When preparing for an audition, it is common to feel uneasy or nervous. With the right preparation, you can feel comfortable and confident and snag that role! The Scoop sat down with Ahilyn Aceves, a Theatrical Stage Manager and Actor at Drury University, to investigate what an audition looks like in her department. Ahilyn walks us through the entire process, so we know what is ahead!
Could you reveal, step by step, what an audition in your department intails?
“Once the season is announced, actors are responsible for searching for, and picking the right monologue. The right monologue is entirely based on the show you are auditioning for. For example, if the show is something Neil Simon, a very contemporary playwright, you’re going to want to pick a monologue published relatively close to the show and of the same genre. Basically, if you’re auditioning for a comedy, chose a comedic monologue. Do your research!”
“Once you’ve made your selection, you are required to memorize the piece. Here at Drury, we ask that you present a monologue that is only a minute long in length. This helps auditions run smoothly and time efficient in manner. We have a lot of kids to get through!”
“Once you have you have practiced your monologue and are completely memorized, you sign up for an audition time! On the day of the audition, the directors and stage managers ask that you arrive at least fifteen minutes early so you can fill out paperwork about yourself, the role you are seeking, and your schedule.”
“Next, you will go in and perform your audition. The stage managers will let you know when the directors are ready for you to head inside the assigned room. At Drury, we audition for all of the shows at one time, so there are multiple directors and stage managers present in the room. There will also be someone to keep track of time for you as well! Once inside, the directors will signal you when it is time to begin. You will then provide what is called a slate. You state your name, the piece you’re auditioning with and its playwright. After this is done you will recite your piece, say thank you, and leave the room.”
“Next, you will wait for the callbacks list. This list, released at midnight, is a list of people that the director is interesting in seeing again before the final cast list is released. Callback auditions, held the following day, are when you are expected to do “cold reads” for the script that you are auditioning for. This helps directors get a deeper understanding of your abilities and allows them pair you with other characters to judge on-stage chemistry.”
“Finally, you wait for the cast list! It is normally released at midnight following the callbacks portion of the audition process. This is where you see if all your hard work has paid off, or if you are on to the next gig.”
