Having worked with a number of actors auditioning for MFA programs, I realized that it might be a good idea to post on how best to prepare for these type of auditions. Here is a list of tips to help you get ready and shine during your big moment.
Pick material that is right for your type.
So many times people pick material that is not their ‘type’ to show the auditors – and what they are trying to say is: “I can play anything!”. Though the auditors are interested in what you are able to do…try to stay in your type. This is always a good rule of thumb for both regular auditions and MFA auditions. If you don’t know what your type is, make a list of the characters that you have played in the past: are you always cast as the funny side kick – then you are probably a character actor, are you usually the love interest, then your probably an ingenue or leading lady….you get the idea. Use these clues to help in picking audition material that is right for you.
Read the entire play that the monologue is from
This goes without saying. If you are called in to speak with the auditors after your audition they will ask you about your thoughts on the play. Be ready to speak about the play and the character. Also it is a great idea to pick a play or a character that you love – this will shine through in your audition and all the hours of prep will be more fun. And most importantly, be ready to put in the time to find a good monologue…there are a lot of plays out there…read, read, read – until you find the right fit for you.
Think about showing your range in the pieces you pick
It is usually a good rule of thumb to do one classical piece so that the auditors can see how you handle language as well as a modern piece. Another convention is for one of the pieces to be dramatic and one comedic…or one piece may have a lot of movement and the other piece is stationary…you get the idea. If you have questions talk to directors or a coach
Think about what you are going to wear
Recently I read something that said, "when you audition for graduate school, wear clothes that you would wear on a first date". I would amend that by saying, wear clothes that are classy, and that you can move in. Nothing with a high slit up your thigh or a plunging neckline. Another tip is don't wear jewelry that can distract from your audition, by making noise or that is attention grabbing. Look to make sure that your outfit doesn't have stains, your shoes are shined and heels are looking good. Look to see that your outfit looks great from all angles and really fits your body - in other words you feel great in it. Probably a good idea for picking your outfit is that if your mother would feel comfortable with you wearing it – it is in all likelihood a good choice.
Pick schools that excite you
So often people pick schools because of the name recognition, but there are a lot of great schools out there, that are under the radar and have amazing faculty. Sometimes a small school with a small class can give you the attention you need. Think about what type of school and town you would thrive in. Do you want a conservatory type of program or do you want to feel like you are at a school? How many shows do they do a year? What is their training style? Will you get access to some well-known teachers? Are their alumni doing what you want to do? Do you like small towns, or big cities….all of these things along with how much the school/program costs should be taken into consideration, when picking a program.
Think about where you want to work after school
It used to be the case that west coast schools were a funnel to the LA/Seattle and SF job markets, and similarly schools on the east coast would set you up in towns like Boston, NY and the like. Why is this? Because you have to realize that your school is one of the first places that you make connections to others in the biz – both in your classes and the community at large. Agents and people in the industry come to see shows at these schools…so think about where you want to end up. Of course you can go to Northwestern and end up on Broadway and you can be at NYU and end up in Chicago….just think about what your long term goals are: a regional theater career, or a film/commercial career and go from there.
Work with a coach
Lastly it is a great idea to work with a coach. They can help you find good material and push you in the right direction regarding choices where pieces are concerned; and they can also help with clarifying objectives, beats and how you are sounding vocally. Coaches can see what you are doing and can give you perspective that you may not have when you are working on something by yourself. Coaches are also great with helping you with clothing and makeup choices as well as helping you find the best way to control nerves.
I hope that this was helpful.
Kommentare