Tips for Auditioning
In today’s blog, I want to offer you some tips on professional audition technique. It’s not rocket science, but you may need a little help with your professional auditioning skills and I want you to be prepared to get out there and start auditioning as soon as you are ready.
How should I introduce myself at a professional audition?
When you arrive for auditioning, greet the panel of auditors with eye contact and offer your headshot and CV. They should have it already, but have one ready anyway. Make sure it’s up to date and not written on in pen! (yes, I’ve seen that).
They will then ask you who you are and what you will be doing for them.
I know you know, but practice the answer.
I’m Mark Westbrook and I’ll be doing Joe from Angels in America.
Sounds easy? You’d be surprised how many people trip over this question and end up sounding like they don’t know their own names.
Don’t give them background, don’t waffle, state your name, the character’s name and the name of the piece who it is from. You could say the author’s name but it’s not strictly necessary.
And then do you piece.
Where should I stand in relation to the auditioning panel?
Close to the auditors, but not in their faces. Around 10 to 12 feet away from their desk if the room permits that amount of space. If it’s a big room, don’t hide at the back, if it’s a small room, don’t stand too close them.
Should I do my piece to the auditioning panel?
No. Most definitely not. They are not a character in the story, why would you talk to them? They cannot be free to watch you if they feel like they are being watched by you. You rarely look the audience or the camera in the eye, so don’t do it here. Look a few inches over their heads.
How do I leave the room?
After you finish your piece, say thank you and smile warmly at the panel. They will often return your thanks. Don’t stick around, don’t linger, ask questions, gush, compliment them, talk about how your sister is the producer’s boyfriend’s sister. Stay and listen to what they have to say, they might have questions for you. Be pleasant and polite. Pay attention, when they seem finished with you, say thank you, once more and head out with a smile.