Trying Something New

When I first moved to Milwaukee and found myself living near Fiserv Forum, I decided to check out a Bucks game. I had never watched NBA basketball before, but from that very first game, I was hooked.

I started attending more and more games, cheering them on and becoming a true supporter. So when I saw the 414 Crew auditions announced this year, I thought: Why not give it a try? The idea of being on the court and getting everyone hyped and cheering (even when the team is down by 30 points) sounded like a fun new experience.

It Matters Because You Care

Still, the day of the audition, I kept bouncing between going and not going. As the start time got closer, the nerves got louder.

What if I don't know what to do? What should I wear??

You're nervous because you care. You care about getting the part. You care about making a good impression. You care about what people will think about you.

Part of me wanted to stay home, but I was reminded I only felt that way because it mattered to me. And I also reminded myself: I probably wasn't the only one who was nervous.

They're Rooting for You

Something I learned early in acting has always stuck with me: the casting team wants you to be the one just as much as you want to be the one. They're not watching you walk in hoping you fail, they're hoping you fit naturally. Showing up authentically, being present, and enjoying the process makes everyone's lives easier.

Breathe and be present. If you're too busy worrying, you'll miss out on what could be a fun and enjoyable experience.

Keeping that in mind, I set off toward the arena repeating to myself: just have fun.

And guess what? I did!

Complete the Audition and Move On

Were there things I would've done differently? Of course. But, instead of ruminating, I focused on the highlights, took notes on what I need to practice, and then slipped back into my normal routine.

Beating yourself up over perceived mistakes is (usually) wasted energy. Who knows, maybe they liked exactly what you did. (I've had a handful of interviews I thought I completely flubbed, only to end up being hired.) We really are our own worst critics.

My highlights:

• Meeting so many cool, kind, and supportive people

• Trying something new (if you know me, you know I love new experiences)

• Pushing through the discomfort and allowing myself to just go for it

• Experiencing the arena from a new perspective

• Not denying myself what turned out to be an amazing (and FUN) experience

Showing up as yourself is a win in itself

Every audition you attend is a celebration. Yes, even the ones you don't land. It's an opportunity for growth. An opportunity to meet new people. An opportunity to prove to yourself that you will show up for yourself.

Whether or not I made it on the crew, I left there with a fond memory of stepping onto the arena floor and giving it my all.