It is a new season starting, the snow is melting, the days are getting longer, and it is the time of year when actors begin prepping for audition season.
Auditions are one of the most nerve-wracking aspects of an actor’s job. In big theatre companies, if you are lucky enough to get an audition, you have one to three minutes to convince the panel to hire you before being pushed out the door.
Often you will not even receive a thank you or an email saying thanks but no thanks (in so many words). To be honest though, I haven’t auditioned for a long time so I am hoping the process of auditioning is starting to evolve and become a more pleasant experience.
I know that we want to create a more pleasant experience for those that audition for us at Theatre NorthWest. It is the second time that myself and my colleagues, Anna Russell and Bradley Charles will be hosting general auditions. One of the unique facets of our Cerberus model is that we have all been involved in the local arts scenes in a variety of capacities. We know how much talent there is here, and we want to utilize that talent in upcoming projects and recommend actors to visiting directors. We are committed to providing opportunities for local talent and these auditions are a great way for us to connect with more people.
If you would like to share your talent with us and are over the age of 18, please email us to receive a time. Auditions will be taking place this Saturday and Sunday. Those interested in auditioning should prepare two short contrasting monologues (i.e.: comedic and dramatic, contemporary and classical).
Actors who would also like to showcase their vocal talent are asked to prepare 16 bars of a song and we ask that you bring in a copy of your sheet music for the pianist. Auditions will be held at Theatre NorthWest in the Parkhill Centre (556 North Nechako Road). Actors should bring a recent headshot and resume listing any relevant theatre/performance experience and training.
We also want to recognize that auditioning is an extremely vulnerable process and that we appreciate everyone that takes the time to audition for us. We are so incredibly grateful to be making these important connections in the community.
We look forward to seeing you this weekend! For those that don’t feel like auditioning, we still have one final mainstage for you to check out. Where You Are by Canadian playwright Kristen Da Silva, starts May 4 and runs until May 24. We will also be announcing our 2023/24 season filled with magic and mystery. Our Pride reading series has readings March 29, April 5, and April 12. Tickets for these are available on our website.
Melissa Glover is an Artistic Associate at Theatre NorthWest
