On Sunday, I had the pleasure of sitting on a small panel of judges for the Regional High School Shakespeare Competition created and sponsored by The English Speaking Union. High School Students from around Rhode Island are invited to perform a Shakespearean monologue and sonnet in front of invited guests at Laurelmead in Providence.
The Regional first-place winner then goes on to compete Nationally at a similiar (though much larger) competition in New York City. The National first-place winner is invited to spend a summer semester--tuition free--at the British/American Theater School in England. Whew. Lots at stake.
The competing students: Talented? Yes. Raw? Yes. Continued promise as actors? Certainly. Their choices and their voices were varied; the degree of difficulty was varied; how they used the space was varied--but they all, at very (relatively) young ages, were doing something, that at the same age, I could not do.
When I was fourteen and auditioned for my first Shakespeare play, I got cast--but as a chorus member. I could not read a
word of Shakespeare (though I made the effort): had
no idea about iambic pentameter, breathing, intent,
the audience...yet, by and large, these students did. The very strong ones were fearless, passionate, clear, and knew the text.
When we announced the winners (third-place, second, then first), we judges got a moment to speak to the students. I said--Each one of you has unique talent...do not be afraid of it--it is who you are. Use it to propel you forward into this world of theater and of acting--it is something to be proud of and to show. Also, remember--when you embark on this journey, remember--to be
good people. The vessel that you are is important and the truth that you embody in yourself will only
help your acting and your art form.
Boy, it felt good to say that.
I wanted to say it personally to all the participants, but some were so overcome by not being chosen that they left before I could. Still, while I was watching some of them perform that day, it was hard not to want to cast them in a show (maybe someday soon, I will get the chance!)
S.A.L.T. leadership meets tonight--more photos from the space soon! The bookstore is cranking along; shelves to be delivered the first weekend in March.
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We had a bunch of kids, playing, reading, and nibbling on the home-baked goodies, fantastic musicians playing some great music, and, of course, all the great patrons and friends that visited. Tomorrow, hours are 10 - 6 pm. with music from around 1-3 pm. Hopefully we will see you there!
