INA, Ill. (Nov. 21, 2013) - For actors wondering if they have what it takes to go pro, this is the chance to find out.
Rend Lake College has been selected as the site of the Illinois Theatre Association’s next mock audition. This clinic puts actors in front of experienced directors and casting representatives. The actor has 90 seconds on stage. Afterward, the judges will offer feedback to a select number of auditionees. The mock audition gives actors "insider information" about what to expect at the ITA’s professional auditions in February at the University of Illinois at Chicago.
RLC Theatre Director and ITA member Tracey Webb said Allan Kimball, director of theatre at Southeastern Illinois College and a resident of Benton, suggested to ITA organizers that they consider RLC’s theatre as a venue. Webb said hosting is an honor and a great opportunity for local actors.
“It’s free for students and only $10 for everyone else. It’s also free for ITA members and I encourage anyone serious about acting to become a member. Members get information on upcoming auditions and extra training opportunities. You can join online,†said Webb. “This is very exciting that they asked Rend Lake College to host these mock auditions. This is a great opportunity to help actors prepare for professional auditions. I am definitely encouraging my students to do this.â€
According to the ITA, the mock audition teaches actors things like how applications are chosen, what to expect on the day of auditions, and how to make the most of 90 seconds on stage. Areas covered can include stage entrance, the introduction, choice of material, ability for others to connect to an audition piece, and how to best exit the stage. The clinic will also include a discussion on headshot/resume submissions, and include helpful hints on how to best prepare for professional auditions. A select number of actors will be chosen to perform their audition pieces in front of the audience, and be given feedback by the facilitators, according to the ITA.
For musical theatre auditionees: an accompanist will not be provided. Be prepared to sing without music, or bring a CD with tracks on it. A CD player will be provided.
The ITA mock auditions at RLC are from 2-5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2 at the RLC Theatre on the campus in Ina. For updates and more information, visit the ITA’s website at www.illinoistheatre.org. For more about RLC, visit online at www.rlc.edu.
Illinois Theatre Association Mock Auditions
2 - 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2
Rend Lake College Theatre
468 N. Ken Gray Parkway
Ina, IL 62846
Price: Free for students and ITA members. $10 for all others.