Theatre, Failure, and What it Taught Me Anonymous

Acting has always been one of my passions. Upon entering high school, I was excited to continue the acting I came to love in middle school. Unfortunately, I quickly hit a roadblock.As a freshman, I auditioned for the first play of the year, but I didn’t get a part. I was disappointed, but I understood, knowing that it was unlikely for a freshman to be cast. I auditioned for the second play, but again didn’t make the cut. The third play of the year was a musical, Cabaret. I felt confident, considering I had been cast in a lead role in all three middle school musicals. At the tryouts, I was one of the few freshmen to remain behind for solo auditions. I was determined to be more than “Ensemble #12.” When the cast list was posted, I went straight to the board... only to read that I had been cast as a sailor. An insignificant, non-speaking “Nazi Sailor.” I was disappointed, but I wasn’t discouraged. Actually, going through the rehearsal process and being part of the show as it came together solidified my love of the stage and made me eager to remain a part of Vistamar Theatre.In my sophomore year, I auditioned for the fall and winter plays but again wasn’t cast. My confidence dropped, and despite being enrolled in a drama class and...