AUDITIONS-What to Expect and Why
What to Expect at an Audition and Why
Auditions for a play and/or musical can be pretty intimidating. Hopefully, this brief explanation of what to expect will help you gain the courage to audition.
A director is frequently looking for “direct-ability,” the ability to take suggestions and directions and incorporate them into your role.
When and Where
- Auditions will be held on the main stage of the Clark Performing Arts Theatre.
- Auditions for the Fall Play are usually held six to eight weeks before the play opens.
- Auditions for the Spring Musical are usually held in the Fall so all participants can memorize their lines and songs during winter break.
- You will be auditioning in front of the show’s director, the musical director, the stage manager, and possibly student assistants.
- Don’t worry, the rest of the actors are as nervous as you are – even if they don’t show it.
- They usually are held on two different days after school.
How to Prepare
Auditions usually require a prepared piece of a certain length, etc. If you are auditioning for a musical, you should come prepared with a song and a track to sing to that does NOT have the artist singing. Details of what you should have ready are usually listed in the audition notice.
You could be asked to do “cold reading.” That means there are some scenes the director has printed out for you to review for a few minutes. Then, stand up with a few other people and read the assigned lines with other scene partners.
In the case of a “cold reading,” it is a great idea to arrive early, say hello and introduce yourself, pick up the scene script, and get familiar with it for a few minutes.
It is an even better idea to have actually read the play and maybe even read a few Cliff notes about it before you get to auditions. This does two things.
- It shows you are willing to put in the time and effort to be prepared – and actors should always be ready. This is a statement that you will most likely take this commitment seriously.
- You will have the advantage of knowing what is going on, which will improve your audition.
What Happens First
If you have not filled out an audition form with your contact information beforehand, do so quickly, efficiently, and legibly.
You will most likely meet the stage manager first. This person is probably sitting at a table taking your audition form, handing out scripts, etc. As an actor, you generally will do precisely as the stage manager tells you, when they tell you, and will do it happily and cheerfully. The stage manager is one of the most critical positions in a production. They depend on you to be where you’re needed, when you’re required, and do what is needed.
Once it looks like everyone has arrived, the director or stage manager will probably stand and say hello and a few other things. The group will be taught a dance sequence on stage if there is dancing in the play or musical. The director(s) will be watching to see how easy you are to work with and, often, will determine IF they want to work with you.
Small groups may be chosen to read some parts. You and the other chosen actors stand where the director indicates. You will possibly stumble and stammer through the unfamiliar dialog – this is normal. Then the next group will step up and do something similar. The director will have several different arrangements of groups and will likely ask you to read more than one character. He is trying to envision what part best fits you and how various people might work as an ensemble.
There may also be “callbacks,” meaning the director would like to see you audition again. The stage manager will contact you if there are callbacks.
What Happens After the Auditions
The cast list will be posted in the Theatre Classroom the day after the last audition. Please initial by your name if you have been cast in a role.
Auditions get easier the more you do them. So if you feel awkward, it is very typical, then the next one won’t feel so alien, and the next one might make you feel like you are starting to understand the process. Each audition can add to your confidence.
Don’t feel bad if you weren’t cast in a significant role. Different plays and musicals require different actors and “types.” Please know that the director(s) want to work with you. Still, due to the dynamics of the script, or as the casting process proceeds, and due to the dynamics of a forming cast, you may not be the right fit. Thinking of it as a “right fit” is more accurate, especially since getting cast is not a measure of your talent, skill, or value. You might be a perfect fit for the next play or musical.
Ensemble members are essential. PLEASE consider participating as an ensemble member.
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