Auditions

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Read the Audition Notice Carefully. Be prepared, not just to perform, but also to present any requested materials.

Get to know the show.  Search online for a synopsis of the show, or to see sections on YouTube. Cast albums and videos can sometimes be found at your local library. Be aware that stage and movie versions of shows can be very different, and some plays have numerous versions. Learn about the cast of characters and think about how you would become one. You may be asked to read for a part other than the one you planned on. Be prepared to audition for more than one character.

Be prepared for a “cold reading.” Practice reading aloud from any script, or book with plenty of dialog, to prepare yourself for reading from the script when asked.  Ask a friend to help you practice by reading scenes with two-person dialog. Be prepared to speak loud and clear. Speak with feeling appropriate for the character and scene.

Be of good voice. If singing is required, practice your song as far in advance as possible; do not wait to get your voice in shape. Warm up your voice before the audition. Don’t forget to feel your song. Good acting is vital to good singing.

Be courteous and patient. Auditions can sometimes be a long process. Spend your time privately readying yourself.

Enter with confidence and a smile. Keep good posture, your chin at a natural level, don’t stare at the floor. Walk with confidence even when you’re terrified. A positive, energetic attitude makes a great impression.

Be friendly. You don’t want to be overly talkative, but you should smile and be personable. Although you want to be friendly with the other auditionees, avoid conversations in the auditioning room, concentrate on your audition.

Keep your hands out of your pockets.

Be flexible. Show the director you are good at taking directions. Just try to do your best when the director asks something of you.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Audition as often as you can. You’ll get better with practice, and learn from other auditionees on the way!