How to Steal an Audition

Ready to land a starring role? Prepare yourself to walk into a casting session and create a buzz.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time to prepare
• A buddy
• Two Prepared Monologues

1. Find out about the Film -
   
   Try to get in touch with the casting director as soon as you've decided to audition for the part. Find out what roles you're suited for, the basic outline of the plot, and if the tone of the piece is primarily comedic or dramatic.

2. Schedule -
   
   Plan your scheduled audition so that you'll be able to arrive at least ten minutes before you're set to go on. The more time you have to get your wits about you in the location, the better.

3. Dress for the Part -
   
   If you're auditioning to be a lawyer, it might be best not to wear a mini skirt. Dressing like you'd imagine the character would dress will place you into your desired role in the eyes of those watching you perform.

4. Recruit a Buddy -
   
   Have someone to help you with every step of preparation, from monologue practice to helping you choose your outfit.
   
   If you can bring your buddy with you to auditions, all the better. Having your familiar acting chum with you will put you more at ease to slip into the routine of performance.

5. Monologues -
   
   You should always have a comedic monologue and a dramatic one at the ready for auditions. Even if you've done the monologue dozens of times, be sure to run through it and strive for a natural tone before going in for your audition.
   
   It might help to slightly tweak your performance to match the role you're after.

6. Improv -
   
   Especially for comedic roles, always be prepared to improv. If you're not comfortable with improvisation, try an acting class, practicing with fellow actors, or reading up on technique.
   
   Spontaneity is an important skill to bring to any role.

7. Sides -
   
   If the audition requires reading sides, try to get them as far in advance of the audition as possible. If you can't get access to them before the day of, all the more reason to arrive early.
   
   Bounce the part off of your buddy a few times before doing it for the camera.

8. Be Charming -
   
   Sounds obvious, but many actors forget to be personable and make a little small talk with the director and casting director while auditioning. If they feel like they can relate to you on a personal level, they'll feel more comfortable giving you direction, which makes you more likely for the role.
   
   Furthermore, being likable automatically raises your stakes in terms of being talked about afterward and considered beyond those who simply read the part, and ducked out of the room.
   
   There's no way to prepare for this, since you can't predict how personalities will be, but asking questions about the project is always a good way to break the ice before starting your audition.