The theatrical season is underway on campus and students who are interested in being an actor for the production “Distracted,” auditions will be taking place next Tuesday, Aug. 30 from 4-7 p.m. 

Auditions are one of the early stages of a theatrical production. So here are some tips that may be helpful to those wishing to audition.

“It is important to know that auditions vary, depending on the production and the director,” said Jim Winter, associate professor of acting and director of “Distracted”. “Some you can just show up for and some you have to prepare a monologue or song for. Don’t forget to slate. This means introduce yourself to the director and tell him or her what piece you are performing. Be friendly and courteous to everyone and remember to have fun. Auditions can seem scary, but the people who come in and are having a good time tend to be more relaxed and do better.”

Preparing a monologue for auditions is something all actors should have in mind before going into their audition. 

“For this one, I’m asking those who audition to prepare a two-minute contemporary monologue,” said Winter. “A short speech from a play written in the last twenty-five years or so. I’d like something funny but serious dramatic monologues are fine, too.”

Auditioning may seem nerve-wracking, but some actors admit that this is true for the majority of actors. Sometimes calming yourself may help before you perform a monologue as well as not worrying about what may happen. 

“If you’ve never auditioned before, remember to take deep breaths,” said Shelby Elliot, a junior general studies major with a minor in theatre. “Be kind to everyone you encounter. If they’re actors, they’re just as nervous as you are. If they’re management, they may have a say in whether you get cast or not. Don’t get caught up in what-ifs. Whatever happens, happens.”

Actors who have auditioned and took on roles of various university theatrical productions believe that auditioning will not only allow you to grow as an actor, but an individual as well. 

“Whether you actually want to be in a show or not, auditioning is an extremely beneficial way to obtain feedback and to grow as an actor,” said Angela Griffitt, a senior general studies major with a minor in theatre. “In my personal experience with choosing the right comedic monologue, I find it absolutely vital that you, in some way, can relate to your character, whether it’s personal or not. And just have fun with it. The more you expose your willingness to play in your audition, the more the director will remember you, thus heightening your chances of getting a call back.”

Other actors who have been in various theatrical productions at the university have had their confidence build up through previous auditions. 

“Auditioning builds confidence and gets your name out there to directors and other theatre artists,” said Elliott. “It can be extremely intimidating, but the worst that could happen is that you don’t get the part which you already know is a possibility when you decide to audition. All you have to lose is a few hours of your time but what you could possibly gain is tremendous.”

According to Madison Paulus, a junior business administration major with a minor in theatre and stage director, “Distracted” is by Lisa Loomer and is about a young boy being diagnosed with ADD and dealing with the question of if he should be medicated. This issue will be dealt with by the main character, Mama, as she finds her way through life’s distractions. 

For those preparing for an audition, perusal copies of the script are available in D Vickers room 128.

“Usually, on the day of auditions, you should come to the main lobby of D Vickers Hall any time during the audition times listed on the announcement,” said Winter. “There will be a table where you’ll sign in and fill out a few things before going in to see the director. You can usually expect to be there about thirty to forty-five minutes.”

Call-backs will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 31. Paulus encourages everyone to have a good time throughout the entire auditioning process. 

“As far as callbacks, open-mindedness is key,” said Griffitt. “The director may ask you to read for an unexpected character, but don’t let that discourage you by any means.”

For more information about auditions for “Distracted,” or future theatrical productions at Southeastern, pay attention to auditions flyers and on-line announcements. 

According to Winter, the theatre department does its best to advertise upcoming auditions in residence halls and classroom buildings. The best source for additional information is on the theater portion of the Southeastern website or by going to Alpha Psi Omega’s Facebook page. Auditions are open to all students and non-students. 

“Distracted” will be performed in the Vonnie Borden Theatre from Oct. 18 to 22 at 7:30 p.m.