Beginner Musical Theatre Audition Tips | Katherine Steele
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- Äas pĆidĂĄn 8. 09. 2024
- Special Note to the THEATRE THURSDAY FAM/ More experienced performers: feel free to write your top audition tips in the comments below!
Pay it forward and share your knowledge :)
Hey everybody! It's me Katherine, and today I'm going to share my top musical theatre audition tips--especially edited for beginner performers! These are perfect for an open call at your community theater, school play, youth group--you name it! Break a leg! and don't forget to hit subscribe!
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If you're new to my channel, HI! I'm Katherine and I put out a new theatre related video on every #TheatreThursday plus bonus uploads throughout the week! My videos cover a variety of topics include musical theatre / acting advice, theatre actor lifestyle, performance reviews, and general broadway geekery. Additionally, I make usual CZcamsr videos, but with a slight theatre-y twist.
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The casting table is your friend, they aren't there to make fun of you or anything. They are there to put you in the best role possible.
Hannah Wolfgang this just gave me a confidence boost for my casting on Saturday. Thank you!
Tree #5 it is đ
Yes! And sometimes that role really is no role at all. Like for example, I went into a school audition for Chicago as a baby-faced, kinda chubby soprano (so I couldnât even be Amos lol) who didnât like swearing or revealing clothes, and who couldnât dance or act sexy to save my life. They did not cast me, and thank goodness for that! I had opportunities to be a part of the crew or pit orchestra if I really wanted, and even despite not choosing to do that I was still incredibly happy as an audience member! I loved the show so much I saw it on two of the three nights and am still so glad they didnât give me a callback :D
1) audition with a song that is good for your vocal range
2) don't stay in your comfort area
3) PRACTICE, THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS AFTER IS YOUR WORK, PRACTICEEE
5) don't be shy with dancing, even if you suck at it like me, their will be choreography!
6) do not bring your phone!!
7)don't pick a character that you won't like playing. if you still get casted as them, just try and make the best of it!
this is for schools because why not
George Gebhard how did it go
@George Gebhard I have social anxiety and ADHD which is a really bad mix and makes people think I have a personality disorder, so when people see me being shy in school, they are going to lose it when I start singing and dancing on stageđđđ I hope it went well for you! A lot of amazing actors and artists get sick when they are about to perform, but once they get up there on stage they become almost a whole other person.
George Gebhard awe.. thatâs great that it went well! itâs okay, just appreciate and really try to enjoy the time you have now in theatre. cherish the moments. iâm happy for you, and i hope you enjoy the rest of your year!
Thank u this would really help because my last one sucked LOL
Wow, Great Tips.Well I suck at singing but a little bit better at dancing. đŹ Ohh I'm also shy.
Something that really brought me down when I started on musical theater was the comparison I made between myself and everyone else auditioning. It hurt my confidence when I saw people with beautiful ranges and lots of experience but just keep in mind that you have something unique to bring the show and that you too have lots of strengths that maybe they don't . There is a perfect part for everyone out there and if it doesn't work out once in a while it's never because you weren't good enough .
Ooooh, yes! So true!!!!!
Hey Cadence! What do you specifically need help with?
Andrea Argueta GIRL ME TOO. I know this was a year ago, but I auditioned for an art school and comparing myself made my audition the worst
A little good tip, use that low confidence as motivation to get better. Thatâs what I do. Thatâs what I did to get Martha plus two other roles in The Miracle Worker.
Andrea Arg
Also, Leslie Odom Jr. Said in a video that if you are nervous you should just think of a reason why your character would be nervous
What video was this?
Thanks!
FR?? thANK YOU LESLIE
Thanks Aaron burr!
that's good advice :D
Your audition is 2-10 minutes of your life! That's it! So why not give it your all đ
Very true! And in that same vein--if you screw up an audition or show, it's just one in your vast career. Roll with the punches and keep going! đ
Lol, my auditions are a few hours
Hahaha thatâs what my mom told me đđ€ đ
WonderouslyWeird howd it go??
Don't come in to the audition thinking "I NEED THIS PART" come into it thinking "I'm going to do my best." Guaranteed to do better every time.
Tips:
1) hype yourself before the audition for a better personality
2) understand the tone of the piece you at presenting. You shouldnât be smiling during a ballad.
3) donât be afraid to wiggle around and use your body unless told otherwise.
Jasleen THANK YOUUUUU
*continues to smile in a sad song*
I have a tip. DO NOT let the judges see you are nervous. Do not touch your clothes, put your hands in your pockets, or holding your hands weirdly. It shows your nervous and it also tells them if you are performing inform of a whole audience it will be worse.
