Auditioning is the job that actors do, and it is a very difficult one. When we actually get booked for a project – for me, that is like being on vacation.

There are a number of things that agents, directors and casting directors need to see at an audition. Physically looking the part is the most important aspect of being considered for a role. If you physically do not look like the character you are reading for, then the chances of booking the job, not matter how great of a read you give, are pretty slim. During the actual audition, making the words sound conversational, listening to the other actor, and bringing your character to life are the most important aspects to all auditions. The audience needs to be taken out of their environment and brought into the actor’s world.

At the audition there are a few things that can help bring the audience into the actor’s world. Understanding the character is crucial. For any type of acting work, whether it is Shakespeare or a TV commercial, one must be able to answer the 5 W’s – Who, What, Where, When and Why. Who are you talking to, What is going on in the scene, Where is it taking place, When is it happening, and Why are you saying the words.

Understanding where and what time of day the scene is taking place will greatly affect the way you talk. If the scene is happening by a busy street, then your voice will have to be loud enough to carry over the noise. If things are happening at 3:00AM in your bedroom, your tone will be much different.

It is also necessary to create the environment during the audition, so that the audience believes you. When talking to someone in the scene, find that person in the room, and talk to that character. If you just randomly look around the room while reading to one character, then your audition will not be believable.

Wearing the right wardrobe is also very important. It not only makes it easier for the actor to connect with the character, but also for the audience to believe you are the character. Having said that, you also have to be careful when selecting your wardrobe. Some casting directors (especially in large markets) will be insulted if you walk into an audition wearing scrubs, a stethoscope around your neck and paper booties on your feet when reading for the role of a doctor. Casting directors know what doctors look like, and simply want to see your audition. Without going over the top with accessories, for an audition as a doctor, I would at least wear a suit, bring a lab coat and ask the casting director if it is OK to wear it during the audition.

It is the actors’ job to create the character. Never ask a casting director what he/she is looking for. That is our job.

If there are any words you don’t understand and can’t pronounce, always ask. If you are reading with another character and you don’t know what your relationship is with the other person, then you need to ask the casting director. Your read will change drastically if you are reading with your sister, mom, girlfriend or a stranger.

If you are auditioning for a TV show or a film, then watch the show so you understand the characters and the pacing of the program. Some shows like “The Gilmore Girls” had many actors talking at a very quick pace. That information will help you tremendously at the audition.

If you are auditioning for a film, watch other movies that the director has worked on. It will give you a better sense of how he/she works and what the director desires from the actors. You can easily find out about the directors other projects by visiting www.IMDB.com.
The most important objective for the actor during the audition and on the job, is to make the words sound conversational. That is what actors do. We talk and listen to each other, like in real life.

Let me know your thoughts. Do you have any suggestions for giving a great audition? If so, leave a comment below.