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Bring Yourself into the Audition & Rehearsal Room: Notes from a director's journal!
By James A. Rocco
This summer, I spent most of August in an audition room at Pearl Studios in New York City. It reminded me once again of the essential qualities that transform aspiring artists into successful professionals. I was in awe of the number of genuinely dedicated and resilient performers pursuing their dreams. These are the craftsmen of our industry—the troubadours. They are the heartbeat of our profession. It was a powerful reminder that behind every successful artist lies a journey filled with dedication and unshakeable perseverance.
While stardom can sometimes strike unexpectedly, working artists are created through consistent effort and a commitment to honing their craft. Dreaming is essential—it fuels passion and ambition—but it's equally crucial to put in the hard work needed to transform those dreams into reality. The road to success is often winding, filled with both challenges and triumphs. It's through this journey that artists not only develop their skills but also discover their unique voices.
The entertainment industry is filled with countless talented individuals, each vying for their moment in the spotlight. Unexpected opportunities do arise, but in between, it's vital to know yourself so you can bring your authentic and unique being into your work. Self-knowledge will set you apart from the rest and help define your individual talents in a crowded field.
"Don't look at other people and compare yourself. Just do the work. Because when the opportunity is there, you have to be ready. Make sure your craft is refined and you're constantly working on it. Plow through the weeds. Go to the auditions and go to the meetings and be on time. Stop looking to the left or the right. Keep your head down and keep moving." –Tika Sumpter, NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture
Identifying Your Strengths
As artists, being "in tune" with our unique strengths is vital.
Embracing and understanding what we do well allows us to be truly present in our work. This kind of self-awareness enriches a performance and will connect you directly to an audience's soul. Knowing what you bring to the table means that when you walk into an audition room, you do so with confidence, ready to share a piece of yourself with the world.
Recognizing your strengths allows for growth in areas that may need improvement. Constructive self-reflection isn't just beneficial; it's necessary. It helps you craft a more authentic portrayal of characters, allowing your individuality to shine through. You become not just another actor but a unique storyteller with your vision and interpretation.
I've been journaling for most of my life, and early on, it struck me that I should write about my experiences in an audition and rehearsal room. I began by setting aside time each week to honestly assess my artistic strengths. I would ask myself, "What am I good at? What is different, even special, about my talents?" For example, I realized I spoke in a naturalistic style and used many current phrases. This discovery led to a broader understanding that I had an instinctive connection to popular culture and a strong affinity for contemporary themes. This inclination shaped my creative style and influenced how I presented myself professionally, allowing me to define my personal brand with my artistic expression. The more I leaned into my inner flow, the more connected I felt to the work, my colleagues, and audiences.
It doesn't matter if you use your iPad or a pen and paper; just start writing. Take notes about what feels good to you and notice your natural strengths. Understanding your inherent talents helps you define who you are and allows you to bring your soul to your work. When tackling a new role or an audition scene, this kind of self-awareness will fuel your confidence and empower you. It will set you apart from every other person in the room.
I know I connect to the performers who radiate organic expression, and I believe that level of authenticity comes from truly understanding and embracing your strengths.
"My thought process has always been, I'm excited to show you what my version of this story would look like. That took the pressure off getting the job." —Tituss Burgess
Make a Lasting Impression
When I am sitting in an audition room, my heart is fully invested in every actor who walks through the door. I'm genuinely rooting for them, eager to connect with other artists who share a passion for storytelling. Of course, the day's goal is to find the perfect actors for the roles at hand, but what truly excites me is meeting individuals who bring their drive, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives to the table. Those are the people I remember.
Seeing how each performer interprets a character and explores a story is exhilarating. Theatre is a collaborative journey brought to life by the human heart. Each day of auditions brings new collaborators through the door, and every interaction is an opportunity to learn something new, both about the craft and the diverse voices that make up our artistic community.
I realized a long time ago that it's not merely about landing that one job; it's about making a permanent impression that fosters long-term relationships and career longevity. In a world where connections can often lead to unexpected opportunities, the impressions you leave behind can open doors you never knew existed.
There was an actress, whom I'll call Lori, because her name was Lori, who made a lasting impression on me. She was one of the final two candidates for a role in a production of BIG RIVER that I was directing. It was a tough decision, and ultimately, I chose the other actor, but Lori's audition stayed with me. It was filled with such vivacity and vulnerability that I couldn't shake it from my mind.
Years later, I found myself directing VIOLET, and I was struggling to find the right actress for the title role. Nothing seemed to click—until one day, out of nowhere, my mind flashed back to Lori's audition for BIG RIVER. I remembered how she had moved me, and I felt an instant urge to find her. I turned to the casting director and asked if they knew how to locate her. To my delight, they did.
It felt like one of the happiest synchronicities of my career. Lori not only stepped into the role of Violet, but she brought an extraordinary depth of humanity and richness to the entire production. Watching her perform was magical, and it remains one of my most cherished experiences as a director.
The lesson here is simple, and it is true whether you are an actor, director, designer, or producer: When you take the time to understand and focus on your strengths, you will bring your true self into the room. Doing this will create an opportunity for you to shine in the moment and forge connections that can last a lifetime.
So, take stock, prepare thoroughly, and always let your individual talent and passion take center stage. The industry may be competitive, but authenticity and hard work always stand out. As you navigate your artistic journey, remember that it's not just about the roles you land but the relationships you build and the stories you share.
See you at the theatre, where our passions collide and creativity knows no bounds!
