I’m sometimes asked for advice about how to audition. I separate it into two parts – what you can do about yourself and what you can do with the part you are auditioning for.
For yourself:
Be confident. And if you are not – do what most people do and fake it. Easier said than done I know but remember that everyone is anxious when they are on the spot and showing that you have control over yourself goes down well as it looks like you can handle the pressure.
Be yourself, no airs and graces or clever stuff, just be interested in what they have to say and show you have been listening by asking relevant questions. It will create an impression.
Smile! It’s not a firing party. Even the act of smiling gives you a kind of glow. Again, it’s engaging and says that you are human and not afraid to be yourself in their company.
Own your space – avoid crossing arms and legs, speak up and if you can, make eye contact.
With the piece:
Be the character and they will believe in you.
Find variety. Don’t play just one note on the piano, use light and shade, fast and slow. This will help to build atmosphere.
Think to yourself – what’s the most important thing I say?
Be unexpected. If you want to be remembered think how you could be different from the others. How to position yourself. How to start and how to end. These decisions can make a difference.
Be ready to be flexible with it if they give you an instruction. Show you can adapt if asked.
Take a few deep breaths outside the door and say to yourself “Go for it” as you open the door and see what’s on the other side.
When it’s over find time later to think it through. Don’tworry about anything that went wrong. What did you learn? What would you have done differently? See everything as an opportunity to learn. If you didn’t get the job that’s ok – it’s life. How do you know the person who got it wasn’t better than you? So, move on and continue to ask for advice from people who know. A positive mindset is everything.
At Theatretrain we strive to offer our pupils the best possible opportunities and theatre experiences. For those pupils who have trained with us for 6 months or more you can, if you wish, audition via a workshop for our theatrical agency who actively seek auditions for our young pupils in TV, Film, Theatre & Commercials. For further information on our actors agency and ourclasses in acting, singing, and dancing for kids and teenagers visit www.theatretrain.co.uk.
