One actor speaks:
“I’m a wreck at auditions. I always have been. But over the years, I’ve learned certain precautions. One time, I went out partying the night before a really important audition. Can I tell you how stupid that was? I actually thought I might get sick on the director! I most definitely did not get the part. I didn’t even get a callback. Plus, I left a bad impression with the company. So now I stay home the night before an audition. I usually go for a run the day of the audition. Oh and eat…you have to eat even if you don’t feel like it!”
This actor’s story is a good example of the basics you need to have in place for an audition:
Rule 1: Don’t party like a rock star the night before. You will undoubtedly do more poorly. Your instincts are dulled, your reaction time is affected and heck, you might smell like booze – not good!
Rule 2: Eat before an audition. Not a huge meal obviously. You don’t want to be in a food coma! Just eat something substantial and protein-based for long-burning energy. Eat several hours before the audition and bring some water with you.
Rule 3: Intone. It doesn’t matter whether you’re auditioning for a band or an acting troupe, intoning is a great way to improve your voice as well as grounding you. How do you intone? Get in a relaxed position, take several deep breaths and begin humming. It doesn’t matter what. Just make sure your lips are buzzing. When you speak afterwards, your voice will sound more forward and resonant – which is helpful at any audition. Authoritative, grounded voices are more commanding.
Rule 4: Remember to breathe during the audition. When stressed, we often breathe shallowly, which affects our mental functions and overall performance. Deep breaths, conversely, naturally relax us. Relaxed bodies perform better, bottom line. Another way to breathe more deeply is through exercise. Expel some extra energy the day of the audition as well as strengthening your breath through some exercise.
Rule 5: Have fun. Auditions are hell, no doubt. But make the most of it by taking chances and enjoying yourself. Laugh, smile, and be light. Auditions are hard enough. Think of yourself as a child, open and ready to try anything, without any fear of consequence.
These basics hold true for many different stressful times when we need to perform.
What do you do to prepare for your auditions?
Padme Grace
info@coachpamela.com
Filed under: Lessons, Performance | Tagged: audition, musical audition, musician, Performance, performer