I do that a lot when Iâm nervous lol I have no chance
i do those things even when im not nervousâŠ
Everything you do is an audition. If you're rude or badly behaved you may put a bad impression on someone who may be or have a friend who is a casting director one day so you don't want to leave a bad impression on them.
Absolutely! đ
As a singer, I can say no milk before an audition. Coats the vocal cords
Kadesher or dairy in general
I love to drink tea before my audition especially mint Majesty from Starbucks! It's amazing.
@@lillth9292 Just make sure it's not caffeinated!!
Kadesher true
before singing eat fruits, vegetables,nuts,and drink room temp water :)
These are excellent tips!! I will add a few from the perspective of school auditions since a lot of comments here seem to be coming from school-age auditioners.
In school shows, Katherine's advice does apply, especially the part about following instructions. Chances are your drama teacher has a very detailed set of rules for how they audition and cast shows, and how the rehearsal process goes. READ THEM!
You may be auditioning for a particular character, but there is basically a 100% chance that the directors will at least be considering you for a role other than that one. So try to get to know the WHOLE show so you know those other characters.
It can be tempting for young actors to compare yourself to others, either to satisfy your ego ("I'm a way better singer than X") or because you are insecure ("she's a way better singer than me!"). You are better served channeling any and all of that energy into preparing your audition material or bettering your craft (e.g. dance classes, voice lessons*). Someone else may be a more advanced singer or dancer than you, but all you can control is putting your best foot forward. *While not everyone can afford dance and voice training, there are literally videos on CZcams that are EXCELLENT instruction in both of these areas.
Dress: while costumes are not used in auditions, you can throw visual cues to the directors that can help you in small ways. If you're up for Meg in Little Women, and you can rock a nice skirt, all the better. However, the most important thing is to feel good about how you look, so if jeans are how you roll, wear them.
A number of student actors literally ignore instructions about dance call. Dance call and Uggs don't mix. Dance call and sandals don't mix. Dance call and the platform heels you rocked with your jeans and nice shirt for the vocal auditions don't mix. You don't need dance shoes, but you need shoes you can move in: sneakers, flats, loafers... shoes that stay on your feet, aren't overly slippery-soled, and allow you to balance well.
Please please please try not to fixate on one character to the extent that you'll be miserable if that's not the role you're offered. In musicals, there is only one Belle, only one Mrs. Lovett, etc. And casting involves selecting actors for reasons you literally have no control over... Such as:
* you played the lead last year and they want to give that opportunity to another actor this year
* you're 5'11" and the only boy who can sing/act the male lead is 5'6"... or vice versa
* they just "saw" another actor in the role
* you have lots of scheduling conflicts
That last one is a biggie - given two actors who can both play a part, and one is "better" but has more conflicts - the role will be offered to the actor who is more available.
Even though it's better for you, as a performer, to accept any role that's offered to you, BE HONEST on that form you'll fill out. If you really truly will only accept Peter Pan, TELL THEM. There is literally nothing that will turn a casting team against you for future shows like putting down that you'll accept any role, only to turn down the role they offer you. Directors hate that with the passion of a thousand suns, because you were factored into a complex whole, and your casting affected other people's.
If you are very, very new at musical theater, then you watching this video was a great choice. Watch many others, go to some shows, watch, and learn. The first audition is definitely the hardest! Be loud and proud (so loud that it feels unnatural to a newbie - that's the volume needed for stage work). Get some coaching if you can, from your chorus teacher or folks you know in the community.
Finally, know that this comment is offered 100% in the spirit of wanting to help young actors. I believe in you and KNOW you can do the thing!!
Carol Spradling THIS COMMENT, JUST THANK YOU!
This actually makes me feel really comforted. I have an audition coming up in a few days for our yearly school production, and I've decided to go for a main role for the first time (I've been in the chorus before). Thank you so much for all this advice!!
Thanks for these tips I am a freshman and I was thinking of auditioning for our musical but of course Iâm super shy and have never sung in front of anyone so Iâm absolutely petrified Iâd love to get a role though even a small one to start it off
I dont know if you'll see this or answer but I want to major in musical theatre in college. I am also a senior and I have been dancing for 3.5 years and I've been taking choir for 4 months. As for acting New Jersey doesnt really have a lot of options for me. In my school the drama class is just a free class to be on your phone. Also my repitore is really new and only consists of 1 song that I know by heart, while i have other songs not learned. With all of this overall information will i still be good enough/eligible to audition even though I dont have as much experience as other students may have?
@@shaniahdavis5792 I would definitely encourage you to practice a lot. Sing and dance, listen to music, watch other performers. Even if you don't get into the school you want to doesn't mean you're a bad actor. Believe in yourself and break a leg on any auditions you do.
