The Audition

Yes, the dreaded audition...

If you have an agent-you've gotten the call: this is the show, this is what you're up for, here are your sides.

If you don't have an agent-you've probably found out this information already on your own, and just heard back from from those to whom you submitted. You have the audition.

Now what?

You've prepared (we'll talk about that later), and you head into the room, ready to go! You've worked so hard, you're anxious to show how much of a dedicated actor you are, you WANT the job, and you can taste it. You head on in, just gearing to nail it, and GET THAT JOB!!!

But it doesn't quite go as you planned...it kinda felt like it fell flat...what just happened?

OR...

It went fantastic! they were laughing...you had them in the palm of your hand, you NAILED IT! But...then, why did I get the part?

Here's what I've learned: Don't think about the "getting the job." It's the last thing you should do. Don't count on getting it. I'm not being negative, I'm not saying you CAN'T get it...all Im saying is, release yourself from that specific expectation during your audition. Focus on the work, in the moment! Because the harsh truth is: there are so many other factors at play that influence your getting the job, it's mind-boggling. And here's the most important thing-all those other factors? are TOTALLY OUT of your CONTROL. So why waste your energy on them? right?

By releasing yourself of that specific expectation, you no longer may appear as that dreaded word, "desperate." You can smell it a mile away, and it's the last thing anyone wants to deal with. By releasing yourself of that specific expectation, you also open yourself to present a relaxed, skilled actor that has something unique to offer.

So, again-focus on what you are there to do. Present yourself and your work in the best light possible. If this is the first time meeting a specific agent or casting director - all the more better. This then becomes your "1st impression." You now have established the other important thing is this business - you've started a relationship. Relationships are currency in this industry-we never stop building them.

If you end up NOT getting the job, that does NOT mean you weren't good enough. Conversely, the most talented actor is not the one who got the job. Factors such as height, weight, hair color, ensemble dynamic, etc. are many times more important than talent (unfortunate, but true).

You may have "killed" that audition, but the harsh fact is, you may resemble too closely the lead, OR because the the lead is 6' they can cast anyone taller than that, or shorter...you get the idea.

In other words - you served up a delicious lobster, but they were hungry for a steak! That simple.

So, by releasing yourself of those extraneous expectations, you will open yourself to have a more relaxed, and perhaps even "fun" audition. And, look back through this entry and remind yourself of all the positives that still come out of an audition, whether you have booked it, or not.