Expert: John T. Aney - 8/30/2007

Question
Hi I am 17 and in my senior year at a new high school. I really do want a bigger part than I have in the past.  The fall production is The Adventures of Tom sawyer.  I really would love the part of either Aunt polly, or becky.  I am curios to know if I should use an accent or just speack normaly.  It is a cold read so I don't know if that will trip me up.  Also I want to know if you have any tips to help me get the part.  Thanks for your help!

Answer
My general advice to auditioneers is only use an accent in an audition of you are 100% comfortable doing it.  With the role of Becky or Aunt Polly, I don't think you need to worry about an accent, unless the director specifically requests it.  Do whatever you can to make yourself comfortable.  The more comfortable you are, the more your natural talent will shine through, and the better chance you have of landing the role.

Good luck!

jta