Why You’re Not Playing Your Dream Roles (and What to Do About It)
Have you been auditioning but not booking the roles you really want? You're not alone. This post dives into what might be holding you back—and how to take your next step forward with clarity and confidence.
Whether you're feeling stuck, confused, or just plain frustrated, I’m here to help you shift out of “Why not me?” mode and into a mindset and strategy that actually moves the needle.
💭 1. Shift from Frustration to Empowerment
That role you were perfect for? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But instead of spiraling into self-doubt, what if you reframed your response?
Rejection is redirection. It doesn’t mean you’re not good enough—it means the casting puzzle is complicated, and your path is unfolding.
🔑 Reframe it: What can you learn from this? What’s one thing you can take action on now that’s within your control?
The most successful performers I coach are the ones who get back up with curiosity instead of bitterness.
🎯 2. Prep With Precision—And Present Authentically
Yes, your prep matters. But so does how you present yourself.
📝 What you can do:
Pick material that excites you—not just what you think they want
Know your cut, story arc, and character beat by beat
Be the expert on you—your lived experience is what makes your audition unique
🎥 Submitting online? Be sure your tech setup reflects your professionalism. (Lighting, sound, framing—it all adds up.)
👉 Want help with self-tapes? Check out my video: Do You Need a Mic for Musical Theatre Self-Tapes?
🔍 3. Address the Gaps You Can’t See Alone
We all have blind spots. Maybe it’s a specific style of singing. Maybe it’s a pattern in your callbacks that you’re missing.
🎯 Take inventory:
Are you consistently getting feedback about the same thing?
Do you feel underprepared in one area (movement, mix, dialects)?
If yes, that’s your next growth zone.
✨ Pro Tip: Download my Audition Tracker Template to start tracking patterns and finding the clues inside your data.
🧠 4. Stop Worrying About 'Type'—Tell the Stories You Want to Tell
You don’t have to fit the mold. The industry is evolving—and your authenticity is your superpower.
👁️🗨️ Ask yourself:
What roles truly excite me?
What kinds of characters or stories do I want to represent?
Casting directors want to see YOU bring something fresh to a role—not copy what’s been done.
🎭 Explore more on this in my Career Coaching series here.
💬 Final Thoughts: You’re Closer Than You Think
Securing your dream roles isn’t about luck or waiting for someone to see your potential. It’s about:
Taking ownership of your path
Refining your materials and process
Staying connected to your joy and purpose as an artist
And most importantly—it’s about not giving up.
You’ve got this.
📥 Want Personalized Help?
If you’re ready to get unstuck, book a 1:1 coaching session with me. Let’s work through your materials, patterns, and strategy so you can start booking roles that light you up.
And grab these free tools to support your growth:
💡 Remember: Your Dream Role Is Within Reach
The more you align your preparation with your authentic artistry—and take strategic action—the more opportunities will align in return.
Take the next step. Reclaim your confidence. And keep showing up like the professional you are.
✨ Your talent deserves to be seen.
Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers thrive onstage and off. She brings over two decades of experience and a unique perspective from her bi-coastal lifestyle as a working artist. A former college professor, she now splits her time between performing, coaching, and creating digital resources to support other artists. Follow her on Instagram or check out the Musical Theatre Mentor YouTube channel for weekly career advice.
