Westside Players

General Audition Information

While auditions for each show will vary according to the requirements and needs of each individual director, following are some common audition recommendations for actors.

The audition form can be downloaded here.

Audition Tips

1. Be prepared. You have one opportunity to make a dazzling first impression on the directory and preparation is a large part of the confidence that you will project. If you are using a prepared monologue, be sure that you are memorized and have a firm grasp of the character and action of the play.
2. Research the show you are auditioning for as much as possible. In fact, it is customary in most semi-professional and professional auditions to have experience with the script or author before auditioning. This will help familiarize you with any special requirements such as dialects, skill requirements that you fulfill, or any specialized content concerns.
3. Dress smart. You are presenting yourself as someone that wants to be in the production, so you should look your best; but also be aware that some roles require significant amounts of movement. Dress in clothing that allows sufficient movement as well.
4. Be on time for auditions. Since we are all community volunteers, our time is precious. If you are running late, ensure that you have the contact number for the director or theatre (included on audition announcements) so that they can make special accommodations.
5. There are a couple of things that can help bump up the professionalism in an audition.
   1. Smile. Introduce yourself clearly, including the name of the piece you are using for the audition and the author. For example: “Hello, my name is George Spelvin and I will be portraying Sir Thomas Moore from Robert Bolt’s A Man for All Seasons.”
   2. Take a transition moment and breath before becoming the character and performing your monologue. If performing multiple pieces, take a transitional break to cue the director that you are moving to the next piece.
   3. Take a transition breath and moment before thanking the director and clearly restating your name to keep it in their minds. Exit the stage the same way that you entered. Smile.
6. If you are not cast, do not take it personally.  The dynamics of casting a production are complicated.  Age, height, size, stage presence, comparison to an opposing lead, scheduling conflicts, attitudes, etc. all contribute to the mix and ultimately the end result.  If you are not cast as an actor, you can still help as a volunteer.