5 Rookie Mistakes Prospective Students Make When Auditioning For College
Are you in high school and interested in pursuing a degree in musical theatre? Chances are - you’ll need to audition.
Most musical theatre college programs have required auditions for their major, especially if the degree is a BFA.
But don’t fret! I’m here to help.
Not only did I successfully endure the unique process of musical theatre college auditions, I also watched my sister do the same a few years later. And on top of that, I sat in on on-campus auditions all four years at Texas State University.
It’s safe to say I have a pretty clear understanding of what works, what doesn’t work, and how to get on top of your game.
Here are 5 rookie mistakes you’ll want to avoid when auditioning for colleges.
1. Performing material that is too obscure.
When it comes to audition material, I know many of you are familiar with the dreaded term… “overdone.” You’ve done your research, you’ve read the musical theatre songs that flood the “do not sing” lists all over the internet.
SO… instead of risking the chances of performing a popular song, you opt for the most obscure piece you can find.
Sometimes, there’s a reason why some songs are overdone.
But there’s also a reason why some songs are obscure.
Use your better judgement. If the song is too obscure, the people behind the table will be focused more on the piece than your performance.
Not sure where to begin? Here is some audition material to help you get started.
2. Choosing a monologue plagued with curse words.
Think of it this way - if you feel uncomfortable performing your monologue in front of your family, you should probably toss it. Chances are, you’ll make the college professors uncomfortable too.
Why risk it?
Choose a monologue that shows off your chops WITHOUT making them cringe.
How And Where To Find The Perfect Monologue
3. Not bringing a second outfit to auditions.
Rain. Snow. Slipping in the mud. Bad weather.
Coffee spills. Food. Rips. Tears. Ironing gone wrong. Shrinks in the wash. Accidents happen.
Bring a second outfit to all your auditions. You’ll thank me later.
4. Gossiping with others outside the audition room.
If you have nothing nice to say, it’s better not to say anything at all. You never know who can hear you.
(This is good practice for the rest of your career.)
My suggestion is stray away from any gossip about our industry. The Broadway show you're badmouthing might just be produced by the father of the head of the musical theatre department!
5. Lying on your resume.
Don’t lie about a professional show you were never in. Don’t lie about a role you never played. Don’t lie about a skill you don’t have.
Why?
Sometimes colleges only have a few minutes to spend with you in your audition to get to know you. After all, they might be spending the next four years of their lives with you! Besides the performance aspect of your audition, they may also ask you questions, and the perfect way to dig a little deeper is through your resume. They may ask you about a specific show, or role, or skill you have listed.
Instead, focus on the experience you DO have.
ACTOR AESTHETIC ONLINE COURSE
The Ultimate Guide To Preparing For Musical Theatre College Auditions (IN 5 STEPS!)
Find this helpful? Be sure to check out the Actor Aesthetic podcast. New episodes every Monday!
Happy auditioning!
