By Sue Gilad
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03 May, 2020
In my years as a Broadway producer, I have seen countless auditioners come in to the room with the highest of hopes. I want each one to be the answer to our problem. Our problem is always: How do we find the perfect cast for this show? We want you to fit the costume, be the ideal height for the person playing opposite you, and look like our “image” of what the role should be. Unfortunately, most hopefuls only deliver average auditions, and end up getting cut. But sometimes everyone behind the table is completely blown away by an audition, and none of that matters. All we see is a sparkling performance that makes us forget where we are, transporting us to that magical place, and we enter another world: the world that the performer has created all on his own. So how does an actor successfully get there? How does she shift the power from those of us behind the table, taking it all for herself, using only her voice and body to create a whole new world? It’s all about the three C’s: connection, confidence, and commitment. The best auditioners enter the room as their most authentic selves, showing us the bright light that only they possess. Sure, they’re nervous. If you aren’t nervous, you may not want the job badly enough! I love it when auditioners are nervous. To me it shows they have a stake in the outcome. But by confidently connecting with the material, the reader opposite them, and with those of us behind the table, that tension is obliterated. Once they are in the genuine space of the character, an energetic balance occurs and nervousness disappears. There’s a higher purpose here: to tell a story and become something greater than their fear. To connect. Let’s consider the C of Confidence. I appreciate actors who walk in the room knowing that they have value, and knowing it’s worth our time to meet them. Confidence means they have prepared the audition. Memorizing sides and being open to coaching is always a plus. Having a music book with a variety of prepared songs is the mark of a professional. You would be amazed how many people sabotage their own audition by not preparing. Preparation leads to confidence. It sets actors up to win—if not to get this job, then at the very least to make a positive impression for upcoming jobs. Like most things in life, preparation is key. Commitment means that you take your craft seriously and respect your time and ours. You have extra resumes with you in which everything is spelled correctly, and organized cleanly. Your headshot is current and looks like you. You’re dressed in your best, to subtly suggest the character you’re portraying. You’ve turned off and put away your phone, and you’re receptive to coaching. (When we coach you, it usually means we like what we see and recognize potential.) Finally, you have to show up. It's 95% of the work. Just think, when you’re in the holding area, about to show us your stuff: How many people chickened out and didn’t show up? You showed up, you’re ready, you’re confident and committed and prepared to connect. You’re the one who we have been waiting to meet all day.