Use what you know. Dont worry about what you dont know. Michael Shurtleff

Cold Reading: Reading aloud from a script or other text with little or no rehearsal, practice, or study in advance.

Vocabulary

While analyzing the play, the director begins to form an impression of the kinds of characters the playwright has created. With these characters in mind, the directors next major responsibility is to choose actors that can bring those characters to life.

Casting: The directors process of matching up characters and actors.

Casting is usually accomplished through the selection process known as auditions.

Audition: An interview for a particular role or job as an actor, consisting of a practical demonstration of the candidates suitability and skill.

The director might ask actors to read cold (without preparation) for each part. This could be done as a private or group reading.

Cold Reading: Reading aloud from a script or other text with little or no rehearsal, practice, or study in advance.

Directors may also require that actors prepare (memorize) a monologue from a play.

Lastly, some directors may choose to use a combination of the two for their auditions.

The casting process

When a production like a musical requires specific talents, such as singing or dancing, the director might require songs or a short dance routine to be included in the audition. Its best to find out as much as possible about the audition before the day they take place.

Most directors distribute a proposed rehearsal schedule along with the audition application. If you foresee scheduling conflicts, its best to make the director aware as soon as possible.

After the first round of auditions, directors sometimes need a second or third look at an actor. These opportunities are called callbacks. They help narrow the selections by giving the director another chance to see and hear the actor. They also give the director the opportunity to combine several actors in scenes to see how they look and work together.

Callbacks: Additional opportunities for the actor to audition.

The casting process (contd)

Good Auditions Bad Auditions

The actor is unable to fit the role vocally and physically.

The actor is too tall or too thin. The actor may also be too young for the role.

The actor is defiant toward the director. They are also afraid to make choices that would allow them to grow.

The actor is egotistical. They are not supportive of their fellow actors / crewmembers. They do not abide by deadlines and are usually unprepared.

The actor can interpret the character vocally and physically.

Physical attributes gender, appearance, height, and size.

Growth potential. The actor takes direction well and will progresses throughout rehearsals.

The actor is definitely someone they want to work with. Theyre respectful & supportive of others. They meet deadlines such as being off-book. They are attentive and prepared.

What a director is looking for

The first thing to know is you are always being watched!!! They notice your behavior towards others and your respect to the audition environment before you even begin auditioning. This is when the audition actually begins.

Secondly, be prepared. If you received sides, or were told to prepare a monologue, work on this material as soon as you find out. Even rehearse your slate. Dont wait until the last minute. The director will know if youre unprepared.

Sides: Refers to the specific set of lines from the script of an acting project that the actor must learn prior to an audition.

If youre at a professional audition, have your headshot and resume ready to hand to the stage manager or director.

Headshot: A modern portrait for todays branding needs, where the focus of the photograph is the personality inside the person captured.

Resume: A brief account of ones professional or work experience and qualifications

Finally, commit 100% to your performance and have fun! The truth is, the director wants you to succeed. They want you to be awesome in all aspects because it makes their job a lot easier.

A successful audition: What do you do?

Really Bad Headshots

Professional Headshots

Professional Headshots (Teens)

Theatre / Film Resume

An elevator pitch, elevator speech, or elevator statement is a short summary used to quickly and simply define a person.

At some auditions, directors will ask you to share a little something about yourself. This is what can set you apart from the rest of competition.

Be careful though, what you say can make or break your audition. Overall, the director just wants to know a little more about you and your personality.

Dont go into too much detail though about your dead cat or your crazy aunt who keeps giving you smooches every time you see her. You want the director to like you, not to be scared of you.

Whats your Elevator Speech?

And now a word from Bryan Cranston