College Acting Audition Tips
Advice to Prepare for the College Entrance Theater Audition
One of the most stressful tasks of applying to an acting college is the audition process. Being well-prepared will take some of the edge off your nerves when it is your turn to audition. Keep in mind that auditors tend to have varying tastes and styles. Therefore, start with these guidelines to make your audition a success no matter what taste your auditor has.
Choosing a Monologue
- Pick a monologue that begins with the character performing a physical activity such as running. This will make the piece more interesting and help you to gain your focus.
- In the article “Musical Theater and Acting Auditioning Tips 0607,” Ithaca College recommends, “Avoid monologues which are not from plays but simply contained in books of monologues.”
- Have other monologues ready in case they would like to see more and be prepared to cold-read.
Rehearsing
- During your rehearsal process, play around with the words. For example, say each sentence with a sigh, angrily, while laughing, or sing the words.
- Continue to practice your monologues every day in different circumstances. For instance, rehearse the lines while washing the dishes or driving your car and use the actions to influence the words. This will give the character more depth.
- Besides practicing your monologue, rehearse taking a breath and saying “Hello” as you enter the room. Also, practice placing the chair in a pre-determined spot and introducing yourself. State your name, the character name, and the play title. Know the author in case you are asked for it.
- Keep in mind how the character you are speaking to affects you and what you want (your objective). Pick a specific spot on the wall to direct your attention, but instead of imagining a face, focus on your objective.
The Day of the Audition
- Read the play before going into your audition.
- Direct any nervous energy into the character.
- Be prepared to accept direction and work with it.
Audition the College Too
When choosing an acting program, give the colleges of your choice their own “audition." Locate college alumni who are willing to talk of their experience at your colleges of choice - and find out how the college has helped them to obtain their goals after graduation. Interviewing college staff will also help to determine whether or not the program suits your needs.
Keep in mind that preparing for the college entrance audition not only determines whether or not a college will accept you, but is groundwork for the many post-college auditions that lay ahead.
Be prepared, but most importantly, remember to have fun.
Audition Tips
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