Earning the Role

Kristina Casubolo

PrideTime Editor
​

What role did you audition for?
“Technically, I auditioned for Donna, but didn’t get it. I think it’s because I literally am Rosie. The only reason people gravitate towards her is because she is so funny. Donna is more serious and I’m not very serious. I got Rosie, and I’m happy with the role.”

What did you have to do for your audition?
“They gave us a long list of songs. So, for each character you want to audition for, you learned the song. And then there were sides, which is basically dialogue from the musical, and you would have to learn your character’s sides. There is also a dance audition.”

How did you prepare for all of this?
“I went home and sang karaoke in my bedroom at night. As for the lines… I kind of just winged them. I read them over with my friends that were also auditioning for the role, so we kind of helped each other.”

What about the dance audition?
“The choreographer comes in and performs a combination. She takes time to go through it, slowly. Once you get it, she gives you time to review it with the rest of the people that are auditioning, then they split you up into groups of five and you perform the combination for your audition with that group. They grade you on each section [acting, singing, dancing], but you don’t get to see your grade.”

Why did you choose to be involved in the play?
“In elementary school, I did the musicals, so I guess it started there. Then, Roton didn’t have any musicals, so I was kind of deprived. I looked forward to going to McMahon so I could be part of the musicals again. I’ve always been fascinated with music and acting and the whole musical experience.”

What is your favorite part of being involved in the play?
“Probably the friends I’ve met, the bonds we’ve created. I’ve met so many people from cast, crew and pit. Also, the performance in front of everyone after five months of work. It feels so good.”

What is the worst part of the play experience for you?
“It’s time consuming, especially as a lead. Many people have been a lead and done a sport, but, it’s hard, and if you don’t have the motivation to do it, there is no way you’re going to get it done.”

Do you have any tips for people who are interested in auditioning for next year’s play?
“Don’t be afraid to audition. You’re going to regret not doing it sooner; that’s what everyone that gets into it late says because they missed out on all these good musicals. If you want to do it, do it. Go to Mr. Arcari, ask for information. Come see the musical this year and talk to some people who were involved.”

​​