Auditions are a necessary part of the theatrical creative process
They give a production’s creative team an opportunity to meet and become acquainted with actors in order to cast/assign roles for a particular play or musical. They are a necessary part of the process, but even adult actors can be intimidated by it! We’re very aware that for many of the children auditioning for “Madeline’s Christmas” this will be their first audition experience, and we are committed to making this a comfortable, affirming experience for each child regardless of whether they are ultimately cast or not. Although the concept may seem a bit scary, we believe that with a little preparation, the audition experience can not only be “survived”, but can build self-confidence and actually be enjoyable! Following are some tips we hope you find helpful:
Preparation:
- Select material you really enjoy performing and that is within your age range, vocal range (especially if singing), emotional range and within the scope of your movement skills.
- The best way to combat nerves is to be prepared! Practice your audition material for as many people as possible! If needed, work with a teacher or acting coach. When you feel prepared, you’ll also feel confident!
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes prior to your audition appointment. It is best to warm-up vocally and physically prior to your audition.
- Your audition begins the moment you step out of your car. Be courteous and friendly to all.
- Upon arrival, locate and check in with the stage manager. Do your best to listen carefully and follow any directions given. There are usually forms to fill out, so bring a pen and your family calendar. Write neatly and don’t hesitate to ask questions if needed.
- It’s natural to get a little nervous, especially as you’re awaiting your turn to audition. Use positive “self-talk” and tell yourself “I LOVE to audition – I can’t WAIT to get in there and sing my song!”. It sounds silly, but it can really work! 🙂 Also, since as actors we love to perform, many find it helpful to think of their audition as just another opportunity to perform for an audience – albeit a rather small one with the power to cast you!
- “Madeline” auditions will include learning a short, simple dance routine, so wear comfortable clothes and footwear appropriate for movement (please no sandals, slip-ons, etc.). Secure hair off the face and keep your hands out of your pockets.
During Audition:
- When it’s your turn to audition – Smile! Be personable! Show that you will be an enjoyable person to work with.
- Introduce yourself in a strong, clear voice and make eye contact. Introduce the title of your song or monologue and the show it comes from. It’s sometimes fun to mention why you choose the song or something interesting you learned about the show. 🙂
- Important! A successful audition in no way depends upon perfection! It is highly probably, perhaps a certainty that things may not go exactly as you planned in your audition. Welcome to the excitement of “live performance”! Creativity is about being “in the moment” and discovering new things, so try to use whatever happens in your audition to your advantage and remember “it’s not a mistake unless you allow it to be!” There is no need to apologize or make excuses for anything that happens in your audition! 🙂
- Accept direction. Often, directors ask actors to do things in an audition – sing their song in a different way, etc. If this happens in your audition, it doesn’t mean you’ve done anything “wrong”! Directors often use this technique to test an actor’s flexibility and willingness to accept direction. It‘s often a sign of interest and should be viewed as a complement. Try whatever the director asks of you and have fun with it.
After Audition:
- After your audition is over – pat yourself on the back and feel great about yourself! Casting decisions are often influenced by things we have no control over – our height, our “type”. If for some reason you are not cast in this show, don’t give up or feel discouraged! Keep auditioning and your opportunity to shine on stage will soon come!
- Try to learn something new from each audition and continue to perform every chance you can get – in school, in drama classes. Go to see quality, professional theatre performances! One of the best ways to grow is to watch talented professionals!