Hear about two of BDC’s Professional Semester Alumni who recently signed with two of the top talent agencies in New York City. Congratulations, Nikki and Matt! We’re so proud of you!
Nikki Croker – MSA Agency
Why did you choose to go to the audition?
I chose to go to the MSA open call because it has been the agency that I’ve been looking to sign with since moving to New York. They have a lot of really skilled, talented performers and choreographers signed with them, including some of my favourite choreographers – Al Blackstone, Josh Bergasse, Derek Mitchell, and Maria Torres.
How did you prepare for the audition?
I trained really hard all last year taking classes in a variety of styles including Ballet, Theatre, Tap, Hip Hop, Latin Jazz, Gymnastics, Voice and Acting. I completed the Fall Professional Semester at Broadway Dance Center in which we completed 12 classes a week and had helpful seminars regarding headshots and resumes, nutrition, and mock auditions for all different styles. I received a vast amount feedback from this semester that helped me grow tremendously!
What was the audition environment like?
The audition was at Pearl Studios. There were hundreds of people! We lined up to get our numbers and you could either audition for ‘commercial’ or ‘theatre’. I decided to audition for both so I was there from about 11am-6.30pm. We learned each combination in about 15 minutes and then performed it in small groups of 5. For the theatre audition we also had to sing a 16 bar cut.
How did you feel the audition went?
I felt good about the audition – I had met Lucille at Josh Bergasse’s Music Theatre Summer Program and also at a Professional Semester mock audition, which eased my nerves a little. I had prepared the best way I could before the audition and knew that I gave my best, no matter the outcome.
When did you receive the call?
I received the call about 10 days later. I was puppy-sitting at the time and I was playing with the dog Captain when my phone started ringing. I don’t think I’ll forget the day – I was so excited!
Matt Tremblay – Bloc/NYC Agency
Why did you choose to go to the audition?
I chose to go to the audition for the experience. Auditions are a perfect learning atmosphere to figure out your strengths and weaknesses in order to move forward.
How did you prepare for the audition?
I did my research on which choreographers the agency represents because I knew some of them would be teaching the audition combinations. I was sure to hit the gym and take class a lot prior to the audition. I also did a lot of positive-thinking and reflecting to be mentally ready.
What was the audition environment like?
The studios were packed with dancers! We were typed cast right away. I felt like it was quite competitive in there until we got to the last few cuts; After a long day, the atmosphere became more supportive.
How did you feel the audition went?
I felt extremly hyped and full of energy all day. As the day went by and I was asked to stay, I surprisingly become more relaxed! This completely shoked me, but I realized that it was just a matter of giving everything I have and hoping for the best.
When did you receive the call?
I was informed 5 days later, Friday at 5:30pm. I remember the entire conversation! That was the longest 5 days of my life! I was so happy and I couldn’t believe it at first. I didn’t realize that it wasn’t a dream until I signed my contract and I heard “Welcome to Bloc.”
