The Sound of Music Auditions: Spotlight on the Alexanders

Earlier this month, over 400 young people walked in through the doors of the Hong Kong Arts Centre, eager to audition for a part in the West End touring production of The Sound of Music as one of the six younger von Trapp children. Over the three days of auditions, they put themselves on the line as they danced, sang and acted their hearts out. The final three casts of 18 kids are yet to be announced, but we thought in the meantime, we would speak to some of the auditionees and their parents. First up, we have the Alexanders!

Darcy and Imogen Alexander’s parents:

What was the main reason your child auditioned? 
Darcy loves the performing arts and has been keen to take the next step into a bigger role and more commitment. Darcy went to see her classmate, Freddy Fawcett, as Oliver in the YAF production and was inspired. Lindsey spoke to the class at that performance and talked about The Sound of Music auditions and Darcy came home super excited about trying out for it. Imogen decided that if her sister was going, then she was too. We measured them and both fit the height. Lucky!

What did your child get out of the experience? 
I was very impressed with the professional, child friendly audition process during the three days. Both my children were (are) energised, positive and had a wonderful time. It was an very positive and memorable experience for both of my girls. The YAF team, the production team and the Director, Johnny, were exceptionally professional, kind and understanding of children and patient with nervous parents.
 
After day one Darcy told me, "The Director is tough and he knows what he wants, but he is really good to us and really nice. He is really great to work with!" 
 
I asked Darcy what her favourite part was and she said that it was learning the Do-Re-Mi dance. I think they'll both be dancing and singing that for a very long time!

Were there any challenges that you or your child faced? 
Of course we had tears on day 3 when Imogen was cut. She was super hard on herself with regard to her dancing at that stage and disappointed that she couldn't sing first on that day as singing is her forte. 
 
It was hard to have one sad child and be happy for the other who made the finals. We reminded Imogen that Darcy hasn't got the role yet and we are only in the same place that she was on Saturday night. Still a lot of unknowns! 

How did you support your child throughout the process? 
I'll admit it  - I think I gave myself a stomach ulcer waiting there in the foyer at each cut! A seasoned theatre Mum gave me some great advice. She said, "If she's cut, take her straight outside. No hanging around asking questions." That was great advice.
 
Justin and I also tried to use a lot of positive psychology to make the process more memorable and positive. Questions like, "What was your favourite part today?" "What was your proudest moment?" "Did you make any friends?"
 
A huge thank you to Lindsey, all the YAF team, the volunteers, the production team and all the other parents who stood in the foyer with me at every cut. I made some new friends as well. YAF  - you'll be seeing more of us in some capacity. We are hooked! 

And now the two super stars - Darcy and Imogen Alexander

What did you enjoy most about this experience?
Darcy: Learning how to do the dance and the choreography from the show.
Imogen: The dancing

What was the most challenging thing? 
Darcy: Singing by myself, I was really nervous especially the last time when I had to do it for the camera. 
Imogen: Waiting.

How did you prepare in between the various auditioning days/sessions?
Darcy: By practicing with my Mum who is a music teacher.
Imogen: Practice 

What will you remember the most? 
Darcy: Getting to meet the Director, Johnny. He was really nice and he is a great Director.
Imogen: The dance. 

What are your top 3 auditioning tips for other young people? 
Darcy: Project your voice and look confident, even if you are nervous.
Imogen: Be confident and be loud enough.

What’s your favourite musical or which musical would you want to be in, and why? 
Darcy: The Sound of Music of course. I really want to be in it! Or Wicked when I grow up.
Imogen: High School Musical.