AUDITION TIP SHEET

Whatever else you do - BE POSITIVE

Look at the audition process as another theatrical experience
and therefore beneficial in and of itself

PREPARATION

Fill out your audition application form completely
Be sure to include your certified transcript and your processing fee

Make your resume as impressive as possible but not more then one page in length,
neatly & correctly typed. Go online and look at examples
Most important, be honest about your theatrical experiences

Select appropriate audition pieces for yourself. They should be contrasting pieces
but they don't have to be Neil Simon and Shakespeare

Choose pieces within your character/vocal range. It is a good idea to stay with pieces
that you have done before and with which you are comfortable

Avoid truly weird and/or overly popular selections and those
that are not easily represented in a short audition piece

No Scripts. Your selections must be fully memorized

Do not have someone read with you. Pick a piece that works as a monologue

Stay within the 2- minute time limit. It is better to be short then long

Make sure your musical tape is of good quality
Practice with the actual tape you will have CTAM play for your audition

Practice your introduction as well as your monologue/music
Practice them together from beginning to end; not only for the timing
but to also establish the natural rhythm of your entire audition

Practice in front of a group whenever possible

Get a good night's sleep Get up early so you do not have to rush
Be careful what you eat and drink prior to the audition

Consult publications that might help you prepare

THE AUDITION

Arrive early to warm up and acquaint yourself with the audition arena
If you do not arrive on time, the auditions will continue with the next scheduled candidate

Bring your accompaniment tape, already cued to the proper starting point
Make sure it is given to the proper CTAM representative

Look your best. The right clothing is very important
If you intend to use a costume or props, do not make a big production out of either
You are auditioning; not your special effects

First impressions matter
As a rule, strong, solid colors make a statement without distracting
Loud prints, clothes with logos and/or lettering can detract from your performance
Dance attire only IF appropriate to your audition pieces
Skirts/blouses or dress for women
Dress shirt/sweater/slacks or suit/tie for men
Shoes that allow you to move well; clean and polished
Wear your hair so that it allows the judges to see your face
Use stage makeup but do not overdue it. Eyes are important
Avoid clutter/distractions such as coins in your pocket or jangling bracelets

REMEMBER
You start the audition the moment you enter
Sell yourself from start to finish.


Clearly state the title, source and author of your monologue

Do not take too long to get into character

Note: There is no time between monologues to change costumes or get props
It is all part of the two minute time limit

Do your best piece first

Be simple, direct and make full use of the area you have without trying to block an entire scene

Do not begin by apologizing for your material; this makes for a very bad start

Take the stage with confidence, find your light and stay in it PROJECT!

You have to stay within the time limit set by the rules so when your time is up Stop!

Relate to the audience; not just the judges

Your attitude needs to be positive and confident without being offensive

Thank the judges, make a strong exit and take a deep breath. It's over!


THE INTERVIEW

Relax. The judges want you to do your best

BE YOURSELF!

Answer each question honestly and directly. Do not ramble on and on

Maintain eye contact

Whether standing or sitting; maintain good posture without being stiff
You aren't in the military but your aren't just hanging out with your friends either