Audition Tips from the Director

With more upcoming auditions at TBTA here are some great pointers that can be applied to most auditions.  Most importantly see what the director is looking for specifically, and read the "most importantly" section of the tips. 

Auditions Tips

For myself, as a director who has conducted auditions in a variety of venues, the most important aspect of your audition is your ENERGY and ENTHUSIASM. There are however, some simple DO’s and DONT’s that can help you to maximize your potential, show off your talent and get the most out of your experience. This is a general list; please see the show’s audition notice for any specifics.

GENERAL:
DO — come prepared with a picture and concise resume.
DO — dress in comfortable, but professional attire; this is a job interview. 
DO — arrive early to get settled and sign in before the audition time. 

SINGING:
DO — choose an audition song in your vocal range that shows off your voice. 
DO — choose an audition song similar in style to the show for which you are 
auditioning. It is usually best to avoid singing from the show itself unless otherwise specified. 
DO — have your music neatly secured in a binder or taped together accordion style to avoid page turns. (the accompanist is your best friend in this situation)
DO — take a moment to set tempo with the accompanist. 
DO — have your song memorized.
DO — become familiar with the music from the show. 
DON’T — ask to sing a cappella. 
DON’T — ask the accompanist to transpose your music. 
DON’T — choreograph your song. If you are auditioning for a dance role, there will be a separate dance audition.
DON’T — apologize or make excuses for your performance. Enjoy the experience and present your piece to the best of your ability.

DANCE:
DO — have appropriate dance attire. 
DO — realize that not everyone is expected to be a trained dancer, but if you are 
auditioning for musical theatre, chances are good that the director or choreographer will want to see you move. 
DON’T — apologize; perform the choreography to the best of your ability. 

ACTING:
DO — check the audition notice to see if you should prepare a monologue or if you will be given sides to read at the audition.
DO — become familiar with the script.

If a monologue is required:
DO — choose something age and gender appropriate.
DO — choose something from a play rather than a monologue book. 
DO — come well prepared with your piece memorized.
DONT — choose a monologue from a movie or one associated too strongly with a specific actor. 

MOST IMPORTANTLY — this is community theatre. We are looking to build community through the arts. If all of the above fails, still SHOW UP! Every audition is a learning experience and a chance for you to grow as a performer. Directors are looking for directability first and foremost. Be flexible. Be willing to take healthy risks. A directable performer with positive energy, who will clearly be a team player, is far more valuable to a production than someone who is just technically proficient.

HAVE FUN! SEE YOU AT THE THEATRE!

Michael Burnett
TBTA Artistic Director