6 Tips for a Successful Acting Audition
By Academy Theatre Chair Ben Dicke
Auditions can feel thrilling, intimidating, and exhilarating all at once. For young actors, they’re also an essential part of learning the craft. At The Chicago Academy for the Arts, we believe auditions aren’t about perfection — they’re about preparation, curiosity, and showing up ready to tell a story.
Whether you’re auditioning for a school play, a community theatre production, or a competitive arts program, this guide breaks down what casting teams actually look for and how to put your best self forward — confidently and professionally.
First Things First: What an Audition Really Is
An audition isn’t a test. It’s a conversation. Directors and casting teams aren’t just asking, “Can you act?” They’re asking:
Can you take direction?
Can you communicate clearly?
Can you make choices?
Can you collaborate?
When you walk into the room (or log on to a virtual audition), your job is simple: tell a story honestly and stay open.
Keeping that in mind, here are six key tips to nailing your next audition.
1. Be yourself. There’s almost no way to completely push aside the butterflies that come with performing in front of strangers. However, it’s important to remember that the folks in charge of casting are always hoping that the solution to their problems is the next person to walk through the door. The only way to be that solution is to present WHO YOU ARE and not the person you think they want. From the moment you walk in, make sure to show the casting team the thing that makes you uniquely you.
2. Prepare for success. Talent opens the door, and preparation keeps it open. Before audition day, make sure you memorize your material early so you can focus on choices, not words. Practice in front of a mirror, then without one. Run your piece for someone who will give honest, kind feedback. Sometimes I hear young actors say they don't want to feel too comfortable with a piece of material before they present it. However, comfort allows you to discover new things about your piece – whether it’s a pre-rehearsed monologue, a scene from a film or commercial, or a song you really like. Preparation lets you take focus off of what’s on the page and into living fully in the character. Confidence comes from knowing you’ve done the work!
3. Dress the part. Many actors preparing to audition at The Academy spend a great deal of time considering their wardrobe for an audition. Actors often find themselves asking, “Should I wear a costume? Do I need to dress as a specific character? Is this outfit too nice?” While most auditions don’t require a costume, wearing something professional that makes you feel good is helpful. And, believe it or not, looking the part can influence you as an actor – you’re embodying the character and/or presenting yourself as a polished professional. If you find yourself asking things like, “Are these pants too tight?” or “Are the sleeves too short?” then it’s better to choose something else. And, as always, going back to that first rule – BE YOURSELF – is essential.
4. Take direction. Sometimes those in the audition room, whether it be the director or the casting director, will give you a note on your audition and ask to see the piece again – we do this often with prospective students here at The Academy. This is where preparation is most helpful. Having a thorough understanding of your piece and the character you’re playing allows you to make quick adjustments. Know that your ability to make a change on the fly is often highly valued by directors and producers looking for actors who are flexible and adaptive.
5. Ignore the competition. It’s very easy to get psyched out by the other actors in the lobby. However, you should know that those folks are more than likely just as nervous as you. What’s more, your PREPARATION will put you well ahead of numerous others. Staying focused on your audition will help calm your nerves. Have fun and do what you prepared — don’t worry about what you think others might bring.
6. Treat each audition as a learning opportunity. Each audition teaches you something, whether it’s how to manage nerves or make stronger choices, or how to advocate for yourself as an artist.
The more you audition, the better you get. Not just at acting, but at showing up as a creative collaborator. Auditions are a vital part of an actor’s journey and they don’t have to be scary. With preparation, professionalism, and a sense of play, auditions become opportunities to grow.
At The Chicago Academy for the Arts, we help young actors develop the tools they need to walk into any audition room ready to think critically, perform confidently, and collaborate generously.
Because great acting starts long before the curtain rises and every audition is a step forward.
Ready to join The Chicago Academy for the Arts community? Apply today: https://www.chicagoacademyforthearts.org/admissions
