AUDITIONS (eek!!) Overcoming Those Nerves!

Auditions (eek!!) are perhaps the scariest thing on the planet for most performers. Bearing your heart and soul to a panel of stone-faced (much of the time) is not an ideal performance situation for any actor, singer, dancer etc... But most performers have to face them at some point (if not every day) in their careers, and the most difficult task is often just to simply combat those dang nerves! Even though my heart still races at every single audition I encounter, I can remember a time when my body would just seize up and I thought I couldn’t go through with it, I was so nervous. I remember when I heard a director (who had worked with such big names as: Andrea Martin, Eugene Levy, and Mike Myers) told me that ‘EVERYONE, even these big stars get nervous before an audition – I’ve seen firsthand - but it’s how they’ve learned to deal with those nerves that makes the difference.’

Different things work for different people. I’ve found taking deep controlled breaths will help calm the shaking and repeating mantras like ‘Okay Nerves - you can come for the ride but I’VE got control of the steering wheel’ will help get you focused and keep YOU in control. Basic things like: upright posture, confident walk, warm smile, and strong voice will help cement making a strong impression. Above all – know your worth and believe in your own talent. Your self-confidence will stand out. And know that you’re not alone! You may not always be exactly what they’re looking for at that time, but a strong and positive impression can last a lifetime – and you never know what other doors it can lead to.

Check out this great article in overcoming nerves before an audition!!
http://www.suite101.com/content/audition-tips-for-actors-a127564

DJP OPEN MIC INTERVIEW SERIES!!!

DJP OPEN MIC INTERVIEW SERIES!!!

OPEN MICS!!! I’m crazy about ‘em!!! ☺ and Toronto is chalk full of AWESOME open mic nights for singers and performers to get their groove on. I owe so much to open mic nights as they helped me to break into the Toronto music scene and always continue to help me develop my stage chops, practice working a real crowd, and allow me to take big risks and try out new things! Not to mention all the networking capabilities! I often wonder why I don’t see more performers completely taking advantage of them, but then I thought, “Maybe people just don’t know about them.”

So, I’ve decided to do a Youtube Open Mic Interview Series, to start to get the word out on these awesome opportunities to play! My first interview is of Jill Léger, the host and creator of ‘Jill’s Living Room’: a monthly open cabaret night and a safe place for singers to try out new songs, or prepare for an upcoming audition. It’s held right downtown at the Second City Training Center (70 Peter St.), and features some of the industry’s best piano accompanists. Check out “Jill’s Living Room”s Facebook Page

And check the interview below:



Rate/Subscribe/Comment while you’re there and ENJOY! Perhaps I’ll see YOU at the next ‘Jill’s Living Room’.

xoxoxoDJP