The Sound of Music Auditions: Spotlight on the Townsons

Next up in our The Sound of Music Auditions series, we have the Townsons!

Jo Townson, parent of Jorja Townson:
Jorja chose to audition with our full backing and support and she decided to audition as she wakes up singing and dancing and doesn’t stop until she goes to bed, although she has been known to continue whilst sleeping too.

I believe that Jorja gained a new level of self confidence and self belief in herself.  In addition she gained experience of the whole audition process and the demands that a young actor faces when going through a 3 day audition.

Jorja was up against children that had had professional lessons in singing, dancing and acting and Jorja felt that this would work in their favour and put her at a great disadvantage however she showed that if you have raw, natural talent then this shines through.

We told her that we thought she was fabulous and no matter how far she got we would still be super proud.  That she had to believe it was hers, be confident and that she had to believe she was Brigitta every time she entered the theatre.  We also talked to her about the fact that this was her first ever audition for a major show and that she should just enjoy the whole experience and take each day as it comes.  As it turns out each day turned out amazingly well and exceeded her expectations.

I was amazed at the tension that would appear in the air before eliminations and I was amazed at how overcome with emotion I was when Jorja ran down the stairs at 1pm on Sunday January 18th to tell me she was through to the final. I looked at my husband and Jorja’s older sister and we all had tears of the utmost joy for Jorja. Jorja wanted it so badly and it was just marvellous to realise that Jonny, Lindsey, Kate and Jane saw Jorja as we see her…a shining star that was born to be on stage.

Jorja, what did you enjoy most about this experience? 
I enjoyed that fact that I was doing my first ever audition for a major stage production and that I’ve always dreamed to be on stage. To make it into the final has just been amazing and like a dream.

What was the most challenging thing?
Going up against children that have had professional singing, dancing and acting lessons and had been in many shows before. I have never had any professional lessons but have been in the Hong Kong Players' pantomimes for the last 2 years.

How did you prepare in between the various auditioning days? 
I re-read the script, practised the dances and harmonies, as well as stay focused on my goal.

What will you remember the most? 
It’s hard to give one thing as the whole 3 day experience was just amazing. The panel were so supportive, offering kind words and words of encouragement as well as direction.  Meeting new friends and pushing myself further than I thought I could have. I also really remember ‘Maria’ calling me ‘a great little actress’... I felt wonderfully proud.

What are your top 3 auditioning tips for other young people?
Be confident, be yourself, enjoy!

Which musical would you most want to be in? 
The Sound of Music of course!  It’s all singing, dancing and acting and I feel like I was born to be Brigitta!