I was recently in an audition for a small part in a film, and I saw first-hand the people who weren’t prepared to present themselves at their best. What are some of the most common things actors forget to bring with them when they go for auditions?
A portfolio is always good. It’s basically like bringing your resume. You can put headshots in it, or even just photocopies of headshots. Put whatever you think is relevant to show the casting directors. If you have any photos from previous acting gigs, definitely throw those in there as well.
Prepare your monologue beforehand, and memorize it. There is nothing worse than someone trying to read off of a notecard while they’re auditioning. It takes away their confidence and makes them look unprepared, even if that isn’t the case. Always memorize your lines before going into an audition room.
It may seem silly, but also bring water with you! Sometimes auditions can take hours, and sometimes there are no breaks in between each person coming in. Staying hydrated will help you stay focused on what you need to be doing!
What do actors need to bring with them when they go to a casting call?
It’s important that you are prepared for your audition. One of the most common questions I get is, “What should I bring?” The answer is simple. You should be prepared and know the sides that were emailed or given to you by the casting director or agent.
When an actor goes into an audition, the last thing they want to ask is, “Do you have a copy of the script?” Casting directors and agents expect that you will have your script with you when you walk in the door. They want to see that you took the time to learn your lines and understand what it is we want from you.
If, for some reason, the casting director doesn’t provide a copy of the script, an actor can always print out their sides from Breakdown Services. If they don’t subscribe to Breakdown Services (which is almost every actor), they can always ask their agent if they can get a copy of their sides.
But before you go in for your audition, make sure there aren’t any mistakes on your sides. For instance, let’s say it’s a soap opera audition and on page 3 line 4 it says something like this: “And then I saw
You are auditioning. The director tells you to go in, and you hear the door close behind you. As the door shuts it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and all your muscle tone leaves your body. You know you need to pull yourself together and focus, but your mind is racing with all the possibilities of what could go wrong.
When an actor has a good audition (meaning they did what they wanted to do) they can walk out of that room with confidence and a sense of relief knowing that no matter what happens with this job, at least they felt good about their work in the room. When an actor has a bad audition (meaning they didn’t feel like they did what they wanted to do) they can walk out of that room feeling defeated, disappointed, and sometimes even depressed.
The key is to try not to let it get to this point. Here are some things that I think every actor should bring into every audition:
1. Your monologue or prepared piece
2. A copy of your sides
3. A notebook or index card with notes
4. A pen/pencil
Everyone always asks me what I take to an audition, so I thought I would make a list. The usual: headshot and resume. But I also bring a small notepad and pen, just in case I have to make any changes or notes, but never write on your sides, use the notepad instead.
I always try to arrive at least 15 minutes before my scheduled appointment. Sometimes you need to fill out some paperwork and it’s better to be early than late. If you are going to be late don’t call the casting director, just get there as soon as you can.
I like to go over my sides and get into character before going into the room. When you’re in the waiting area I suggest looking at your sides once more, but this time do it while standing up (if there is space). You don’t want to sit down because then you may fall asleep! Once you’re in the room don’t sit down unless they tell you to do so.
Remember that the casting directors have read hundreds of resumes and headshots so they may not remember who you are when you walk in the room but that’s okay because they will be judging your audition skills now not your previous credits.
Never say “um” or “uh”
National Auditions
We take the business of entertainment seriously.
If you want to make a living as an actor, you need to be a working actor. If you want to be a working actor, you need to audition.
Auditions are your route to jobs. They are your opportunity to show casting directors and producers that YOU are the person they should hire for the role they have available. That is why it is so important that you follow through with each audition, regardless of whether or not you think it is right for you – because you simply never know who will be in the room and what their impression of you will be.
Performers who take auditions seriously are always in demand!
Casting directors expect you to have the following items of business prepared:
– A current photo and resume. The photo should be an 8″x10″ black & white glossy head shot. It should be recent, no more than a year old. If you do not have an 8″x10″, do not use a smaller photo – it will look unprofessional. Also, do not crop or tape photos together to make a larger picture. It is not necessary to bring in your entire show reel on videotape. Just bring in the scenes that you have chosen for the audition. If you are having trouble finding material, ask your local bookstore or library for monologue books or go on the Internet and type in “Acting Monologues.” The best place to find this information is at www.BackStageWest.com, www.actorsequity.org, or www.playbillondemand.com.
