Take Responsibility!

Having worked a lot as a reader for many auditions I have come to pinpoint the one thing that is killing us as actors; BLAMING THE READER. It is always the readers fault.

I often get amused when I ask an actor ‘so, how did the audition go?’ then they say “It sucked. My reader was terrible” Really? to me, that’s a sign of a bad actor and a human being who generally does not like taking responsibility.

First off, an actor must know that it costs money for a (CD) casting director to hire an actual actor to read for you. Some CD’s will be the ones reading for you and taping at the same time to cut costs. So you should be grateful that a CD has gone out of her way to hire a reader for you.

Secondly, if you’re lucky enough to book the job you wont get to choose who to play with. The director might just decide to hire his talent-less daughter as the lead (Godfather 3, anyone?) are you gonna ask him to fire her because she can’t act? or doesn’t read as you would like?. No! Same applies to your reader at an audition. Unless they just cant read, their acting (in)ability should NEVER be an excuse for a bad audition.

I do lot of self tapes. About five a week. Not always do I get an actor to read for me. Most times I make do with whoever is available. One time I used the postman (wish i was kidding).

An actor must know, its never about the reader or the CD. Its always about YOU. Sounds selfish but its the truth. The few minutes you get in an audition room are priceless. They determine whether or not you get your next pay check. Take responsibility, own your audition. Make your reader inconsequential ! If it doesn’t work out (and it wont most of the time) don’t beat yourself up, leave your audition knowing you did your best and always learn something from it.

Below is an audio I found online by Steve Braun. Best advice Ive gotten on readers. Use it and succeed ! http://bramongarciabraun.com/uncategorized/why-a-bad-reader-is-a-gift/

Image Credit: matthewsopera.com

Epic line: “There are only two ways of getting on in the world: by one’s own industry or by the stupidity of others. “-Jean De La Bruyére

Disclaimer; this blog is written by the voice(s) in my head. It doesn’t intend to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any acting inabilities. If symptoms persist, consult an acting coach