In this blog post we will answer the following question; Is it better to go first or last in an audition? , What should you not do in an audition? How do you know if an audition went well?, How long does it usually take to hear back from an audition? and give you solid tips for achieving an audition win every time.
As any actor with a bit of experience under their belt will tell you there are tactics you can use to make sure you’re doing your absolute best in an audition.
While performing can be nerve-wracking, it is also exciting and there are ways to keep yourself from getting too worried about the day of the audition.
Is it better to go first or last in an audition?
There is no right answer to this question. It really depends on the person and the situation. The best way to figure out what is best for you is to try both and see which one works better for you.
What should you not do in an audition?
In the world of acting, there are a lot of things you should not do in an audition. From what to wear to how to act, there are many things that can make or break an audition.
This is because your audition will be judged on many different aspects. It can be judged on your appearance, your personality, and even the way you speak.
So it’s important that you know what not to do in an audition so that you have a better chance of getting the part.
- You should not overact
- Do not show up late
- Do not go unprepared
- Do not chew gum
- Do not use gestures or vocal inflections that don’t match the character’s age
How do you know if an audition went well?
Auditioning is an important part of the process in the entertainment industry. If a performer’s audition goes well, they have a chance of getting a role in the production.
However, it can be difficult to know whether or not an audition went well.
The best way to know if an audition went well is if the casting director or producer liked your performance and wants you to come back for another round of auditions.
If you are not asked to come back for another round, then this could mean that they didn’t like your performance and did not want you in their production.
How long does it usually take to hear back from an audition?
The process usually takes 4 – 6 weeks.
13 TIPS FOR ACHIEVING AN AUDITION WIN EVERY TIME
1. Be Positive
You should remember that the people watching your audition want you to succeed. However, be aware that this does not mean that they won’t judge a show harshly or say things about it.
Although they may seem intimidating, they’re only trying to find the perfect fit for the part.
If you are what they’re looking for, it will make things a lot easier for the both of you!
No casting team is sitting around holding auditions and hoping that everyone is terrible, it’s better to have everyone show their best so the casting team can make a great decision from an amazing pool of talent!
So when you feel that everyone is against you, remember: they’re on your side!
2. Prepare
One of the best ways to feel confident and ready for an audition is to prepare in advance.
This includes going over the lines and blocking as well as practicing your performance as much as you possibly can.
It’s important to make sure you are doing everything you can to take care of yourself.
Get a good night’s sleep and eat a healthy breakfast the morning of the audition.
It is also important to stretch and warm up before the audition if time permits and arrive early to ensure you have enough time to get comfortable in that enviroment.
3. Be On time
Being on time shows that you respect yourself, the casting director and your own time. It shows responsibility.
The importance of being on time cannot be overstated.
Punctuality is a virtue that will serve you well in any career.
It shows that you are disciplined and dependable.
4. Dress Appropriately
It’s important to always dress in a way that represents the character you are auditioning for when going on an audition.
It is a general rule that the more important the character, the less costume-y the clothing should be to show respect for that character.
5. Be Kind
It is important to remember that in the film and TV industry, everyone is an actor.
We are all on one team and it’s important to have good manners in the waiting room, speak politely to the monitor, be kind to receptionists and security guards- because we all need each other.
It’s not just about being kind because it feels good, it’s also about the beneficial effects of positive energy.
Studies show that positive energy increases health, improves mood, and reduces stress.
Kindness is contagious, so when you are kind to someone else it can make them feel good, and then they might do something nice for someone else.
6. Take Direction
When you are done performing your scene, the casting director will likely ask you to do another take in a different way.
Remain flexible at all times and go with it even if you don’t agree with his/her directions.
Listen carefully to any direction that is given and make sure you are clear on what is being asked of you.
And finally, thank the person for their input and incorporate it into your performance.
7. Show You Care
Casting directors are constantly on the lookout for talented actors and actresses who can embody their vision.
They have to read through scripts, watch film auditions and then make tough decisions on who they think is the best fit.
There’s no denying that it’s a tough job but there are ways to make it easier for them.
If you connected with the script or the character, let the casting director know.
It never hurts to mention that you really loved what you read or watched and want to be considered for future projects in that genre.
8. Ask Genuine Questions
If you have a genuine question about the script or character, ask it.
But don’t be one of those people who waste everyone’s time asking an arbitrary question just to stand in front of the casting director for a few extra seconds.
Ask them something substantive, or don’t bother at all.
9. Be unique
The best way to stick out in an audition is to do something that’s uniquely you and put a personal flair on your moves.
If you can confidently be yourself in the audition room, the casting team will take notice and be able to see your talent.
This is your chance to take a risk and make a strong choice, which is better than just blending into the background.
10. Relax.
Before you walk into the audition, take four deep breaths.
This is a great way to actively engage in calming your nerves and prepare for the audition. A relaxed actor is a good actor and a great listener.
Train your mind to be fully present for two minutes while you’re in the room. That’s it, two minutes. You can freak out after.
Casting directors need to trust you and believe you can handle being on set.
11. Know your lines
Knowing your lines as an actor is one of the most important things when you are preparing for an audition.
This will help you to win more auditions and get more work.
Many actors, who are just starting out, don’t think that knowing their lines is important.
They feel that they can wing it on the day of the audition and it will be ok. But this isn’t true at all, because not having your lines memorized can make you look unprepared and unprofessional in front of casting directors and producers.
12. Visualize the scene
As an actor, the most important thing is to be able to accept the reality of the scene they are in.
A good actor will convey what they believe to be genuine emotion and understanding of their character.
However, a great actor will go one step further, and really understand everything that is going on around them in order to make their performance as believable as possible.
Practice your lines in front of your friends and family.
You can also record yourself saying your lines and send the video to your friends if you can’t gather them all in the same room.
13.Be confident
You need to be confident in your acting skills, your singing voice, and your dancing skills.
It’s not about how good you are at the time of auditioning but about how much confidence you exude.
If you want to be successful at an audition, then you need to be able to handle the pressure and work with minimal mistakes.
You can have all the techniques in the world but if your sides are shaking in your hand, and you look like a nervous wreck nobody is going to trust you on the set of their show.
“Be so good they can’t ignore you.” —Steve Martin
Conclusion
The audition is an important part of the actor’s life.
To ensure that an audition has a higher chance of succeeding, actors should do their research about the project and producer, prepare for the casting call, know how to make a good first impression, and have a plan B in case they don’t book the job.
The tips in this article are a great way to get your foot in the door of an audition and help you achieve the win you want.
Leave a comment with your opinion or any questions you may have below….