Don't give anyone reasons not to cast you! Don't say that your song was bad, or your monologue sucked even if it did. If you act confident then the casting director will have MORE reasons to cast you!
+Harrison Kendall YES!!! Such a good point, couldn't agree more!! đ
Thanks this is great advice!! đâš
Tomorrow I'm auditioning for a part in my high school's version of Legally Blonde, and I've never sang in front of ANYONE before, let alone do an audition and I'm pretty petrified. This video helped, thanks!
That's awesome!!! Break a leg, Crystal!!! đđđ
Katherine Steele My audition went really well!!! They told me I have a good range and made their job difficult, cause there's so much talent in the school! đ
Yes!!! That's awesome!!!! đ
Crystal Brooks MY SCHOOL PLAY IS GONNA B LEGALLY BLONDE AND AGHH
Miss Mac What part are you gonna go for?
My number one tip is why you're doing a singing audition make sure to move your hands a bit and look entertaining don't just stand there doing nothing it seems very unprofessional, but don't choreograph a dance to the song just move your hands a bitđ Also, PROJECT!!!
That's very true-- a lot of new performers, before they figure out their real acting style, tend to be overly stiff or animated. Finding a healthy middle ground is a definite step up!! đ
What does project mean here?
@@user-bj7em4fv1p sing loudly
I already subconsciously talk with my hands đ
Yes! When you open up your body you appear more confident because you don't look shy, if that makes sense. It's also a great tip for when you are giving a speech đ
My biggest advice is to be confident in yourself and DON'T compare yourself to the other people auditioning. I did that in my first audition and I was in the ensemble. About a year later, I was super confident (but not braggy) and I got the main role!
edit: you can do this!!!!!!!
I was auditioning for Newsies, but after I did my audition they gave me a callback for Anne of Green Gables. I had no idea what the show was about đ
after you finish you songs what do the casting directors say/do
Never look casting directors in the eye, look at there forehead
Izzy XD ONLY if your uncomfortable with eye contact
Homosexual Yuuri you wouldn't look an audience member directly in the eyes. Your directors are your audience. You are trying to show them their abilities. When you make eye contact with them it breaks the fourth wall, ruins the suspension of disbelief, and most importantly: it's really awkward. I like to look between the heads of whoever I'm auditioning for so my focus is still on their eye level and I'm not blocking my face off at all.
I was really scared at my first audition because I never sang In front of people so I just looked at the wall but made some eye contact
A) Be on time and of course by, "on time", I mean "early". Theatres audition a lot of people and they will not wait for you. In fact, if you're there early and prepared, you may be able to go in in someone else's time slot which they will appreciate.
B) If you're auditioning with a pianist that you haven't worked with before (likely), keep that in mind when choosing your audition song. I'm not saying "do something incredibly easy for the sake of the pianist" but a piece like "Giants in the Sky" from "Into the Woods" and/or anything Jason Robert Brown where the piano part and the vocal part might as well be on other planets might not be the best choice for something that you get one shot at.
C) Avoid dairy (mucus) or anything buttery pre-audition that you might feel sliding around in your stomach when you're already nervous. My pre-audition meal is usually something light like a salad. You can always eat after.
D) Remember the people on the other side of that table WANT you to be good because they have to find somebody to play the part. They're on your side.
I had a very bad audition lately, and I thought there was nooo way I'll get the part. But I did. I guess they saw potential and my attitude, just like you said :)
What role?
+katrina wirtz ensemble in Les Miserables :)
Oh yay!! Congrats!!! :)
A tip!Just be yourself.
+Nikki Tokat Def agreed!
Tips
Find a song good for you, or pick another note to sing (itâs good to be different)
Act it out! Donât be so shy
Study your character
Be nice
Go to the time after lunch (they will be happy after food)
Donât be hard on yourself! Make mistakes and keep going
donât blame yourself because the casting director didnât think you were right for the role. last year i did hairspray and one of my friends got little inez and i was in the select ensemble. this year, we did seussical and she was very certain that she would get gertrude. i ended up getting gertrude and she was a bird girl and she was upset about it for a few days. later into the production, she loved the part she was in because she didnât let herself not getting the part she wanted ruin her time having fun doing the show.
