Audition Guide

By Author: Jamie Hanson
Total Articles: 3495
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An act performed by an aspiring artist or performer prior to selection for theatre or music is known as audition. It is basically a sample performance by the performers to display their talent for acting, singing, music or dance. These audition acts are normally dialogues or monologues for actors, songs for singers or instrumental music for musicians of previously rehearsed pieces. At times it may also be extempore performances, if so desired by the jury. It is more or less similar to job interviews, used in the context of performing arts.

It is a usual practice by the producers or directors of performing arts to audition actors or singers by asking them to perform an act or sing a particular song not related to the show for which they are being considered. But the performer has to keep in mind and select audition pieces, which would be appropriate in the context. For example, an actor being selected for Hamlet should be prepared to deliver a monologue from some other Shakespearean tragedy and not necessarily from the concerned drama. Contextual difference, like a good performance from an Oscar Wilde comedy or contemporary ...
... playwright, may jeopardize the chance of selection.

In case of music or song it is the same. A singer appearing for audition for a role in a musical theatre be able to sing opera or country music, and a musician auditioning for an orchestra should not perform rock. Unless advised to the contrary, the performer should stick to the style and genre of the music.

To test the all-round talent of an actor certain auditions involve cold reading or performing an unfamiliar script. Equally, a musician may be asked to sight-read music at different levels of difficulty. In dance auditions it is also similar, the focus may be on a new choreography rather than on exhibiting a rehearsed piece. In such situations the performer has to be mentally prepared and be able to overcome momentary difficulty to give the best performance. Most artists and performers experience brief and fleeting mental blocks and the jury is quite sympathetic and supportive of your efforts.

The other important aspects to be kept in mind prior to an audition are preparation, presentation and focus

Preparing for an audition calls for some research and rehearsal. Find all the material on the subject matter and study them. If you are going for an actor's audition, look for and rehearse on the type of drama or theatre you are interested, so that you can give your best performance. Research and rehearsal also helps you gain confidence, which is a pre-requisite for a sterling act.

The Jury and the people around you react to your personal presentation. So the dress, manner and poise should be appropriate to your act. Feel free, be friendly and respectful with a self-assured demeanor; and interact with the jury with confidence. This organized presentation helps you score over others. To feel comfortable in such scenarios, practice with thought and planning.

Lastly be focused and don't be distracted by others performances. Enjoy your act, as the goal is to communicate the beauty of the composer and bring the audience into your world. Relax, as a single audition is not going to determine your future. It is the overall work and progress that will matter in the end.

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