Timing is Everything

Update from the past day. As I was showering before last night's rehearsal, the other half got a call from Ambassador; the agency that agreed to find me work. Apparently, (and I called them back when I got out of the shower), there is an ABC pilot shooting here in Chicago. Later research found out that it's an hour long drama, revolving around mobsters and cops. I was asked to audition for a bodyguard. I can only guess that my profile of 6'1" and 220 lbs gave them the idea that I'm a bodyguard type. Now, it's a non-speaking role, but from what the agent said, it is "in focus", and on the screen w/ possible growth potential for "sharp" actors. I'm assuming it's a bodyguard for the main mob dude. It will shoot for 14 days in Chicago and if picked up (something the agent said looks good), it will shoot in Chicago. Cool, wonderful, I'm all about it.

However, there are some problems. The audition is tonight @ 7pm. I have rehearsal at 7pm. So, I went to rehearsal last night, and spilled my guts, hoping that I could somehow get the evening off. Of course, tonight's rehearsal is all about dancing; and only castmate Steve and I do the majority of dancing. It was a resounding "not a good idea", but the director was not at rehearsal. Castmate said it was no question; I should go. So, I got home, called director, left a message w/ the situation, and went to bed. I'm surprised I slept.

This morning, I sent an email to AD, director and author, stating that I would be taking the evening off. My reasons? Not only could it be a good opportunity; acting wise, but if picked up, it could be a steady gig; and not working retail or in an office, but actual acting on a set! Or even on location? Strange. On top of that, this will only be my second audition for Ambassador. If I turn them down now, and on a high profile gig, I may as well kiss their assistance goodbye. Not a good move so early in the game. They even told me on the phone (when I advised them of rehearsal) that I would not want to miss this. The show is being produced by someone affiliated w/ Alias, and apparently directed by the man behind The Italian Job. At any rate, Sleeping Ugly director called me, and said he would see what they could do. He agreed that it was not something I should miss. He figured he will ask fellow actors to learn my part and they will teach it to me at a later date. Thank you Jesus! He ended the call by stating, "Go kick some ABC ass!"

That's all good. We're set. Now to the other drama. We are expecting a big snowstorm; with accumulation of up to 3 inches. Today, the day I have to drag my ass all the way to Oak Park; about 15 miles south of where I am now. Wouldn't you know it? The other half has agreed to come home from the office early to let me have the truck; if I should need it, and to come home to help me find an outfit for the audition. In addition, it will save him the hassle of driving in horrible traffic as the weather hits. You see, the attire was quite specific. A black/dark suit, w/ white shirt and black tie. "Bodyguard" fare. Problem is, I don't have a typical suit. I have a dark jacket; which incidentally has not been cleaned since we came back from Puerto Rico. It's wrinkled, and probably stinky. I tried ironing it. It turned out okay, but I guess I'm not supposed to do that, cuz now I have some shiny spots where the iron went over hidden buttons. Good Klug! I do have a white shirt, but it's a bit "islandy". I could get away w/ that. The other half has a black tie, so that's all good. I have dark slacks, but they're more cargo-ey. When the other half returns, I will have to make my way to the Brown Elephant to find some pieces that may work. Otherwise, a possible trip to the Gap for some super fast bargains. Lord!

And the final drama. We leave for FL in about 2 weeks. I have no idea when the pilot will shoot, and the agent said she was unsure as well. I know I should just take it as it comes, and get through the audition first, but if there is some conflict, I think I'll have a nervous breakdown. I am adoring this show's rehearsal process, and I love the people I'm working with. I feel extreme loyalty to the Griffin and would never want to burn those bridges. But, what if there is conflict? Anyone reading this needs to drop me a line or a comment, cuz (and I know I'm jumping ahead here) I am having a major moral dilemma.

Relax, breathe, get through the audition first. You got the okay to do that, so just get through the day/evening/snowstorm/suit shopping/audition and traffic. Breathe.

Timing is sure weird on all of this. I guess if I get some good, steady, medium profile work from this, it'll be great, but not w/ out stressful drama and overall wackiness.