Audition Preparation
First, you must prepare. That's crucial in establishing a regular audition process. Memorize all of the pages of the script that are specified as part of an audition. Even when a producer lets you know that the script will be allowed in hand during the audition, you should still have it memorized. Keeping your nose in a script during the audition, something that inevitably happens if you walk in without your lines memorized, the casting director, producer or director will fail to see really important aspects of your performance. You will come across looking unprofessional if you don't have the lines memorized, and a director will see you as "green" or inexperienced. Instead, reinforce the trust that the director will have in you by knowing your lines and having them down perfectly.
First Impressions
Walk in the room with a smile. Introduce yourself by name. People casting a movie, show or play will likely be the ones working on it as well. They want to work with fun, friendly people. Showing bad attitude during the audition process is one way to get blacklisted on a casting director's mental "do not hire" list. Walking in the room as the prepared and assured actor that you are will help the casting directors see you in a similar light.
Wardrobe Considerations
Make sure to dress appropriately for an audition. You don't want to walk in with jeans and a t-shirt to read for a high-powered lawyer part on "Law and Order," but you also don't want to go overboard in the opposite direction. Wearing full police garb with a fake (or real) gun won't win you any parts. While some casting directors will appreciate the ambition that it shows, the majority of them will feel that it's overdoing it. They'll wonder why you feel the need to go to that extreme. Keep your wardrobe choices appropriate for the character, but keep it subtle. Ask for help from those you trust with more industry experience when you're in doubt.
Serenity in an Audition
Take deep breaths. Try to get into a zen state of mind. What many actors and actresses don't understand is that your cheerleaders are the directors, casting agents and producers. There's nothing that an exhausted casting director wants after seeing mediocrity is to see an actor that stands out for the part. They want to imagine you as the character, to see the character come to life in you. They are looking for great things in your performance. They're your friends in the audition process. Embrace them as such to ease the nerves.
Published by Robin Raven - Featured Contributor in Beauty and Lifestyle
Robin Raven is a writer for magazines, newspapers, books and websites. She regularly updates RobinRaven.com. Current and past clients include "Act'ionLine" for Friends of Animals, "USA Today," ABC, NBC, "The... View profile
- The Commercial Casting Process: How to Properly AuditionCommercials are one of the largest sources of income for actors. They are open to all types. More importantly, the pay is terrific. However, it is a different process than any other form of audition. The key is to kno...
- Tips to Help Actors Create a Character Instantly at an Casting AuditionCharacter Development is one that constantly elludes most actors - espcially in the audition room. With some of the hints and tips, actors will be provided with information that will help them create an interesting c...
5 Elements to Look for in an Actor when Casting Your Independent FilmAn overview on the 5 elements to casting an indie film.- Auditioning for Your Community Theater GroupAuditioning for any group can be stressful, but when you are in your own community, you don't have to be stressed.
- How to Find Acting Work: Tips for the WiseMemorizing your auditioning piece and being a fantastic actor isn't enough, you have to have a few tricks up your sleeve to make it at an audition.
- Auditioning for the School Play
- Ask a Casting Director: How Do You Cast Atypical Background Actors?
- Cecily Adams: Prestigious Hollywood Casting Director Helps an Inexperienced Actor
- Ask a Casting Director: How Do You Cast Biopics and Historical Figures?
- Ask a Casting Director: What Advice Do You Have for Parents of Child Actors?
- Ask a Casting Director: How Do You Cast Family Dramas?
- The Casting Process