I auditioned for my schoolâs rendition of the sound of music and I blew it. I walked in and performed my monologue with a very shaky voice because I was so nervous... when I went to sing, nothing came out. I literally couldnât sing. I know why. It was because the choir teacher at our school sits in on the auditions and helps out. I am terrified of him. I canât stress this enough. Even if there is someone that might scare you in the room, donât worry about it. They arenât going to say bad things about you behind your back. Be the best you that you can be and close your eyes if you need to. If you dont get cast for the role that you wanted, it is because you didnât fit the image that they had in mind for that character. Thatâs not your fault. You canât control how they see a certain character and that you donât look like their image. Be the best you that you can be and always, no matter what, SMILE!!!
I wouldnât AT ALL say I was âadvancedâ but honestly my top tip is probably BE YOURSELF. directors want to cast people who are comfortable being themselves.
During the dance part of the audition, BE CONFIDENT AND SMILE! Even if you suck at dancing and can barely remember the choreography, try to be front and center, smiling and ready for anything. The director notices the difference between the person hiding in the back and the person confidently standing in the front.
Something that helps me is to have a playlist that motivates me to listen to while Iâm getting ready for the audition (doing makeup, stretching etc) đ
Donât freak out if you make a mistake during an audition. I saw an Idina Menzel interview once where she said that during her audition for Elphaba, she had a really bad voice crack and accidentally said the f word to the directors faces, but she still got the part and look at her now!!!
Itâs started as a party.....
Than it became a cult......
Theatre Thursday
A Musical Horror Comedy
Someone make this happen
Guys I have an extremely helpful tip. DO NOT TELL PEOPLE THAT THEY WOULD BE GREAT FOR A ROLE!!!! It gets to their heads and if they don't get the part they bomb. They could get really upset if they don't get the part they stress out because they usually don't understand why they didn't get the part. I've seen this happen a couple times and it's not pretty
Never bring your phone into the audition room
John W Hood ooh why
Christine Liew you'll look under appreciated
Unprofessional**
Kiersten Simpson OMG and to think i thought everyone does it so i can do it too. But isnt it ok to just bring instead of use it during the audition?
Christine Liew you can, just don't be checking your tumblr during your audition
Dont question the characters persona make it your own the auditioners love it xxx
I know this video is over a year old now, but I wanted to comment on it as this is where it all began for me :) I hadn't been in a show since high school (2004...I feel old...) and I finally decided to audition for a show at our local community theatre this week to try to get back into the musical theatre world - I regretted not doing anything through college or after because of my fear of "not being good enough." I spent the last 2 months preparing since I hadn't done any singing, acting, or dancing in a formal setting for 13-16 years - it was a bit rough, but I found this video which helped a TON and I've been a member of the Theatre Thursday Fam ever since! These videos were a positive light in my journey and reminded me to keep going and find the joy in the experience. AND - I GOT CAST! And surprisingly, I even have one line (in addition to being in the ensemble which I am STOKED about because it's Mary Poppins and the chance I may be a chimney sweep due to tap experience is making me super giddy). What! So, long story short-ish, THANK YOU for making these videos, for being that positive force, and for generally being awesome.
Kelsey Thomas Yes! This! I have terrible audition anxiety and thought everyone loved auditions and I was just screwed. 11 years post-college, and Iâm finally getting back into auditioning. These videos are so helpful. Iâm doing so much research!
Practicing in front of people really helps! I practiced with the help of my sister on a crowded beach. No one cares and it helped me get comfortable with doing it in front of people. Highly recommend!
1) act like you wanna be there! (Aka smile.)
I've done a bunch of auditions but every single time I have one I come back to you videos on the subject, and you always help calm my nerves. Thank you Kat!
I'm going to audition for my school's musical next year and it's going to be the first time i have ever auditioned. I'm scared that they are not going to like my voice! I want to get a head start but they haven't told us the musical yet! I'm super nervous!
+Originalnarcat :3 ooh, exciting!!! Break a leg!!
Originalnarcat :3 did u audition yet?
I'm not a complete expert, but I have been doing theatre for 5 years. My #1 tip is to really just be happy and confident!
+CassidyNoel H totally agree!! đŠđ
when you go in for an audition for musical theatre or just acting go in as if you already got the part. Not like "oh im better then everyone eles, I got the part" but you walk in there with a smile and have confidence in yourself. đ
+mae k Nice!! Confidence is always super important
I recently just auditioned for my High Schools Musical! I thought my audition went really well and then I saw the cast list and I didn't get exactly what I wanted... I just kept in mind that not every part is meant for me! Just remember not to get yourself down if you didn't get exactly what you wanted! more opportunities will come your way! You are your own unique self and you don't need to change that for anyone else!
Don't sing a song from Heathers please don't do it unless it's for adult theatre
+little l o v e l y haha! đ depending on the song, it might be slightly awkward (but others are totally okay!)
+Katherine Steele Yeah but they might look up the musicalđ
Skiz *busts out Candy Store*
And yup there's my audition!
