I've never really looked favorably on name-dropping. I find that it doesn't really mean anything, or says something negative about the person dropping the name. Saying that you know someone does not indicate how that person feels about you, whether they reccommend you, or even liked you. Answering truthfully, when asked if you know someone is fine, but trying to gain influence off of someone else's name I don't think gets you very far. But, if they do have names, even if they are just regional, they might be good resources to ask about their contacts. Do they know any good internships or oppurtunities that you might be able to apply for? Are they working on a project that you could apply for a position on? Do they have any advice for you getting started? If they've worked on enough shows with you they should have a feel for your strengths, and can hopefully give you some tips to get you on a good start.
-Centaura