Student Blog: Full Circle Moments: Auditioning, Growing, and Finding Joy in the Process

This past month has been such a meaningful one for me as a performer. I had the opportunity to audition for my town’s summer production of The Little Mermaid, and it felt like a full-circle moment. Last summer, I was on that same stage playing Mama Bear in Shrek the Musical, so coming back brought a mix of excitement, familiarity, and new goals.  Going into auditions, I had my heart set on Ursula. She’s been a dream role of mine for a long time, not just because of her iconic songs, but because she represents a kind of bold, confident presence that I connect with. I also appreciate seeing a character with a body type similar to mine portrayed so powerfully on stage.

In the weeks leading up to auditions, I really committed to preparing. I studied her character, practiced my audition song, and spent time working on her callback piece so I could walk in feeling ready.  Audition day was equal parts nerve-wracking and exciting. One of my favorite parts was getting to reconnect with friends from last summer’s show. We started with a tap dance call, which I will admit pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I have always considered myself more of an actress and singer who can move rather than a strong dancer.  I have been taking dance classes and have grown so much since high school, and I am continuing to put in the work so I felt excited and ready for the tap dance. During the dance call, I focused on having fun and staying confident, reminding myself that growth is the goal.  After that, we moved into vocal auditions. I performed my song and was met with such encouraging energy from the room, which meant so much to me. Later that day, I found out I had been called back for Ursula, and I was beyond excited. 

Callback day felt like a mix of adrenaline and joy. We started again with a group dance call, and I was proud to make it through to the final round. Then came the Ursula callbacks. I performed a cut from “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” focusing on storytelling, character, and connecting with the audience. I received really kind feedback on both my acting and singing, and regardless of the outcome, I felt proud of how much I had grown.  The next day, I waited anxiously for casting. When the email finally came through, I found out that I had been cast in the ensemble. I was really disappointed. I had worked so hard and really hoped for Ursula, but at the same time, I was genuinely grateful to be part of the show.

As I sat with it and let some tears out, I started to see the opportunity in a new way. Being in the ensemble means I will be dancing more, which is something I have been actively working to improve. It is a chance to grow in a different area and challenge myself in ways I might not have otherwise.  A few days later, I found out that one of my sorority sisters was cast as Ariel, and a good friend of mine was cast as Ursula. I was so excited for both of them, and I cannot wait to support them throughout the process. I also found out that my uncle will be joining the cast in the ensemble, which makes this experience even more special. Getting to share the stage with people I care about, both friends and family, is something I never take for granted.

One of the things I love most about doing these summer musicals in the park is how they bring the entire community together. There is something so special about performing outdoors, with families, friends, and neighbors all coming out to support the arts. It creates such a fun, welcoming environment, and it reminds me why I love theater in the first place.  As we head into rehearsals, I feel motivated, grateful, and ready to grow. This experience reminded me that success is not always about getting the role you want. It is about showing up, doing your best, and embracing every opportunity to learn along the way.