Nail It!

Prepare for an audition is challenging, but doing so in the right way will greatly increase your chances of being called back for a second "callback" audition. This article will focus on preparation, how to prepare, and what to prepare so you're ready every single time.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

What to Do...

Things You'll Need:

• Yourself
• Sheet Music

1. How to Get a Callback from an Audition

   • 1
     Go in with confidence. Before you convince anyone else that you are amazing, you must believe it yourself. From the second you open the door to step into the casting room, every molecule of your body must exude an energy that says "I'm here, you can stop looking now." Before you go into the room, do something to pump yourself up. For some people, simply looking in the mirror and repeating an affirming message is enough. For some, listening to a song that puts them in a triumphant mood works. Experiment and see which puts you in that self assured mood easier.
   • 2
     Tailor your material to your audition. There's nothing worse for a casting director than watching dozens of possibly talented actors waste her time doing material that has nothing to do with the project she is casting. Research the show you are auditioning for. Is it a musical? If so, is it an old standard, or is it contemporary? Is it a rock musical? If this is the field you wish to work in, you must know the material. A plumber doesn't bring tools appropriate for PVC pipes to work on copper piping. You must take your job just as seriously. The proliferation of bad actors in the world of auditions is due in large part to the misconception that acting and auditioning is easy. It is not. You must not treat it so, or you will fall into the category which I just described.
   • 3
     Take an audition listing in your local paper and do research on the play listed. Find out what kind of play it is. Read the play, cover to cover. Listen to the soundtrack all the way through. Are there roles in it for you? If so, which would you audition for? Is it a musical? If so, what role would suit you? What is the vocal range of the role you would audition for? Can you hit all of his notes? Try this with several listings to practice doing research.
   • 4
     Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse! Once you've researched the play you're going to audition for, you must pick your audition material for it. If it's a musical, you will most likely be required to prepare a portion of a song. Eight to sixteen bars is standard, so pick a song that has an eight to sixteen bar section that shows off your range applicable to the role you're auditioning for. If it is a play, they may want to hear a monologue. Monologues are tricky, because you're all alone up there, yet it must be active. Pick a monologue that's appropriate, but one that has something happening in it. A piece where the character who is talking goes through some kind of change.
   • 5
     Read the script more than once if possible. If it is a new script, try to read something else that the author has written, or read something of a similar style to get your head in the world of the character you might be reading. Once you've prepared your cuttings of song and monologue, you must rehearse them until you can recite and sing them in your sleep. They must come off your tongue like they are your own thoughts and words, sung or spoken. This will only enhance your confidence.
   • 6
     Show it to a friend. Find a trusted friend and perform your audition for them. Have them time you to make sure that you don't exceed the time limits given to you. Listen to their notes and constructive criticisms. Remember, you can only see so much from where you are. If something looks awkward, and they are truly a good and trusted friend, listen to them. Cut the piece again, or perhaps look for a new piece altogether. The most important thing is that you prepare a song or monologue that suits you and makes you feel comfortable, and that you exude confidence in every thing you do in the room. These things will ensure that you have a greater chance to be called back for a "callback."

Read more: How to Get a Callback at an Audition | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_2305171_get-callback-audition.html#ixzz1ABXigKEY