An audition is a lot like a job interview, except it involves intense scrutiny of everything from your abs to your accent. The interviewer is typically a casting director or a director, intent on finding the perfect actor for a role. For films, stage plays and sometimes television, actors either read a prepared monologue or from the project's sides. If it's a good fit, the director asks the actor to return for a callback.
Identification
The first trick of auditions is finding out where and when they are taking place. The industry's trade papers, such as "Variety," "Back Stage West" and "Back Stage East," are the go-to sources for audition dates as well as insider information and tips. Many actors depend upon word of mouth to find out about the best auditions, so it pays to network and develop contacts. Online casting sources can be less reliable, although Now Casting and Breakdown Services are relatively dependable (see Resources below). If you can get an agent, she will be your inside line on the auditions right for you.
Types
The most common acting auditions are for cinema and stage. Acting auditions may also involve music, dance, modeling, playing an instrument and doing physical stunts. Open casting calls are an invitation for all actors to come for an open audition. They may do cold readings or use sides that were distributed previously. Casting calls are based on character breakdowns given by the casting director. Actors' agents send in packets containing an actor's head shot, resume and a cover letter and the casting director can choose to schedule an audition with the actor.
Features
There are several features common to most auditions. Actors should arrive somewhat early and have a packet prepared containing copies of head shots stapled to resumes. Multiples are good in case the audition is overseen by a panel. The staff may have actors fill out an information sheet as well as share information about their schedule. No matter what the audition is supposed to entail, actors should be prepared with comedic, classical and dramatic monologues. Actors may be asked to "slate" at the open of the audition, which means giving identifying information such as name, telephone number and possibly age and height. The director may choose to videotape the audition. The audition may require doing a scene or monologue several ways as a determination of whether the actor has range and can take direction. Actors should be confident but polite, and ready for anything.
Expert Insight
For the inside track on what makes or breaks an audition, consider the advice of the contestants on "American Idol." Winner Carrie Underwood recommends choosing material that makes you stand out. Fantasia Barrino reminds people to be themselves. Katharine McPhee advised people to set realistic goals about their talent. Bucky Covington says that, if it's an option, go to multiple cities because competition differs according to location.
Warning
Scams run rampant in the world of casting, production and auditions. Look out for talent scouts or agents who promise you will be a star. Do not pay agents money up front, but rather a percentage of money earned. Be wary of scouts who promise you will get work after you take their modeling or acting class. Always get a written contract. Do not go to a photographer's house for a photo shoot. Sort through the scam agents by checking them out with the Better Business Bureau, the Screen Actors' Guild or even on Google.