Skiz I think it depends on the song but there aren't a lot you can do really :((
i think seventeen would really be the only okay song to do
The casting people ARE YOUR FRIENDS. Theyâre rooting for you and are really looking to cast you as a good role. Donât think theyâre against you, it will add more stress.
One thing Iâve learned is that our body language shows a lot about yourself. A couple things you shouldnât do is cross your arms, have your hands in your pockets, or continuously look at your feet. Body language can really change a directors impression of you :))
Charlie Carrot tysm for the tip!â€ïž
If youâre given a few songs by the director to chose from for the audition and canât choose your own, pick the one that most fits your range, then which one u like. Sometimes (especially in high school) people just pick whichever one is their favorite because it may be popular
I just auditioned for our highschool production of Godspell, I've never done theatre before (but obviously I love it) and like it's weird because it was one of the most comfortable, and non-anxiety-inducing auditions I've ever had in choir or band (which I've been doing for years). I hadn't seen this video yet when I did but it's still quite lovely and I wanted to share my experience.
I came across your channel a few months ago, and I subscribed instantly! I have loved musical theatre for as long as I can remember (my first musical was Cats, btw.) I'm hoping to study musical theatre in college and obviously start a career. I suppose I'd just like to say that I love your videos, and thank you for making them!
#theatrethursdaysister
+Emu Clark oh my goodness, you are so sweet!!! Thank YOU! â€â€ #TheatreThursdayFam đđđ
Emu Clark same
Exactly the same for me!!
hey!! so i have been watching all of your âtips for auditioningâ videos, and i would like to thank you!! all of the advice really calmed me down, and it helped me learn things that earned me a role as Miss Hannigan in Annie! iâve never been a lead before (iâve only been in the chorus), but now iâm one of the leads! thank you so much for these videos :D
This is the most wonderful and unbelievably helpful channels I have even come across. Last year, I participated in my first audition at my school for Beauty and the Beast Jr. I was extremely terrified because they made us sing a Capella. I was basically frozen in fear. I am always told by my friends that I have an amazing voice though I deny it. It's not like they have ever heard my loud/almost screaming voiceđđđ. This year, the musical is Seussical Jr. and I'm trying out for JoJo or Gertrude. Thanks to you and your ability to put these tips out there for all of us beginners to use, I am going to try to be A LOT more confident.â€â€â€Thank You
If you get super nervous and tense before auditions some good ways to help is to focus on your breathing, you can also tense up before its your turn to sing and then untense as you get up.
Some advice for school musical auditions:
- if you aren't picking a song from the show, pick something that your teacher's age group will know -> ask parents
- pick something for your range but that includes something out of your comfort range (if you're an alto like me pick a song thats low but has a few manageable high notes)
- look expressive and relaxed! if you are comfortable in front of the casting directors, you will be comfotrable in front of an audience.
- shoot for a role thats big it shows ambition and you might even get that or something more manageable
hope this helps!
Iâm still sorta a beginner but Iâve audition a few times. A tip I have is to be very kind and encouraging to anyone else auditioning. The directors might see and may take that into consideration. I was quiet at my first audition and I feel like the directors didnât like that. Also, the biggest role isnât always the best role for you. For example, if you have a lower vocal range, and you think you might be better at playing a shy girl. Elle Woods may not be a good choice, even though she is a lead. Audition for a role that is best for you. And if you donât get the role you want, thatâs okay, you learn from mistakes. :) have a great day and to anyone having and audition, I know youâll do great!
iâm auditioning for phantom of the opera and then frozen a little after! wish me luck đł haha
I am 10... I started when I was 9. I love to sing and I loved to since I was 4 but whenever I sing in front of anyone else my voice sounds really bad. But when I am alone I can sing really well. Plus, I always am comparing myself to other people who have been doing this longer than me and have more experience. This video helped me sing in front of other people.
Smile, be kind and know that this is an amazing opportunity, if you donât take it then youâll never know if you get the role!!
Who else is watching this in 2019 because they have an audition coming up?
Me!
Me
2021
I do CMTSJ (childrenâs musical theater) and at camp we came up with a saying : practice makes progress
this helped me so much as I have a audition tomorrow for Peter pan and I I'm auditioning for Wendy or marina .
i have auditions for jv theatre tomorrow, wish me luck!
did you get the lead??
One tip, even though I'm not totally experienced, is too listen to what the director(s) want. If they ask you to try something, do it. They like people that they can work with.đ
Can you do a video on how you research and prepare for a specific audition? Including how much time you spend (or should spend) on that research knowing that you audition for SO many things? Books, internet research, reading other plays by the same playwright, finding a new song in a panic, etc?
