Ask actors how they approach a casting call and you'll get different answers. Some can't wait to get on stage with their audition. They show up convinced that they're the perfect candidate for the movie, play or TV role. Others are just as convinced, but they arrive after a sleepless night, popping antacids and praying that casting directors won't notice their shaking hands and knocking knees. Casting calls trigger a variety of preaudition behaviors in actors, but professionals agree on this point: Those who properly prepare for auditions stand a better chance of landing a part than those who don't. Get your mind and body ready for every opportunity to showcase your talent, and your casting calls will be rewarded with curtain calls.
Prepare Properly for Each Audition
Timing is everything. Show up on time or earlier. Actors arriving early are likely to be the most thoroughly evaluated because the personnel doing the casting are still fresh and alert. Bring an audition bag filled with water, throat lozenges, breath mints, resumes and head shots. Dress to impress. Resist the temptation to wear a costume---even if you're auditioning for a role that requires one. Women should avoid wearing high heels to auditions. Instead, choose comfortable, low-heeled shoes.
Observe Audition Etiquette
Add your name to the sign-in sheet as soon as you arrive. Pick up copies of materials that the casting director is distributing. Listen carefully to instructions being given by the casting staff and follow them. Be cautious about what you say and to whom while you wait to be auditioned. Assistants to casting directors are asked to observe waiting-room behaviors, so don't start out on the wrong foot by being rude, complaining or otherwise exhibiting diva- or princelike behaviors. Finally, avoid chewing gum.
Make Certain You're in the Best Voice Possible
Prepare your voice for the audition, whether you're reading or singing. Drinking something spicy, in addition to downing a lot of water before performing, will relocate phlegm from the vocal cords so your voice is in top shape. Hydration is particularly important in the winter when the air is dry. Also, don't use preaudition time to chitchat. Use this opportunity to run your lines and read through any material you may have been given, or practice breathing and relaxation techniques you learned from acting coaches and classes. Listen to calming music on your iPod or other listening device to stay focused.
Handle Yourself Professionally Onstage
When your name is called, act like you own the stage without being cocky. Even if you're so nervous you can't feel your feet, be the actor you were born to be by putting on your best performance in a supporting role as an auditioner. Smile and introduce yourself confidently. If a hand is extended, shake it firmly. Hand over your head shot and resume to the casting director or staffer. Make certain the head shot and resume are stapled together so they don't become separated.
Give the Performance of Your Life
Don't waste time. As soon as introductions are complete and you sense that no further information is required by the casting director, announce the name of the piece you will be presenting, take a deep breath and begin. Once you have completed your reading, thank the casting director, then exit the stage. Don't question staff about whether they liked your performance or ask if they think you are right for the part. This bad etiquette can ruin the best audition.
Decompress As Soon As You Have Finished
Sit down in the audition room for several minutes after your audition. Take deep breaths. Wait a few minutes to make certain the casting director has no additional questions for you. Sign out and begin the hardest part of auditions: waiting for a callback. Try to remember that rejections help you grow as an actor and as a human being, so don't take them as a rejection of your talent. Be philosophical. Always do the best job you can for the role at hand, and you'll walk away without suffering auditioner's remorse.
Think About Your Future
You're likely aware that many actors are auditioning for finite numbers of parts and some actors are shorter on talent than others. The successful ones have discovered the secret: persistence. Prepare yourself in every way possible for your career by taking classes, paying your summer-stock dues and exploring membership in Actors Equity, the union representing everyone from major Broadway stars to those playing the smallest supporting roles. Check out the links below, and break a leg.
