An audition is the acting world’s version of a job interview. This is your time to shine. Because many of our students are new to auditioning, we have compiled this list of guidelines to help you on your way to having a successful audition.

When you sign up for an audition, it is your responsibility to remember what time you have chosen. Write down your audition time in a place where you are sure to see it.

We ask auditioners to show up 15 minutes before the audition. Unless you are instructed otherwise, this is generally a good rule to follow. If you arrive too early, you could possibly inconvenience your auditors. If you arrive right at the audition time, you do not allow yourself time to fill out any information forms needed by the auditors. If you are late, possibly even by a minute, your group may have already gone inside and you will be told to wait until the next opening or not be allowed to audition.

Come prepared. You should bring the following:

• Your theater resume. Please have a presentable copy; it looks bad when you pull a folded, wrinkled copy from your back pocket.
• A current headshot. We understand that many Training Center auditioners may be new to the process, so we also accept photos. However, if you are planning to continue auditioning for other venues, you may want to consider getting professional headshots.
• Your dayplanner or a calendar in case you need to check your availability.
• A pen.

Dress appropriately. Business casual is often a good choice. Don’t wear noisy shoes, hats, or distracting or disheveled clothing. Because you never know what improv will ask you to do, you should wear clothing you are comfortable moving around in and could possibly even get down on the floor in if needed.

If you are asked to introduce yourself or are asked a question about yourself, answer honestly without trying to be funny. An inappropriate or offensive answer could work against you.

Once your audition is over, leave. Don’t hang around to ask the auditors how you did.

Don’t dwell too much on your audition. Anyone can look back on an audition and think of ways they could have done better. Give yourself no more than 15 minutes to think about what happened and let it go.

If you are cast, that’s great news. If not, definitely try again. Don’t take it personally. Class or program auditions are generally looking for a strong grasp of basic skills, so keep working on strengthening your skills. Show auditions are a bit more subjective, so it’s possible that you were not what the director was looking for in that particular show. The auditors are on your side and want to see you succeed, so sign up for the next audition!

The Second City Training Center offers various ways to help you excel in your auditions. We offer workshops, seminars, and free professional services throughout the year. Avail yourself of these opportunities when they are offered so you'll have a better chance at being able to get on stage.