Special to 1812Blockhouse
In the sweltering heat of an Ohio summer, aspiring actors and actresses are coming together to vanquish audition butterflies once and for all. An innovative two-week class, aptly named “Audition Boot Camp,” is set to demystify the auditioning process, replacing uncertainty with newfound confidence.
From July 17 to July 27, students will immerse themselves in a holistic audition skill-building experience. This intense training will guide them in choosing and performing a song, mastering a dance combo, and preparing a compelling short monologue. Cold reading from a script, an essential skill for any actor, will also be on offer. The finale of this journey is a “mock audition,” where students will showcase their honed skills. A fitting culmination that will leave them primed and ready for the fall audition season.
The masterminds behind this immersive experience are RAA’s seasoned professional theatre instructors, Maria Beery and Erin Wolford. Adding a melodious note to the journey, piano instructor Alicia Porter will provide the accompaniment. The boot camp is set to run Monday through Friday, from 2:00-3:00 PM, culminating in a final showing on Thursday, July 27.
Maria Beery, a veteran of the theatre world, spent a decade in the Big Apple, honing her craft at the Atlantic Acting School and the Jade McCarty Studio. With an illustrious performance repertoire that includes roles like Liesl in “The Sound of Music” and Lady Capulet in “Romeo and Juliet,” Maria brings rich experience to the class. Known for her directorial prowess in productions like “Les Misérables” and “Mamma Mia,” Maria has a message for all budding actors: Auditioning need not be intimidating, but can be approached with a sense of fun and enthusiasm.
Equally impressive is Erin Wolford, a BFA Musical Theatre and Dance graduate from West Virginia Wesleyan College. With over a decade of professional performance and teaching experience, Erin’s contribution is invaluable. Notable roles like Jellylorum in “Cats” and Graziella in “West Side Story” add to her stellar portfolio. Beyond acting, Erin is also a renowned choreographer who recently made her choreographic debut with Marden Ramos at the Renaissance Theatre in Mansfield.
Enrollment for the Audition Boot Camp is now open. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to step up your game! For more information on this and many other class offerings, visit richlandacademy.com or call 419-522-8224. Make this summer your time to shine on stage!
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