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Dramaqueen928
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Audition help with Mrs. Lovett - 2008/02/25 13:35 Hi everyone,
I am a new member to this site although I have been using it as a resource for quite a while. Our community theater is doing Sweeney Todd and I would like to audition for Mrs. Lovett. I am kind of stuck as to what kind of monologue to go with. My cockney accent is very good, but I have heard not to audition with an accent. Not sure why... it is such an integral part of the character. I am certainly type for this role (40's) but the competition is going to be fierce. Also, any suggestions for song would be grand as well. This part is in my top 5 to play. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Sally

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triplethreat

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Re:Audition help with Mrs. Lovett - 2008/02/25 14:11 Hi Sally, welcome!

It's usually not a good idea to sing with an accent in an audition, because often it distracts them from hearing your actual voice (among other reasons).

In this case, since as you say the accent is fairly integral to the character, I would recommend preparing 2 selections, and then simply asking the audition panel if they would like to hear you sing with or without the accent.

It is extremely likely that they will ask you to attempt the accent in a cold read - if an accent is asked for, that's usually the time.

Is this a community theatre that normally has you audition with songs from the show, or not? _____________
Kris
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Jbug
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Re:Audition help with Mrs. Lovett - 2008/02/25 14:13 Wow, what a lucky duck! I would check out other Angela Landsbury roles. I saw her do it in a National tour years ago and she was fantastic. My advice is that if you truly have a great accent, I vote that you do it. Many times they may say not to worry about accents at auditions. However, if someone comes in and nails the accent, it gives them an edge. Many times folks casting shows have no imagination and are waiting for the perfect person to walk in that door and "Be" the character. So "'Be" the character. I agree that the accent is an integral part of the character.

Ms. Landsbury did Mame and Gypsy on Broadway as well an original voice in the cartoon movie "Beauty and the Beast". There is a lesser known Broadway musical called "Dear World" that she did. I'm not familiar with the music and show, but check it out. Sometimes in my acting class, the singers do a song that they are working on as a monologue. Perhaps a song from "Dear World" might work for you in that way as I believe it is a serious show. Break A Leg!

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Dramaqueen928
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Re:Audition help with Mrs. Lovett - 2008/02/25 14:22 It's a mixed bag. Some say it's ok and some now. Usually the newer directors go with because it helps them see the character. I have always opted to go in with not, except when I auditioned for Eliza. I did the angry "Show Me", I didn't get the part, but it was between myself and 1 other, it started with 30 Eliza hopefuls. But this part I REALLY want. I want to go in rearing and ready to blow socks off. I have a good legit and belt. I have been Widow Corney and Mrs. Potts... I just want to WOW them!
Thanks!!!!
Sally

Is this a community theatre that normally has you audition with songs from the show, or not?

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Dramaqueen928
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Re:Audition help with Mrs. Lovett - 2008/02/25 14:26 Thank you so much! I will check out this "Dear World" I have seen it mentioned on other sites. Sounds great! I need something to really capture her wistful, maniacal nature. LOL.
Thanks!
Sally

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myshikobit
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Re:Audition help with Mrs. Lovett - 2008/05/18 19:03 Dear World is the perfect choice!! Do "I Don't Want To Know". It will be perfect. I'm doing Sweeney this fall!

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