I got one! Your very first impression the second you step foot in the audition room should be LOUD AND PROUD! I once did pretty well with my singing and monologue but the way I said hello made me seem like I was shy because I was nervous(who isnât). Iâm DEFINITELY not shy believe me. BIG AND BRIGHT!
I donât have a lick of theatre talent, but I did sports in school. When Iâd have tryouts, my dad would always tell me go out there like youâre on the team already. Take it seriously, as you would if you were actually selected. Own up to your mistakes, donât have an attitude, and stay humble and grateful to be there. The important people will notice, theyâre not dummies.
YOUR CHANNEL IS ME IN LIKE ALL YOUR VIDEOS COMBINED WOW
omg YAY!!!! Love hearing that â€ïžđđ #TheatreThursdayFam
Never forget that however bad you feel about yourself, or if you think someone did better than you. that person can think the exact same thing about themselves. you are NEVER the only nervous person and all you be is the best you-you can
I totally should have watched this before my first audition
I'm planning on auditioning for my community theatre's production of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. I was only part of crew for the spring play, (Pride and Prejudice) during my senior year of high school. I really want to try for a cast part this time though. Even if I don't get a part, it will be amazing to get back into theatre
Here's a tip DON'T SING A SONG FROM THAT MUSICAL THAT YOU ARE AUDITIONING FOR!!!!!!!!!!
depends on the situation, but in most cases, I totally agree with you! đđđ
Abigail Truxillo
Do you mind if I ask why?
Abigail Truxillo wHY
It makes you director think that you want the part you're singing for. It's good for the director to know you want a part but it's kinda spitting it their facesđ and they want to hear a song that shows off your strengths. So unless your director specifically asked for you to sing a song from the show, just avoid it. It's like a weird unspoken rule. đ đ
I mean there is ONE exception. If they give out a song to sing for auditions, sing it! They probably know what they are listening for and chose the song for a reason
Here's a tip, try to get into your character , really project and keep a growth mindset.
My advice: If you are at a callback and you mess up the song or whatever at the end of that if you have time ask if you can sing again! One of the worst regrets in my theater life not asking to re-sing somewhere over the rainbow (I wasnât familiar with the track). I lost Dorthy bc of that one mistake. :(
has anyone ever auditioned without sheet music/acapella?
CarSVernon i personally haven't, but I have a lot of knowledge about it-what questions do you have?
Katherine Steele hi thanks for your reply! I was just wondering if it is something that is done, and if it's fine or frowned upon/ any other stuff that typically might come up if you audition w/o it.
CarSVernon hey there! Unless specified, it's frowned upon to audition without sheet music/acapella
Katherine Steele okay thanks for the advice! :)
CarSVernon me- for my drama club
Great tips and you have such a winning personality! Iâve been auditioning for years and you hit the nail on the head!
Another tip is if you can find someone else you know who likes acting and ask them to audition with you, it will make the experience less nerve wracking and increase your chances of getting a part đ
Iâm kinda new to musical Theater... but I have learned some things.
1) If the character you are playing is supposed to be funny, try to make someone in the audition room laugh. Itâs a confidence booster and it shows you can deliver jokes.
2) TURN YOUR PHONE OFF. If you have friends that spam the group chat or will possibly text you negative news, you donât want that. Nothing to mess up your confidence.
3) Politeness. Say âGood afternoon!â or something when you walk in. Thank them for their time when you walk out.
4) Be accommodating. If when you get to the audition and they want you to read something differently or they give you a note, do your best to take it.
5) Notes are your friends. They are not positive or negative.
6) Find the good in the character you are cast as. If you didnât get the character you wanted, find things that are positive about the character. For example, I really wanted a role for a show I was just in, but got ensemble. I found that it was waaaayy better than the role I wanted for a number of reasons.
đ Break a leg!!
Another thing. Study the character you are auditioning for. Find the voice type of the original actor/actress, watch multiple videos of other productions. Watch multiple videos of the production the whole way through!!
Iâm auditioning for theatre the first time and Iâm so nervous! Iâve done chorus before and solo auditions were so scary for me! This definitely helped me. Thank you
I found out that I made Guys and Dolls at my high school and it's thanks to your amazing videos that I watch every week!! Since this audition was only to see who's in the show I'm hoping When I go back to school in the fall that after my casting audition I get the role of Sarah Brown! Thank you so much for your videos they have really helped me!!
