Staging Shakespeare: Audition Week!
Wednesday, March 5th by Jen
The big week is here! This is our week before spring break, but for all of those thespians at our school, wandering the halls muttering Shrew lines under their breath, it’s not so much excitement for the upcoming vacation…although I’m sure they’re going to be relieved when this week is over! No, these dedicated actors and actresses are anxiously awaiting noon on Tuesday, March 4th, when they finally get to audition for The Taming of the Shrew!
As I began writing this blog, a student came down to tell me that one of our seniors really wants to be Petruchio. Now, this is the same student who has wanted Petruchio all year long, so I think I held my breath to see what his reaction was going to be to this news. I have to admit, too, that I’ve pictured him as Petruchio as he has been the one to take additional acting classes and work really hard on learning more and more about Shakespeare. But he is a sophomore, and one thing that was determined when we first started this acting troupe is that older students should have first opportunity at the lead roles IF they are equal in ability to a younger student. So, how did this 16-year-old react, despite having talked and talked and talked all year about Petruchio?
“I’m fine with whatever decision you make. He’s a senior and this is his last chance to be a lead. So I’m good…but is there another funny role I could try for?”
I cannot even express how proud I am of him. This hasn’t been a fleeting desire of his, and yet he recognizes that we have to do what’s best for the play and what’s best for everyone in the school who wants to be involved. This is the team-spirit shining through that I’ve tried to promote within our Highland Players!
So as I watch and listen to the 15-20 students that are trying out tomorrow, I hope I can be as open-minded as my student was today. It is a major temptation to pre-cast (typecast?) certain people in certain roles. Last year I knew after one audition who I wanted to be Hero…but I still had several other girls to watch! There are times when the perfect person seems to just jump right before your eyes, but my goal always has to be what’s best for the production and what’s best for the students so that we can continue to have a strong drama program for years to come.
My next post, probably toward the end of this week, will relay information about how auditions went, what surprises I experienced, and any other drama I can think to share with you all! Thanks for reading!
March 5th, 2008 at 6:25 pm
There must be a huge pull between knowing who is “right” for a role and typecasting. I wish you luck in your ability to find that balance!