Whether you have an audition for film, television or theater, it's imperative that you thoroughly prepare before walking into the audition room. The competition for acting roles is fierce, particularly in large markets like Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. If you aren't prepared and ready to give a great audition, chances are some of your competition will be. In most cases, you'll have access to the audition material a few days prior to the audition.
Instructions
1. Print a copy of the audition material. For most film and television auditions, you will have access to the audition material online. If you are auditioning for theater, you will likely be told which pages from the play will be your audition material. You can either purchase a copy of the play or visit the library to photocopy the applicable pages.
2. Highlight your lines. At your audition, a reader will be reading the other lines in the scene.
3. Compile information on your character. If you're auditioning for film or television, the role will likely have a brief character description alongside it. You can ask your agent or manager for this information if you did not submit yourself for the role. If you're auditioning for a play, it's a good idea to read the entire play to get a solid grasp on the character.
4. Decide the angle you're going to take on the character. Remember that many people will be auditioning for the same role so aim to make a few strong choices that will set you apart from the pack. Keep your choices grounded in the material. Get creative based upon the facts given about the character in the script.
5. Make notes in pencil on the audition material's pages. These notes can serve as reminders of where you want to go in the scene. Since you may change your mind during your preparation process, don't write in pen.
6. Memorize your lines. Though it's not required for an audition, you'll feel more free if you aren't constantly looking down at the pages. Keep the pages with you in the audition just in case you have a memory lapse.
7. Ask a friend to read the scene with you. Try a few different approaches as you go through the material.
8. Rehearse the entire audition process. Walk into the room, introduce yourself to your friend and begin your scene, just as you would in the actual audition. When you finish the scene, thank your friend and leave the room. Repeat the entire process until you feel comfortable.
9. Get plenty of sleep the night before an audition. You'll perform better if you are well-rested.
10. Take your head shot and resume with you to the audition. Have a few extras on you in case there are multiple people in the audition room who want a copy.
