Thinking about auditioning for the next Twyford Drama production? Here are our top tips to make the most out of the audition process and hopefully snag yourself a part!
1. Try not to be nervous!
It’s a hard one to achieve, especially if it’s your first audition, but just know that everyone wants you to do the best you can, so go in there and show them what you’ve got!
2. Read through the script beforehand.
At Twyford Drama, we often do a readthrough evening before the auditions – this gives you the chance to read the whole script and learn about the characters and plot before you audition. If you get the chance, ask if you can take a script home with you between readthrough and auditions so you can familiarise yourself with your character's role in the script - what they have to do and say (don’t worry, there’s no need to learn the lines!)
3. Get into character.
The director who’s casting is more likely to see you as the character you’re auditioning for if you really get into the role. Think about how your character would speak – could they have an accent? Think about how they would move – how does their personality or age affect their movement, posture and body language? Think about how they interact with the other characters – what are their relationships like? And finally, think about the emotion behind the lines you’re reading – say them with feeling!
4. Speak loudly, clearly and don’t rush.
The director wants to hear what you’re saying and how you’re saying it, so they can see if you're a good fit for the role.
5. Be open to multiple roles.
While you may have a particular part you’d really like in the play, the director may see you fitting in a different role, or may want to audition you for a few different roles. The more open you are to this, the more likely you are to get a part, so just trust the director’s vision for the show - they won’t give you a role you won’t be great at!
6. Don’t be put off by others’ performances.
Lots of people will likely be auditioning for the same part (or parts) as you. Just because someone else does a great job, it doesn’t mean your interpretation of the character won’t be just as great, or perhaps the one the director prefers. Portray the character the way you imagine them, without letting yourself be too influenced by what everyone else does. That said…
7. Be supportive of others.
Everyone who’s auditioning is there to give it their best and try to get a part. They might be really nervous, just like you, so make sure you give them a smile and a kind word to put them at ease. What’s more, give them your full attention and respect while they’re auditioning – you wouldn’t like it if someone was chatting away or checking their phone while you’re auditioning, would you?
8. Try not to be too upset if you don’t get a part.
We know, it can be disappointing, but it doesn’t mean that your audition went badly. When it comes to casting, there are a lot of moving parts to consider, and a whole host of reasons why decisions are made the way they are, and unfortunately, sometimes it just doesn’t work out for you. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t still get involved in the production – ask about other opportunities such as set-building or helping out backstage, there’s always plenty to do if you’re keen. Plus, if you’re determined to be on stage, there’s always the next show!
9. Have fun!
For an evening, you get to pretend to be someone else (or a few different people) and act out some fun scenes with a great group of people, so don’t forget to enjoy it!
All prepped and raring to go? Check out the upcoming auditions section on our Get Involved page.