Auditions are one of the most nerve-wracking experiences for actors, models and performers alike. The idea of being judged on your performance can be intimidating, and the unknown of what might be expected can be overwhelming.
Unfortunately, in the world of acting, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions that can lead to further anxiety. To help ease some of the fear and uncertainty for actors, it’s important to understand the truth behind common audition myths. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner actor, understanding the truth behind these myths will help you feel more confident and prepared for your next big audition.
Audition Myths #1: You must be perfect to book the job
Actors often believe that an audition must be flawless, sacrificing their own stage presence and abilities in the process. Many believe that if they make even a single mistake during an audition, they may miss out on booking a job. This is simply not true.
When you read the casting breakdown for a role, you’ll see that every role is different. No two auditions are the same, and while certain aspects of your performance may be important, they may not be the most important factors. It’s up to you to understand exactly what’s important for the role, and what’s not.
Auditions are a chance for producers and directors to see who you are as an actor, not who you are as an impersonator. As long as you present who you are as an actor, there’s no wrong way to walk in to an audition. Be yourself, and you’ll likely get the job.
Audition Myths #2: All auditions are the same
Auditions are similar during most of their duration, but exactly how they go varies greatly. Actors need to be fully available to play within the space they are provided, including in the audition room.
Some auditions will last only a few minutes, whereas others can go on for hours. You may be called in for a reading or a screen test, or you could be asked to come in to audition for a specific part.
Audition types and lengths may also vary depending on the production, the role and the type of show. If you’re auditioning for a commercial, you may only be given a script and asked to read it. On the other hand, if you’re auditioning for a feature film, you may be asked to bring a character to life. All of this makes it important to be aware of the different types of auditions you may be dealing with.
Audition Myths #3: You have to have an agent to get an audition
This audition myth comes from the old-school method of booking auditions through a manager or an agent. Yes, it used to be that way, but with direct to consumer TV, movies online and Internet films, life has changed. Actors can find work and get reviewed in auditions they book.
While agents certainly help you get auditions, they are not required to book the job. When it come to audition myths, actors stop trying when they think it has to be introduced by an agent. While agents can definitely help you in the audition process, they are not required to book the job. When you audition through casting practices and online casting websites, you are not required to have an agent.
Casting websites, like Backstage Casting, will often list calls for agentless auditions, and if you are interested in an audition, you can simply send in your audition. It’s a new way of life for an actor!
Audition Myths #4: You don’t need to know the material
Only newbie actors would walk into a room unprepared. The audition room is a sacred place and you need to know the material. Going into an audition, you must be prepared and know what you expect to do.. Casting directors are not pushing you to memorize the pages of the script. Instead, they are looking for a reading, so memorizing your lines is necessary.
While you may not need to memorize your lines to the point of knowing them by heart, you must be prepared to give a reading. You also don’t want to walk into an audition without knowing the material, so take a few moments to watch the script and memorize the pages.
Make sure you understand the conversations your characters are having, and what they want or need from each other. Make sure you know what the other characters are saying, and what they want or need. Going to an audition unprepared is the only way you will never hear from a casting director again.
Audition Myths #5: You don’t need to practice
Auditioning is a unique experience, and so is performing in front of a producer. Actors need to take the opportunity seriously. This is where you will likely make your booking, so you’ll have to do your best. Although you may hear that you don’t need to practice for auditions, this is simply untrue.
Auditioning is essentially an actor’s performance. You need to practice your performance as if you were performing for an audience. Actors who don’t aren’t offering their gifts to the world. Auditioning may be nerve-wracking, but it can also be a great learning experience. Take every audition seriously and practice until you step into the audition room.
In Conclusion
Actors need to bust the audition myths to make their desire to be in front of a camera a career. Performing at auditions is the only way to find work as an actor, so you need to be prepared. These myths are just that, myths. Actors need to be prepared, be calm and offer their best with the material they want to share with the world. For actors to perform confidently, take time to prepare thoroughly and know what to expect, and you’ll be well on your way to booking more auditions and landing bigger roles.
See You on Set!
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