Today we’d like to introduce you to Mikaela Macias.
Hi Mikaela, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started auditioning for professional theatre in my sophomore year at San Diego State University. I had to do a lot of researching, sending emails and digging deep into the web to find any kind of opportunity. After months of looking, I got my first professionally paid role at Moxie Theatre in their production of Mother of the Maid. When I shared this news with my classmates, the first question they would always ask is, “How did you find this information?” And I would tell them I would find this through Facebook, Instagram, or another resource. And I got to a point where I just kept thinking, “Why is this information so difficult to find?” I decided I wanted to change that. So, I created Miki’s Audition Corner, where people can get access to information about audition opportunities across San Diego.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
So far, it has been a smooth road. I have gotten a lot of support from my classmates and followers of the account. The only struggle I have had to face is making sure I don’t post an audition notice too late. My goal is to make sure when people receive this information; they have a solid amount of time to consider whether or not they want to do it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As of right now, I’m currently a junior studying theatre performance at San Diego State University. But outside of school, I have been a professional actor in San Diego for the last two years. I have gotten amazing opportunities to work with theatres such as San Diego Symphony, North Coast Repertory Theatre, and Moxie Theatre. Throughout these two years, I’m still discovering what I bring to the table. I’ve noticed in most of the productions I’ve been a part of, I would usually be the youngest person in the room. Which was intimidating at the time. So, while working at these companies has been a great learning experience, I felt an immense amount of imposter syndrome. Why would they choose me? But at some point, I had to allow myself to be okay with this feeling and to keep moving forward. Of course, it’s easier said than done. But being transparent about these types of struggles was how I learned to become a better artist. It became easier to spark more conversations with new upcoming theatre-makers about imposter syndrome, accessibility, and a plethora of other topics describing what it’s like being a young artist. I’m most proud of creating that space for people to feel comfortable, safe, and heard.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out.
Don’t be afraid to reach out. Before starting Miki’s Audition Corner, I was set on doing this alone. I wanted to work independently and have control over everything. But when people started contacting me about this account and different ways to expand, that’s when I saw the real growth. Collaboration with other artists has been a huge catalyst for finding auditions, having accessible resources, and becoming a better performer and person. Creating community is where I’ve felt the most successful even when I encounter failure.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Sarena Idelle
Macias Desiree
Clarke Brooke
Aliceon Manuel
Rotenburg
