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Lights! Camera! Uh . . . Line?
This is the fourth installment in a series of articles appearing in a new publication on the Haven website later this fall. Each article features the insight, advice, events, and storytelling of Haven artists. Missed an article? Check it out in the archives!
Get ready for your closeup: we know that Gotham's acting scene can be daunting (to say the least), so whether you're new or just in need of some encouragement, check out our first installment of tips and tales from actors who've been there, done that . . .
 Auditions: for better or worse, they're an unavoidable part of an actor's life. Periodically, we'll ask performers how they manage the ups and downs that come along with the process and we'll share their insights with you; this week, Hilary Rushford talks about her experiences:
My best auditions have been those where I went in expecting nothing and was truly shocked to get a callback or the job. The worst audition? I was so confident, I flew across the country only to get cut almost immediately. Eventually, we learn the lesson that kamikaze cross-country audition trips are never a good idea. Hopefully, in between, we begin to discover who we are and where our own place in this crazy business might be. Here are a few tips that have helped me start to find mine:
–Don't type yourself out: go to everything, you never know when you could be just who they're looking for. On the other hand . . .
–Know your type: for example, this will keep you from being discouraged when you don't get kept at "Rent" & help you make sure you're prepared for every "Oklahoma" audition.
–Everyone has their strengths & weaknesses: get to know yours and embrace them both. If God gave you 3" hamstrings, stretch, and be at peace with your inflexibility.
–The learning never ends: you will always have more to work on, from your music book, to monologues, to tap dancing.
–Take notes & keep records: keep perspective on how you're doing by noting when you're kept/called back, remember which choreographers' styles worked well for you, etc.
–Make friends: the people at auditions are not only your competition, but your "work friends." Take turns signing each other up, lend tap shoes when someone forgets them, give advice on an audition outfit or song when asked. Auditioning is so much more fun when it's not you versus everyone else.
–God: He has a plan for each of us, even in this crazy business. We're called to be as prepared as possible, for whenever He presents an opportunity. Keep your heart open to discerning what your calling is and allow Him to guide you there.
 Hilary resides just across the bridge in Queens and is a self-proclaimed "Malibu girl in love with Manhattan." She's currently prepping for a tour that will take her to Toronto this fall/winter; you can catch up with her while she's away through myspace or via her blog!
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Posted by Armistead Booker on 10/11/2006 | 0 comments
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