The time came once again for the LRHS theater department to hold its bi-annual audition workshop for this year’s fall play.
The workshop took place on the second day of school, Aug. 29, in hope of helping students prepare for the Jane Eyre open textual auditions. The auditions take place on Sept. 5 and 6 in the auditorium after school. Once at the audition, the director calls up one group at a time to read for certain parts in the scripts. The opportunity to read for a certain character then presents itself.
Those auditioning must stand in the neutral position and speak slowly, articulating words as well as projecting their voice with energy. “Be dressed so you’re comfortable with who you are and what you look like,” said Mrs. Lou Catania, the director.
Students from all grades come to the event for similar reasons. “[To gain] more confidence. To get ready for auditions. To meet more people before the auditions. And it’s just a fun atmosphere,” said Avery Murdock, senior.
In the workshop, students were given the chance to experience how it feels to perform on the stage. After the initial vocal and physical warm up, Catania explained the audition process. “I’m looking for people who have stage presence, who can articulate, and project. I want students who are willing to really study the book itself, and explore these characters,” said Catania about what she looks for in auditions.
The unique characters played a crucial factor in why the director decided on this classic Jane Eyre story. The technical aspect of the play happens to be one that will broaden student knowledge of the history behind the play that calls for twenty-two cast members.
“We’ve never done a show just like this. I guess the one that would be most similar to would be Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen because it’s a period piece,” said Catania.
For any actor, the auditioning process could be a frightening thing of anxiety with the fear of being rejected. These workshops have the hope of placing the assurance and confidence needed in those who plan on going through this process.
Leave a Reply