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Taken
from the alt newsletter, "CURTAIN
CALL"
December 2011
Allen Shankles
Managing/ Artistic Director
So, I am currently toiling through an insane period of time here at ALT during which I am directing two shows pretty much simultaneously. This is only possible thanks to some great organization and two very capable assistants who will be running various rehearsals for me during the process. Why do I do this? Good question. The answer is not really simple. First, I really like both of these shows (Of Mice and Men and Chicago) and I wanted to direct them. Second, as everyone knows, I am a control freak and I am reluctant to turn over the ”keys” to just anyone. So, there is currently a short list of directors that work at ALT. They are each very good directors, but not as available as I would like. Third, I
am clearly a work-aholic who doesn’t know better. I have vowed to not try this endurance test again next year. Time will tell if I live up to that resolution. Anyway, both shows will get all I can give them and I am certain they will be worthy of your support.
One reason I am sure each of these shows is poised for success is the fact that we had such strong auditions for each show. The size of the talent pool which auditions in relation to the number of roles available is usually a good indicator for a show’s success.........not always, but often.
For Of Mice and Men we had a total of 21 people vying for 10 roles. That’s a pretty good ratio and it assures that the director has a good selection of actors from which to choose. For Chicago we had 53 people auditioning and we cast 19. That’s terrific. And the best news is that every person at those auditions was very talented and could have easily been cast in the show. The competition was fierce and many talented people did not get a role. Unfortunately, that’s show business.
The broader point here is this. The success of ALT productions owes much to the talented people who perform in each show. However, those people who audition but are not cast have also contributed to that success by being at the auditions, creating a healthy competitive environment and giving the directors good choices for every role. I applaud every person who “puts it all out there” at these auditions. It can be very scary, but the rewards, even for
those not cast, can be great.
Of Mice and Men and Chicago are well into rehearsals and both promise to be stunning productions. Thanks to the many people who helped to make them so.
So for now I better quit writing and get back to rehearsal....I’m sure there is one waiting for me.
I look forward to seeing you at the theatre(s).
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