Choosing Quality over QUALITY

Sean Gaffney has another post about auditions up and this time it features a GREAT comment by our very own Angela.

When I first came to VGCC the music and drama ministry was thriving and we would put on youth musicals every summer. They became well known at my school and many of the kids who didn't go to church were interested in participating. We had some fun people join our ranks that way but I do remember when a gal from my school auditioned for the lead role that everyone wanted. She was a ringer. But when she didn't get the role she wanted, she stayed on for maybe 1 rehearsal and then just dropped out. I remember being relieved. I was lucky to be under the direction of people who had the wisdom to weigh so many factors in the audition process.

I have been in a similar situation casting my last play. I had a professional actor. A REAL ACTOR who wanted to be a part of things. I didn't know him well but others around me did so I listened to them. I watched him carefully during the audition process and all I saw was a true desire to be a part of the team. I gave him a big role. But then he didn't show up for our first rehearsal.

Gulp. What had I DONE?

Judgements were rushed to and conclusions were reached without any inquiry. I had a panic on the part of the rest of the cast and those who I turned to for counsel (outside my cast of actors) were causing me panic in my heart. Was this a power play? Did he think he was above the clearly stated guidelines for missing rehearsals? Did he not think me a competent director?

I sent an e-mail. I typed and re-typed it 3 or 4 times before I sent the simple: "Missed you at rehearsal today, what happened?"

That Sunday, a kind hearted, apologetic actor told me that he'd gotten stuck at work and wasn't able to make it home in time and had no phone numbers to call. He was terribly sorry and wanted to know what he missed. The heart of service and teamwork I was so sure I had glimpsed during auditions was still there. Praise God!

Our dinner theatre turned out to be one of the more fun processes I have ever been through. God gave me a team of actors who were ready to jump in with both feet and try the crazy hair-brained schemes I was cooking up. (Including this one and this one and this one and this one and this one and this one-to name a few. And that is not mentioning the amazing crew!)

Many of you have brought up the points Sean is bringing up today...so much to think about! I love it. (I hope you are enjoying this too.)

Diva-inity