I understand what goes through a young woman's head when she is coming here for an audition: "Oh my God! It's a private apartment. What if this guy i don't know is going to jump me?". So i have had a few actresses cancel their appointment for fear of security issues. For those who come though, with lots of apprehension nevertheless i am sure, they are in for a surprise. When i open the door, they see two little kids running around and wreaking havoc in the apartment, and my wife cooking dinner... And it's all so chaotic... and safe. The building has pretty tight security, and a 24h doorman that screens people coming in and out. So, the image that some people have of the audition is often diametrically opposed to the actual reality.

Maybe those young women who came should post comments in the guestbook and say what they thought about the auditions and i hope everybody felt comfortable and safe. Short of offering little cakes and some brandy, i hope to have been hospitable and nice to everybody.

But i completely understand if a young woman refuses to come for perceived security reasons. It's New York City after all, and unless you have a black belt and some mace, being a young woman walking around in the evening, or coming to someone's private apartment, can be a tough proposition. Additionally, this business certainly built up a pretty bad reputation around auditions over the years. Be assured there is no couch in my office!

Yours truly,
LDH