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7/16/2011

The Play's The Thing


Many years ago, I was a young theatrical talent that many thought would wind up in Hollywood. Alas, it didn't work out that way - but then, having seen what "Hollywood" is like, albeit from a distance, I'm thinking I'm probably better off anyway.

But.

Over the years I have, from time to time, performed in community theater - just to keep my hand in, so to speak. I get the 'urge'. I have to perform.

Unfortunately, living in the far southwestern suburbs means there isn't a plethora of theatrical opportunity in the vicinity. I live in a theatrical wasteland. Or at least I thought I did (or do, whatev) until I did some checking and found there is a Theater Guild in Joliet - the city next door.

Their next play is to be "The Lion In Winter". Auditions haven't been announced yet, but they will be sometime in the early Fall. I am thinking of auditioning. I would like to play "Henry VIII", the role portrayed by Peter O'Toole in the original movie, and Patrick Stewart in the remake. Ambitious? Perhaps. Fun? Absolutely. Do I think I could do it? ... a nervous 'Yes'. It's been a while since I've been onstage.

But I have never NOT been cast in a part I've auditioned for.

And that's what makes me nervous.

Ndinombethe.

10 comments:

Jientje said...

I bet you're good, I wish I could see you play!

Tara R. said...

You must! Break a leg at the auditions!

Grandmother Mary said...

Aim high and challenge yourself big time! Break a leg!

Loraine said...

Go for it- and post video.

Big Mark 243 said...

That is called 'confidence' not nervousness. I have a reply for people who would suggest the risks (that are inherent with ANY ambition) are too great, and they feel the need to remind me of them that '...those are the things that happen to OTHER people but they don't happen to me!'

From what I gather, that is how I take you auditioning for Henry VIII... not getting the part isn't an option!

A line that I heard on the sports shows was one of Larry Bird's pronouncements during an All-Star game. The story goes on the day of the first 3-point shooting contest, he goes into the locker room and says, 'Who's shooting for second place?'

As far as I am concerned, they are auditioning for your stand-in... the part is YOURS!

PattiKen said...

Based on a certain reading, I have no doubt you can do it. Now yo've just got to show them that you can do it.

Bama Cheryl said...

Do it - you will enjoy the time outside your (current) comfort zone. I'm sure you'll be smashing!

Holly said...

Go for it, Lou! I saw a friend of mine in that play several years ago, but I can't remember her part.

Brandie said...

Go for it! You never know when you'll get another chance =)

tracey.becker1@gmail.com said...

Let me know how it goes! I have yet to audition for any com theater once I stopped after college. I miss it and loved it, but can't picture working it into my life's schedule, you know?