How to Audition
By Rachel Swirsky, N2Arts Correspondent
Tips for getting the part
 

ou are standing on the boards of a quiet stage. You can picture the hundreds of people that will flock into the silent theater. Chatting excitedly, they will fill the empty seats and look up onto the stage - where you will be ready to capture their imaginations. This may be the most breathtaking moment for any actor, but how do you get there?

Auditions are stressful. But if you prepare and follow some guidelines, you can make them easier.

The Right Stuff

Most auditions call for actors to prepare a song, a monologue, or both. How do you choose them?

Songs should be comfortable to sing. Don’t pick things that make your throat hurt. Directors will want to know that you can perform every night - not what you can do just once.

Monologues should be written in language similar to yours. It’s easier to perform characters that speak like you do.

Pick a song or a monologue that shows something about yourself. The director knows that you are an actor. He wants to see your personality, and how it comes across on stage.

If the director wants to see a second piece, now’s your chance to show off. Pick a piece with a far out character and go for it.

Once you’ve chosen, practice! Figure out when to use your hands and when to stand still. When is your character happy? When is she sad? Looking at yourself in a mirror can be useful.

After you’ve chosen and practiced your material, you’ll be prepared to go to an audition.

Make a Good First Impression

The minute you walk into an audition, people are watching you. Smile and be polite! The director knows that people who are rude at auditions - to anyone - may be difficult to work with.

Clothes Make the Actor

Choose an outfit that makes you look great - and professional.

Men should wear slacks and long-sleeved shirts. Ties aren’t necessary. Women should wear skirts or slacks. Also, girls, don’t get fancy with your shoes! Most directors I’ve spoken to hate platform shoes. They prefer high heels.

For musical theater, make sure to bring a second outfit you can move in. Skirts and slacks make dancing awkward.

The Moment You’ve Been Waiting For...

When the director calls you, walk in confidently. If you are singing, give your music to the pianist. Explain any changes you’ve made to the music, and show him how fast to play.

Now, walk straight to the center of the room (most theaters will mark this with an “x"). In a stage voice, declare your name and what you will be performing. Take a moment to get into character, and then begin. 

If you forget the words, be calm. Directors know this happens sometimes. Just smile and start again as soon as you can. They will be impressed by your ability to handle problems.

The Good and the Bad

Even for professional actors, not all auditions turn out well. That’s okay. If this audition doesn’t work out, go to another one. Maybe it will take you five, fifteen, or even fifty tries to get the part you want. But if you don’t keep trying and practicing, it will never happen.

After enough time and practice - you’ll land the part! Then you’ll be the one waiting on a quiet stage for the audience to come.

Rachel Swirsky is a Creative Writing and Anthropology double major at UC Santa Cruz. My favorite musical theater experience was singing Broadway songs at full voice in Times Square. Rachel can be reached by email at rswirsky@ucsc.edu.