SPOTLIGHT

By Rekha S. Rajan¹
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¹ Award-winning author
Source: If Colors Could Be Heard , pp 126-139
Publication Date: November 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1386/9781835951675_16
Language: English
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This chapter explores the dynamics of auditioning for a musical theater production. I focus on my experiences as a first-generation, South Asian female and the challenges I faced during and after the audition process. I reflect on the lack of audition preparation I received in my undergraduate music education studies and recognize the impact of color-blind casting (or lack there of), the homogeny in the audition room (all Whites, one Indian), and the self-doubt I faced each time I stepped into the spotlight.

Keywords: actor ; audition ; audition preparedness ; audition process ; identity ; musical theater ; resume ; spotlight ; stage ; stereotype

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References

Kenrick, J. (2008). Musical theatre: A history. Bloomsbury Academic.
[Google Scholar]
Rajan, R. S. (2012). Integrating the performing arts in grades K-5. Corwin Press.
[Google Scholar]
Rajan, R. S. (2015). From backpacks to broadway: Children's experiences in musical theatre. Rowman and Littlefield Education.
[Google Scholar]
Rajan, R. S. (2019). Musical theater in schools: Purpose, process, performance. Oxford University Press.
[Google Scholar]
Wienir D., & Langel, J. (2004). Making it on broadway: Actors’ tales of climbing to the top. Allworth Press.
[Google Scholar]

References

Kenrick, J. (2008). Musical theatre: A history. Bloomsbury Academic.
[Google Scholar]
Rajan, R. S. (2012). Integrating the performing arts in grades K-5. Corwin Press.
[Google Scholar]
Rajan, R. S. (2015). From backpacks to broadway: Children's experiences in musical theatre. Rowman and Littlefield Education.
[Google Scholar]
Rajan, R. S. (2019). Musical theater in schools: Purpose, process, performance. Oxford University Press.
[Google Scholar]
Wienir D., & Langel, J. (2004). Making it on broadway: Actors’ tales of climbing to the top. Allworth Press.
[Google Scholar]

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