If my 40 years in the industry has taught me anything, it’s that no amount of experience or success will lessen the hard work you must put into your art and career. If anything, the more auditions you get, the more work you must do.
Judy Kain is the owner of Keep It Real Acting Studios. She teaches Advanced Callback, A-Z Commercial Technique, What’s The Plan?, and Really, You’re Wearing That?
For me, I have 5 simple steps I take before each and every audition that help me feel comfortable and open in the audition room. The goal is to leave the audition feeling calm and like I did my best. Knowing that I have followed these 5 steps allows me to go on with my day, and easily move onto preparation for the next audition.
Look at breakdowns and memorize the name of the casting director ( unless I know them, because they have called me in so much) The associate and assistant are probably taking you in the room and recording your taped session. So I always say..." Sally?... Yes!... " Nice to meet you. ( and add anything else I might know about them. For example, "you worked on Blah Blah Blah show correct? And we go on from there.
Work on your script more than you think is requisite. The more solid I am with my choices the more comfortable and grounded I will be. I have gone into auditions thinking, this is easy… it's just a couple of lines, etc. And those are the auditions I kick myself all the way home. Over prepare by asking yourself a ton of questions.
How long have I worked here?
What did I do before work?
What time of day is it?
Did I have a fight with someone today?
Knowing my first moment before to get me into the scene is critical. It will motivate me and make me start strong.
3. Get there Early and take a few minutes to go to the bathroom and look in the mirror and say hello to yourself using the characters name.
My friend talks to herself in the car on the way and is already that character. I like to practice in my audition clothes so I embrace the character in the clothes that are right for the role.
4. Ask to do it again saying one of these statements.
Let me do another
I'm going to do that again.
Say this only if you feel you were off. Or not engaged and listening to the reader. Only you know this. Then the CD can use whichever take was best.
5. Always thank them by name when you leave. And write down their name or make a note in CASTING ABOUT about your exchange. Be sure to keep them informed of future projects and congratulate them on all accomplishments. Emmy winning shows, promotions from Assistant to Associate, etc.
There are so many things you can do to ensure your auditions are professional and prepared.
For more information, check out my Online course and in person classes at www.keepitrealacting.com