Terms, How To and Other Helpful Tips Auditioning Terms, How To and Other Helpful Tips

Audition Terms: Casting: Matching Characters and Actors Auditions: Selection Process Where Actors “Try Out” for the Parts they Want Types of Auditions: Cold Read: No Preparation Memorized: From the Play or a Monologue Improvised: From the Play or Other Scenes Note: Some Productions Require Specific Talents such as Dancing or Singing (need to include those in the audition)

Audition Terms (cont.) Callbacks: After First Auditions a Director May Need a Second or Third “Look” Also Gives Director the Opportunity to Place Potential Actors In Various Combinations to See How They Look and Act Together Understudy: A Person Who Learns a Part in Order to Substitute in a Performance Should the Original Actor NOT BE ABLE to Perform

Basics to Consider: You must attend rehearsals and be prepared! Directors need to be aware of conflicts as soon as possible. When selecting a cast the director must consider…each actor’s physical attributes--- gender, appearance, height and size…growth potential as an actor....dependability…..cooper- ation….attitude……work ethic……

Dressing the Part DO NOT go to the audition in costume! DO “represent” your character by choosing an outfit/hairstyle/etc. that hints at what type of character you are. DRESS PROFESSIONALLY! It isn’t quite “job interview” wear, but you do want to look your best while hinting at the type of character you are at the same time. THIS IS AN ART! 

Examples If you’re playing a cheerleader DO NOT wear a cheerleading costume DO pull your hair back into a ponytail with a ribbon, and/or wear a cute skirt outfit If you’re playing a grouchy old man DO NOT create wrinkles with make up or make your hair gray DO un-tuck your shirt and wear baggier pants than normal

MUST’S Be creative! Be unique! Be different than everyone else! Stand out! Be confident!

Professionalism Charm isn’t everything. Casting directors, casting associates, producers and directors are not the ones who are going to be bowled over by your charm. The only thing that matters is your work and your professional attitude.

Expectations Acting Resume: Age, Previous Experience, Physical Description, Contact Information, Study of Craft Head Shot: 8 by 10 Photo, Different Looks— Younger or Older or Silly or Serious

It starts at the door…. Your audition begins the second you walk in the door. When you enter, you should politely acknowledge everyone present in the room, but remember one thing: You need to be focused on your work!

“Slate” It! “Slate” = State your name and what piece you are auditioning with. When you finish the "slate" you need to start your monologue. “Hi, my name is [your name] and I will be auditioning with the monologue, [monologue title].”

Always Ask! Nobody’s Perfect! We are only human, so mistakes can be expected. If you lose your concentration or cannot perform as per your potential or if you feel like showing another interpretation of the piece, you can always ask to be allowed to do it again. If you want to use a chair or anything else, always ask. Be prepared for Plan B if they say no!

When You’re Done Thank them politely Wish them good luck with the project Politely leave the room

How Do You Feel the Audition Went? The only thing that matters ultimately is your performance. So, when you feel you have performed your best, it is always a good idea to chill out and forget about the audition. Worrying will get you nowhere. What matters ultimately is your own performance and that is what you should concentrate on. Try to keep improving and learning and wait for the next opportunity.

Don’t Overthink Things Everyone has different opinions! Acting is not “black and white.” You can’t judge “good or bad.” Most of the time it’s just about what type of person they are looking for, and you have no idea what image is in their heads! If you didn’t get cast in the role you wanted, take the role they offered you and NAIL IT! Show them how amazing you are and they will remember you next time!

Questions?