Justina Machado on Auditioning for Norman Lear & Moving to LA

TL;DR

The guest discusses live performances, audition experiences, and working with Norman Lear.

Transcript

I'M WELL, HOW ARE YOU? >> Jimmy: LAST TIME I SAW YOU, WE WERE ON THE SET OF "ALL IN THE FAMILY" LIVE. YOU DIDN'T SEEM NERVOUS. EVERYONE SEEMED NERVOUS EXCEPT FOR YOU. >> BRASECAUSE I DO IT ALL THE T. WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO LOSE IF YOU MESS UP? NONE OF THE PEOPLE I WAS WORKING WITH WERE NERVOUS, BECAUSE THEY'RE ALL PROS AND AMAZING. >> Jimmy: O... Read More

Key Insights

• 🫒 Experienced performers often manage live performance nerves by focusing on their skills and what they can control.
• 💪 Building strong relationships with colleagues, especially during challenging times, is essential for long-term success in the entertainment industry.
• 🗯️ Auditions can often lead to unexpected opportunities, as shown by the guest finding themselves at the right place at the right time.
• 😓 Personal connections with directors or producers can heavily influence casting decisions beyond merely acting abilities.
• 🫒 Adapting to audiences is a critical skill for live performers; not all reactions will be positive, but professionalism prevails.
• 🧑‍🏭 The supportive environment created by seasoned actors can significantly boost confidence in a live production.
• ❓ Reflective moments from early career struggles can cultivate resilience and adaptability, which are vital for career longevity.

Questions & Answers

Q: What makes performing live less daunting for the guest?

The guest feels that experienced co-workers relieve pressure during live performances. They mentioned that they often ask themselves what they have to lose if they make a mistake, which helps maintain a calm demeanor. This mindset allows them to focus on delivering their best performance without succumbing to nerves.

Q: How did moving to Los Angeles in the '90s shape the guest's career?

The guest talked about moving to Los Angeles with two friends and living in a cramped one-bedroom apartment. This experience fostered strong relationships that continue to this day. The shared struggles and adventures of starting their careers in a new city contributed to their resilience and dedication to the craft.

Q: What was the most memorable part of the audition with Norman Lear?

The guest recalled an intimate conversation with Norman Lear before being surprised with a script reading. This unexpected moment made the guest feel confident that they had a genuine connection with Lear, emphasizing that building rapport with the director was just as crucial as demonstrating acting skills in auditions.

Q: How did the guest handle negative audience reactions during a live show?

The guest recounted a performance where they noticed that some audience members, including Ethan Hawke and James Franco, appeared uninterested. Instead of letting the negativity distract them, they adapted their performance mentality. This experience reinforced the importance of maintaining composure despite what is happening in the audience.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The guest shares their comfort in live performances, emphasizing that experienced actors often remain unflustered even in stressful situations, such as performing in front of a live audience.

• Reflecting on their journey, the guest recalls moving to Los Angeles in the '90s with friends, highlighting their modest living conditions and close friendships formed during that time.

• The guest describes their audition process for the show "One Day at a Time," revealing a pivotal moment with Norman Lear that helped confirm their potential for the role.