“The only mistake an artist can make is to be afraid to make a mistake.” – William Roudebush

If you are an actor looking for coaching for your next audition, might I suggest William Roudebush.

He recently spoke with The Nerdy Girl Express about his teaching philosophy. I found his answers insightful. Read more to learn about this caring and committed theater director.

How do you feel your theater experiences have helped you in coaching actors?

“Invaluable. I have directed well over 250 productions and learned everything I know by watching actors struggle to connect, create, get in their own way, question their instincts, become overly aware of themselves in the process of building another character, be fearful of everything they should be embracing or just glide through rehearsals
knowing that the journey is the joy and the final result a surprise to all involved. I learned to coach and teach by watching others. I learn more with each additional show I direct.”

What can you tell us about the services you provide for upcoming actors?

“Monologue selection is huge. You must find audition pieces that are present tense active, are the correct length, fit you personally as an actor and have a clear beginning, middle and an impacting finish. If you are applying for grad school,  an undergraduate BFA in Acting or a professional audition the strategy changes for each unique situation. You must know how to prepare so that the audition is a creative rather than a frightening experience. You need to know how to utilize your fears and turn them into assets. Each individual actor enters with their own specific set of goals, ideas and experience. It is my job to focus on that individual artist and highlight what makes them unique and eliminate the fears that block this unique connection so the true artist can emerge. My service involves dealing directly with all of these challenges and injecting positive feedback so that the artist feels a sense of wonder and power at each audition.”

Are there certain qualities you look for in potential students?

“The ONLY quality I look for is desire and a strong work ethic. I love working with actors period. If you have no experience I can show you how to start, if you have years of professional experience we can discover
what might possibly be missing or what can be added to bring new life to your experiences.”

 How do you feel your coaching can develop hidden or raw talent?

“Talent is often hidden and/or raw but only because what hides the hidden or raw talent is fear. All of my work involves identifying what you are afraid of and collaborating on methods to release these fears and
lead the actor to a most positive process. I have been doing this for over thirty years and have witnessed countless actors learn how to love the process beyond the result…and, the best thing of all is that the results we achieve are always a surprise to everyone.”

Why do you think potential students should consider you over others providing the same types of services?

“It’s all about empowerment for me. My focus is on you as opposed to my methods. I will find a way to get into your process and bring joy to your creations.”

 In closing, anything else you would like to add?

“If you are an inexperienced actor find 3 or 4 or even 5 other actors and we will create a class together. When you start it is important to observe others going through the same doubts, fears and discoveries that you are. It will enhance your growth at an accelerated rate. Creating a class of 4-6 actors will also save you money and, when you begin, that is usually the time when you have the least money to grow.”

For more information about William Roudebush ‘s program, check out his website:

http://williamroudebush.com/