Last year I was called in at the last minute to help out friends who had a show in Fringe. This was the first time I had ever mingled with so much theater in L.A. I participated only to the extent that I went and worked on my show then went home. Our venue was off the grid as far as theater spaces go. We were in a studio space, where rooms were rented out during the day, mainly for classes or casting sessions.
This year I am participating as a playwright and performer. I don’t know if I had known the extent of the festival, if I would have signed up. I had my first preview on Sunday. All I can say is one down, two to go. Along with worrying about performing, I am trying to mingle as much as I can with other shows.
Last night I went to a show that was also showing at the Lounge. I met the writer/producer, Michelle March, at our the orientation meeting. When I saw the title of “Diversity Auditions” my mind went immediately to the casting calls that are put out by all the big networks when they are looking for actors of color. As a diversity actor, I was intrigued and when I read the project description for it and wasn’t sure I what I was in for.
With a simple set up of chairs and a spotlight, you learn a little about each characters life. Each story different from the last, engaging and leaving me wanting to know more about them. I couldn’t help at times from laughing out loud especially as I tried to imagined the “Asian Jessica Rabbit”. Monologues addressed current issues that touch everyone’s lives and weren’t limited to the LGBTQQ community. As a first timer, Diversity Auditions presentation was eye-opening and informed the audience of the definition of Diversity. Congrats to cast and crew! Happy Fringe.
To learn more about Diversity Auditions by Michelle March head over to: http://hff15.org/2361
