By Paula Denault
Auditions for West Story are just around the corner and if you haven’t already submitted your audition form, please do so today!
Auditions Saturday, March 17, 2018 at 2:00 and 6:00
Where: The Recreation Station, 770 E. Franklin St., Bradley
Dance Workshop – You will have two opportunities!
Tuesday, March 13th – Women – 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM, Men – 8:15 PM to 9:30 PM and/or
Friday March 16th – Women – 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, Men – 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Please wear appropriate dance attire and footwear.
I polled the past and present directors of Acting Out productions and here is a compilation of what they said:
Beforehand: Preparation is the key to confidence!
- Read the script so you fully understand not only the character you are auditioning for, but also the entire story context. Try to see that character through the eyes of the other characters.
- Choose a vocal audition piece that suits your range well, and then either memorize or be extremely well-rehearsed so that you can put your character into the vocal audition process, as well.
- Seek help from someone with experience to help you practice.
- Practice in front of a mirror to be sure that what you intend to portray is actually coming across and being communicated well.
- Avoid telling the directors why you were unable to prepare. To that end, take care of your body and be ready for auditions!
At Auditions:
- Arrive early to fill out any paperwork.
- Dress the part if you wish! Wear clothing that is comfortable and dance shoes when applicable.
- Make sure to wear your audition number where it is visible.
- Pssst… take the gum out of your mouth!
- Remember, the director is rooting for you!
- Smile and make eye-contact. Make sure you do not hide behind the script. Directors want to see your facial expressions. They are looking for not only the character you are portraying, but your personality as well!
- Project your voice loud and clear! If the director cannot hear you, all is lost.
- Work for variety within the recited lines as you put yourself into that character’s mindset.
- If you do something wrong, keep character and talk anyway, keep the beat, move your feet… show the director you can think on your feet!
- Have fun and enjoy the process!
Throughout the Process and Beyond:
- Be adaptable and open to direction!
- Be willing to be surprised! You may fit where you least suspect !
- Talent can only get you so far. Commitment and work ethic goes further!
- Cooperation and team work are imperative! Be someone that others want to work with!
- Realize that you are a piece of the puzzle, and when you are missing, either figuratively or literally, it changes the entire picture for everyone. Others depend on you to fulfil your role!
- Don’t beat yourself up. Sometimes all the talent in the world doesn’t get cast due to other consideration. It’s not personal.
- Be willing to work behind the scenes. Not only are many hands needed to make the show a success, but you get a front-row seat (well… back row) to study how others create these characters.
Thanks to Sharon Richardson, Marsha Hill, Jerry Cohagan, and Shannon Woodruff for these tips! Now, sign up everyone and BREAK A LEG!!
