ABSTRACT

Auditioning and casting are two sides of the same event: casting is the process by which actors are chosen for acting jobs; auditions are the way actors apply for those jobs. There are so many variables to this event (stage vs. television, union vs. nonunion, and so forth) that coming to a working understanding of the process can be a daunting, if necessary, pursuit. To make the most of these opportunities, we must understand not only the various types of auditions and their distinguishing characteristics, but also the professional guidelines and protocols, how to find out whether an audition is legitimate or a scam, how to choose a monologue or audition song, how to prepare sides, how to approach callbacks, and how to deal with nerves.

This chapter addresses these questions and others, such as: audition preparation, anxiety and nerves, how to choose proper attire for a call, Equity Principal Auditions, self-taping, and how to follow up after a good (or bad) audition. The authors also offer explanations of the casting process, The Breakdowns, and casting websites.