The party doesn’t stop here on The Front Row. This weekend is your last chance to catch Disney’s Frozen Jr. before the cast lets it go for the final time. Just next week, we prepare for Encore’s next two productions with a double audition! The process of auditioning can be intimidating at times, whether it’s your first audition or your 15th. You’re in luck this #FrontRowFriday because we’ve collected some excellent advice from across the board (production staff, current students, alums, and more) to help calm your nerves and get your head in the game.
Auditions for CSI: Christmas Scene Investigators and Narnia
October 22 & 23, 2019
Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre (125 S. Old Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA 22204)
“At Encore, we look for 4 things that we think are HUGE in terms of being part of an acting company: Projection, teamwork, creativity, and kindness.” – Narnia Music Director Sarah Markovits
These post contains heaps of advice from not one, but two, talented music directors. If the thought of singing a tune makes butterflies flutter through your insides, give this helpful post a read to calm your nerves and help you feel prepared when auditioning for a musical, such as Narnia.
“I had learned from what I did in the previous year’s audition and made sure I did my very best this time.”
Learn from an experienced participant, student editor Hannah Knittig, as she shares about her Encore from the very beginning. Her positive attitude shows that there is always something to learn in the theatre-making process.
“Auditioning is an exercise in courage, and sometimes you have to push yourself farther than you think you are capable of going.”
Emma Kiely-Hampson came out to audition for this summer’s production of Disney’s Newsies after several years away from the stage. She shares her perspective on the challenges and joys of auditioning, rehearsals, and more.
To anyone interested in participating in the arts- don’t let fear hold you back. Jump in!
Encore creates more than young actors; we create friend groups and memories that last a lifetime. Ethan Stern joined us on The Front Row this week to chat about how participating in Encore helped to shape his young adult years and even beyond.

Take all this advice to heart and, most importantly, have fun! Theatre is a wonderful way to build community, try new things, and explore new possibilities. We look forward to seeing all of you at auditions next week!
Photos by Larry McClemons, Aileen Pangan Christian, Clarence Chan, and Cindy Kane Photography.
Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.