No matter how experienced you are with auditions, there’s no doubt that standing in front of a panel of people and performing can be nerve wracking. For those who are just starting out with auditions, the process can feel daunting. Finding the song that perfectly showcases your voice while still being in a similar style to the show, or finding the perfect 16-32 bar cut, can prove to be difficult. When auditioning for a musical, whether a community theatre production, school production, or a larger company, there are many ways to make the audition process easier!
1: A vocal coach can help!
When leading up to an audition, many people will enlist in the help of their voice teacher! Don’t have one? Many vocal teachers offer coaching sessions (our 4 lesson package can be the perfect way to lead up to an audition). Your voice teacher can assess your voice, range, and strengths to help you find the perfect audition song that best shows off your voice! If your theatre has requested specific requirements, such as only singing a 32 bar cut, your vocal coach will also be able to help you choose the best part of the song for you to nail your audition. Auditions aren’t scary if you have a well prepared song that you know makes you sound great!
2: Stay hydrated - but don’t wait till it’s too late…
If you’ve read my blogs before, you know I am a huge nerd when it comes to vocal health tips, I could go on for hours! But all too often, I see people nervously chugging their water right before an audition. When the nerves kick in, you might feel a tickle in your throat, or you may sip your water as a nervous habit, but this can actually make your audition harder on you. Not only will you have to plan bathroom breaks around your moment in the spotlight, but drinking too much water right before you sing may be too little, too late! Instead, try hydrating 3 days prior to the audition (although everyone should strive to be well hydrated at all times!). This will help hydrate your vocal folds, allowing you to sing much more easily on the audition day. Also, instead of nervously drinking water while you wait for your turn, try focusing on calming breathing exercises to help ease your nerves!
3: Know the show.
Do some research prior to the audition - learn about the plot and the character you would like to be considered for. Sometimes, a theatre will request an audition song from a show that is in the same style or same time period as the show you’re auditioning for. Unless specifically asked, you should not sing a song that is from the show you are auditioning for, so knowing the show will also help you to choose a song that fits with the character. You wouldn’t want to sing “Think of Me” from Phantom of the Opera when auditioning for the role of Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street, as the song showcases operatic vocals, which is not the style of 42nd Street.
4: Dress for success.
Dress nicely, but dress comfortably! Don’t pull out the high heels you’ve barely ever worn, as this can throw you off. You’ll want to choose something that is practical. There also may be a movement portion of the audition, so make sure you wear something you can move in! If it’s for a very dance-heavy show, make sure you plan accordingly and bring something to change into, if need be.
5: Confidence is KEY.
When you get to the audition, be sure to carry yourself with confidence, and be kind to everyone in the room - as they say, the audition begins the moment you walk in the door! Make sure you thank the accompanist, make plenty of eye contact and smile at the panel as you present your song - you want to show them that you would be a good person to work with! Also, even though you may be feeling the anxiety of being in a room full of people who are also auditioning, be courteous to the other people there. Not only should you be kind to those around you, but you could be cast alongside many of them - and you never know who is watching your interactions as a part of the audition!
6: Have fun!
This one might seem difficult, as the idea of going to an “audition” can cause uneasiness, but auditions are a chance to perform and showcase your talents! If you’ve done the hard work leading up to the audition, you’ll be able to stand up there and perform your piece with ease, and have fun while doing it! Remember, the panel of people watching your audition want you to succeed. Take a deep breath, smile, and show them what you’ve got!
Voice teacher Sienna performing Pretty Funny from the musical “Dogfight.”
This article was written by Sienna Averett, lead voice teacher. Sienna graduated from UArts in Philadelphia for Vocal Performance, studying pedagogy, musical theatre and vocal health.
Interested in voice lessons or audition prep with Sienna? She is available for In-Studio and Skype lessons. Fill out contact form and select Sienna as your teacher!