Every year, Powell High School students gather around the stage in nervous anticipation, filling out casting sheets and singing songs in every possible corner of the auditorium. Then at the word of the directors, they gather up front for the most stressful part of the spring musical: the auditions. This year, the club members were auditioning for “Bonnie and Clyde” by Frank Wildhorn.
To get their desired part, the students have to audition by singing, acting and dancing. However, the most universal experience is that the singing section is the most anxiety-inducing part.
“The singing section was very stressful,” junior Kyra Morrow said. “I didn’t prepare very well, so I just went up and gave a song that I had memorized previously. So that was interesting.”
Preparation is always important. Senior Jenessa Polson has been auditioning since her freshman year, and she has her process down. Polson was cast as the lead Bonnie.
“I think I’ve gotten better at the process,” Polson said. “I feel like maybe it’s a little nicer to know what’s coming. But honestly, you know, getting up on stage, singing acapella, seeing all of your little friends, no matter what, that’s awkward.”
Over the years, Polson has put in lots of time into PHS Drama, working as the prop manager since her sophomore year. With auditions, however, she doesn’t see a way to make it any less awkward. She does, however, have advice for anyone wanting to audition.
“Just try to put your best self out into the audition,” Polson said. “Don’t let your nerves get in the way too much. I mean they will get in the way, but don’t let it overwhelm you.”
This was Morrow’s first time auditioning, and she also has advice for anyone who wants to audition in the future.
“Pick a song from actual musical theater rather than just some random song,” Morrow said. “Pick a song that’s within the character’s vocal ranges rather than just one that fits your voice decently.”
This is advice freshman Phoenix Alvarez wished that he had heard earlier.
“It was my first time auditioning for anything,” Alvarez said. “It was really stressful. I wasn’t super prepared for any of it.”
However, the process is not all bad. While she found it stressful, Morrow did enjoy auditioning.
“I really liked the dance part. I thought that was really fun and silly,” Morrow said. “I honestly did like the singing part. It was cool to hear everybody’s voice and kind of what their style of singing was. And I just thought it was really cool to see how many talented singers we have.”
Polson had a great time at auditions. As it is her last year, she looks forward to what the club has to offer.
“I had a blast and I thought everybody did great,” Polson said. “I know the musical will turn out great.”
