Theatre Arts

Audition Info

The following are audition requirements and guidelines for auditioning:

  • Prepare 2 two-minute monologues of a contrasting nature.  One monologue may be of a dramatic nature and the other a comedic.  If you choose to do a classical piece, make sure that they are also of a contrasting nature, i.e. classical/dramatic and contemporary/comedic, or vice versa.  Contrast can be demonstrated through type of character and material.  Look for selections with contrasts in mood, intention, rhythm, emotional level, content, etc.
  • Be sure to slate your name and the name/character of your pieces.  Say, “Hi, my name is your name and I will be doing character from name of play.  Then begin your audition.

SELECTION OF MATERIAL

  1. Seek roles in your own maturity and emotional range and from material with which you are familiar and feel comfortable.  Never attempt an audition monologue without reading the entire play and understanding your character in the context of the play.
  2. Choose pieces that maximize your assets and minimize your weaknesses.  Don’t challenge your capabilities in selecting audition materials, but rather pick characters which fit comfortably within your middle range.  Above all, do what you do best.
  3. Avoid climactic material which requires great depth or intensity of emotion.  There is not enough time to achieve these emotional peaks effectively and honestly.  On the other hand, beware of dull and passive pieces which dwell on character or plot exposition.  Choose material in which your character is actively involved in overcoming obstacles in order to fulfill an immediate objective or intention.  Above all, select pieces which contain active intentions.  What does your character want? 
  4. Both selections should be self-explanatory with a clear beginning, middle and end.  Take liberties in editing for clarity. 
  5. Monologues directed to another character are more effective than internal or inner directed soliloquies.

FINAL NOTES

  • An audition is an opportunity, not a contest to be won or lost.  There is no way to demonstrate all your talent, skills, and experience in a single four-minute audition.  This is simply a brief introduction to your talent, personality and basic performance skills.  Most of us are actors that have been in your shoes at one time or another and appreciate how artificial and nerve-wracking auditioning can be.  We are on your side and rooting for you.  So, don’t put any more pressureon yourself than necessary.  Relax and do your best.  You can’t ask any more of yourself.

Break a Leg!