Although he was an athlete at school, he enjoyed being in the High School's production of the Wizard of Oz when he was a kid.
Molly really surprised me by getting very nervous before the singing audition. She has performed so well so many times, and without any apparent nerves. However, the adults and teenagers who were auditioning were good, and she got intimidated. Having only decided to audition them the night before, I hadn't helped her prepare anything. I wasn't worried, as they were just looking for some children in the chorus, there were no specific roles for them, so I knew Happy Birthday would demonstrate they could carry a tune.
Both children refused point blank to sing that, or Twinkle, Twinkle. Molly decided on 'Oh the Things You Can Think' from Seussical, which she'd learned at school. Roland sang a song that lists the books in the old Testament. Molly had me go in the bathroom and watch her practice doing her song first. When she got up there, she was so anxious, but she got through it, doing her actions learned at school. By the end she was nearly crying. The group applauded and cheered loudly, being a nice, and supportive bunch. She didn't really show what she could do, but I was glad she got to overcome her first real stage fright. And it was pretty cute.
Roland opted to sing in front of just the director and his assistants a little afterward. He started in a ridiculously low key, but managed to show he had the guts to do it, and the ability to sing in tune.
After the vocal auditions, the group did readings of the selected scenes. Molly and Roland both peeled off with other actors and rehearsed lines. The both did great at that, and Molly especially was charming people with her excellent readings. I could tell there was a little regret that there was no speaking part for her.
Roland read the part of the Falcon, who is the evil fairy's henchman. He did well, and everyone laughed when he asked: "Does this party have an open bar?" Then he was disappointed when an adult was actually cast in the role. I consoled him with the fact that the man who got it was actually a local professional actor who has appeared in "Portlandia" (you may know him as the champion hide and seeker from the first episode). Roland, if you have to lose out, do it to the best!
I took the photo to commemorate their triumph in going outside what was comfortable and easy. They made me so proud, and it was so exciting when they were cast. Molly was so thrilled! I am really looking forward to rehearsals, and having that time to spend with my big kids.
