Ever wanted to know how to prepare for a theatre audition?

First off, there are many kinds of theatre auditions: auditions where you must prepare material ahead of time, auditions where you are given the material on the spot, and now more than ever, auditions that are videotaped and sometimes auditions that are held live on zoom!

Below are 10 basic audition tips to help assure that you are prepared and leave a lasting impression at your next audition!

Tip 1: General Information

Make sure you have all the information you need to be successful at the audition. What time is the audition? Where is the audition? Who is the point of contact? Work out travel times and plan for any delays ahead of time. Read over ALL audition instructions ahead of time so you can prepare accordingly. And most importantly, follow all directions given and come prepared.

Tip 2: Research and Prepare

Take time to investigate the company and people you are auditioning for. Read reviews, websites, social media pages if possible.

If you can read a full version of what you are auditioning for ahead of time, do. Read the play, research the playwright, know who is directing the piece. You are not always luckily enough to know these things, but if you are- do your homework. This will help inform the acting choices you make. (personally, I would not look at YouTube.) They want to see what YOU can do!

Tip 3: Headshot/resume

Always bring a headshot (a close-up picture) and your resume with you to every audition. Bring extra copies just in case! For more information about headshots and resumes: you can find examples online.

Tip 4: Material

Read the breakdowns to see what is required of you. Every audition is different. If you can read the play or plays you audition for ahead of time, DO! The more know, the more informed your acting choices will be.

Choose material you love! If you love it, it will show and will seem less like work.

Choose age-appropriate material

When possible, choose material from published work. There is a lot of bad material on the internet.

Tip 5: Attire (what to wear?)

First impressions matter. You want the theatre company to keep you in mind not only for this job, but for future jobs as well. I can’t tell you how many times I did not book the first job, but because I made a good impression, I was asked back and booked the second job. You just never know. Read the breakdown. If they want you come dressed as the character, do so. If they want you to dress to move, to do. Read the instructions very carefully. If details are not stated, you should dress professionally. You want to be well dressed and present yourself like a professional in your field. You should have your hair out of face, wear appropriate make-up if needed, and appear well groomed. Wear shoes that look professional but that you can move in.

Tip 6: Warm-up

Do all vocal and physical warmups before you get to the audition site. You don’t know what kind of environment you will be in. There may not be time or space to prepare. You also want to considerate of others auditioning.

Tip 7: Slate

Casting directors usually know if they want to call you back within the first 15 seconds that you walk into a room. Make sure your introduction (or slate) is professional but friendly. It’s the only time you get to be yourself in the audition- so be your wonderful self! Speak clearly and slowly. Don’t forget to breathe. You are worth their time!

Tip 8: Arrive time

Always show up early. In theatre we have a saying- if you show up on time, you are late! You never know if the audition room is ahead or behind time. This will prevent you from being unprepared when walking in the door. ALWAYS show up early.

Tip 9: Set Goals

Auditions are about so much than booking the job. Auditions are also about building connections and improving one’s skills. Use the time in the audition room to be an actor and set goals for yourself that have nothing to do with getting hired. This way you are always working on your craft as well as landing a potential job. I love the idea of keeping an audition journal. Note who was there, what you wore, and any feedback you received. This way you can track your artistic growth and journey!

Tip 10: Send a thank you note

When possible, it is always nice to following with a thank you note via email or postal mail. Thank you notes make a wonderful, lasting impression. Keep the note sincere and short and sweet. They do not have time to read long letters and you want to make sure it is read. Be sure to mentioned something about the experience you enjoyed. Make sure all names are spelled correctly and have the correct mailing address or email.

Do not repeatedly send notes or emails, just send one. You do not want to appear over the top or needy.

Remember: auditioning not only about booking the job. It is also about making lasting connections!

G-Star High School of the Arts is a public charter high school dedicated to film, animation, and performing arts. Students gain hands-on experience with professional equipment in classrooms taught by industry professionals.

If you would like to apply to G-Star please visit: www.gstarschool.org or click the link below!