What to Bring to an Audition

Theatre is back! And with that, so are auditions!  The Forestburgh Playhouse will be conducting auditions for its 2022 Season starting in January!

Preparation is the key to any audition. You could be auditioning for community theatre or a broadway show, but if you’re not prepared, your chances of getting cast are diminished.

Part of being prepared, beyond practicing your monologue, song, or dance number, is bringing the right items with you. This can be tricky if this is your first audition and you don’t know what to expect. Even if you’ve auditioned before, these tips will give you an edge.

And now, without further adieu, here is what to bring to an audition. 

Resumes

Always bring multiple copies of your resume. This is especially important if you are auditioning for a paid position or a prestigious role of some kind. If you don’t have much to put on a resume because this is your first official audition, still list any theatre experience you have had, no matter how small and insignificant it may seem. Include the play you did in high school, singing in the choir at church, or even dance classes you took as a child. It’s all part of your performing experience.

Headshots

If you have professional headshots, bring a few copies with you to your audition. Present them to the auditioners along with your resume before you begin. Headshots, if well done, should present you in the best light and give a realistic impression of who you are.

Wardrobe Changes

Choose your audition outfit carefully. Wear something that is flattering but not distracting. You want the auditioners’ focus to be on you, not your clothing. The clothes should enhance your appearance, not take away from it. Dress professionally as if you were going to a job interview.

Be sure to include wardrobe changes in case they are needed. If you will be auditioning for a dance number in addition to your other audition, bring appropriate clothing for dancing that allows you to move comfortably.

Water and Snacks 

You may end up waiting a while for your audition to begin, so it is always a good idea to bring healthy, protein-packed snacks to keep your energy up. Bring plenty of water to keep your vocal cords hydrated. If you prefer a certain kind of tea or another beverage that helps your voice, bring that as well.

Toothbrush and Floss

Make sure there is nothing in your teeth and that your breath is fresh before an audition. It helps to bring along a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss to use before your audition. If you don’t want to go to the hassle of all that, consider bringing mouthwash to freshen your breath. 

Makeup

Bring your makeup along to touch up before your audition. This is especially important if you end up sitting for a while and waiting. If you end up eating something, you’ll want to refresh your lipstick. You may sweat before, during, and after your audition and want to touch up your foundation or apply powder. 

Journal

As an aspiring actor, it helps you to reflect on what went right and what went wrong about your audition. After your audition, no matter what the result, jot down some notes about how it went. Write down anything you want to remember.  Who was in the room?  Who was the accompanist? Did you get any tips or feedback? Contact information?  Write it down to refer to for future auditions. 

Audition at the Forestburgh Playhouse 

The Forestburgh Playhouse, a professional summer theatre, offers many casting opportunities for the 2022 Season.  In early January, we will conduct local casting for our children’s theatre production and some roles for local actors as well.  Then, the Playhouse will visit multiple conservatories and universities to cast the 2022 Resident Company.  In addition, we will be casting members from Actors Equity for principal roles in our productions.  We also offer educational opportunities for children and youth in the area--all of which culminate in public performances!

Call 845-794-2005 or visit our website for audition opportunities and information. The Forestburgh Playhouse is committed to non-discrimination and a flexible, imaginative casting policy. Performers of all ethnicities are strongly encouraged to audition.