Crafting Your Winning Audition Package for Theatre: A Comprehensive Guide

Auditioning for theatre can be an exhilarating yet nerve-wracking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting your journey with us at NTPA, one thing remains constant: the importance of a well-prepared audition package. Your audition package is your calling card, showcasing your talent, versatility, and potential to directors, casting agents, and production teams. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential components and tips for crafting a winning audition package for theatre.

First things first… Research the show that you are auditioning for! Know the story, the style, the characters… and choose your audition pieces based off of those things. There is no harm in targeting what you want.

Selecting Your Monologue(s):

Choose monologues that showcase your range, acting ability, and suitability for the production you’re auditioning for. Opt for contrasting pieces, such as one comedic and one dramatic monologue OR one contemporary and one classical, to demonstrate your versatility. Ensure your monologues are age-appropriate and align with the style and tone of the production.

Preparing Your Song(s):

If the audition requires singing, select songs that highlight your vocal range and acting skills. Choose songs from musicals or genres relevant to the show you’re auditioning for – play this strategy and we know what to look for in your pieces and where you can live in the world of the show. Practice with accompaniment to ensure your timing and phrasing are on point. Your song(s) should be in a vocal place that you can sing on a good day or a bad day. Sick or healthy, you should be able to SANG it with confidence!

Working Your Pieces:

Objective, obstacle, and tactic work for audition pieces involves identifying the character’s objective, understanding the obstacles they face, and exploring the tactics they employ to overcome those obstacles. This method helps actors create nuanced and compelling performances that are grounded in truth and authenticity.

• Objective: The objective refers to what the character wants to achieve or accomplish in the monologue or song. It’s the driving force behind the character’s actions and emotions. Actors must identify a clear, specific objective for their character in the monologue to give their performance direction and purpose.
• Obstacle: The obstacle represents the challenges or barriers that prevent the character from achieving their objective. It could be external factors, such as other characters or circumstances, or internal conflicts within the character. Identifying obstacles helps actors understand the stakes and conflicts within the monologue, adding depth and tension to their performance.
• Tactics: Tactics are the strategies or actions the character employs to overcome obstacles and achieve their objective. Actors must explore various tactics their character might use, such as persuasion, manipulation, confrontation, or negotiation. Experimenting with different tactics allows actors to create dynamic and engaging performances, revealing the character’s personality and motivations.

Assembling Your Headshot and Resume:

Your headshot should be a professional, high-quality photograph that captures your essence as a performer. Update your resume with your most recent credits, training, and special skills. Format your resume neatly and clearly, ensuring it’s easy to read and highlights your strengths. Blank space on a resume is not a bad thing. I would rather read a clean and easy to read resume, than a crowded and messy one.

Nailing the Audition Etiquette:

Arrive early to the audition venue to sign in and familiarize yourself with the space. Dress appropriately for the audition, adhering to the character types you’re auditioning for. You should present “you on your best day” energy! Be courteous and respectful to EVERYONE you encounter, including fellow auditionees, staff, and directors. Stay focused and present during your audition, giving it your all and remaining open to direction. If given direction in the audition room, don’t panic – we usually just want to see how you take direction!

Showcasing Your Personality:

Let your personality shine through in your audition package! Inject energy, enthusiasm, and authenticity into your performances. Be confident but humble, demonstrating a willingness to collaborate and grow as an artist. We want to work with you! Enter the room ready to be the solution!

Crafting a winning audition package for theatre requires careful consideration, preparation, and attention to detail. By selecting compelling monologues, songs, assembling a professional headshot and resume, and embodying audition etiquette and personality, you’ll set yourself up for success in the audition room. Remember, each audition is an opportunity to showcase your talent and passion for the craft, so embrace the process with confidence and determination. 

Break a leg!

New to Auditions?

If you are thinking about signing up your first audition but aren’t sure what to expect, you might consider attending a FREE UpSTARt Workshop which is a fast-paced, high-energy, and fun-filled two-hour workshop designed to our future actors the confidence and training to “take the stage” in their first audition.