Each year, Harriton’s Theater Company prepares and performs three shows.  The first show for the 2013-2014 school year was officially announced last Tuesday and is titled The Laramie Project by Moisès Kaufman.  This intense play is about the reaction to the murder of University of Wyoming student, Matthew Shepard, who was killed for being homosexual.  “The drama has about 86 parts which will be played by about 25 actors,” said one of HTC’s directors, Kevin Ginsberg. “Since the show is based off of a true story, I need your auditions to be authentic.”

The audition process took place on Thursday the 19^th and Friday the 20^th.  Each hopeful student was assigned the exact same monologue to recite for directors James Joseph, Nina Harper and Kevin Ginsberg.  While this may sound simple, it is a perfect example of one of the most challenging situations an actor could have to face.  Each individual was responsible for making his or her interpretation of the monologue the most intriguing, the one that stood out as truly “authentic”.  While those who auditioned were not required to memorize the monologue, only a couple of the prospective actors dared to look at their papers during their audition.  It is all about the first impression when it comes to auditions, and memorizing makes the battle field that much more competitive.  On top of that, students were also required to audition in front of their peers to see how confident they really were with their acting abilities.

It is easy to assume that the auditioning process for this show was anxiety-inducing and intimidating.  Although, those who auditioned made sure to think positively and encourage their “opponents” to do the best they could.  Not a single audition was completed without a full round-of-applause following the final words of the monologue.  “Good job!” and high-fives were exchanged as each actor made sure to support his or her peers.

As auditions came to a close, it was apparent that the decision making process would be a tough one.  Each actor put his or her all into their auditions and made sure that they were presenting themselves as best as they could.  Mr. Joseph told everyone at the first meeting last Tuesday that despite the dark undertone of the show, it was chosen as the fall performance because it is a show that displays true acting talent, as well as one that sends a powerful message to its audience.  He also mentioned that he is working on a way to include the members of Harriton’s Gay/Straight Alliance club to help end prejudice against homosexuals in our Harriton community.  If you would like to participate in the efforts to raise awareness, or be involved with this show in general, feel free to talk to any of the members of Harriton’s Theater Company to ask what you can do to help.  A new set of hands is always welcome!