The One Where Arielle is Dressed Like a Disco Ball

The other day, my friend Perry is helping me prepare for an audition for the Disney Channel's hit show, Hannah Montana. You've probably heard of it... maybe your kids even watch it on TV. The television show stars the real-life Miley Cyrus. She's on the cover of nearly every teeny-bopper magazine on news stands, and took some heat after this controversial, semi-seductive photo shoot for Vanity Fair magazine. That didn't damage her career at all though, since this daughter of Billy Ray Cyrus is so loved by tweens & tots worldwide.

Anyway, my friend is coaching me for my audition, helping me make clearer choices, funnier choices, etc. Then we do a role-playing exercise, where I walk into the room as if it's the actual audition. He says, "Hi, Arielle. How are you today?" and I respond, "I'm great! Thanks! How are you?" STOP. "Okay you can't say that," he says. What? What went wrong?

When a casting director asks you how you are, he explains, this is an opportunity to tell them something personal. Something specific about who you are. Help them remember you. Something like, "I'm doing great today. I've been painting/cooking/gardening all morning, and it's turning out so well..." or "I saw the cutest dog this morning on my walk and I'm considering getting one." Or even, "I'm great! It's a beautiful day outside, and there was no traffic getting here." That one's not personally specific, but it shows your positive attitude.

So I get to my audition, I'm thoughtfully dressed to look "young and hip" wearing my violet-colored sparkly tank from BCBG, denim skirt and funky boots. I've set my intention to say something personal, to make them remember me. The casting director happens to be a wonderful woman, and she makes a comment about my shirt. "Oh I just love your sequined top! Wow, even the back-side is unique... I just love it!" Okay, this is my chance... uh... think fast... I quickly say, "Thanks! I got it on a fantastic sale... (smile)" ...

Really, that was it? That was my big comeback to make them remember me, to say something witty, to share something personal about myself? Why couldn't I have said something like, "Thanks, I feel like a giant disco ball when the sun is shining," or something funny like that? Or maybe that would make her think I'm crazy... Oh well, I guess it's better to be authentic and real. I mean, we ladies can connect to the thrill of finding a fabulous outfit that just happens to be on sale, right? Totally. I just hope I'm wearing something equally hip and chic the next time Hannah Montana comes calling. And then I can mention the "disco ball". Or maybe I'll just keep that one to myself.

By Arielle Jacobs

Arielle Jacobs, My Rising Star
		About the author:
		Arielle Jacobs originated the role of Gabriella Montez in the world premiere musical production of High School Musical, and went on to star in the first national tour of this blockbuster hit adaptation.
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