Audition tips for dance

Live audition

• The first audition round is usually in the form of a dance class and you will be asked to learn a piece of choreography on the day.

• You will perform the choreographic phrase in groups as part of the session.

• The callback round is usually in the form of a shortened class and a longer choreographic phrase.

• Either a new dance phrase or an extension of the first round phrase to be performed in groups.

Preparation

• Warm your body up before starting class so you are grounded and ready to move.  Get the heart rate up, nerves activated and the blood flowing to the muscles by moving prior to class starting.

• When you enter the room find a decent space to move in and don’t stand too close to others at any time. Avoid the corners and being too close to the walls so your movement is restricted. There is no point in hiding.

• If you are numbered be aware of the order given for lines, travelling and performing sequences.

• If you come with an injury be brave and let the tutor know before class starts. That makes all the difference when looking at you move.

During

• Listen clearly to instructions and follow along as closely as you can

• Learn the movement yourself and don’t rely on the mirror or others to follow.

• Follow safe dance practice in alignment and control. Don’t worry about the height of the leg but execute the correct alignment at your level. Keep your core activated and land with a plie using your feet to soften the contact into the floor.

• Remember the entire class is the audition not just the last sequence. Some aspects will be easier and others harder. Relax and do your best.

• Remember to breathe and take a few deep breaths to calm the nerves. Relaxing helps you move faster and more efficiently. You can then focus on the rhythm of the music and learning the movement.

Filming

• Make sure that you are filming in a clear open space.

• Ensure that there are no open doors, as this projects light into the room.

• Try to film with the windows behind you so the light does not distort the image.

• Film in landscape mode if filming on a tablet or phone.

• Try using a tripod or static camera so that there is no distortion.

• position the camera so that the whole dance space can be seen

• If you can, enlist someone to help you get the best footage and stop and start the music.

Sound

• Ensure your music is loud enough to be heard through the camera microphone.

• Try to film near the speaker for the best effect.

• Ensure there is no other sound in the room, including people, pets or objects. If filming at school, try not to film during break times as the playground noise travels into the studio.

Clothing and hair

• Wear plain clothing – black is ideal. Stripes and patterns distort on camera.

• Wear form-fitting dance clothing – for example, a leotard and tights or dance shorts with a t-shirt or singlet.

• Ensure hair is neat and tied back off the face, preferably in a bun.

• Wear appropriate dance footwear or bare feet only.

Dance content

• Ensure you are submitting the correct style of dance.

• Always ensure an adequate warm-up is completed before filming.

• Rehearse your content before filming.

• Do not forget to use your performance quality and engage with your audience, even if the audience is imaginary.

• Film multiple times and select your best effort.

Submitting your film

• Ensure that you label your recording with your full name.

• Always double-check the content before sending it off.

• If submitting as a YouTube or Vimeo file, follow the instructions and pay particular attention to passwords and privacy settings.

• Check that your URL link works and submit your work before the due date.