Since we work directly with MTWichita, this post is geared toward that specific audition. However, these tips are applicable to most music theater auditions and we hope you find them helpful!
(A short note: Following all these tips does not necessarily mean you'll get selected. However, you will have a successful audition, meaning: you've prepared everything you can control and demonstrated your abilites and who you are with confidence.)
Since we get asked about numbers frequently: Last year about 160 teens signed up to audition and 102 were selected for teen choir.
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First things first: READ ALL THE INFORMATION online and provided to you before calling, emailing, or asking questions. Almost always, the answers are there if you take the time to read the information that was given in the first place.
1. Audition material: song
MTWichita's website states: "Teens should have a cutting of a song prepared for their singing audition time that is around one minute in length."
If you are auditioning with hopes of being cast as a teen in one of the shows as well as being considered for teen choir, it is a great idea to sing a song in the style of one of the shows or by the same composer. It is also a good idea to have a second, contrasting option in the event the panel would like to hear a second selection. Each song cutting should not exceed one minute.
Some thoughts about cuts: Make sure they make sense textually and musically. Cuts should be clearly marked on the music you hand your accompanist. The music you hand your accompanist should be in the correct key, clean (no extra markings, tears, wrinkles, etc.), double sided, and in a three ring binder. Some auditionees like to put their music into plastic sleeves; this is a great option.
Come to your singing audition looking like a teenager and your age. There is no set dress code, but wear something that helps you feel confident and professional.
2. Audition material: dance
Some of you are accomplished dancers and know what to expect from a dance call. For some of you, this is brand new. Regradless of your experience, it is important to approach the dance call with a mindset geared toward learning. No one will be able to do the dance combination perfectly. The audition is really about seeing you progress, try, and not give up. Never walk off the dance floor. Even though you are trying to pick up on the combination and remembering what comes next, your face needs to be telling the story and performing.
Come to your dance audition looking your age. You should wear something form fitting that you can move in. Baggy or very loose clothing obscures your lines and technique, both of which are important to see. Definitely wear shoes you can move in and if you have jazz shoes, those are best.
3. Printed materials
Again, be sure you've read all the posted information online and have printed out the correct forms. Fill them out completely and cleanly. If you don't have a lot of experience, that's fine! Just use the provided audition form to list that experience and attach a headshot.
If you have more experience and want to include a seperate resume, that's great, too. There are lots of templates for professional looking resumes. If you're not sure about how to format yours, ask your teachers (voice/drama/dance), do some research online, and compare with your friends.
Your headshot should look like you on a good day. No glamour shots! (I think I just aged myself) If you don't have a professional headshot, don't stress out. Often a school picture will work fine. Or with a little online research, a photo taken with a cell phone can work as well. Again, your teachers, friends, and the internet are great resources for this.
4. Practice the things that you can control
You have absolutely no control over the casting decisions.
You do have control over the level of preperation of your songs, what you wear, how you slept the night before, your level of hydration, how you will communicate to the pianist your tempos and cuts, and most importantly, your attitude. Isn't that cool?! All those things can be practiced and performed in a mindful way.
In the weeks leading up to your audition, be sure that you are singing your songs in front of people and with different accompanists. The more you are able to put yourself into a mock audition situation, the more comfortable you will feel when it counts.
5. Audition Day
There's a saying in show business: 10 minutes early is on time and on time is late. Be sure you arrive early to your audition in order to check in, gather yourself, and breathe before your audition time.
Treat all the room monitors/check-in people (who are volunteering their time) kindly and respectfully. They are your first allies and will be able to help with any questions.
The hardest and most important thing to remember is this: be yourself. The people in the room want to like you and enjoy what you have to offer. They are rooting for you from the moment you sign up for an audition time. Try to enjoy yourself and let them know who you are through your song and dance.
We hope this helps and inspires you to head into audition season with enthusiasm and confidence!
