What To Expect at an Audition? TV, Film, & Theater

First off, it is important to be seen by casting directors, have it be for TV Projects, Film, or even Theater. It is necessary for you to showcase your abilities for every opportunity that comes your way. Unless you are A-List actor, auditioning is going to become a normal, every day process. It is important to note that classes on auditioning, or the tid-bits of information that you learned over the years may be okay for the beginning but professional auditions require another level of expertise.

Film, Theater, and TV all have their different audition procedures. Here are a few things you should know for Film, Theater and Television.

Film

As an actor you will typically work closely with the casting director and producer. Your audition performance will be recorded and sent to the director and other member’s of the production team. But at times the audition process varies, all depending upon the director and the creative production team. Many actors have commented that they had an audition with a single casting director and a camera to auditioning to a room of ten people. Usually, castings move faster in films than they do in theater. It is not abnormal for casting directors to choose who they would like for the lead role weeks before the filming is set to begin. However, casting director typically would like to give actors the most amount of time possible to prepare their sides. For larger, and main roles, casting directors tend to give people a few days to a week to prepare themselves for the role.

At times it may be more difficult for an actor that is unrepresented to be casted for a film, but make sure to stay updated with Project Casting to hear about the latest Casting information and Casting Calls.

Theater

For a professional theater calls, a casting director may choose to have you for a “pre-read” or “pre-screen” audition. The casting director of Broadway’s Spiderman is notorious for bringing an actor in for a “pre-read” and connects with the actor to see if he or she is a good match for the role. Sometimes it is very possible for up to 15 individuals to discuss your audition, this is because, musicals, and theatrical performances require more individuals in the creative team, such as composer, lyricist, choreographer, and the music director. Generally, theatrical auditions will give you two to four days to prepare songs and sides for your audition. Expect to be given a sides instead of a whole script for your audition. Furthermore, and expect several callbacks before actually receiving the role.

But become prepared, casting directors have little sympathy for being unprepared. Also, actors who do not have an agent or representation are able to go to the Equity Principal Auditions, which are open to union members. But it is also important to build your reputation with regional performances, ultimately your resume does matter.

Television

All TV auditions are the same, and many casting calls for dramas and single-camera comedies require a different process than a sitcom. Furthermore, landing a role on a pilot is of higher importance than landing a small guest role on an established show. This is because you have the opportunity to see how the show is set up and what casting directors are looking for. But, for pilots the creative team is not sure what they are looking for, and it is hard to determine what they would like to see in the performance. Also, do not expect a lot of attention in during your audition for many established shows. Many actors comment that casting directors will be on the phone and texting while they said their monologues and acted out specific scenes. Take these experiences as they come, and do not become overwhelmed or intimidated.

Without an agent, the process of becoming an established actor is more difficult. But, it is not impossible. It is possible for you to land an audition by submitting your headshot, resume, and a short cover letter explaining why you would be good for the show.