How many times have you thought that you had failed in something, when everyone else is telling you that it's all "down to experience" and "a learning curve"? Well, I don't want to point out the obvious but it really is true. This applies to everything from to trying to come first in your 200 meter sprint at your school's games day, to getting your first audition, and trying to find your perfect role.


Attitude and Enjoyment
It might well be the case that you are one of those lucky people with a positive attitude for everything (you know, the half-full glass theory), then you are already part way there. Being positive about something another actor sees as failure means that you're carving out your path to success before you've even attended your first audition. Enjoying your audition is the second tip.

Basics of an Audition
Auditions are primarily there so that your possible future employer can let you show him (or her) your skills and talents. The first audition for any role is there to let them view how good you are at certain aspects of your performance, and in some cases how bad. You are given a small time slot in order to provide them with a strong taster for your acting talent, and your judges (directors, casting directors, casting associates, talent agents, etc.) really want you to be their next actor.

Preparation
You need to be very prepared for your first audition, and your consequent auditions. Being well prepared will ensure that you won't be over-nervous on the day and that you will turn all of your attention to your performance. Bear in mind that most of the people there are equally as anxious as you, so you need to be calm, collected and positive.

See the following preparation tips for your first audition:

1. Always have your headshot and actors resume prepared - an 8" x 10" headshot is standard, with your resume attached to the back
2. Expect to see a sign-up sheet when you arrive. Make sure you complete it, bring with you any details of social security and agents contact details if this is a call for union actors.
3. If you have been asked to prepare monologues, you are expected to know your lines and will be given around two minutes to complete it in front of the casting agent/director.
4. You may be expected to learn a cold reading. This is where you'll be given a few lines to practice until you are called to perform. Use this time to practice not chat with other actors.
5. If you are called to 'slate', this means you are to give your name, contact details and agents details (if applicable) in front of the camera before your performance. Ensure you look directly at the camera when doing so, and lead directly into your performance when you are finished 'slating'.
6. Invest in plain clothes that won't defer from your performance - don't try to dress to impress. Try a black linen suit that can be smart or casual, or for men try a blue shirt and khakis.

These really are the basic tips I would give you for your first time audition. Remember that it's your performance and professionalism that should shine through at this audition, trying to make a good impression via your personality won't get you the part.

Finally, smile - before and after - you didn't get this role this time well, it's all down to experience!

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Aimee Mitchell is an acting coach, short story author, community theater director and playwright. She has spent the better part of her adult life working with young actors and actresses.

Copyright © Aimee Mitchell. All rights reserved. Used with permission of the author. Not to be reproduced or distributed.

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