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Auditioning for a musical theatre school or program Part 1

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For those individuals interested in attending a college or university program in the musical theatre discipline, preparation begins years before the actual audition in the form of classes and performances. Obviously, a real desire to perform on stage has attracted the potential student to researching many available programs to which he/she may apply. Although every school will follow their own regimen, this article will provide a basic inventory of the components which may be required to gain admittance into such a program.

An audition may contain ANY or ALL of the following elements:

1. singing audition 2. dance audition 3. acting audition 4. music theory knowledge test 5. interview 6. essay

SINGING AUDITION:

For the singing audition it is most likely that you will be asked to perform two pieces of contrasting style; ie, one up-tempo piece and one ballad. Although policies do differ from school to school, generally you must provide copies of the sheet music to them in the proper key prior to your arrival. Your music will be given to an appointed accompanist who will play your audition. (Most schools do not allow pre-taped accompaniements BUT occasionally there are those programs that do ask you to perform your audition material with tapes. Have the tape made by your teacher or someone with whom you can rehearse so that the tape reflects your interpretation of the piece. It is not advisable to use KARAOKE type tapes.) It is recommended that you read the guidelines carefully so that you follow the audition process expected of you by the school. Always pick numbers that showcase your best abilities but make sure they reflect the type of material suited to the program to which you are applying.

DANCE AUDITION

The level of dance audition for singers will vary greatly from program to program. Some will expect you to be fairly proficient in executing steps and turns while others will be more interested in your potential to learn dance sequences but won't expect you to have studied dance formally. If you have the opportunity to do so before your audition, this teacher recommends that you try to take a few private classes (at least in JAZZ). Make the dance teacher aware that you are trying to prepare yourself for an audition into a musical theatre program. The warm up exercises and stretches that you will learn are not only beneficial to your physical health but also your overall posture and carriage when on stage.

ACTING AUDITION

Most acting auditions contain the same fairly standard format. You must be able to present two contrasting monologues; typically one classical, ie, Shakespeare and one contemporary. Often, a list of suggested plays and/or playrights will be included in your audition package. Whether suggested by the school or not, it is advisable that you read the play and become familiar with your character and his/her development.