January 24, 2025

MSM Spotlight: The Audition Edition — Musical Theatre student Gretchen Cole (BM ’25) gives her audition tips and tricks

We want to make your audition experience as smooth as possible, so here are a few tips and tricks from a current MSM Musical Theatre senior: Meet Gretchen Cole!

ABOUT GRETCHEN

Originally from Pennington, New Jersey, Gretchen Cole is a senior Musical Theatre major studying under the tutelage of Bob Stillman. MSM stage credits include Forget Me Not (Stevie), The Pajama Game (Mae), and She Loves Me (Ensemble). Other favorite roles include Jo March (Little Women), Mrs. Lovett (Sweeney Todd), and Ella (Cinderella). Gretchen is also an active member of Alpha Psi Omega, the theatre honor society at MSM, and serves as their marketing director. Outside of theatre, Gretchen enjoys baking, live music, exploring different coffee shops around the city, curating Spotify playlists, and rooting for her favorite hockey team, the New Jersey Devils.

What advice would you give to prospective students auditioning for the MSM MT program?

Gretchen: Be prepared, be yourself, and try not to overthink it. Keep your sheet music organized and clearly marked for the pianist. No one is perfect and sometimes mistakes happen. If you mess up, it’s ok, either start over or keep going. You never know if something different or additional might be asked for in an audition so be the person “ready to go”! Have a few extra songs/cuts in different styles, an extra monologue, and all your dance shoes. Most importantly, don’t feel pressured to adopt a persona – just be yourself and have fun! Break a leg!

What’s in your audition bag?

Gretchen: Audition Book, ALL my dance shoes, Pastilles, emotional support Water Bottle, and a killer lip combo!

Gretchen Cole (center) in The Pajama Game Fall 2024

Why did you decide to study at MSM?

Gretchen: Choosing where to study can be a tough decision! For me, I preferred a Bachelor of Music degree, along with excellent faculty and a great location. MSM truly felt like the perfect place. It allowed me to focus my studies and training with exceptional faculty and industry professionals while being immersed in the vibrant energy of New York City—the very heartbeat of theatre.

“MSM truly felt like the perfect place. It allowed me to focus my studies and training with exceptional faculty and industry professionals while being immersed in the vibrant energy of New York City—the very heartbeat of theatre.”

What are your audition day rituals?

Gretchen:

I’ve developed a pretty set routine for my audition prep. I give myself at least three hours for my voice to warm up before an audition—yes, it means some early mornings! A trusted voice teacher once emphasized the importance of warming up naturally to keep the voice healthy in the long run. Hydration is key, along with staying loose, so I like to do some full-body stretches. I love taking a hot shower to help steam my voice. I also do my vocal exercises and review any lines.

My favorite part of my audition routine is calling my mom while I get ready. Talking to her warms up my voice and calms my nerves. I always pack my audition bag the night before and make sure to arrive early to any audition. I really love audition days, feeling the special buzz of excitement and energy when surrounded by creative people doing what they love.

What’s your favorite things about the MSM MT Department?

Gretchen: Dean Liza Gennaro has worked incredibly hard to develop an exceptional MT program at MSM. The faculty are incredible and truly care about their students, especially our growth. It has been a dream come true to be taught by experienced professionals such as Erin Dilly, Boyd Gaines, Rachel Tucker, David Loud, and so many others while at MSM. There have been countless opportunities to learn and be part of incredible productions.

We are fortunate to have weekly private voice lessons. My voice instructor, Bob Stillman, is amazing! For the past four years, my weekly voice lesson has been something I truly look forward to. He has taught me so much, been a wonderful mentor, and provided endless support.

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