Did you know that there are countless professional actors ages 6-60 who got their start on the local community theater stage (just like Caledonia’s) before breaking into show business? Each one of them had to master the skill of auditioning along the way. You can too! Stepping out of your comfort zone and into the spotlight can be a daunting experience when you don’t know what to fully expect. It will also be a fun and growth-filled experience!
When you walk into the audition room, here a few things to ensure you make a good
impression and leave feeling confident:
1. Avoid picking a song from the show (For example: If they’re doing Grease, ladies do not
sing “Sandra Dee”, Gentleman avoid “Beauty School Drop Out”. Choose a song in a similar
style to the show you’re auditioning for that showcases your vocal range and your acting
ability. After you’ve picked your song make sure you go in well-prepared (memorize it!) with
everything they asked for and more.
2. Wear an outfit that makes you feel confident, allows you to breath easily and is super
comfortable as this will help to steady your nerves.
3. If you can, be familiar with the show (read the script or watch a video/movie of it) before you
show up. You will have a better understanding of the characters in the play, the story, and the
motivations of each (character). Do some research and really think about the character’s
motivation. Check out Youtube to see if you can find a full length bootlegged copy/video of the
musical. The more prepared you are, the more likely you are to give your very best during the
audition, and the more confidence you will exude.
4. Shoot to make your audition memorable. Don’t be afraid to take risks. It is far preferable
that the director remembers you and that you stand out when they sit down later and start
filling spots in the cast. Be enthusiastic and let your stageface say “I can’t wait to get on that
stage” even if you feel differently inside! (Fake it till you. make it!)
5. Fill out the audition form with all your experience and skills. Community theaters rely almost
entirely on volunteers to fill every position and keep them going. There will be limited
space for your acting experience but if you can bring more value to a show (in terms of sewing,
set building skills etc) by all means provide your prospective directive with a
better idea of who you are and what you have to offer to the stage and company!
6. At the end of auditions, never ask the director to read you for another scene. Let them be in
charge. You rarely will change a tired director’s mind, and directors try to give all auditionees
ample stage time.
7. If you can, perform your audition song for somebody; anybody – the mailman, your cats, a
friend or spouse! The more you perform it in front of other people the more you experience the
sensations of nerves and get used to the feeling you will have when you actually audition. If
you notice your palms sweaty or breathing short & choppy, change the term in your head – tell
yourself “I’M EXCITED because I am going to do a great job!” Instead of “I’M NERVOUS” .
Everyone goes through the same feelings and if you rephrase them positively to yourself you
will better ignore them and focus on your task: delivering a great performance!
8. Importantly: Never let the talent of the other people auditioning make you doubt your own
ability. You don’t know precisely what the creative team is looking for and it could very well be
something you have! After auditions you may get a call back for a certain character depending
on what the creative team saw when you came in. If you do get a call back, just relax, have fun,
and try to do what the creative team asks you to do.
CCP is full of volunteers who combined represents hundreds (if not thousands) of years of
stage experience. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need help. That’s what
we are here for!
Break a leg!