Auditor UGA Pet Peeves

[Betsy Schwartz]

You know, they used to have this thing in Dallas, and I think it's still going on, called "Noon Preview" which was essentially a monthly showcase that showcased scenes for casting folk, directors, theatres, talent agents etc.
 The idea, at least back then, was that you'd audition your scene, and if it was picked, you got to perform at a showcase luncheon  in front of all these industry folks. The auditioners would get a lunch out of the deal, and would be treated to about an hour of scene-work from the chosen participants for that month.

I know that probably wouldn't be a way to "replace" the generals, but they were enormously successful, if I remember correctly.  It was a great way for actors to showcase their talents, and for industry folks to get a really good sense of what people could do outside of going to see them in a show.
I'm sure there are a lot more details about this that I'm forgetting, but it's been awhile since my time in big D.

[Maria Glanz]

That sounds like a totally fun idea, Betsy - thanks for posting.

I would say more, but I've been up since 5:30 (I think) and must nap now.

[Margaret O'Malley]

Great discussion.   I think many actors (myself included) sometimes view auditioning as if we're going before a tribunal and the directors are a firing squad.  It's not the case- especially in Seattle.  As stated, directors want to actors to succeed. 

As a person who has attended the UGAs in the past as an auditor, actor and volunteer as well as someone who has done various jobs in theatre such as publicity, stage managing, house managing and running auditions, I was surprised that no one mentioned these issues:

1.  If you cannot make your scheduled audition time, please have the courtesy to call and say you cannot make it.  You wouldn't just not show up for a job interview, so don't do it for an audition.  By not showing up and not calling, you are showing a lack of respect for the time of the people who are there.  Things happen and I think everyone understands, but courtesy is important.

2. SHOW UP ON TIME!!!!!!!!  When you are late, you hold up everyone else.  Again, things happen but have the courtesy and call to say you are running late. 

3.  Be polite to the person who takes your pictures or who is running auditions. This is a small town and people are all too ready to talk.  This person is volunteering his or her time to help your audition go smoothly.  And on the same note, once cast in a show, being rude to the stage crew, costume crew of house staff is unacceptable.

4.  Say "Thank you" with confidence no matter how sucky you think your audition went.

My $.02....