You want me to read for who?

I learned something at my audition last night.

I need to stop typecasting myself.

type·cast

 [tahyp-kast, -kahst]

–verb (used with object), -cast, -cast·ing. Theater .

1. to cast (a performer) in a role that requires characteristics of physique, manner, personality, etc., similar to those possessed by the performer.

2. to cast (a performer) repeatedly in a kind of role closely patterned after that of the actor's previous successes.

3. to stereotype: He realizes now he's been typecast as an executive errand boy.

At my callback, they asked me to read for the “dumb blonde” character. I have never in my life been called back for the dumb blonde, Valley girl, head cheerleader character. Ever. They didn’t tell me who I was being called back for in advance and when I found out, I was so shocked I basically blew the audition.

But why was I shocked?

Just because I’ve never been cast or asked to audition for that type of role before doesn’t mean I can’t do it. Shouldn’t an actor be able to play all types of roles? Why am I pigeonholing myself?

I’m noticing that I’m choosing the same types of monologues too. They all tend to be kind of quirky or funny; characters that I usually get cast as and identify with.

At my first audition, those directors saw something in me that told them I could be right for this character. I should take that as a compliment. They saw abilities in me that I don’t see in myself and had confidence that I could perform in that role. (Too bad I blew it…) Funnily enough, I've actually been told by more than one person recently that I have a look and a personality that could go either way; ingenue or character.

I think the problem is that when you are in high school and college, you tend to get typecast as one role. Mostly because directors need someone who can fill that part and they have a limited pool to choose from. So you don't always get to flex your acting muscles and work outside the box. The trouble starts when you break out into the real acting world and all of a sudden discover (like me) that if you only audition for a certain role or with material that leans toward a certain type, you have seriously limited the amount of opportunities that you are going to have.

So what do I do about this?

Well first, I need a little self confidence boost. I am a strong, smart, well rounded, capable actor. As long as I can tell the story, I can play the role. (Maybe I'll start saying this to myself in the mirror every day. Jessica, anyone?)

Second I’m resolving to pick more monologues that are out of my comfort zone. Let’s say the next 3 monologues I chose must be against "type" for me.'

But……

……hold me to that, would ya?

*thanks www.dictionary.com for the definition of "typecast"!

PS: While the video blog was fun times, don't get spoiled! Do you think free time grows on trees?