Something very surprising has happened on our little rock which floats around the sun. In a little town on the outskirts of a major city in a very small theatre, a very short person read for Blanche Dubois. It was a sort of random thing that has turned into something very, very special.
Only last week, a lovely friend sent me an invite to audition for the legendary "A Streetcar Named Desire" two hours prior to the audition. I was on my way to take a child to a dance class on a rare day when my only job was taxi to my youth. I decided to go regardless of my casual appearance and embarrassing unpreparedness for such an activity. Naturally, being a short brunette, I thought I would give a shot at trying out for Stella. By the end of the audition, all the ladies were given the opportunity to read a monologue of Blanche's. Something happened there. I'm not sure what. I was called back. I then read for both Blanche and Stella.
Soon, I receive a phone call with the question, "We would like for you to play Blanche. Will you accept the role?" My tongue tied. I was speechless. I was told to get back ASAP with a decision.
Nearly a day, a few wonderful conversations with some fantastic professionals in the field, and some sitter organizing; I did it. I took on Blanche. I have created this blog to track this amazing process.
Most actresses consider Blanche as "IT" for best roles of all time. Having been an actor (professional and not) for years, I honestly never saw myself in her shoes. I have actually always wanted to play Stella and have in a workshop or two. I have watched other...waif-like and tall take shot after shot at Blanche. I am not that type...so I never gave much time to consider it an option.
Today, I reread the play. The forward by Tennessee Williams in my copy is tremendous. He speaks of being burned and disillusioned by the success of The Glass Menagerie and how his working titled, The Poker Game became Streetcar.
Blanche has a lot of things to say, so I will get back to studying the script for now. I am planning on reading it completely at least four more times before I do anything to develop my Blanche. A wise teacher or someone famous once said to read a script at least three times impartial to your character. It's a good rule. You get a grasp of what your part is and what it means and where it should be and when by doing this.
Please let me know of your Tennessee Williams experience. I am very excited to share!
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