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MTV's The Real World held open casting auditions on Main Street at the Steer from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday.
Local students and community members lined up on Main Street, heading in 10 at a time to meet with casting directors.
As people got in line, they were greeted by casting assistants, hired by MTV for the day, who gave them applications. The applications asked detailed questions about applicants including height, weight, and what they find most "unusual" about themselves.
Many Real World hopefuls had aspirations for which city they would like to live in, as the show's next location has yet to be disclosed. Not Ashley Schuh, who called into work to come, and also had to bring her dog to the interview because she could not find a sitter.
"They can put me in a trailer in Wyoming, I don't care what city it is. I just want to show the world what they're missing," she said.
Stephen Wendt, a DJ and science teacher, was just passing by and decided to audition because he believes he's the person MTV is looking for.
According to a KISS 98.5 interview with one casting director, the channel will visit 12 cities and holding open auditions. One's chances of being chosen in Buffalo for the cast are just as good as anywhere else.
The casting director said she's looking for people who act like themselves. Sometimes people walk in and try to act a certain way, and she explained that's not what she's looking for.
Many applicants expressed an interest in changing the show, or simply adding to it.
"I should be on the show because I'm a character and I love being around drama," said Justin Hickman, a fan of the show.
"The last couple seasons have sucked, and the girls have sucked," said Ashley Guerrette, a junior chemistry major. "I want to show MTV what's up."
After heading in 10 at a time, Real World wannabes were asked to have a seat at the bar and were offered drinks. After even more waiting, the groups were brought upstairs to meet with one of either casting director.
The groups took part in some question-prompted casual conversation, and, if they were lucky, are asked to stay for the next round. Those who aren't asked to stay are told that they'll get a call in two weeks to try out for next time.
"It's casual... the interviewer breaks the ice and you just try and be yourself," said Kristina McCormick, a freshman business major.
McCormick said it was like a group conversation with 10 of your peers being observed by a MTV representative.
"Being on the Real World would be a great experience," said Ashley Brown, a freshman international business major. "It's no surprise people have been lined up all day."
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
