Audition Dos and Donts
1. When you come on stage, say both your first
and last name, pausing slightly between the two so that the
auditors can hear you clearly. Then introduce your monologue-
"Hi, my name is Mary (pause) Krabinski, and I will be doing
Alison from "The Green Chair" by Paul Osborne. If
you aren't sure of pronunciations, get them before you audition.
2. Men's Apparel:
No flip flops. Please do not dress as if you were going to a
picnic-shorts and tee-shirts are not a good idea.
3. Women's Apparel:
Tight clothing that reveals every part of your anatomy could
distract attention from your work and is discouraged. No shorts
or halter tops. Wear make-up (the lights are harsh) and keep
your hair off your face. Don't wear flip flops, backless shoes,
or high platform shoes. A simple low-heeled pump is the best
bet for any audition. We need to see your natural movement,
not restricted by footwear. Dress like a professional actress,
not like Brittany Spears
4. Do not choose the most emotional moment of the play as your
monologue. Do not require yourself to cry.
5. Do not throw things or use props.
6.. Do not do monologues about being an actor in New York or
about auditioning. These sorts of choices point up your own
inexperience.
7. Don't choose pieces where you are whining or complaining
throughout unless there is a comic intent. Avoid the "poor
me I am such a victim" monologues. In general look for
winners not losers.
8. Don't choose "remembrances" they are hard to activate.
9. Don't talk to chairs or inanimate objects. In general, place
the person you are supposedly talking to somewhere on the back
wall of the theatre over the heads of the auditors.
10. In your imagination, you should be talking to someone from
whom you need something. And, you must fully understand the
meaning of every word in your piece.
11. Choose monologues that are within a range of ages that
you play comfortably. An 18 year old boy doing Willy Loman just
won't cut it.
12. Movement is good! There is no rule that says you have to
stand center and stare straight ahead for the entire time.
PIECES WE SEE WAY TOO MANY TIMES:
Lone Star
Jack and Jill
Laughing Wild
