How to Audition at an Open Call

An open call audition is just what it sounds like: an audition open to anyone who shows up. From Broadway to tiny regional productions, an open call is where many performers get cast in their first professional roles, and get started in their careers. Careful preparation is key to succeeding at an open call audition.

Things You'll Need

• Headshot or snapshot
• Resume
• Sheet music (if specified)
• Appropriate clothing and footwear for dancing/movement (if specified)

Instructions

1. Prepare in advance. Have a couple of copies of a headshot (or snapshot) attached to your resume. If you are asked to prepare a monologue or song, memorize and practice it ahead of time. The day before your audition, choose clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for the role you want, and bring your headshot and resume, dance shoes, sheet music (if required) to your audition. Also bring a bottle of water and/or snacks in case you are there for a long time.

2. Arrive early. Open call auditions are usually very crowded, and performers often have to wait in line for a long time before the audition. Allow enough travel and parking time to come at least a half hour before the audition begins.

3. Prepare for your performance while you wait. Stretch, take deep breaths, practice your monologue and warm up your voice. All of these activities can help you feel more comfortable and less nervous about your audition.

4. Focus. Open call auditions can be crowded, loud, distracting and intimidating. Visualize your own successful audition while you wait to go in. Nervousness is normal, and can help you be alert. Jogging in place and shaking out your arms and legs can help with nerves and help you focus your energy.

5. Walk into your audition with confidence and a smile to make a great first impression. You will be asked to sing, dance or act, and must concentrate on your performance, not on other people in the room or the casting director's response. The casting director may be tired or distracted, and may not respond at all. Give your best performance possible whether you get feedback or not. Be polite and courteous--casting directors will take note of behavior.

6. Stay longer to audition again, if asked. If possible, take a step outside, go to the bathroom or simply take a deep breath to give yourself a break and relieve stress.

Tips & Warnings

• A positive attitude is important. There may be a lot of competition at an open call, but everyone there has an equal opportunity to succeed. Understand that casting directors have a problem to solve. Think of yourself as the solution.

• Avoid too much talk with other people who are auditioning. They are your competition, and may try to intimidate you. Avoid negative people. Sometimes you will hear, "this part has already been cast," "this is a waste of time," or similar comments which are not helpful. Walk away and keep your concentration intact. Avoid comparing yourself with other people. You are there to show your own talents. Avoid second-guessing after the audition. Everyone has good days and bad days.