YOU NEED MORE SUBSCRIBERS đ€©đ€©đ€©. Youâre amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi. I just wanted to say thank you for the auditioning advice in this and other videos of yours. I'm a singer whose never acted or been in a musical. I decided to audition for the part of Dragon in a community theater production of Shrek! The Musical. I chose that part because it was age appropriate and didn't involve any acting (At least, not any lines. We still have to act when singing). I chose "Bring On The Men" from Jekyll and Hyde as my audition song. With the help of my voice teacher, I cut it down to about 20 bars. They also had me act out a couple of other parts with other actors. I didn't get the part of Dragon; but I did get cast as the Wicked Witch and Queen Lilian. I realize some people might not consider this to be a big deal because it's not exactly Broadway. But it's a big deal to me. Considering I'd never acted or auditioned for anything before, I think I did pretty good. Your advice and my voice teacher's advice really helped. So, thanks!
Hey Kath omg, I know this video is 5 years old but I have to say this: Your videos about auditions helped me SO MUCH, I went from a shy kid who had never acted before to being cast as Heather Duke in a local production, thatâs my first show ever! TYSM!!
Thank you. I am a beginner actress and this really helped!!!
This video helped calm my nerves a lot since my city's civic theater has auditions for Newsies in February, and I was planning on auditioning for Crutchie. This will be my first ever audition, as I've always wanted to be involved with theater, but never found the time or the courage. What makes it more nerve-wracking is that this civic theater is very competitive, to the point where sometimes auditions will have 200-300 people auditioning. I don't know if that'll be the case for this one, but it is a pretty big musical. I believe that I can bring a raw and fresh take on the character of Crutchie, I just need to believe in myself that I can go and audition without talking myself out of it. This video helped calm me down quite a bit! Thinking my audition song will either be "Go The Distance" from Hercules or "Million Dreams" from The Greatest Showman!
Oh my goodness your personality is seriously the best thing ever !!
Hey! I've got an audition for Jasmine from Alladin soon and I'm nervous because although I have a bit of experience , all the other people going are 18-23 years old (I asked if I could come and they said yes (Im 15) and I feel like they might all have more maturity and stage presence then me . Also I tend to shake when I'm nervous , what would be your advice for me ? X I really really want this part xx
Jazz Habgood I'm sure your question is probably directed to Catherine, but I've have done a few plays in the past and I can give you a few tips. 1) don't worry about the age range, if I'm correct Jasmine was 14 or 15 in the movie anyway
2) if you have been practicing for a while but you still aren't sure you are good enough let me tell you YOU ARE. If you've given it your all then just trust your work and be confident.
3) if you are given time to read over the script make sure you determine two things: One, the purpose of the dialogue and two, the emotion you are trying to get across.
3) if you are reading with another person, don't forget to receive them. As in, play off of them. When it is their time to speak don't look down an the script.
4) stage presence has a lot to go with engaging and making the room feel alive with your personality so don't be shy! :)
5) it's also good to be inventive. Like adding your own little something to the part. It could be a look, or a pause, or an action for example. And 6) don't forget to enjoy the experience and have fun!
Best of luck! Really hope you get the part! âșïž
(Btw, I have an audition tomorrow too, so I feel your anxiety.) Right there with you girl! đ
Jazz Habgood Oh, and I heard that if you blow on your thumb when you're nervous it's supposed to calm you down but idk đ
Thankyou so much!! xx and i hope your audition went really well :) , you've really helped me xx I shall let you know if i get the part (fingers crossed!!) and i hope you get yours from your audition xx , thank you again so much! xx
Jazz Habgood No problem! I'm glad to help. And it turns out my audition Is tomorrow, so I will keep you updated on what I get too. âșïž
Jazz Habgood I got my role. I'm Rapunzel! đ
I recommend going on vocal rest the day before and day of or at least just take it easy. Also adding lemon juice to (ROOM TEMPERATURE) water I found is helpful to me. Cold water isnât great for your voice so if you are going to drink water it needs to be room temperature!
I have done musicals for 5 years and one tip is... act like you are talking to someone this relates to. You might want to try for a character that relates to YOU. I am trying out for Gertrude in Suessical Jr. and I act like I am speaking to my crush who likes my best friend! Also, be confident in yourself and don't focus on being better than everyone else!
my first audition is tomorrow and iâm so freaking nervous
iâm starting late and i know everyone else whoâs trying out is more experienced than me
but iâm gonna get through it i guess, wish me luck!
