TEXARKANA, Texas - Around 30 hopefuls gathered in an open conference room. From youngest to oldest, the perspectives had a chance to try their hand at acting, singing, dancing and modeling.
Ashley Myers of ARTS International managed the talent, putting them at ease and efficiently, one at a time, led them through their paces. She created a comfortable but disciplined atmosphere, moving the line along smartly.
"We create opportunities for small town artists, giving them a chance to take the next step," she said. "We have been visiting towns all over Texas and now we are in Texarkana. We are here to find potential in those who are good matches for this business. Sometimes you need to step out of Texarkana to move forward. Have an open mind and you never know what will happen."
Talveyion Cooper, 20, of Liberty Eylau, played quarterback in high school. He is quite familiar with high visibility, high pressure situations and this did not phase him at all. But he decided to give this a try as well.
"Performance is what I really want to do," he said. "Sports, I'm good at. But I really want to try this."
John Gladden, 38, of Hope, Arkansas, works as an assistant director of a theater, and he also has an extensive background in stage, musicals and more. He has had countless auditions and this is just one more.
"It is about putting yourself out there," he said. "Starving artist is no joke. Take the opportunities as they come."
Those who auditioned Friday have a chance to appear before talent agents at a later date, according to promoters.