A guide for those who are new to the theatre scene, or who just want some advice on where to get that extra "something" to give you an edge over the competition.
For a little while now, I've been wanting to compose a piece on auditions. I've been involved in the community theatre scene for almost 6 years now, both onstage and behind the scenes but this year I thought I'd have my first crack at directing a play. Directing really made me think about acting in ways I never would have done previously. There were the obvious, expected insights like being able to see the "bigger picture" of the stage and watching characters interact with one another. But then there were the auditions. Being on "the other side" of the audition panel opened my eyes up to some horrendous audition flaws that I am definitely guilty of myself. I want to share what I have learnt, from my own experiences with acting and directing, and also with the help of someone a lot more experienced than me when it comes to wearing the director's hat.
To get some advice for writing this piece, I went to a friend and theatre veteran, Garry Thomas. Gaz is the current president of Elmwood Players and has been directing plays for the community circuit for a number of years. I've had the pleasure of working with him several times over the past few years and I have total respect and trust in his opinions, so I'm very grateful for his input!
Here are our Top 5 for auditonees:
Be Prepared
The first, and quite possibly the most important piece of advice anyone can give when it comes to auditions is "Prepare! Prepare! Prepare!". At the very least, an actor should have a basic awareness of the plot, era and feel of the play she is auditioning for; at best she should have a personal understanding of the character or characters she has chosen to try out for and how that role weaves into the greater tapestry of the play.
Having sat in the director's chair for a day of auditions, I can't begin to explain the frustration of hearing "Oh, I haven't actually read the play" from an actor. Explaining plot details to actors is tiresome and eats into precious time that should be spent showcasing talent.
Hint
It is always beneficial to have a piece prepared, even for castings that require only "cold" readings - there really is no such thing as being "too prepared".
Be Professional
Being too casual is an easy mistake to make, especially in close theatre communities like Christchurch. "Even if you know the audition panel, be professional and treat it as a new 'experience'," Gaz recommends. This means turning up on time, being well-presented, and not wasting time on idle chatter. Fill out any forms in full - this means giving your full name and listing your recent relevant experience, even if it was with the same company. One actor filled out the relevant experience section of his form with "I think I saw a play once" - although humourous, it didn't show he had commitment or respect for us or for himself as an actor. Respect the audition panel, and they will have respect for you. Acting professionally by habit also means that when you walk into an auditon room full of strangers, you'll be prepared to behave appropriately.
Hint
When you walk into the audition room, greet the audition panel warmly with a handshake and introduce yourself to anyone you don't already know.
Be Confident
A self-assured actor who strides confidently into the room leaves a lasting impression with the audition panel. It's important however that auditionees are not only confident in themselves but also in the part they are auditioning for. Gaz advises audition hopefuls to "be confident and decisive in your choice of role(s). Target THE role you want, prepare (again), and back yourself". While it is important to be flexible, having a clear idea of the role you want and a personal interpretation of the character lets the director know your level of commitment: this is something that goes hand in hand with preparedness.
Another piece of advice Gaz has for those who want to be remembered is to wear something distinctive at the audition - "either something in keeping with the character you are auditioning for, or something that stands out but doesn't detract from your presence (a bright scarf)."
Hint
Remember that if your audition isn't successful, this might be the only opportunity you have to play this character - make the most of it.
Be Mobile
With the above in mind, there are a couple of things to note about your performance on the day. Despite any firm convictions you might have about the part you are going for, be open to direction during your audition. If someone on the audition panel asks you to change the way you perform, don't think of it as a criticism - directors are looking for people who are open to new interpretations of the script and who accept direction easily. Be willing to move around on stage and look for cues in the script that indicate a change in the subtext or mood of the character: these are good times to change position. Gaz says, "Use the resources provided; move around - use a chair - a table, whatever is available. Don't just stand (or even worse, sit) and read out the script." Movement on stage means a dynamic performance for the audition panel to watch and shows the amount of thought and planning you have put into your performance.
Hint
While melodrama isn't usually encouraged, it is always safer to go too "big" with your acting than too "small" - it's harder to coax volume and enthusiasm out of a shy performance than it is to reign in an exaggerated one.
Be Gracious
Whether your audition is successful or not, when the director calls you, be gracious in accepting the result. Thank them for taking the time to audition you and wish them the best of luck in the run of the show. Those who are bitterly disappointed will be remembered just as sorely as those who arrogantly accept. It takes a combination of talent, experience, and appearance to be selected for any role, that's without taking into consideration the competition. And while it's easy to be disheartened by rejection, treat all auditions as a learning process.
Hint
It is ok to ask for feedback, especially if you felt your audition went well and if the audition pool was small or in its final rounds.
There you have it, our advice for acting auditions. There will be a similar piece coming soon regarding singing auditions for musical theatre. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to write in the comments section.
No comments:
Post a Comment