The Greatest Showman #789 - Audition Video

In the vast landscape of the film industry, where nearly 600,000 actors compete for roles, it is impossible for casting directors to audition each actor in person. Even if they had the energy, they simply do not have the time. Moreover, actors are scattered across the country, far beyond the entertainment hubs of New York and Los Angeles. For most aspiring actors, the cost of traveling for a single audition can be financially crippling, often forcing them to forgo opportunities altogether.

Living in New York or Los Angeles is not a viable option for many due to the high cost of living. Struggling actors, already burdened by irregular income, find it challenging to sustain themselves while attending auditions. Even those who do reside in these cities face hurdles—auditions are often scheduled during business hours, making it difficult for actors to balance survival jobs with their craft.

This is where audition videos provide a practical solution.

For instance, when casting for a new Spider-Man, the production team announces the opportunity through the Actors Guild, listing the necessary qualifications. Interested actors then submit audition tapes showcasing their performances. These videos are sent via email or traditional mail directly to the casting team.

Casting directors sift through thousands of submissions, selecting the most compelling ones for the next round. The second phase might involve a telephone interview or a more specific audition request. Those who advance further may then be invited for in-person auditions, often in major cities.

This process is especially beneficial when studios want to cast a wide net. Even actors with agents must submit audition videos, though having representation increases the likelihood of their submissions being viewed attentively rather than overlooked amid the flood of entries. Nearly every Hollywood actor has undergone this process, including Tom Cruise, Tom Hanks, and George Clooney.

Renly's Early Audition Journey

Renly's first official audition was for The Pacific. Due to the sheer number of actors required for the series, the production team skipped audition videos and went straight to live auditions. This unexpected turn of events provided Renly with a platform to showcase his talent, leaving a lasting impression on Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks.

Prior to that, Renly had submitted audition videos for several projects, including The Walking Dead, The Town, and The Gossip Project. However, as a newcomer, he lacked experience in crafting compelling audition tapes. Either his performances failed to highlight his strengths, or they simply did not align with the casting team's vision. The harshest reality was that many of his submissions were likely overlooked entirely.

Audition videos are a highly subjective and personal form of assessment. Unlike live auditions, where directors can provide feedback or adjustments, self-taped auditions leave actors completely in the dark. They often know nothing about the script, the role, the director's vision, or even the genre. Thus, the choice of material becomes crucial—actors must decide whether to showcase their range, imitate an existing performance, or create something entirely original. The decision itself offers insight into an actor's instincts and approach.

A Unique Approach to Auditioning

In 2015, Tom Holland auditioned for Captain America: Civil War and Spider-Man: Homecoming. Instead of performing a traditional monologue or scene, he introduced himself and proceeded to execute a flawless chaîné turn—a continuous ballet rotation requiring immense balance and strength. Holland's background in dance, which led him to star in Billy Elliot the Musical, helped him stand out. His exceptional control and poise left a lasting impression on the casting team, securing him a callback. After multiple rounds of auditions, he eventually won the role, beating out over forty competitors.

This demonstrates the unpredictable nature of audition tapes. Without guidelines or feedback, actors must gamble on their choices. They must craft a performance compelling enough to make an impact despite knowing little about what the casting directors seek.

Renly's Return to the Stage

Three years after The Pacific, Renly found himself preparing an audition video once again. This return to his roots felt both nostalgic and invigorating. As he geared up for the recording, Roy watched with keen interest, leaning casually against a wardrobe.

"Have you already planned it out? What scene are you performing?" Roy inquired.

"'On My Own,'" Renly replied as he warmed up, his movements growing fluid and instinctive.

Roy raised an eyebrow. "Am I mistaken? Isn't that Éponine's song?"

"Yes, but I want to challenge myself with Jean Valjean," Renly said, catching Roy off guard.

Not Marius, but Jean Valjean? The age gap alone was daunting, not to mention the complexity of the role. Roy studied Renly carefully before nodding in understanding. "Then why not choose one of Valjean's solos?"

"Because every actor auditioning for Valjean will do that," Renly explained. "I could perform a typical Valjean scene, but the moment the casting directors see my age, they'll hesitate. I need to think outside the box—to break expectations. By choosing a different character's scene, I can demonstrate my versatility and make an impression."

Roy smirked, intrigued. "So why 'On My Own'?"

"Because it's one of my favorite numbers," Renly admitted. "I considered 'Master of the House' and 'Red and Black,' but those are ensemble pieces. Performing them solo would diminish their impact. And if I chose a Marius scene, I'd be playing it safe.

"Returning to the stage is about pushing myself—challenging my limits. Jean Valjean is a far more complex character than Marius or Enjolras. He's lived through hardship and transformation, which makes him a formidable challenge for me. Avoiding the comfort zone is the only way to grow."

Renly's approach was calculated yet daring. The easiest choice would have been to select a role aligned with his natural strengths, but instead, he chose the path of most resistance. By stepping into Jean Valjean's world through an unexpected avenue, he aimed to surprise the casting directors and, more importantly, himself.

As Roy observed Renly's determination, a knowing smile crossed his lips. This audition, whether successful or not, was another step in Renly's evolution as an actor—one that would define his artistic journey.