Acting - Audition Tips
In this article we're going to go over some basic things that
one should do before, during and after the big audition for a
part.
The fact is, auditions are a nerve wracking
experience for actors. They'd rather have their eyebrows
plucked. Unfortunately, they're an essential part of being an
actor. So by following these steps you'll have the best chance
of getting the part.
In getting the audition in the first
place, you or your agent are going to have to submit a photo and
resume to the casting director. Sometimes you'll get an open
call where anybody can come down but these are the exception,
not the rule. Most auditions are by invitation only.
If
you are called for an audition you will usually be given what
are called "sides" or a few pages of a script that you will have
to read at the audition. In theater you may also be required to
have some kind of monologue ready.
The first thing to do
is read the script and prepare for the part. Find out everything
you can about the character you're going to be playing. The
lines aren't important yet. Just commit your focus to the
character. How old, where from, how the character feels about
other characters in the story. Only after you know everything
you need to know about the character do you start learning your
lines. Use whatever method you feel most comfortable with. You
won't be required to know the whole script at the audition but
be prepared.
Before you go to the audition, dress for the
part. Wear clothes that fit the character and the story. If
you're playing a cowboy don't get dressed up in a business suit.
You don't have to go out and rent spurs but wear clothes that
suggest the role. Jeans and boots for this role will do
fine.
Warm up for the audition just like a pitcher warms
up before a ball game. Do some stretches and vocal exercises. Go
over your lines. Don't go in there cold. It's normal to be
nervous but in preparing yourself you won't be as nervous and
you'll be able to relax a bit.
When you get to the
audition, sign in. You may have to wait for others to read for
the same part. Be patient. Avoid talking with the other actors.
They will only try to distract you. Focus on what you came there
to do.
When actually reading for the casting director, be
prepared for anything. Some may sit and chat with you a few
minutes and others will just get right down to business. Forget
that this is an audition. Do the performance as if you were
actually in the production. You only get one chance to make a
first impression. Make the director believe that you ARE the
character. They want you to be the best person for the role
because that means their job is completed.
There are some
things not to do when reading for the casting director. Don't
suck up. A sincere compliment is fine but a casting director
will know when you're just grovelling. Aside from shaking his
hand when you enter, never touch the casting director. Finally,
don't trash the office. Some hyperactive actors will actually do
this in the heat of performing a physical scene. This is a
definite way NOT to get the part.
After you're done with
your reading the director will let you know when they'll get
back to you. Leave it at that. Don't make a scene. Just be
professional and leave.
If the casting director likes
your performance you will be asked to come back. At this time
there will be fewer people auditioning and more people watching
your performance. Maybe some producers, directors and writers.
Wear the same clothes that you wore to the first audition and
put in the same performance. Don't second guess yourself. If
they called you back then they liked what they saw the first
time. Don't mess with success.
Keep records of each
audition. Make notes of what things you did and what you think
you can do better the next time. If something went very well,
make a note of what it was.
The more auditions you do the
better you will get at them.