Before we wrap up our series on nervousness, I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday Season.  This is been a wonderful year.  So many great people have come into my and Holly's lives, and we hope you know how much we appreciate the love and support you've given us.  You are a huge part of our lives, and we love you dearly.  Now before I get all teary-eyed (you all know what a softy I am)  let's get back to Nervousness.

When you know what to expect and know what to do, nervousness is much easier to control if you're prepared.  How do you prepare? First of all, get the sides (and if possible read the entire script) a soon as possible. When you get them, don't just work on memorizing the lines. As I always say in my classes, "It ain't about the words, it's what the words are about." First of all, analyze the scene. Always think in terms of the character and ask yourself - who am I? What is my occupation? My relationship status? My physical status? My psychological status? When does the scene take place? What year, month, day, and time? What is my environment? Exactly where am I? What surrounds me? Whom am I with and what is my relationship to them? What do I want from the other person or persons in the scene? What do I do to get what I want? And most importantly, how do I feel about what's going on in the scene? Make some choices, then sit and visualize the scene. Once you've accomplished all of this, then is the time to begin to familiarize yourself with the lines. You'll find that once you've done this kind of analysis the lines will be much easier to memorize. Incidentally, if you don't have the lines completely memorize that's okay. Of course, the better you know the lines, the more eye contact you'll be able to make with the reader. Even if you do have the lines memorized always take the script in which you, so you'll have it as a security blanket. You'll find that when you've done this kind of preparation you'll be much more confident and your audition will go much more smoothly. Remember, the better prepared you are the less nervous you'll be. To recap: know what to expect, know what to do, and be prepared. 

Here's to success in your next audition!

Please submit your questions and comments via e-mail directly to Charlie@charlieactor.com.  I'd love to hear from you!  And be sure to check out my YouTube Channel for more good stuff! 

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