Happy Belated Valentine’s Day! I spend the day of love with my fellow cast mates of Ain’t Misbehavin’. In the morning, we performed a school show and later on in the evening we went to dinner at Outback. While I was enjoying my steak and the amazing company, I looked around the table and was reminded of how happy I was to be surrounded by other African-American actors. I’ve worked all over the country and at several professional theatres. For the first time since college, I’m not the only African American actor in my cast. After talking to everyone, I realized that situation was a common occurrence. I guess that explains why we all have become so close. A night hasn’t gone by without all of us talking about other Broadway shows, music, television and FOOD! Fellowship with your cast is important. Especially with a show like Ain’t Misbehavin’. We’re playing cabaret singers who have probably been performing with each other for a few years. (which explains all of the backstage drama in the show). So, in order for the relationships to seem realistic, spending quality time with each other is very important. It helps the quality of the show and it helps us become a family.
Last weekend, Keith, Roslyn and I drove to Memphis, TN to audition at the Unified Professional Theatre Auditions. UPTA’s is theatre conference where professional theatres, cruise ships, production companies and national tours attend to audition actors for their upcoming season. The Roxy Regional Theatre is one of the many theatres in attendance. Actors have 90 seconds to present a song and monologue. Sounds stressful, but it’s actually a lot of fun! Not only do you reconnect with fellow professional actors, you also network with the auditioners.
I normally don’t read reviews of the shows I’m currently in. In the past, I’ve let what the critics said affect me emotionally. I vowed to never read them again. But, something told me to take the time to read Jeffrey Ellis’ review of Ain’t Misbehavin’. I’m so glad that I did! His kind words of encouragement lifted my spirits and made my day! When you start to accomplish a goal, it’s nice to know when someone actually takes the time to appreciate the hard work you put into the journey. It makes you realize all of your frustration and discouragement was worth it.
-Faith Boles
For recent news, production pictures, and video please visit my website: www.faithboles.com
