Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Audition for "Bye Bye, Birdie"

I have not done much with performing or healthy living in a while, so I haven't posted. I did have the pleasure of watching my daughter perform in "The Sound of Music" last weekend though; she's got the theatre bug now, so I will likely post more here about her sometimes.

I was physically reminded on Monday night of one of the reasons I want to lose weight and get healthy. I auditioned at a local theater for a part in "Bye Bye, Birdie". While the audition call mentioned a dance component, I was thinking they would just want to see if we moved comfortably on stage. Turned out, this was a really fast-paced, full choreography dance audition too! I think I nearly had a coronary! LOL (But I kept smiling the whole time, so that has to count for something, right?) I did put my all into it, but I couldn't help thinking (as I was dancing next to some 100-pound 13- and 14-year-olds) how much EASIER this would be and how much BETTER I'd look (in those stinking full-length mirrors, no less) if I weighed less and was in better shape. So, if I just do a big dance audition every week or so, it should keep my motivation up JUST FINE! (Incidentally, I should know by Friday afternoon if I've been cast. Not many parts for my age group, but I'm hopeful. Keep your fingers crossed for me!)

[UPDATE 6/24/10--I got a call from the director last night and was cast playing Mrs. Merkle (Ursula's mother). First rehearsal is Monday evening!! Thanks for all your good thoughts!]

The a cappella group I sing with has a name now--Vocal Brew--and we are performing July 24 at Ethos Vegan Kitchen, Orlando's premier vegan restaurant. More about that as the date approaches.

Have you ever auditioned for anything? Despite all the singing I've done over the years, I get shaky at auditions. Any tips on how to fight that and sound more natural? Share your story in the comments if you like!