I am not sure about you but to me it seems like the first quarter of the year has flown by. Yes, the dreaded tax season is upon us but at the same time we are able to enjoy the longer days and the spring flowers as they start to bloom. Maybe that is God’s gift to us for having to endure the tax season. Whatever the case, Spring is often the time when we want to redecorate the house, spend more time outdoors, and get our yards (and body) ready for summer.I too have done that over the years as each spring starts to appear. I would change the colors in my house from red, black and gold to white, cream and tan....I wanted it to feel like a beach house, and it did. I no longer have my own house to redecorate and nest in but I do have a new city to get to know and I am certainly doing that! I have gone out more here in the last 2 months than I think all year in Portland.
I still often pinch myself that I am actually here, living in LA. And although I endured a lot of heartache and struggles over the last few years I am so happy I am here. It feels like this is where I am supposed to be. However, I must admit that after owning an agency going out on auditions is tough. It is not that I think I am better than anyone else or that I feel like I should not have to play the game like everyone else, it is just that at times it can feel so belittling, like I should be doing something more. Let me explain.... after getting camera ready (this is different than regular ready), driving for 45 minutes (at least) and waiting for another 45 minutes you then have less than 2 minutes to show them why you are the ONE but in the end either you are a fit or not, there is not a whole lot you can do.
Last week I had an audition for a Target commercial, they were looking for different types of “moms.” (Yes, I am going out for the mom roles now...Ahhhh) I am waiting for my turn with a room full of talent who are also patiently waiting while eyeing each other up. Standing in line I look to my right and notice a beautiful girl in her 20’s looking as though she was ready to hit the dance floor. She was wearing a black short skirt with tall boots, had long black hair and painted her face for a hot night on the town, but it was 1:30pm . I think to myself, “We are definitely NOT going out for the same part.” She is talking it up on her cell phone about her personal trainer as the frazzled casting director comes out of get her. The casting director asks the young women if she has a headshot, she responds with a “Yes”, he then asks her for her headshot. She then tells him that she does have one but did not bring it with her. He then says, “So you do NOT have one.” She retorts back, “Yes, I do but...” He responds, “Honey, it’s a yes or no answer, either you have one with you or you don’t!” Obviously frustrated he makes a disparaging comment and turns to follow her into the room while gesturing putting a gun to his head. OMG!!! Seriously! This is LA....it is all kinds trying to “make it” and I am in that pool. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything! In case you are wondering...no, I did not get the commercial. I bet she did. :)
Anyway, all this is stuff I know and have taught others about for years but actually being out in it is a different thing all together. One of my new friends wrote, “He did not choose the industry, it chose him.” I so get that! If you love this business it is part of who you are...there is just no escaping it.
I have gone out quite a bit this week and went out for a job I think I would be perfect for so I am keeping my fingers crossed that my 2 minutes counted.
