I've talked a great deal about my time as a casting reader. One of the reasons I bring it up so frequently is because I learned so many important lessons that transcend the stage.
This afternoon I was speaking to a dear friend of mine who was set to give a big presentation in a few days. "I'm so nervous. I just want to get through it without screwing up," she cried.
I thought back on the scores of actors I read with who allowed their timidity and surprise over being called in to audition overshadow the opportunity itself. The seasoned veterans on the other hand knew they'd been called in for a reason, and mastered the ability to be kind and still claim their space to deliver a terrific audition.
"This is a remarkable chance for you," I tried to convince my friend. "And who knows, nothing may come of your presentation this go around but you might get a phone call down the road for the perfect opportunity.
My point was that if you put your best foot forward and strive toward excellence it will leave an impression. Over the years I saw incredibly talented storytellers deliver amazing performances only to be overlooked for the part.
But on several occasions I saw actors come in years later for an equally great opportunity, sometimes even better. They had made a conscious decision to spread "good contagion" and leave their calling card.
As a result, they stayed on the mental rolodex of a person with influence and got another opportunity to showcase their talents.
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