”

Our Staff

Mike Steffens – Executive Talent Manager

Mike Steffens has been with Essence Entertainment since 1991 and prior to that he performed professionally as a musician and show producer. Mike has appeared in and performed for film and television for ABC, Warner Brothers, and Walt Disney Films. Mike also co-produced Riverboat Ragtime Revue which toured the US for several years to rave reviews. Mike has served on the board of directors with several organizations including the California Concert Artists and the Orange County Chapter of the National Association of Catering Executives. Mike manages the day-to-day operations of Essence Entertainment and enjoys meeting directly with his clients.

Tony LaBianca – Business Manager

Tony LaBianca, C.P.A., is the founding partner of Essence Entertainment and along with Mike Steffens, has been instrumental in establishing the fine reputation that Essence Entertainment enjoys. Tony has a background as a musician, band-leader, and event manager and has helped produce and stage many fine productions. His current responsibilities involve maintaining the agency’s books, taxes, and banking.

Robin Kelly – Senior Talent Manager

Robin Kelly has been with Essence Entertainment for over seventeen years and is an expert at designing and creating unique entertainment experiences for all of our corporate and private party clients. She maintains membership in the Association of Bridal Consultants and is expertly qualified to meet with prospective brides and their coordinators. Robin has a background in musical performance and theater as well as event production and management. She has traveled the world as a professional singer and entertainer and now leads one of the agency’s most popular dance bands, The Essence. She works full-time at our office and is available to answer questions about all of the services which Essence Entertainment provides.

Karen LaBianca – Office Manager

Karen is responsible for processing all of the paperwork generated in our office. She handles contracts, payroll, billing, and communication with performers and clients as needed. She reviews materials we receive from our clients to ensure that we have everything we need to be fully prepared to service an upcoming event. Karen has been with the company since its founding in 1971, and as a former singer and entertainer she is adept at coordinating and communicating with our talented performers, clients, and business professionals.

Kurt Curtis – Account Manager

Kurt Curtis is an intricate and valuable part of the Essence Entertainment team. As Account Manager he is directly responsible for maintaining our presence within the industry, and meets directly with event planners, hotel sales and catering staff, and professional wedding coordinators. Kurt is a professional musician and has a strong background as a leader, show director, actor, and stage manager. Kurt has been with Essence Entertainment for over ten years and is available to meet directly with any industry professional who desires more detailed information about the services our company can provide.