How Actors' Equity Auditions Have Changed Post-Pandemic

Equity auditions are auditions for actors who are members of the Actors' Equity Association, the labor union that represents actors and stage managers in the theater industry. The specific process for Equity auditions may vary depending on the city and the theater company, but the general consensus is they’ve changed.

Drastically.

Before the pandemic, Equity auditions would often take place in person at a specific location, such as a theater, casting office, or a studio.

Actors would typically sign up for an audition slot in advance, either online or in person. Depending on the casting process, actors might be asked to prepare a specific monologue or song to perform, or they might be asked to read from a script.

During the pandemic, many in-person auditions were canceled or postponed due to safety concerns.

Some theaters and casting offices shifted to virtual auditions, either live or pre-recorded, which allowed actors to audition from home. Online platforms such as Zoom or self-taping via video submissions were utilized as a way to maintain social distancing.

However, these virtual auditions can be challenging for actors who rely on the energy of the in-person audition setting to perform at their best.

They’re just not the same.

As the situation evolves and theaters reopen, some in-person auditions have started to resume, but with new safety measures in place, such as mask mandates and limits on the number of people in the audition room.

Additionally, some theaters and casting offices may require proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results to participate in in-person auditions.

Overall, the pandemic has caused significant changes to the way Equity auditions are conducted, but the specific details may vary depending on the location and the theater company.

Actors should check with their union and casting resources for the most up-to-date information on how to participate in Equity auditions.