Acting: The Mousetrap by Agathat Christie

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The Mousetrap by Agathat Christie

Printed From: Community Theater Green Room
Category: Producing Theater
Forum Name: Acting
Forum Discription: Q&A about auditions, character development and other aspects of the craft
URL: http://www.communitytheater.org/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=2754
Printed Date: 10/18/24 at 10:37am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 8.05 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: The Mousetrap by Agathat Christie

Posted By: imnotcre8v
Subject: The Mousetrap by Agathat Christie
Date Posted: 10/16/07 at 12:39pm

Hi all,

I was just contacted by a director offering me the role of Sgt. Trotter in the Mousetrap. I didn't audition for the show, but the director has seen me in some other shows around town, and I guess thinks enough of me to offer me the part. Problem is, embarrassing as it is to say, I don't know anything about the show, or more specifically the character. I need to give him an answer by the end of today (10/16/07), and I'm just looking for some guidance. The director has stated that Sgt. Trotter is the lead of the show, and it hinges upon his character. The show goes up in January, which is the same time my home theater is producing 12 Angry Men, which is on my list of shows that I am dying to do (specifically to play Juror #8). However, the auditions for 12 Angry Men aren't for another 2 weeks, and there is no guarantee that I will get the only part that I want.

Any comments/opinions/suggestions would be welcome!!

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Treat others the same way you wish to be treated.

Replies:

Posted By: Nanette
Date Posted: 10/16/07 at 12:57pm

Check out this synop from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mousetrap - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mousetrap Hope it helps.

Regarding your second question ... As you said, there is no guarantee that you will get the only part that you want. Take a look at the script for Mousetrap and see if it's something you would enjoy. If so, go for it! You never know where that path may lead you.

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In a world of margarine, be butter!

Posted By: Topper
Date Posted: 10/16/07 at 3:28pm

First of all, no matter what your choice is, be sure to acknowledge this HUGE compliment from a director who wants to cast you in a major role in his production without the benefit of an audition.

If you must decline, do so graciously, offering to work for this director again in the future, if he is willing.

However, if I were you, I'd leap at the chance. It's always flattering to be offered a part -- especially a great role like Trotter.

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"None of us really grow up. All we ever do is learn how to behave in public." -- Keith Johnstone

Posted By: imnotcre8v
Date Posted: 10/16/07 at 3:42pm

Thank you both for replying to my post. I decided to accept the role. My biggest problem was that I'm not familiar with the show, so I don't know how great of a role it may be. But I'm going to find out!

Thanks again!

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Treat others the same way you wish to be treated.

Posted By: avcastner
Date Posted: 10/16/07 at 6:27pm

If you really get into developing the character, it will be one of the best roles of your life. I can't say anything more without giving away too much of the play, and you should really read the script, noting when you are surprised the first time at different points so you have an idea how the audience will react.

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Posted By: rensing
Date Posted: 11/10/07 at 7:04pm

Dont except a role without reading the play. Ever.