Barry Norton
How do you conduct auditions/callbacks? Do you provide sides/scenes prior so auditioners can prepare? Do you give direction to the auditioners?
I usually provide sides for the actors. I usually like to have actors make appointments. I feel it keeps me on a time limit and I don’t waste anyone’s time. Many people have busy lives.
What is the one thing you wish auditioners would do during an audition?
Come prepared. Singing The Star Spangled Banner doesn’t cut it with me. It says you are not prepared and you are not serious. I give direction to auditioners only if I am looking for something or if I am trying to see if I could get more out of the actor. This also lets me see if the actor is able to take direction and stretch himself/herself in a role.
During callbacks, how do you decide who to pair up in scenes?
Order and pairings are done for a reason.You want the best show possible. What the actor feels is good does not always mean that is what the director is looking for. Many directors want cookie cutter shows.I like to be different. If I see something in an actor I don’t worry about looks. I feel that if the actor can deliver the message...that is what’s important.
When directing, do you have a vision of the characterizations, blocking, etc., or do you let the actors take the lead and then shape them?
While directing I always have a vision of my show. I can see scenery, lights, and costumes. I can picture it all in my head and know the exact look I want. I generally give the blocking, however if there is something an actor is not comfortable with we talk about it and change it. After all he/she is the one on stage performing. I want my actors to be comfortable. I want them to be able to find a little bit of themselves in the character. They need a connection. That also includes feeling comfortable in certain costumes. This could also affect an actor’s character on stage.
Tell me about your favorite show(s) to DIRECT, and why.
Favorite shows to direct would be more historical BIG musicals. Annie Get Your Gun, my all time favorite!! So many different characters and beautiful music. It also deals with the different age groups. I like working with different types of people. Kids, adults and teenagers. Each offers something different. Form the experienced actor to the beginner. That's how we all grow and lean form each other...right..??
Tell me about your favorite show(s) to PERFORM IN, and why.
Again, big historical pieces with BIG casts. I also like small intimate blackbox theatre where the audience is right there in your face and can feel and see all you emotions. I love performing in musicals, but I would love to start getting involved in musicals. Stretch my acting chops a bit more Favorite role I would love to play would be Billy Bigelow in Carousel.
Any other words of wisdom you think auditioners or prospective employers might want to know?
Things people might want to know...I am very good with time management. I do not like to waste anyone’s time while at rehearsal. I feel I always use my time wisely. I am very fair as far as making an actor feel comfortable. I am a good listener and I always strive for the best with my shows. Even if I have to do the majority of the work myself. |
