Audition: Perdition or Recognition?

"It’s a temptation to barrel into an audition with a very strong and memorable interpretation of a character. After all, we don’t want to be generic or forgettable or, heaven forbid, 'milquetoast.' How many times has that backfired? Then it occurred to me. Aren’t we all unique individuals? And if the director wants some characterization or dialect, he will say so. Of course, even with that, we must start with ourselves," suggested member Peter Gabb.

"This is true, especially now when actors are so often being required to film and send their own auditions to agents to upload to the casting director. By that time, the director has probably changed the specs and the people who get to audition 'live' are also getting the most recent info. Another reason to Keep it simple.

"John Houma is a successful teacher and casting director who was recommended to us via three members, Sandra Bankston and her daughters, Philomena and Mary, who studied with him in L.A. I like John’s idea: Simply do what the character is trying to do. Of course, we will do it our own unique way. And we may have many ways. That’s where the prep comes in. I know sometimes I think I know the lines 'basically.' I’ve made that mistake, too. 'Not good enough,' teaches acting coach Tom Todoroff. We have to know these words so we can say them any kind of way, even speed-talk them. A local director says 'Know these lines like you know your name.' Then you are free to say them whichever way — in your own unique style.

"One thing that helped me was my experience with stand-up comedy. That’s where you really have to rely on yourself. There really is no 'it' – author’s script, director’s interpretation, costume, set design — only you. It’s kind of like being naked on stage. It’s your chance to expose all of your selves and test them out. It’s a great learning experience, and you might want to try it to expand your self-horizons. Start by telling funny things that you’ve experienced in life, playing all the characters involved.

"Anyway, I hope these ideas will help: Start with yourself, prep up, put your heart in it. Break a leg," Gabb added.

This item was featured in the spring 2013 local newsletter.