Before the Audition: Audition Process Tips

There are a few unwritten rules when auditioning in the worlds of theatre and musical theatre. Showing that you know them helps the directors to know that you are serious about your craft and about the audition you are about to perform.

Your Slate and Eyeline

When you enter, smile and make eye contact while you walk to the spot that they want you to audition from (usually the center). Next, while looking at them, give your “Slate.” A Slate is a statement of your name and the name of your piece. And, it’s different whether it’s a song or a monologue.

For a song, you say, “Hi, my name is XXX XXX, and this is SONG NAME from SONG MUSICAL.” Then you nod at the accompanist (or the person playing your track) to indicate that you are ready to start.

For a monologue, you say, “Hi, my name is XXX XXX, and this is CHARACTER’S NAME”S monologue from PLAY NAME by AUTHOR NAME.” Then, look down briefly, say a sentence in your head that gets you into character, look up, and start your monologue.

If you are doing two pieces in a row, obviously exclude your name when you introduce the second piece. End with a “thank you.”

When you are performing your song or monologue, remember that you are now the character…and the directors do not exist in the world of that character, so do not look at them while performing. Look in the center, very slightly above the middle person’s head, strongly visualizing the person that your character is speaking to. If your character is speaking to themselves, visualize a mirror.

Besides showing that you are truly in the world of the character, avoiding looking at them has other benefits, as well. For example, you won’t creep them out. Also, if they are taking notes or about to sneeze, you won’t be distracted by it.

Emotionally Managing the Audition

Auditions are anxiety provoking situations, so best to manage your anxiety and adrenaline before going in. Taking five slow breaths — in which you inhale for 5 seconds and exhale for 5 seconds — is scientifically proven to slow your heart rate and reset your system. 

On your last breath, visualize something or someone that you are really grateful for. The brain chemicals of appreciation are the opposite of the chemicals for anxiety, so you can fill yourself with appreciation instead!

If you still get nervous while you are up there, it is helpful to know that the brain chemicals of nerves and those of excitement are EXACTLY the same. So, mentally interpret the feeling as excitement, and then infuse that energy into your audition piece to make it even better.

When you walk in, your demeanor should be relaxed, like: “The answer to your casting problem just walked in the door.” Then, you really need to own the space. You are there to perform — so remember that you love performing, and do what you love! Also, know that they really want you to do well. They actually do want you to solve their casting problem, so go out there and show them that their production will be better with you in it.

Be careful of nonverbally asking to be liked or appear to need their approval… and never apologize for taking up their time, either in words or actions. Do not rush your performances. Own the time and space that you are given.

Additionally, remember that nothing is a sign of anything. You are going to want to try to read the directors’ looks, movements, and words to try to get a clue around if they liked your performance or not. It will just make you crazy. Directors are very subjective and handle auditioning differently. Some are deadpan; some are overly nice. Just perform and let it go until the cast list comes out. You aren’t in charge of any of it anyway, so worrying does nothing. You’ve already done your part!

What to Wear

Look casually professional — like you are going to a nice restaurant with grandma. Wear something boring on the bottom and a nice bright color by your face. Put something sparkling on your ears or neck if you are so inclined. Wear boring shoes. The goal is to funnel their attention to the amazing face that will be showing all the emotion!

If there’s a particular part you want, dress in the way that character may dress in today’s world.

If it’s a larger audition where you don’t know any of the directors, wear the same thing to callbacks as you did to the audition. It helps them to remember you.

Bits and Pieces

Obviously, really rehearse your pieces, analyze your texts, and plan out your movements. Moving some on stage is great — shows you are comfortable in the space. Fidgeting and aimlessly wandering while performing shows nerves and inexperience.

Never give excuses at the audition. Don’t explain that you are feeling sick (they can tell the difference between someone who is stuffy/congested versus someone who is just not a good singer). If you are late (don’t be), simply apologize sincerely (no explanation/excuse) and go directly into your audition. You’ve already wasted their time by being late; don’t waste more of it explaining why.

Additionally, hopefully you are always a kind person, but as you approach the building, be extraordinarily nice to everyone. Be especially nice to the person running the audition — that person is often the stage manager and is watching how auditioners are acting in the waiting room. No one wants a mean or disruptive influence in their show. Folks want to work with kind, enagaging, balanced people. So, be your best self in there.

Final Note

In order to get a part, magic needs to happen amidst three things — the person, the place, and the time. You could be the right person for a part, but auditioning for the wrong company (for example, a company that is a little beyond you right now or one that has directors who, for whatever reason, don’t see your talent.) You could be auditioning at the right place, but at the wrong time (for example, they have to cast the one guy who auditioned for the lead, but your chemistry isn’t right with him.) Or everything can line up, and you can get the part you want! Or, you can get a part that is actually great for you that you hadn’t considered.

The important thing is to get out there and audition. Find a company that sees and appreciates your talent. Be willing to take ensemble roles — sometimes you need to put in your time before a company trusts you with a lead or maybe you need more experience. 

Once you get your part — whatever it is — absolutely invest everything you are in that part. You’ll grow as a performer, and the audience and director will notice.