If It's Not Going to be Fun, Don't Audition

Jennifer Butler

• Massachusetts Columnist

Recently I had thought about auditioning for a production of The Wizard of Oz. I was game and had prepared all the ways that I thought possible. I had even prepared myself to sing in public, which I have rarely done, but because I wanted to be in a show, I was willing to do what it takes. 

I would not necessarily call this a bucket list show but I loved the movie growing up and still do. Since two of my cousins were auditioning, I thought it would be fun if I auditioned too. What fun it would be for all of us together to be part of a show.

After making the decision to do this, reality came to light. What about the rehearsals? I would need to attend these for the production to come together but would it be worth it for me in this case? I would be traveling an hour to and from rehearsal and that would be without traffic. Would the sacrifice be worth it? The late nights and long weeks. The constant travel and perhaps some, if not a whole lot of hurry up and wait. Did I want to add the stress of traffic and fear of being late while adding the possibility of bad weather that I don’t have control over. 

For me, as stressful as putting on a show can be, theater has always been fun. Theater is a great reality escape and creative outlet for what can normally be a boring and mundane day. I spent a few days trying to figure out if it would be worth going to the audition. Answering the “what if” questions and making sure that I wanted it bad enough to add the craziness to what can be a stressful situation in all that I currently have going on. 

I needed to make sure the rehearsal process and schedule worked with my schedule. I had found out a few days before the auditions that I might have to give up dance, depending on what role I was cast in. That’s what made me begin to think about the auditions and the rehearsal process for this particular show. Did I want it bad enough to step away from the ballet and tap classes that I had already signed up for, that are an important part of my life. 

In the end, I didn’t go to the audition. I didn’t want it bad enough. I weighed the pros and cons and when it came down to it, for me personally, the stress of time would most likely ruin the fun of being in rehearsal and performing in the show. I opted to stick with shows that would be just as fun, and closer to home. Now, I am feeling comfortable with my decision and I can’t wait to see how all the shows I am working with come together, early next year. 

Photo: Definition Theatre Company