AUDITIONING BASICS
By Prof. Alex Jacobs

Prep: What to Do Before the Audition

1. Read the Audition Notice Carefully

   • It tells you what to prepare, when and where to go, and what the role/show is about.

   • Look for words like "monologue," "song," "sides," or "cold read."

2. Know What You’re Auditioning For

   • If it’s a play, try to read it or at the very least look up a summary.

   • Learn the tone—is it serious, funny, classical, modern?

3. Prepare Your Material

   • You may be asked for a monologue (a short speech by one character) if it is a season audition you may be asked for two contrasting monologues (i.e. comedic and dramatic or classical & modern).

   • You may be given a side, a short scene from the script for you to read and perform, (often provided in advance). This may be instead of a monologue or in addition to it.

   • You may be asked to do a cold read from the play, reading something from the script, provided day of. More common in callbacks (a second audition for the same production).

4. Memorize & Rehearse

   • If using a side, you’re allowed to hold your script, though try to be as familiar as you can, so you can connect with your scene partner. Monologues should be memorized where possible.

5. Warm Up

   • Do light stretching and vocal exercises so you feel focused and ready.

   • Breathing helps with nerves and voice control.

6. Dress Simply

   • Wear neat clothes you can move in. No costumes, but choose something that hints at the character if possible (e.g. strong shoes, a blazer, etc.).
     
     

During the Audition: How to Present

1. Arrive Early and Be Polite

   • Sign in early. Use the waiting time to stay focused and calm.

   • Be courteous to everyone: stage manager, assistants, other auditioners, again everyone!

2. Bring a Headshot & Resume

   • A printed picture that looks like you.

   • A resume detailing your theatrical experience to date.

3. Slate Professionally

   • This is simply the act of introducing yourself: Say your name and the piece you’ll be performing.

Example: "Hi, I’m Jordan Smith, and I’ll be performing a monologue from 'Twelfth Night.'”

4. Own the Room (but Stay Humble)

   • Walk in with confidence and warmth.

   • Acknowledge the panel with eye contact and a simple smile.

   • Wait for their cue to begin.

5. Perform with Focus

   • If presenting a monologue, speak and connect with your imagined scene partner by placing them in the air to the right or left of the audition panel (do not use the audition panel themselves as your scene partner).

   • If presenting a side and a reader is provided as a scene partner, you may look and engage directly with them unless instructed otherwise.

6. Take Direction Well

   • If given feedback or adjustments, listen carefully and implement enthusiastically.

   • Directors want to see how you work, not just your first take.

After the Audition: What to Do

1. Leave Graciously

   • Thank the panel simply. Don’t ask how you did or fish for feedback.

   • Exit confidently, even if you feel unsure.

2. Reflect (but Don’t Spiral)

   • Jot down what went well and what you’d improve next time.

   • Then move on—don’t overanalyze.

3. Follow Up Professionally If Appropriate

   • If you know the director or casting team personally, a short thank-you email is fine.

   • Otherwise, don’t follow up unless invited.

Break a leg!