What NOT To Do During An Audition

If you haven’t been auditioning for awhile, it may be difficult to know exactly what your audition style is. It is even harder to gauge the reactions of those who make the final decisions; they are very hard to read. It will take some time to become comfortable in your "audition skin", learn your own audition style and navigate your way through it professionally. Here we will go over three things that you should never do during an audition.

Do not initiate a hand shake with the casting director! If they have your resume, your head shot and/or your demo, they know who you are. All that is expected of you and all they really want from you is for you to walk in with confidence, smile and introduce yourself, then get right into your audition. If you actually need to hand your information to the CD, then simply walk over and hand it to them. However, if they initiate a hand shake, then shake their hand.

Never make eye contact with the CD during your actual audition or anyone else in the room for that matter. Simply choose a spot to focus on that makes it seem as if you are performing for a packed house. It may be slightly awkward for the CD and you, to make them the focus of a serenade. Keep in mind that they will be taking notes on your performance and distracting them in that way could do more harm than good.

Finally, never ever give a clue that your audition is over. If you have gotten the whole way through it without being cut off, consider yourself lucky and simply wait silently to be dismissed.

Remember that no matter the outcome of the audition, there is something to be learned. This is a process and never be too hard on yourself but allow yourself to be open to constructive criticism.