Resolve to get involved!

Did you resolve to do something new this year? Maybe you want to finally audition for a GCP show, or become more involved in theatre, but you don't know how to get started. I can help you check that resolution off your list!

Auditioning for shows is a great way to become known at the GCP. I know, it's scary to stand up in front of people you don't know and act and/or sing, but here's a secret: almost everyone, including the most experienced regulars, gets nervous at auditions. Thankfully, here's another secret: everyone wants you to do well. Directors want to be spoiled for choice!! It helps lessen the anxiety if you are well prepared for the audition - check out my audition tips, and these from the GCP website.

If you are cast in a small role or a chorus part, please do not see it as a reflection on you or your talent. Just being cast at all is a pretty big vote of confidence, especially since most shows have many more auditioners than parts. If you are not cast after your first audition, do not give up. The show might not be a good fit for you, or the production staff might have to make some tough decisions. Try again for the next show!

Here's what some of our actors had to say to people thinking of auditioning:
"Take a deep breath and show up. Sometimes all you need a is a break. I auditioned for several shows at GCP without getting in before I got into "Anything Goes" and now "Rent." However disheartening it is not to make it, I never gave up trying and it paid off in an incomprehensible way."
"Just do it. Everyone is very supportive and just as nervous as anyone else to get up there. It's worth it to be a part of theater and a show. It becomes your family for 3-4 months and beyond. So just do it. You don't have anything to lose."
"Please do so -- I personally will do everything I can to make sure you feel welcome and come back. The creative and collaborative effort of talented people working together to make art is a life-affirming continuous action that draws people together and which you really can't find anywhere else."

So what if you don't want to perform? There are lots of other ways to get involved at GCP. We always need stage crew, sound and lighting technicians, musicians, costumers, ticket takers and ushers, and handy people to build and paint sets! It really does take a village to bring our productions to life. Leave us a message on our Facebook page to let us know you are interested!

I hope one of your resolutions this year is to see more shows. GCP has a string of great shows left this season, starting in January with "Intimate Apparel," a drama about an African-American seamstress in 1905 New York (Viola Davis originated this role off-Broadway). "Thoroughly Modern Millie," the 2002 Tony Award winner for Best Musical and the show that made Sutton Foster a star, is coming up in March, followed by "Agnes of God," a drama that turned into an Oscar-nominated film starring Jane Fonda, Anne Bancroft and Meg Tilly. The season ender is none other than the megahit 2003 Best Musical "Hairspray"!

Join us at the GCP and help us make 2012 the best year yet!

xo xo GCP Girl