As a professional actor it can be a challenge to find auditions that are worthwhile. The pandemic changed theatre in many ways, and one of those is the process of auditioning for roles. The theatre industry took a serious hit in 2020 that continued well into 2021. During 2022 there has been a resurgence of live theatre performances, but it is still not up to pre-pandemic numbers.

actor on stage taking a bow after an audition

What does this mean for professional actors looking for auditions? It means you may need to try some new strategies to find auditions for roles you’re well suited for. The following tips can help you find the right auditions. Getting the part is up to you.

Check Online Job Boards

You may have tried this avenue before. But when you google “professional theatre auditions” you get so many that it’s difficult to weed through them all to find quality auditions. Here are some online job boards recommended by professional actors:

Backstage. This job board offers the most options for narrowing your search criteria to help you find the quality auditions.
Playbill. Broadway’s number one job site for a wide variety of theatre jobs.
Broadway world. Browse jobs or sign up for email alerts for specific types of jobs.
Actors access. Create a profile, browse jobs, and more.

Some of these have search options that allow you to narrow down your search by selecting specific criteria for the types of roles you’re looking for. Search criteria include gender, location, ethnicity, type of production, age, compensation, and more.

Search Local Theatres

There may be professional auditions available right in your area. Local theatres often have professional paid positions for resident actors who want regular work. If you’re not interested in traveling and you want to find acting work close to home, check with your local theatres and see if there are positions available.

Use Social Media

Social media platforms are an excellent way to find out about professional theatre auditions. Many theatres post auditions across a wide range of social media platforms from Facebook to Twitter. Another option is to use social media to make your own actor profile in order to connect with casting directors. Many actors have found work by posting videos on TikTok that are discovered through sharing.

Create a Profile on an Online Casting Website

Actors Access is an online casting website that allows you to create a profile to have on file that allows you to add a resume, photos, videos, and an “about me” section. Casting directors can search profiles and contact you when an audition is available that matches your criteria. You can also actively seek out and schedule auditions directly with casting directors, or submit audition videos.

Networking

The theatre industry, like many industries, is a series of networks. Actors know other actors who know casting directors and producers and others involved in theatre. Talk to the people you know in the industry and find out what auditions are available. Be sure to return the favor when you’re the one on the knowing end of a professional audition that may be right for a friend. Keep in touch with actors and directors you’ve worked with before, both on social media and with actual meaningful connections.

Auditions for the Forestburgh Playhouse

Whether or not you live in or near the Catskills area of New York, the Forestburgh Playhouse offers many audition opportunities for actors pursuing careers in theatre. Auditions may be open to Equity and non-Equity members depending on the role and production. We are always accepting resumes by email. Learn more about employment opportunities at the Forestburgh Playhouse.

Finding Professional Auditions