The Importance of Auditioning

On Sunday, I'll publish a new Clinic column on the website (www.PerformersParent.com) about one of the hardest things for young performers -- auditioning. For those kids who really want to be in a show, the audition is the "make or break" place, but do they really know what to do and how to do it to be successful? I'm very pleased with this column -- and I think you will be too, when you finally get to see it -- because it's got lots of great info, from someone who knows all about the subject -- Ben Stoner, the Crystal Lake South director.

Auditioning has been a big deal in the Conrad household. Greg has auditioned mostly for musicals, and I've tried to help him where I can listening to him sing, offering suggestions for "acting it out." And Andy tried out for shows last year, getting in to Our Town but not the other two shows of the year. He heard from a reliable source that he hadn't prepared enough for the audition, and he's been working to correct that over the summer for the fall play. We're keeping our fingers crossed for him! He had so much fun being in Our Town, and made a lot of friends, and it would be great if he could continue to be involved. But he's got to do his part -- it's like the lottery joke -- "God, please make me a lottery winner!" And God finally replied, "Well, you have to buy a ticket first!"

I only remember one of my own auditions -- I was trying out for the part of a nun in my high school's production of Little Moon of Alban. It was memorable only because I had a hip-to-ankle cast on my left leg at the time! So much for kneeling. (I did actually get the part...)

So remember to check the website Sunday evening (and if it's not up yet, check Monday!). The information you'll learn could help your child get a part they want in an upcoming audition.