I know this video is old but my best advice is dress for the role you want in a subtle sense, but don't be excessive. Had a girl auditioning for a Heathers performance I was in who came in dressed in full Veronica cosplay and I think that probably played a part in her getting ensemble. It just puts a weird vibe on your audition when you're dressed as a character. Along with that, don't be mad if you're ensemble! Ensemble is great! Ensemble is what makes scenes and songs not awkward! Ensemble is important and you shouldn't get too disappointed if you're part of it!
heres a tip that i think has helped me:
dont tell a bunch of ppl about the audition! if its something smaller like community theater its more ok to tell ppl but even then dont tell everyone! ESPECIALLY for professional ones! the reason i say this is because when u tell friends or famiky snd stuff they will most likely say âomg!! you are totally gonna get it!â and that ends up getting in my head. i end up gettting my hopes up. i try to just tell close family. i also try and tell myself âhey, even if u dont het this role/in this show, you get to have more audition experience snd get your name out thereâ
hope this helps đ
My theatre teacher assigned us this video to watch, but lowkey, you seem really cool, so I subbed.
I have just gotten a part in our schools version of High School Musical as Sharpay Evans! Dead excited :))
1 . Practice all the time in front of more people every time
2 . Choose a good song you know and you can do very well
3 . Don't compare yourself to others
4 . Be confident
5 . Act like no one is there act like your in the shower and you might feel more confident in yourself
Thank you so so much, you gave me hope and courageđ€
I have done many plays, a musical, and here are some of my most tips:
~Listen to the original song/movie many times (ex: if you are doing an Annie Jr play, then watch the original âits a hard knock lifeâ song or any other, and see how they sing it, which is probably what the person who is leading it is looking for~
~If you are given a script or something that says the lines or songs then go off of it early. For example if you are auditioning for a musical and you have to sing in front of people then stop and put the script down (obviously at a place where you think you can finish the rest of the song)~
~When you act make sure to emphasize your words when needed (for example, say you have to say âshut upâ say SHUT UP or if you are sad make sure to sound sad~
~lastly if you have make the âlifeâ in the play/musical make it realistic. For example, if you have to âwake upâ in a scene, donât just jump up, but take your time, like you usually would, ya know. Rub your eyes, yawn, stretch, anything. Or if you are in a parade or something in the play/musical make sure you are enthusiastic and thrilled. It makes things a whole lot more interesting~
Take it from someone who has been in 7 lead roles in several different plays. It is really fun. But if you are auditioning for a character who does not speak just acts, make sure that when you act that you five it 150 percent. You will not have opportunities to sing or speak so make sure that what you do, do, that you give it your all! I hope these helped, and i have been in 1 musical, and around 10-12 plays. đ
I have been doing musical theatre for a little over a year now, so I wouldn't consider myself a COMPLETE newbie, but there are definitely things I want to learn. I have an audition for Pippin in about 3 weeks. I was so sure that I wanted ti be Catherine and that I was going to sing Hopelessy Devoted to You, but as I listen to the soundtrack more and more, I realize how much I want to be Leading Player. Have you ever been in a situation like this, and what would you recommend I do? Should I change my song?
I'm auditioning for my high school's beauty and the beast musical next week, and this really helped! I'm still really nervous though đ¶đ¶ I've never sung in front of anyone before (let alone 3 people who're intensely judging me!) and I'm also scared that I'll be awkward and suck at dancing đ
+Ramen break a leg!! đđđ
Every time I have an up coming audition I watch this video! Thanks for the advice!
Also very important: if you are given feedback, listen to it and do something with it! Taking constructive criticism is incredibly important if you want to improve your singing/acting/dancing/whatever. Don't let it get you down, learn from it instead
Literally binge watched all of your videos!!
+Julie O aah yay!!! â€đđđ» #TheatreThursdayFam đđđ
you look just like grace Philipps, the resemblance is remarkable. anyways keep up your videos. lot's of love from Venezuela
That is so nice of you!!!! Thank you so much!! Xx đđ
OMG SHE DOESSSS
I'm auditioning for the first time in one week! This is very helpful.
+Ricardo The Angry Pigeon thank you!! đ and break a leg!! đđđ»
I'm auditioning for a Hamilton solo... I love Hamilton and I hope I'll make it and it won't go to one of those kids that hates broadway. I hope I make it, I'm so scared! I'll try to be exciting!
musicals mabel love the profile picture
Sorry Katherine, I know this is a few months late but I'm going to try out for my musical theater for a major in school, I really want to got to this magnet school but you have to try out to get in, I need some helpful tips to ace my addition and impress my judges, if you could respond to this or even make a separate video on how I could do better, it would mean the world to me
Hey there! Definitely tons of tips-- t I made regarding the College Audition process (not exactly what you're going through, but still tons of relevant info in there) đ Here's the link czcams.com/play/PLQT9aHBtN_y-XuDqpU1Y81EJQYleRHvmw.html Let me know if you have any specific questions/things you need help with. Break a leg!!!