Audition Tips

With Frozen Jr. auditions coming up this Tuesday, September 2nd... we thought it might be helpful to share a few audition tips ahead of the big day! While every production and theatre company that holds auditions is going to ask for something slightly different… there are some general guidelines that will apply across the board.

1. Perform what they’ve asked you to prepare. 

   
   

If you’ve been asked to memorize and rehearse a one-minute monologue to audition for a Shakespeare play, it isn’t the most useful to the production team if you perform a Disney power ballad instead. 

Production teams often ask to see actors perform very specific types of material, in order to see if they’ll be a good fit for the project. It’s best to follow their instructions. 

2. Dress to impress.

   
   

Wear something comfortable, that makes you feel confident. If you know there will be dancing or a lot of movement, make sure that your clothing is appropriate enough to not be a distraction and flexible enough that you can move freely. 

Auditions aren't the best time to wear a new pair of character heels or jazz shoes (blisters), try out a drastic makeup look (distracting), or break out a halloween costume to match the show (not professional or comfortable).

Remember that you'll be meeting the production team for the first time, and think through what will make a good impression.

3. Breathe.

   
   

Breathing. Always. Helps. Breathing shallowly, quickly, or out of rhythm is a natural response to feeling nervous or excited… but it’s not always helpful when you’re trying to dance, sing, or act. 

Take a deep breath before you get out of the car, open every door, enter the audition room, and perform. It’ll help you relax, project, and make a good impression. Remind yourself that you're in control of your breathing, your choices, and your reactions.

4. Enjoy the moment.

   
   

An audition is an opportunity to perform! Focus on doing the choreography with confidence, even if not every movement is perfect. Tell a story with your audition song, even if you miss a note or two. 

If given the opportunity to read a scene, try to find a moment to look up from the page and at the other actors. Acknowledge that they’re auditioning with you, and enjoy getting to work together for a few minutes. 

5. Mind your manners.

   
   

To put your best foot forward, there are a couple bits of etiquette to remember. Start your singing audition with a slate–a professional introduction. (Click HERE for a slate writing activity) For BRYT, we ask for your name, age, and the song you will be singing. 

Say thank you when you’ve finished singing, and clap when other performers or groups are finished with their turn. Be kind and respectful to anyone you meet–other actors, volunteers, and production team members.

6. Be Confident

Most importantly of all, though, you need to remember that no one except you is going to be able to bring your exact talents, skills, and personality to the show. 

This is your moment to shine! Hold your head up high and show off what you can do. If you make a mistake, politely ask to start over or power through. The production team is on your side--they want you to succeed and have usually been in your shoes before.

Be confident, be courageous, and be yourself. 

Break a leg!

Olivia

Director

Brazos River Youth Theatre

PS. Looking to level up your audition skills? Keep an eye out on social media for BRYT's next workshop or master class.