Chasing Dreams: Broadway Auditions and the Actor's Journey
Ever dreamed of auditioning for a Broadway show? For many aspiring actors, the journey to the big stage is fraught with excitement, disappointment, and perseverance. This journey is particularly challenging for those with less traditional paths, as illustrated by the author’s own experiences.
Understanding the Octopus
The system of Broadway auditions is complex and inscrutable, especially for Equity Membership Candidates (EMCs). Equally, non-Equity actors have their own challenges. The EMC list gives priority to Equity members, meaning many actors have to wait their turn, sometimes without being seen at all. The system is designed to protect Equity members, but it can be frustrating for those on the periphery, like the author.
Experiences at the Audition Table
The author shares a series of personal stories that highlight the difficulties and uncertainties of auditioning for Broadway roles. Each audition was different, but the underlying theme is the same: despite intense preparation, success is not guaranteed. Here are a few anecdotes:
Replacement for Mary Poppins: The author was submitted to audition for the role of the Bird Woman in the revival of Mary Poppins at Disney. Despite the director and musical director being impressed with her performance, Disney opted not to select her. The author speculates that she wasn't chosen due to her looks, but the answer remains unclear.
ANNIE Revival: A mutual friend informed the author that she was being considered to replace Carol Burnett in the role of Hannigan in ANNIE. However, the revival’s director’s vision scared off the writer, leading to a different director being selected.
The Secret Garden: The author was asked to audition for a Broadway-bound workshop of The Secret Garden under the guise of a formality. Unfortunately, her request was denied due to a prior disability that led to her retirement.
The Reality of Off-Broadway Work
While the author has not yet achieved a Broadway role, she finds satisfaction in off-Broadway work, which provides more artistic fulfillment and fewer commercial expectations. Though the financial and recognition aspects are appealing, the opportunity to perform meaningful and challenging roles is what keeps many off-Broadway actors motivated.
Lessons Learned
The author concludes by reflecting on the broader challenges faced by actors on the EMC list. It’s a reminder that the path to success in the theater is not straightforward, and the system often feels more like a game than a merit-based process.
The stories shared here are testament to the resilience and passion of the theater community. The challenges faced by actors like the author are a testament to the dedication required in the pursuit of a dream. Whether it’s Broadway or Off-Broadway, the journey is filled with moments of triumph and heartache, but the passion for the craft remains undiminished.