Contest Play & Group Interpretation Q&A

DATES:    Monologues are Tuesday, December 8, 2015
                Callbacks will be Wednesday, December 9, 2015
                First rehearsal is Tuesday, January 12, 2016
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Auditions will be held in the O'Plaine Auditorium

The following dialogue is adapted from numerous conversations Mr. Miller has had with students. It should serve to enlighten you about the upcoming Auditions.

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Curious Student: Yo, M-Dawg, i think im want to audition for this Contest Interp thang. But I's got Speech team and that Mary 'b Poppin', yo. Can I do both?
Mr. Miller: First, please use at least slightly more proper grammar.

CS: Sorry, Mr. Miller.
MM: That's better. Now to answer your question, Yes, yes, yes! The first rehearsal is mandatory, but we will use that time to determine a schedule that works around other conflicts. Ms. Cooper, Mrs. Riddell, and Mrs. Colgan have expressed a willingness to be flexible with regards to conflicts, but know it is your responsibility to fulfill your commitments. NOTE: While Speech Team will have no impact on what role you can play in the shows, there may be some limitations if you plan on auditioning for the musical. This will be addressed on an individual basis, so communication between you and your directors is paramount.

CS: So, what is Contest Play?
MM: Contest Play is a 40 minute fully produced play (lights, costumes, sound, set), that we travel to compete against other schools. Crew is hugely important, as we have 20 minutes TOTAL, to set-up and strike the set.  If we place in the Top 2 at Sectionals for Contest Play, we advance to the State Finals.

CS: That's on fleek!
MM: ?

CS: ...
MM: ...

CS: What about Group Interp? What's that all about?
MM: Group Interp (GI) is more of an ensemble, storytelling approach to theatre. There is a simple unit set, uniform costumes, no lights, sounds, props. The majority of stage focus is towards the audience, and actors typically play multiple roles. We must place in the Top 3 at Sectionals to advance.

CS: Right on! Can I be in Contest Play and GI?
MM: Yes, that is a possibility. But auditioning for one is auditioning for both. I will determine how best to cast the shows. Regardless, both casts and crews will be working in tandem to put on the best possible productions.

CS: What do I have to do to audition?
MM: In order to audition, you must perform a monologue – any monologue would do. It should be less than one minute. The monologue should showcase your acting ability as well as your comfort on stage. The callbacks will consist of readings and acting exercises to determine acting flexibility and collaborative ability.

CS: M-Dawg, listen. That acting thang ain’t fo me. Can I just crew it up?
MM: Watch that grammar. And yes, of course. This is a link to fill out the Crew Info Form / Leadership Application. Those who work on crew for the show will travel with us as we compete, and ask anyone from previous years – it’s a super fun time.  Casts in the shows are expected to help contribute to crew for the other show.

CS: Wait… what are the shows? I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to ask this question.
MM: Well… They are To Be Determined. Based on who auditions, I will pick a couple of shows that highlighted our ensemble’s strengths. I aim to announce the cast lists / crew leadership / show choices over winter break.

CS: Seems reasonable. So, what is the rehearsal process? Two shows at once sounds like a bit of a challenge.
MM: I’m sure it will be. As mentioned, the first rehearsal is mandatory. From there, we will set up a schedule that will work around conflicts. In the past, some folks have had to adjust speech meeting days to accommodate. The most important thing is for cast, crew and directors of all activities to communicate obligations and expectations. I am confident we can make it all work - it just takes effort.

CS: Sweet. Anything else I should be aware of?
MM: The time commitment for this show is unique. We will have public performance on March 4th. The Sectional Competition is March 19. If we are fortunate enough to make it to the State Competition, the show will go until April 1-2. You must be available to commit to this show until April 1 (Note: The Sectional Competition is the first weekend of Spring Break. If we make State, we will have a few rehearsals over break). If there is a conflict, but you are still interested, contact Mr. Miller before auditions. We may be able to work something out.

CS: Sounds good… if I think of something later, what should I do?
MM: Find me and ask, or send me an e-mail.
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CS: Cool. That makes sense. Thanks for your help. Lata’ playa’!
MM: *sigh*