We're having auditions this Saturday for three different shows and three different age groups:

Alice In Wonderland (Ages 7-10)
Seussical The Musical (Ages 10-17)
Fools, A Comedy Play (Ages 13-17)

So, I'd like to give a few notes on the art of auditioning, from a director's perspective. Granted, when you are a young actor the casting staff is very forgiving, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't work your hardest to prepare and to put a few special things into practice.

1. READ THE AUDITION NOTICE.
The audition notice will tell you just about you need to know about what you need to prepare. For example, the audition notice for our upcoming shows reads, "All auditioners should prepare a one-minute memorized monologue. Those auditioning for a musical should also prepare a short song selection (please bring an accompaniment CD!) and be ready to learn a simple dance combination."
If a student shows up without a song or monologue, we know they have not taken the time to read the audition notice...so we cannot be convinced that they will put the necessary effort into a role. If the monologue or song is not memorized, we are not reassured that they will be able to memorize lines for an entire production. And if the auditioner should arrive in restrictive clothing and flip flops, they are certainly not ready to learn a dance combination.

2. DO YOUR RESEARCH.
To perform well at an audition, you must know what you are auditioning for. For example, if the show is a snappy, happy musical, preparing a monologue from The Diary of Anne Frank or something equally somber is a poor choice. Likewise, you wouldn't want to sing "Tomorrow" from Annie for something more dramatic. Know the show, know the character that you'd like to be considered for, and choose an audition piece that fits the tone. It is usually not a good idea to choose a selection from the show you are auditioning for, unless the audition notice calls for that. At our theater, we are not picky about that, but many directors are...so keep it in mind. Try to show a little more variety!
Look to sites like Stage Agent for character and show descriptions, and look up musical numbers on YouTube or similar sites to really get a feel for the show.

3. PREPARE.
Once you know you are going to audition, start practicing right away! The more practice, the better! Have your monologue and song memorized perfectly. Show the director that you care about the show and that you can be a responsible member of the cast.

4. HOW TO CONDUCT YOURSELF WHEN YOU ARRIVE.
Every moment you have at an audition is a chance to make a good impression. Be polite and considerate of the other auditioners...trying to intimidate others lower your chances of looking like a team player. Be kind and gracious with other staff members or helpers at the theater.

5. THE AUDITION.
When it is your turn to audition, the first thing you should do is introduce yourself. When I audition, I always try to shake hands with the director and tell them my name. I want them to know I am a confident person. If the setting isn't right, or if that's something you are not comfortable with, that's fine.
Before you begin your audition, you should always slate. Slates vary depending on genre, age, agency, theater, etc, but at Stone Oak Youth Theatre, we like slates to go something like this, "Hello, my name is Suzy Creamcheese. I am thirteen years old and I go to Anytown Middle School. I will be singing the song "The Sun In The Morning And The Moon At Night" from Annie Get Your Gun." When your audition is complete, say thank you and follow the directions given (i.e. waiting for the dance audition, time to go home, etc.)...don't forget to smile! It's done and you can breathe a little easier now, huh?

This is just a basic overview...and I hope it helps new auditioners get an insight into what a director likes!

BREAK A LEG!