Callback tips for Sondheim's Into the Woods?

Question

I was called back for the part of Little Red (community theater). The thing is, she is a soprano and I am mezzo... and I am generally unfamiliar with Into the Woods aside from what you can find of summaries and reviews on the internet, as well as listening to the soundtrack.

There are about 6 other girls called back for the same role. How can I stand out in my callback? I believe we will be taught a song from the play as well as some more cold readings. Also if you have specific tips regarding musical callbacks or Little Red's role, they would be greatly appreciated as well! Thanks!

Answer 1

I also had a callback for Little Red(I didn't get since the theatre politics were really skewed) There are copies of the script of ITW online. I printed scenes that they may have me cold read and read those at home. Read all of it and then decide how you want to protray her. What's her family like? How is she treated by them? How does she feel after "I Know Things Now"? Think about her as a person and how someone like her would feel as all these problems and chaos surround her. Also if you're learning a song from the show it will most likely be I Know Things Now. It' pretty hard so try with a backtrack or the cast recording. Do not try to make it nasal! Oh, and for the audition, I wore a red hoodie,(since it's summer a tee's fine) and wavy pigtails with big red bows.

Answer 2

If you are a high mezzo you should be fine.  Familiarize yourself with Little Red's songs, and warm up your voice before you get to the callback.  If you can get a look at her scenes to further familiarize yourself with the character, do it. You will stand out by being better than the others for the part.  This is where they take the girls who stood out during general auditions and see if they have the chops to actually do the role.

Answer 3

first of all...work  your *** off on the cold readings..

be incredible...

as in stunning!

second of all, don't strain your voice trying to sing to high, and just focus on the sound of your voice and try to stay in key.:)O good luck

Answer 4

Little Red is what I would call a selfish and brash child, but still brave and good-hearted.  I know you can't show all sides of a character in an audition, but it's just good information to know.

What I've noticed really helps people stand out in auditions is acting the song--don't just sing, but actively convey your character's emotions while performing the song.  The more energy you put into it, the more likely the director is to notice you.  Also, dress professionally--not too casual, avoid anything that could be considered S****y or tacky (I'm not saying you dress that way, just that dressing that way in an audition is a big turn-off for directors).

As for the mezzo issue...awareness of palette really, really helps with shifting from chest voice to head voice.  Try and get that feeling like there's a big, round, apple-sized space in the back of your mouth, and you'll find you're shifting much more easily.