1. Do NOT show up late
We are all guilty of being late for something. When I was working in corporate America it was something I did quite often. In my defense, it was the corporate culture of pretty much every organization I worked for, even if they choose not to admit it. Everyone showed up late, from the VP’s and CEO’s to the interns; nevertheless we also worked until the job was complete. However, acting and making my dreams of performing on Broadway and on the big screen is something I take very seriously. I have probably never taken anything so seriously in my short little life to be quite honest. With that said, I have learned to simply show up on time. Every audition is an opportunity to move forward in creating the life I so deeply desire. So why put this precious moment in jeopardy and not put my best foot forward?
Advice: Take your butt to sleep at a decent hour. Get up at an appropriate time so you can arrive on time and do your job, which is to make them fall in love with you.
2. Do NOT arrive to an audition without a headshot and a resume
Being non union I am consistently selling myself so I reach the next level and I can NOT count the number of times I have waited to be seen at an audition and listened to other actors talk about how they forgot their headshot or resume. This absolutely boggles my mind! A headshot and resume is your selling card and all apart of your marketing kit. Casting directors loathe this. It conveys a sense of unpreparedness and if you cannot bring your resume and headshot, how they trust you with a project?
Advice: Get some bloody headshots. I recommend my photographer whenever I can – she’s amazing. Her name is Lisa Hancock. She offers specials year around and her rates are pretty out of sight. So start there. If you ran out, take your butt to Kinko’s and use their automated machine and print one out. Something is better than nothing.
Advice: When I think I’m getting down to my last few headshots I re-order immediately. Once the new bundle arrives I start using the new photos. This way I always have a few back-up photos in case of an emergency.
3. Do NOT show up at a musical theater audition w/out sheet music
… Especially at an equity call. This also boggles my MIND! Seriously… you want someone to pay you 2k a week and you don’t show up with sheet music! Again, it’s all about being prepared and milking every opportunity for what it’s worth.
Advice: Visit the Performing Arts Library at Lincoln Center – you can photocopy all the music you want. If this is a very last minute thing, go to Colony and pick up some sheet music – they have everything, just don’t show up without music, unless otherwise specified.
4. Do NOT show up for an audition you clearly are not suited for
I have a mantra that I repeat to myself constantly throughout the day and the last part of it is, “what is meant for me will be for me”. I never show up for auditions that I do not feel suit me, it is a waste of not only my time, but the casting directors as well. You can’t change your body-type overnight, your skin color so do not scatter your energy chasing things that are not designed for you. Again, what is meant for you will be for you and you may miss out on one of those opportunities if you’re not focusing on what you are best suited for.
Advice: Define who you are as a performer then run with it to your fullest capability.
5. Do NOT leave the audition room until you are told
You worked so hard on your monologue and you should feel good about your performance, even if you did make a few blunders along the way. Have enough confidence to believe that the casting directors would like to ask you a few questions or redirect you in some way. Never ever run away, they could be falling in love and your opening is just as important as how you close.
Advice: Take your time and wait.
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