What to Expect

You will be given a 15 minute time slot for your audition. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled audition time. Arriving early also gives you time to relax and focus and not feel rushed.

Please come dressed for movement. This means you should dress in clothes that are comfortable and will not impede your movement, but still be neat, clean and nice looking. (Please, no flip-flops, boots, high heels, wheeled shoes, etc. Sturdy shoes that stay on your feet are a must.).

You will be auditioning for up to 4 people who are directors or part of the production team. When you enter the audition room:

• Introduce yourself – When you walk into the audition room, tell us your name and the role(s) you are auditioning for. This makes a good first impression.
• Don’t watch the directors – While doing your audition, do not look directly at the people you are auditioning for, unless specifically directed to do so.
• Take direction – The director may give you various directions as you audition– for instance, “open up more,” or “try acting this section as though…” Take the direction! No matter how outlandish it may seem, the director has a purpose for asking, and showing you can do as they ask on demand is a plus. It’s also possible the director may cut you off part way through your piece. This is not a bad thing, it just means that they have seen what they need to see.
• Mistakes happen – If you make a mistake, do not apologize. Remember that others may not even notice a mistake, but if you point it out to them, they will know for sure.
• It’s OK to be nervous – Don’t worry about being nervous. Just about everyone is nervous. Do your best to smile and have a good time.

The director(s) will ask questions to learn more about you or get clarity on something you shared in your audition registration form. It is essential that you answer all of these questions truthfully so you are set up for success. Be prepared to answer questions such as:

• What is your availability for rehearsals? Please be prepared to provide any dates you are not available as this helps with scheduling if you are cast. We can work around minor conflicts, which is why it is important to list all known conflicts ahead of time. Actors must be available for all performances. If you have a conflict with a performance date, please do not audition.
• Expectations regarding casting: Are you auditioning for a specific role? Are you willing to accept a role besides this one? Are you comfortable being cast as the opposite gender?
• Are you comfortable with stage kissing/violence?

What to Prepare

We will send you a few pages from the script, called sides, to prepare for your audition. Sides are brief scenes from a script that actors use for auditions. They’re usually at least a couple of pages long and are pulled from the play.

You are not expected to memorize the sides, but you should be familiar with the material provided.

Here are some tips for preparing for your in-person audition using sides:

• Read the sides: Read the sides completely, including all directions and stage directions. This helps you understand the scene and the tone, and identify your character’s traits.
• Analyze the sides: Look for clues in the text and subtext. For example, if the character’s name is in all caps, it might be the beginning of the character’s development or the story.
• Make decisions: Consider your first impressions and make decisions about your character that aren’t dictated in the sides.
• Practice: Practice reading relaxed while sitting, standing, and walking. Check that body parts (shoulders, hands, neck, jaw, toes) are not tightening. Perform simple tasks while reading. You’ll be doing the same when auditioning or rehearsing. Avoid repeated gestures (or any gesturing, for that matter).
• Bring the sides: Always bring the sides and refer to them if necessary.
• Don’t over-rehearse: Don’t over-rehearse your dialogue. Yes, of course, you should be prepared and make strong choices with the material. However, you must not be so attached to your choices that you can’t take direction during the audition.
• Visualize the scene: In the waiting room, visualize the scene from start to finish. Picture yourself saying the lines and listening.

You have the option of additionally presenting a short (~1 minute) monologue. A monologue is not required but if you have something prepared that you feel showcases your ability then we are happy to see it. If you prefer not to do a monologue that is 100% fine with us.

We look forward to seeing you at the next audition and welcoming you into the Pine Tree Players family