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PROTIP # 6

How to Prepare for an Audition

If you want to have a successful audition, it’s important to familiarize yourself with each dance company and their mission.  

• Begin researching dance companies online

• Make sure the mission of the company aligns with your ideals and values as a dancer

• Educate yourself about their aesthetic and movement quality to feel more prepared for the audition

• See a performance of the companies you are researching to get an idea of the repertory and choreographers they work with

Before the audition,  it’s a good idea to attend the company’s summer intensive or other workshop opportunities they offer. This will provide:

• An opportunity for you to work with the Artistic Director and/or company members

• A sense of the company atmosphere by being in the company’s environment

• It allows the company to see your work before you attend the audition

During the intensive or workshop introduce yourself to the Artistic Director and company members and express your positive experience in working with the company.

Your resume should highlight your education, performing experiences, and achievements or awards received.  When preparing your resume keep in mind:

• I

• nformation is concise and easy to read

• Have the most recent contact information including your cell number and email address

• If you are auditioning for a professional dance company,  you don’t need to go back to the beginning of your dance career and note where you trained when you were 3 or 4 years old 

• List the most important achievements- for example, it’s NOT necessary to list that you made the top 12 at YAGP in the senior division at regionals.  It IS important, however, to include you finished top three at YAGP finals in New York City

A professional look is key no matter what type of audition you are attending.  Always look your best with attire, hair and appropriate footwear. 

• Do not wear clothing that can distort your line or movement.  If can be frustrating for a choreographer/Artistic Director to see the shapes and lines through the body when dancers wear oversized clothing or multiple layers at an audition.  Wearing baggy clothes could raise your chances of getting cut before you have had the chance to show them what you are capable of.

Remember that you are being considered for a position from the moment you walk in the door.

• Show up to an audition at least 45-60 minutes before the audition begins.  This will give you ample time to prepare yourself mentally and physically and give yourself the best chance

• Review combinations when you are off to the side and waiting for your group to go. Choreographers/Artistic Directors will take note if you are using your time wisely and taking a proactive approach.

• Be courteous to other dancers. Choreographers/Artistic Directors look for dancers that can work well with others.

If you have done your due diligence you will be ready for every audition!  The next step is to put your blinders on, bring your “A Game” and GO FOR IT!  Don’t worry about what the dancers are doing around you, just focus on yourself.  Don’t try to figure out what the Choreographer/Artistic Director is thinking and whether they like you or not.

There are many variables that go into an Artistic Director’s decision when choosing company members. For instance, how many contracts are available, the budget for the season or project, what type of dancer they are looking for for that particular season or project. These variables change from year to year, so if you do get cut from an audition try not to get down on yourself.  It does not necessarily mean you are not good enough to be a professional dancer. It just means you might not be ready or you are not what they need this time around. Stay positive and keep at it! Everyone has their own path-we just don’t know what our path is until we look back...

If you’re interested in attending an audition skills workshop, CLICK HERE!

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