How to Prepare for an Acting Audition: What You Should and Should Not Do

If you've never been to an acting audition, it can be one the most stressful things you have ever done. You need to be prepared when you go in and need to have some sort of idea as to what the director is going to be expecting from you during the audition process. Do you research. Going into an audition blind can sometimes be a bad move. Figure out what it is you are auditioning for and learn a little about the play before you head in. You don't have to have the entire thing memorized, but it will be a lot easier to read a script or do a monologue if you know you're reading for a love story, or reading for a comedy, tragedy, etc.

Be sure that you know the plot and setting (era & place) of the play and at least who the main characters are. Doing so will show the director that you have a great interest in the play and that you really want to be a part of the show. I would suggest having a small song and dance memorized as well, incase you are asked to showcase other skills.

Generally, it is wise to have a selection of monologues for a director. If you go in having rehearsed a monologue about a family death, and the director asks you to perform a comic monologue, you may be in trouble. Versatility is the key here. Have opposites prepared (comedy/tragedy, or classic/modern) just incase you are put on the spot. If you perform something tragic, the director may say something like "Very good, but can you be funny?" and you need to be able to show him that you have what it takes!

Be there on time, in fact, be there early! First impressions mean everything and being late will only make you look bad and could potentially cost you your audition spot all together. Be early and warm up before you go into your audition. That is a good time to rehearse your monologue to yourself. Preparation is a must. You need to be prepared both mentally and physically for your audition. Stretch, warm up your voice, and relax. Now is the time to get into character. Completely let yourself go and become that character you are supposed to be portraying.

Be confident going into your audition. Smile, walk with your head high and project your voice. If you walk in scared, sweating, or with a shaky voice, you are doomed from the get-go. A director will know immediately by the way you carry yourself if you will collapse under pressure on stage. If you make a mistake, do not stop and start over, cover it and move on. In doing so, you will show the director that you are a professional and that you can cover yourself if need be. Better yet, don't forget any lines, that looks even better!

When you are finished, look the director in the eye and thank him for the audition. Nothing more, nothing less. You don't want to overkill it and you don't want to come across as being rude. Smile again and leave the stage.

Preparation, personality and confidence are the key. Try to make a lasting impression!