Inside the Audition, Part 2: Inside the Room
Last week I described the logistics of arriving at and preparing for an audition. This week you'll go inside the casting room. If you happen to be paired up with another actor, you will be called in with that actor. More often you’ll read opposite someone casting the project. If you’re reading with another actor, most of the same advice applies, but keep in mind that there probably won’t be an interview. Don’t let the other actor psyche you out. Be yourself, stay relaxed, and have fun.
When you’re called in to the room, the people casting the project may interview you. Sometimes the interview will occur after the reading, making it easier for the actor to come into the room ready to read. If you’ve prepared well you should be ready for either scenario. Most people casting a project know that your audition will not be a full-blown performance, and will simply give them an idea whether or not you can make intelligent choices or even act at all. At the entry level, many people casting their projects don’t even know what they want. What may help them decide if you’ll be right for the project is how they respond to you during the “interview” period. If they like you and feel like you’ll be flexible, fun and easy to work with, you’ll be in the running. Now is not the time for you to freeze up, nor is it the time for you to perform. Do absolutely be yourself, but be the best parts of yourself. In other words, if you have a tendency to be shy, but you also happen to be a great conversationalist when you get warmed up, do whatever you have to do to overcome your shyness so that for those three minutes of conversation you can demonstrate your ability to charm and be fascinating and fascinated. As with your acting, it is invaluable to connect with people on a substantial level in an interview. Talk to them, not at them. This is not a monologue to show how in love with yourself you are; it’s an opportunity for each of you to decide whether or not you will be able to work with the other. Even if you aren’t an awe-inspiring wit, a palpable connection with the interviewer will go a long way toward getting him or her interested in you.
You may be asked if you have any questions before reading. If you do have a question you were unable to answer before stepping into the room (for instance, “do you want me to read to the camera or to the reader?”), do not feel self-conscious about asking it. You need that information to do your job, and you have every right to ask. Do not make up a question just because you’re asked. If you don’t have one, say so and thank them for asking.
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