THE AUDITION

So, it turns out that notices for local auditions are listed in the Sunday edition of the Grand Rapids Press, as well as on the individual theater group's websites, MLive, and postings at the area colleges. The audition process is similar among the local theater groups, but varies according to length of season and budget constraints.

Early on in his acting career audition dates sometimes escaped him. Not so much anymore! He has a highly developed system to keep track. It involves a pencil and paper. WHAT A CONCEPT!!!! At this point there is some research about the plays and the roles for which he might audition. Since he is my age, I know he won't be auditioning for the lead in "Grease" any time soon.

Heritage Theater Group had "Inherit the wind" in their season line-up. With several "nice and meaty" men's roles this audition went to the top of the list. Auditions, generally, span the better part of two days with callbacks on day three. Day one was Friday. Joe read for the part of the preacher and thought he had done well. The part was given to a wonderful actor and singer, who happens also to be a local minister, William 'Bill" Handy. Joe was asked to return on Sunday. On Saturday evening the stage manager, Terri Foley, called to be sure he was returning to the auditions on Sunday. He asked her if there was any particular part he could concentrate on.

She said, "I can give you a hint."

Joe said, "Hints are good. What's the hint?"

"Henry Drummond," she said. Since this is a "G" rated blog, I won't repeat what he said upon hearing her hint, but let's just say he thought he might need to change his underwear.

Tomorrow: THE CALLBACK.