I started auditions today for our new play “Grandparents’ War” (more on the play later!) and I had 12 young actors, bright and spry, opening themselves up for critique. Talk about frightening. Is there anything more unsettling than drama auditions? Okay, well, perhaps there is. But actors have to really bare their soul in unique ways that other artists, perhaps, do not. (Feel free to argue!)

There is no blending in in acting such as one can blend in with a band ensemble or choir. Actors purposefully have to stand out, but they don’t just have to stand out and be themselves; they have to boldly portray someone else who may be completely different from their own personality. Actors have to reach deep down in themselves and discover uncomfortable places in order to proclaim the authentic experience of the one they are playing. Because of this great acting is so challenging, and that is why it is rather easy as a viewer to pick out the movies  or shows who have second-rate actors. The level of authenticity often isn’t there. The actors haven’t done the proper work to bring the role alive. That’s why I love watching someone like Anthony Hopkins who is an all-encompassing professional at his trade. He doesn’t act. He lives. He lives as the character.

I admire every single one of the brave individuals who did their monologues and read their lines today. I wish I could give everyone a role.

That is exactly why I hate casting.

Tomorrow – Day 2. More soul-baring to come.