Auditioning for Theatre
A solid audition is made up of contrasting monologues that showcase the best physical, vocal, emotional, and analytical work of a student.

Choosing the right pieces:

• A solid monologue choice includes a clearly defined beginning, middle, and end as well as a concrete objective.
• Avoid monologues from college “DON’T” lists, monologue books, original pieces, and internet monologues.
• Make sure that the student is comfortable, confident, and passionate about the selected pieces.

The Classical Monologue:

• Students should prepare a two-minute monologue written in verse.  Shakespeare, Marlowe, Moliere, or any Greek Translation is appropriate.

The Contemporary Monologue:

• Students should prepare a two-minute monologue from a contemporary play, 1900-present day that is age appropriate.

The Character Monologue:

• Students should prepare a third two-minute piece that highlights character work.  This could include a monologue from a farce, comedy relief role, or a bigger than life supporting character.  (This piece should not be one of your main audition pieces.)

Preparing for the Audition:

• Read the play.
• Choose a monologue.
• Answer the questions, “What does the character want out of this conversation?” and “Who is the character talking to?”
• Memorize the lines verbatim.
• Make bold physical, vocal, and emotional choices that are in accordance with what is happening in the pieces. Be sure to create a focal point that is slightly above the head of the adjudicators.  Never look the adjudicators in the eye when performing, it is considered bad form.
• Rehearse the pieces repeatedly until they feel solid.
• Add an introduction that includes the auditionsers name, titles of the plays from which the monologues came, and the characters the students will be playing.
• Say thank you at the end of the second piece so that adjudicators understand that the audition is complete.  “Thank you” serves as the universal button on all audition pieces.
• Rehearse the complete package repeatedly.

 Audition Day

• Dress professionally.
• Arrive early to the audition so that you can check-in and still have plenty of time to warm up, both vocally and physically.
• Bring a change of clothes, generally movement attire, in case the adjudicators decide to see students working in a group dynamic.
• Be prepared for a group exercise work.
• Be prepared for a short interview at the end of the piece.
• Conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times.

Valuable Ideas to Consider During the High School Career

• Community Service
• Professional Theatre School Classes
• As much experience as possible
• Summer programs
• Gallery 37
• Northwester’s Cherub Program
• NYU C.A.P.S Program
• Boston Universities Summer Program