A musical audition can include singing, dancing and acting. By contrast, an actor auditioning of for a drama may simply be focused on performing a few lines from the script. Therefore, attending to the right details before your musical audition can clear the way for your talents to shine. Your confidence will run higher as well, and your chances of truly catching the attention of the casting director will significantly improve.
Preparation’s the Key
Let’s face it, it’s hard to be over-prepared for a musical audition. The greater challenge is usually setting aside the time to learn about the show and to prepare and practice your performance.
Ideally, a DVD rental or an audio track will get you quickly up to speed. Even if its a performance that you’re intimately familiar with, a fresh review of the play or the soundtrack will add to your nuanced understanding of what you are auditioning for. This may help you to project deeper emotions or more appropriate expressions.
Some casting directors will actually want you to perform something from the show to be cast as well as a second, unrelated piece. This helps the casting director to better gauge your range. It also helps to keep you separate from others in the mind of the director. Plus, you are inherently limited by the show to be cast when it comes to part one of your audition. Your second selection can help to show off your truly unique talents.
Usually, one verse and one chorus of each song is all that’s required. Timing can be important. Too short a presentation may not leave an adequate impression. Too long an audition may potentially irritate those in charge.
Understand that an audition may feel hectic, but actual performances feel this way as well. A casting director will be understandably reluctant to select a performer that is too easily thrown off by commotion.
Presentation is Vital
A professional-looking outfit that offers freedom of movement is very helpful. The right outfit creates that all-important positive first impression. At the same time, comfort is key. You don’t want to be wearing a tie that feels tight around your neck when there are already nerves to cope with. Nor do you want to be trying to perform dance leaps with needlessly restrictive clothing on.
Auditions that feature dancing require that you have the right dance shoes along. Showing up at an audition without dance shoes is like showing up at the golf course without clubs.
Other Basics
Arrive a half-hour before your scheduled audition time. This will keep you relaxed and give you time to warm up. Sometimes, a few performers fail to show, and things run ahead of schedule. At an audition, being prepared for the unexpected will enhance your chances.
Have a few copies of your resume and your head shot along with you. Don’t gamble on only having one along. Have your sheet music properly arranged in a folder or binder for the pianist. Making it easy on the pianist is wise, as you are somewhat dependent on his or her skills.
Finally, be prepared for a “cold reading” from the screen play or a “sight reading” from the music. Here’s where your previous level of preparation will become apparent. Cold readings can really throw the performer who is too unfamiliar with the show. By contrast, your confidence will soar if you continue to feel like you have everything under control.
