November 30, 2016

I was in a local coffee shop when I had found out the news. I made squealing noises as I pretended to jump up and down (I was sitting, so I couldn't actually jump). It had been my third shot, my third audition since graduating from Berea. I had had auditioned for a couple of other shows, but did not get cast. That's alright, too. That is how it's supposed to be, right? We shouldn't expect to get cast in a role every single time we audition. 

As artists, we are used to hearing "No" more times than "Yes." That is why we keep going. I told myself, "There's still the next one." Perseverance is more than just a theme in whatever novels your 9th grade English teacher had you read. It really does apply to real life. In some cases, "No" is not always a bad thing (except when any type of rape or sexual assault happens, then "No!" is pretty important because people should just really respect the wishes/bodies of others). 

Now that I am off my soapbox, albeit having it with me at all times because it's handy, I'll get back on track. We may not literally be told "No." It appears as the absence of our names on the cast list or we may be contacted, but thanked for our time and interest. It can come in multiple forms, but the meaning is the same. After this initial blow to our self-esteem and overall confidence, we need to find a way to pick ourselves back up and move forward. That is where we tell ourselves that "there is always the next audition." That is what I did.

I auditioned for a third time, giving it all I had. We did a cold reading of a couple of scenes and ended with some improv as the show will have audition interaction. I didn't hold back at all. It was fun and I made people laugh, which is always a plus! After that, it was time for The Waiting Game.

A couple of days later, I was at the coffee shop (yes, the same coffee shop mentioned in the first paragraph) when I checked the theater's website for the cast list. Sure enough, it was posted, and I scanned until I found my name! I was immediately grinning because I knew how much this meant to me. This is the first time I am acting in about a year, so it is very exciting.

We have had our first read-through and a couple of blocking rehearsals, and it is sooooo refreshing to be able to use "I can't. I have rehearsal." as an excuse again! We have to be off book really soon because the whole process from first read-through to final performance is only three weeks. This show will be a much needed, but really fun challenge. I hope all goes really well!

I also have another audition for a future show that I want to attend. I may be told "No" for that one too, but that won't deter me from continuing to make an effort for other productions. If I want to act for a living, I know I have to take any opportunity I can get regardless of whether I'm living in my small hometown or the city because it is imperative to have more experience. We should also remember that any kind of theatre is important. Hey, let's get that trending! #AllTheatreMatters