Students share audition tips for preparing for upcoming musical

Thomas Hammer

Many of the students involved in the “Mary Poppins” production also will be participating in “The Addams Family” this year. Remember to check for emails updating the musical and do not hesitate to ask any questions!

As musical season is quickly approaching, audition stress is on the forefront of everyone’s minds.  From picking the right song and monologue to battling stage fright, auditions can be extremely daunting.  However, fear no longer, a few talented Trinity theatre kids have offered up some valuable tips to help get newbies through their first auditions gracefully. 

Almost every theatre kid can agree that the music department is one of the most uplifting and accepting areas of the school.  This common opinion is also carried through to the theatre organization.  The spring musical is an extracurricular activity that has rehearsals a few times a week between the months of October and March.  The musical this year, “The Addams Family,” will be performed on St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

The organization is actively seeking out new talent.  “The Addams Family,” for those who aren’t familiar with the show, is a change of pace for Trinity.  Recently, most of the musicals performed at Trinity are generally traditional or golden age shows.  This show is different because of its modern nature, as the songs share similarities with pop songs and use slang terms.

Senior Melena Maglietta commented on her excitement for “The Addams Family:”  “I’m excited for the vibe of it because it’s not something we’ve done before.  It’s a really interesting group of characters and everyone’s really excited about it.”

Still, with auditions on October 25th and 26th, students are starting early to prepare for the big day. 

Junior Arwen Ikach shared the first thing she does to prepare for her auditions.

“I pick out a song that fits my role, rehearse with piano and practice in front of people,” explained Ikach.

Audition songs need to be accompanied by piano, so it’s important to practice often with one or a piano track or a real piano. 

Freshman Caden Miller stressed the importance of stage presence and how confidence in one’s own abilities really helps with calming nerves.  To an extent, performance anxiety never fully leaves the mind and body, the key is figuring out how to overcome that feeling personally.  It’s good to find a trusty friend or family member to rehearse in front of.  Not only will they give great feedback, but hopefully can help with getting comfortable performing in front of an audience, no matter the size! 

Sadly, mistakes are almost always bound to happen.  Big or small, one must get back on track and not let the distractions dull their shine. More often than not, performers walk out of their auditions feeling like they did a bad job.  Whether it was a wrong lyric or note, just keep going as if nothing happened. It will show that a performer can adapt to change quickly, which is a must in show business! 

Sophomore Leah Falvo shared her thoughts on how to pick herself up after a rough audition:  “I like to talk with friends about it.  I also reassure myself and think kindly about myself.  At the end of the day, I’m going to be part of something bigger that will be really fun.”

Mrs. Child, the director of the musical, is ready for “The Addams Family” to kick off.  She, along with Mr. Komula, who are both in charge of auditions, are excited to see some new faces this year.  As they say under the big lights, break a leg!