Even for experienced actors, auditions for plays and theater companies can be terrifying and nerve-wracking. An audition is frequently your only opportunity to make a positive impression on the directors and other auditioners. At an audition, your goal should be to stand out not only in terms of ability, but also in terms of professionalism and preparedness.
Auditioners can examine your appearance before you even begin to perform. It’s best if you dress modestly, as if you’re going to an informal interview. If you are asked to dance or demonstrate movement skills, your clothing should be easy to move in and comfortable. Wear the same outfit if you are called back for a second audition. Auditioners may associate you with your clothing until they get to know you better. You will remind them of their first impression of you by wearing the same outfit.
Several factors will help you impress the auditioners if you are asked to prepare a monologue for an audition. First and foremost, whatever piece you choose to perform must be completely memorized. Avoid doing a monologue with a script or notes in your hands at all costs. You will feel more relaxed if you have your speech completely memorized because you will not have to worry about forgetting your lines.
Second, pick a piece that fits the play style. If you’re auditioning for a musical comedy, perform a scene from another musical comedy or a comedy from the time period. Although it is recommended that you do not choose a piece from the play for which you are auditioning, using a monologue by the same author may be a good idea.
Many professionals recommend shaking hands in introduction if you audition in a small room with only the auditioners present. Go to the center of the room, which will sometimes be marked out for you, after greeting them. Tell them your name and the play from which your monologue is taken, as well as the character’s name. They may be jotting down notes for you at this point. Wait until they make eye contact with you or tell you they’re ready before you start.
You may have to wait until your name is called if you are in a large room or auditorium. Instead of greeting the auditioners, state your name as well as the title of your monologue and character. While these steps aren’t required for every audition, they do help you stand out as a confident professional with impeccable manners. If different instructions are given, however, follow them to the letter.
An audition may require you to read a scene from the script, either instead of or in addition to a monologue. Reading the script is one of the most effective ways to prepare. This will help you put any isolated scene you’re asked to act out into context. This knowledge also allows you to make informed decisions about your character’s emotions, habits, and demeanor, which may help you stand out to the auditioners.
Try to look up from the script as much as possible during your performance. Some actors advise concentrating on the other actor or actors in order to elicit an emotional response from them. Auditioners are frequently looking for good chemistry between actors, and interacting with your co-stars can help with this.
Nothing can guarantee that an audition will go well. Auditioners cast for a variety of reasons, not all of which will make sense or appear fair to you. You can give the impression of a serious actor by carefully preparing and acting in a professional and confident manner. While you may not get the part of your dreams right away, you will make a good impression on the auditioners, who may remember you for future productions.