The Rehearsal Diaries #2: The Audition (Boogie Nights)

Audition nights have their own rhythm. You walk in with your folder, chat with familiar faces, and quietly take in the atmosphere while the production team sets up. There’s a mix of focus and anticipation in the air, and this one felt particularly good. Relaxed. Friendly. The kind of night where you can just be yourself.

This was the Boogie Nights audition for Erewash Musical Society, and I went in ready to give it everything I had. It was an open audition, starting with singing and then moving into lib scenes. We worked in groups, which always makes things feel more connected. It wasn’t one of those high-pressure, pin-drop situations – we were definitely looking at an encouraging, supportive, and well-paced kinda deal. You could tell the team wanted everyone to have the best possible chance to shine.

I decided early on that I’d audition for several parts. There were elements I liked about each one – a few different shades of humour, heart, and drama. Instead of locking onto a single character, I stayed open and trusted the team to place me where I’d fit best. That’s something experience has taught me: when you give the production team room to see you naturally, you usually end up exactly where you’re meant to be.

In the lead-up, I half-expected nerves to hit. My last audition experience had really shaken my confidence, and I wasn’t sure how I’d feel standing in front of a panel again. But from the moment I walked in, it just felt different. The panel were warm and approachable, the atmosphere relaxed, and the material itself was pure fun.

Preparation was my safety net. I threw myself into it properly this time:

• Watching Almost Famous and Saturday Night Fever to soak up that ’70s energy
• Finding character inspiration in Denise Royle and her neighbour, Cheryl. The two female leads totally gave me Denise and Cheryl vibes – looking through the catalogue and smoking their ciggies
• Daily vocal practice to keep my range strong
• Attending every single audition prep session. I’ve talked about this in the past, but I’m a huge fan of audition prep sessions. So so important to attend as many as possible
• Reading the full script twice before even touching my chosen audition scenes

By the time the night rolled around, I felt grounded. I knew I’d done the work, and that gave me freedom to actually enjoy it. I didn’t see every other audition because of the way the schedule worked – when you’re up for multiple roles, you spend half the night waiting in the kitchen – but there were plenty of stories doing the rounds afterwards. Our Lorraine apparently went for a real slap instead of a stage slap, which must have been a surprise for poor Jonny. And Hayden got a round of applause halfway through his song, which is impressive.

Afterwards, a few of us headed to the pub for a drink and a laugh. Those post-audition moments are some of my favourites – a mix of relief, theatre chat, and that feeling of “well, it’s out of our hands now.” No tension, just a room full of people who love what they do. And of course, I got to catch up with my dear dear friend, Louisa.

When the cast list arrived later that day, I had to read it twice before it sank in. I’d been cast as Trish. I wasn’t expecting to get that particular part because it’s completely different to the usual roles I’m cast in. I’ve been wanting to take on something different for so long now, so I’m so excited that the production team has given me this opportunity to go totally out of my comfort zone.

Trish is a brilliant character. She’s ditzy, funny, and a little naive, but there’s real warmth underneath it all. It’s been a long time since I’ve played a proper comic relief role, and I can’t wait to dive into her world. The fantastic Evan will be playing Trish’s boyfriend, Terry. A bit weird for my son, given they are friends!

It’s a really great cast, and in true EMS style, a mix of newcomers and familiar faces. That’s what I love about EMS – you’re not seeing the same people show after show. Too many societies have the same 5-10 people in principal roles show after show. It gets boooooring.

I already know the costumes for Boogie Nights are going to be incredible, but I’m keeping those a surprise for now. Let’s just say there’s a lot of sparkle involved. And Rachel Green….I’m coming for you!

Our read-through is this Friday, and I can’t wait to start seeing how it all comes together. There’s something special about hearing everyone’s voices in character for the first time — that moment where it stops being a script and starts becoming a show.

More than anything, this audition reminded me why preparation matters. It’s not just about learning lines or polishing notes. It’s about walking in ready, confident, and open to whatever happens. Trusting that if you do the work, the rest will fall into place.

Next up: the read-through, meeting the full cast, and probably humming Disco Inferno in my sleep.

Until next time – Nic