Winning Auditions - Part 3

By Jeannie Deva

Preparing
Casting directors or those holding auditions are looking for certain qualities. When calling for information, find out specifically what is being looked for. If you are going to an "open audition" (commonly referred to as a "cattle call"), try to find out beforehand about the theatre, the style of the director and type of show being auditioned.

If you know the musical style of the show or band and choose your audition pieces accordingly, you will increase your chances of being hired. Your voice and presentation can change depending on the style of music you select. Pick quality music, something that is theatrical, so you can demonstrate your acting or performing talent.

If you are auditioning for a band, discuss with the person you contact what songs you'll be singing. Take the lyrics with you in case you have a temporary memory block at the audition. Bring a few extra songs just in case you have the opportunity to do more. Bands that perform original music will generally send you a CD of their songs so you can learn some of them. They will want to hear how you deal with their material.

Remaining Unique
For a musical theatre audition, choosing an unusual piece of music is better than doing the same thing as everyone else. Don't ever give a clich� audition. Avoid using "trendy" pieces or ones made famous by a celebrity within the last year, to avoid comparison. Arrive prepared to sing at least two up-tempo songs and at least two ballads. In this way, you can change selections if anyone ahead of you sings a song you were planning to perform. While providing what is needed for the part, you want to be unique as well.

If you'll be using an accompanist, have your music in a 3-ring notebook binder. This will keep it tidy, prevent you from having to dig around looking unorganized, and will make it easy for the accompanist to turn pages. Or, if a song is only 2 - 3 pages long tape them together and keep them folded accordion-like in a portfolio. Count off the tempo for the band or accompanist. You know the pace at which you like to sing the song. Put yourself in control.

Keep Learning
Don't use waiting time at an audition for socializing with others there for the same audition. Stay alert and attentive. Listen to what's happening with those called before you. Use any information you can get to help enhance your audition. Take time to breath deeply, calming yourself if you're nervous. Look around and orient yourself to your surroundings. Stay focused.

Your efforts will pay off, even if your progress may seem modest in the beginning. Remember: Don't become discouraged. Learn from errors and prepare better next time. If you approach auditions as a learning experience instead of a pass/fail test, you will emerge from each one as a more competent performer rather than a defeated student. You can take control of your career by gaining knowledge, diligent practice and preparing well for auditions.

Wishing you success,
Jeannie Deva