TEEN AUDITIONS
What are Teen Auditions ?
Teen Auditions - Interview for actors conducted by a director or a casting director in order to determine if the actor fits the role. The actor should prepare a monologue or in most cases read from the project's sides.
Usually after a successful audition, the actor would be asked to come again for a callback.
Some auditions involve cold reading, or performing a script that the actor is not familiar with. This is similar to many dance auditions, in which the focus is on learning new choreography, rather than showcasing prepared work.
For smaller roles in a large production, mass auditions are held at which many inexperienced or aspiring performers, most without agents or manager show up. These are popularly known as cattle calls, since the hopefuls are often kept together in one large room like a herd. American Idol is doing auditions by using this technique, since there are so many auditions.
Teen Auditions Advice from Casting Directors :
Ask any casting director what matters most when an actor shows up to an audition. Most will say, "They need to be prepared." (Showing up on time can't hurt either.)
These should be obvious, but it's surprising how many actors make a bad impression with something as simple as inappropriate behavior. It can knock you out before you step into the ring. Remember: Casting directors already have the job — you don't. So you need to prove yourself to them, not the other way around.
Other suggestions we heard from CDs: Avoid unnecessary chit-chat. Don't linger in the room for too long after you read. Stay away from using most props. And avoid making physical contact with the casting director during your audition.
A feeling of desperation is another sure way not to get a callback. Never view an audition as nerve-wracking nightmare, or make it look that way. Consider each audition an opportunity: A chance to perform for an audience — albeit a small one. Or walk into the audition saying, "No matter what happens, I'll do the best I can today." Remember: The casting director is not here to judge you harshly; he or she simply wants to find the perfect person for the role. That could be you.
Actors sometimes seek out coaching for auditions, but primarily for large film/TV roles, or for admittance to an MFA program. Many believe it is worth the expense — if only for the boost in self-confidence. In last-minute emergencies, actors even resort to phone coaching, although that's not an ideal situation.
However, with or without coaching, one trap to avoid is too much preparation. Read the sides carefully but don't freeze your approach — you may be asked to change it. Longtime coach and acting teacher Craig Wallace says he never sends actors out 100 percent set for the audition. "If you're over prepared, you have no flexibility," he says. "And you don't know what 50 percent of the process is until you walk into the room.
"You can't have the piece controlling you. You have to leave room for the circumstances of where you're going to be."
Teen Audition Tips!
Preparation for the Many children and teen audition should begin by reviewing the following three components of the audition process.
STAGE
PRESENCE
Speak clearly and with a smile when you state your name and age. Be
polite, gracious, friendly and always say thank you after your audition.
The best thing to wear is your most genuine smile. Be vivacious; let us
see your personality.
DANCE
The technical precision is important, but less important than the
enthusiasm with which you present yourself. Look like you are having
fun! Remember audiences enjoy watching performers who look like they are
having the time of their lives.
MUSIC
First of all, it is very important that you give careful consideration
when choosing an audition song. The song you pick should showcase the
good qualities of your voice as much as possible.
- Do not go outside your range
- Take full advantage of those eight measures; choose a song that will demonstrate your range in those eight measures.
- Show off your personality
- Choose music that is age appropriate
- Remember that you will not have a microphone, so pick a song you can project. Remember there is a difference between projecting and screaming.
- Always make sure you bring
sheet music in your key. Singing Happy Birthday should be a last
resort. It looks like you did not care enough to prepare a song.
The public library is a great
source for sheet music. The main library down town can even track down
music that is out of print. Your music teacher would also be a great
resource. They usually can provide copies of sheet music or can
transcribe music into your key. Give them plenty of time to help you.
Dress appropriately for the audition (no bare midriffs – Be
professional). No heavy make-up (the "pageant" look makes you look
amateur). Wear age appropriate comfortable dance clothing. Do not forget
your dance shoes.
"Break a leg" and we look forward to seeing you at the audition!