How to audition for a musical

Are you passionate about musical theatre? Well, my friend you are not alone. Millions of peaple in the US find themselves to be very passionate about musical theatre. So, whether you're new to the stage, or you're just looking for some new ideas to try out with, this article is definatley for you! Here are some tips to improve your auditioning skills.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• The ability to commit most or all of your free time and effort into the production
• a good attitude
• a friendly personality, and the confidence to be around people.

1. The first step of auditioning is selecting the part that you think suits you and your abilities, and that you want to try out for. Ask some people who know what you are capable of and have worked with you before what they think will be the proper role for you. Think about the vocal range of the character and also the difficulty of acting out the character. It's okay to try out for a minor role.
2. Once you have selected a character to audition for, you need to know the part. This means that you know the character's personality and the values they embody, the conflicts they must overcome, how they feel about the other characters in the show, and other things involving the character's ideals, dreams, and internal wishes.
3. Many auditions have you do a sample reading taken out of the show. This is usually something that you have never seen before, so try to read through it as much as you can before you are asked to present it. Don't be intimidated by this, it can give you a chance to express the full potential of your acting ability.
4. When reading the part for the first time, think of the character and what they feel about what they are saying. Don't overact, though, because this can make you look fake and the directors won't go for that. It is really easy to tell when someone is over acting. To avoid doing this, don't think about how the character would say a certain line, but think about how YOU, personally, would say it. How would you feel about the situation with the plot if you were in the situation of this character? Why do you think this particular line is important in the story? Also think of the reason the director chose this selection for you to audition with. Remember to react the way that YOU would react, but keep the reality going by making the character YOU. Remember, the director just wants to see how well you can act, not how well you can imitate the character you are trying out for. The director will see your talent and later on tell you what changes to make. That is the key to acting!
5. When meeting the director for the first time, make yourself look presentable. This can be done by simply acting confident and friendly. Make him/ her know that you are ready to fully commit to the production. Some directors may seem intimidating and scary, but don't let that bother you. Remember that the directors mean business, and although he/she may seem scary, that person is just trying to convey their seriousness about the show to the potential cast members. If you can see through that and remain cool and confident, they will admire you.
6. Be respectful of the place in which the auditions are held. This must be done not only in the sense that you restrain yourself from littering or vandalizing the area, but that you respect any traditions or rituals kept in the place. For instance, not stepping on a certain carpet or tile that is good luck. (Trust me, there are such places in existence.) And also remember not to treat others disrespectfully, (you never know what may come back around and bite you in the rear!)
7. Finally, remember to be on time, prepared with whatever the director asks you to bring, (for example, a prepared song, head-shot of yourself, list of experience, or resume) and come with a smile on your face! There's nothing more impressive than a sense of passion in what you do, and it is also good to let the directors know that you are actually happy to be there.

Tips & Warnings

• Of you are nervous, don't worry! As long as you don't run off the stage in fright, or make the directors think you are wasting their time, it should be okay, Keep going! If you are talented enough for the part, the director will see that under any shakiness. (And besides, the more you audition for shows, the better you get at keeping calm.)
• ALWAYS act like you know what you're doing! Even when you don't...:)
• It is a good idea to research some things not only about the show you are trying out for, but also the theatre you may be performing in and the director you will be working with. You never know.
• Dressing properly can give you a good impression with the directors. Not only just dressing 'nice', but dressing to fit the part of the character. Also, (as bad as it may sound) the nicer (handsome/pretty) you look, the better chance you have of getting into the show.
• Usually their is a chance during the audition for you to warmup, but I would also suggest that you do preparation for singing on your own before hand. Drinking lemon water is a good (and tasty) way to ensure that your voice is in tip top shape for singing that day. Also eating apples is a great way of taking care of your voice.