Auditioning 101

The Preparation Phase

Do:

• Research the Show: Familiarize yourself with the plot, the characters, and the score. Know which role best suits your vocal range (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass).
• Prepare Your “16-Bar Cut”: Most auditions ask for 16 to 32 bars of a song (about 30–60 seconds). Choose a song in the same style as the show but avoid singing a song from the show unless the notice specifically asks for it. Usually just one verse and chorus is best.
• Check the “Sides”: If the theater provides short script excerpts (sides), practice them out loud. Focus on characterization rather than just memorizing lines.
• Organize Your Sheet Music: Put your music in a three-ring binder. Ensure it is in the correct key and that the start and end points are clearly marked for the accompanist.

Don’t:

• Sing Overdone Songs: Avoid very common audition songs (like those from Wicked or Les Misérables) unless you have a truly unique take on them.
• Transpose on the Fly: Never ask the accompanist to change the key of your music at the audition. Have the sheet music in the key you plan to sing.
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Vocal & Acting Audition

Do:

• Warm Up: Give yourself at least 20–30 minutes to warm up your voice and body before you arrive.
• Communicate with the Accompanist: Briefly and politely explain your tempo to the pianist. You can soft-sing the first few bars while nodding the rhythm.
• Make a Choice: Whether acting or singing, pick a specific emotion or goal for your character. Directors value a bold, clear choice over a “safe” performance.
• Dress “Character-Adjacent”: You don’t need a costume, but wear something that suggests the vibe of the character (e.g., a sundress for a romantic lead, or boots and jeans for a rugged character).

Don’t:

• Snap at the Accompanist: Never snap your fingers at the pianist to set the tempo; it is considered disrespectful.
• Apologize: If you miss a note or stumble on a line, keep going. Staying in character and showing resilience is more important than being perfect.
• Use Props: Use your imagination to “mime” any objects. Real props are usually distracting in an audition setting.
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The Dance Call

Do:

• Bring Appropriate Gear: Pack dance shoes (jazz, character, or clean sneakers) and clothes you can move in comfortably.
• Focus on Personality: If you aren’t a trained dancer, don’t worry. Directors are looking for “movers” who can stay in character and keep a smile on their face even if they miss a step.
• Place Yourself Strategically: Stand where you can see the choreographer clearly, but avoid crowding the front if you are still learning the steps.

Don’t:

• Give Up: If you get lost in the choreography, just jump back in as soon as you can. Stopping entirely is the only way to “fail” a dance call.
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Logistics & Etiquette

Do:

• Be Early: Aim to arrive 15–20 minutes early to fill out your audition form and conflict sheet.
• Be Honest About Conflicts: List every rehearsal or performance date you might miss. It is much better to be honest now than to cause scheduling issues later.
• Be Kind to Everyone: The person at the check-in desk is often a volunteer or board member. Their feedback on your attitude can reach the director.

Don’t:

• Stare at the Table: When performing, look slightly above or to the side of the directors. Direct eye contact during a song or monologue can be uncomfortable for the auditors.
• Linger: Once you are finished, thank the accompanist and the directors, and then exit the room promptly.