The Audition Process, Part 2:
What to do (and not to do) during your audition

by
Chris Seiler

So you've prepared for auditions by becoming comfortable with your material. Now here's a few pointers on the audition itself Like last month, we're going to deal fight now with straight play auditions. Auditions for musicals may differ a bit in that you may have to bring sheet music or dance clothes.

First, find out where the auditions are. This might sound like a very obvious thing, but you don't want to miss out on a part just be cause you thought the auditions were at "First United Church of God" when they are actually at "First Methodist Church of Christ." Get directions. Get a map. Get a ride from someone who drives better than you. Know where to go fight down to the room number. Also know exactly what time the auditions are to be held, and plan on being there on time.

Dress comfortably. Note: I said comfortably, not sloppily. Remember this is just like any other situation in which you're trying to make a good first impression. You don't want the director thinking, "Hey this person doesn't even care enough to comb his hair; what makes me think he'll care enough to learn his lines?!" Wear something you'll be able to move around in comfortably. Three-piece suits or tight dresses may look good but they don't help your performance.

Now for the audition. Be sure to bring a pen or pencil, a personal calendar to check any conflicts, and (if possible) a copy of the script. The audition will probably be handled in one of two ways: as an "open audition" where all the auditioners are in the room at the same time; or as a "closed audition" where small groups are called in separately.

With an open audition, there are a few advantages. First of all, you'll get a chance to check out the space. You'll be able to see where the director is sitting and how much room you'll have to work with. Your biggest asset, however, is that you will get to see first-hand what scenes are being read, so while other auditioners are performing, you can study the scene in your script. With a closed audition, you may have time to practice a scene while waiting; you also won't have to worry about any extra eyes staring at you! Whether the auditions are open or closed, someone should let you know which scenes you will be reading.

A few tips for the reading itself. Be nice to those around you. If you get cast, you may have to work with these people for seven to ten weeks! Wait until everyone is ready before you start reading. If someone reads particularly well, tell them. And be sure to thank the director when you've finished. Sucking up is good, as long as you're subtle!

While reading, try to keep your nose out of the script-the director will want to see your face. Glance down when you need to, but try to make eye contact with your scene partner whenever possible. Also try to move around a little. Don't become a statue. If it feels right, move, just don't overdo it. And make sure to ENUNCIATE and PROJECT-- if they can't hear and understand you, they can't cast you. Most importantly, don't be nervous. You know the play, read it like you know you can and you'll be fine.

Now that you've auditioned, it's out of your hands. It's up to the director. If you don't get cast, then go on to the next audition. As long as you did the best job you could, as long as you gave the best audition you could, then you have nothing to feel bad about. And if you DO get cast, have a great time! Acting is a great thrill and you should enjoy the experience. Break a leg!