Frequently Asked Questions

This is the Frequently Asked Questions Page. The opinions and comments in this section are not the opinions and comments of www.RichmondVATheater.com or the Theaters associated. These are comments and opinions of other local theater professionals. If you have questions or comments about this section, please click here. If you would like to post a new question or answer, please send it. Click here. Please remember to include the question if you are adding a reply! (Only first names will be published unless specified)

I'm going to an audition that requires me to dance and to sing, what should I wear?

Comfortable clothes that you can move in and sneakers, jazz or character shoes - Laine
Dress comfortably and attractively. Remember, this is a job interview. Your dress should allow you to do anything that is requested. Bring proper dance shoes. - Jeff

I really want to audition for a show that's coming up that's a musical, I really can't sing very well...should I go anyway?

It's always a good idea to stretch yourself as an actor - might as well try! - Laine
Absolutely not. If you do not have the skills required, don't waste everyone's time. Would it be appropriate to audition for the Ice Escapades if you can't skate. Musical theatre requires disciplined, well-trained professionals. - Jeff
Absolutely. Even though you might consider your singing voice to be less than spectacular, it might be exactly what the directors are looking for. Plus, your overall package (great comic timing, a flawless Irish accent, the ability to juggle, etc.) could override any vocal imperfections. Go to the audition! - Paul

I'm not familiar with a show that I want to audition for, where can I find the script? Do I need to find and read the script?

Important that actors know not to call the company about getting a script. Can you imagine? Also, on this page, refer them to the Michael Shurtleff book Audition as it gives answers to most of these questions and it's only 7.99. Gives some good tips. Just a thought. -Keri
Yes, you should definitely read the script. Sometimes theatres will have extras that you can "check out". Otherwise, Drama Bookshop has pretty much everything for order. - Laine
The internet is an invaluable research source. YES. Theatre is a competitive industry. Be prepared. Also, without complete knowledge of the work, you may be auditioning where there is need for your talents. Another waste of time. - Jeff

How can I tell if an audition is legit?

Please click on the link Tinsel or Sham, A close-up on Atlanta's Talent Agency Scene, By Allen Rabinowitz - Jackie

What is the proper etiquette/protocol for an audition?

When auditioning for a director and producer, where is the focus?

Do you ever involve the director or producer in the audition?

Please, no! Nobody likes to get stared-down. It presents a very uncomfortable situation for most Directors, since it obligates them to interact (to which they may be adverse.) Play to the make-believe audience, not the Director. Save your personal touch for before and after the audition. The only possible exception to this is if you're auditioning for a cabaret-style act, for which the Director might welcome your interaction. - Paul

What happens if the audition didn't go the way you wanted? Do you ever ask if you could repeat it?

What happens if you don't hear back after the audition? Do you contact a member of the audition panel?

What if you are asked to read for a part for which you don't think you are right for? What do you do?

Is there ever follow-up for an audition as an actor (other than a call back)?

Is there anything that an actor, singer, dancer can do to improve his/her chances of getting the part?

What do directors look for in an audition?

Do you ever dress the part in the audition?

What factors go into making casting decisions?

What are the expectations of the first day of rehearsal if someone is cast in a production?

When doing a monologue, what does the director look for in the actor/monologue?

What is Equity? What theaters in Richmond are Equity? Do I want to be Equity?

How important are headshots on a resume?

When directors see a large number of actors during the audition process, it is good for them to have the pictures to help remind them of that actor. A picture really jogs the memory of how the person sang and read, as well as if their physical characteristics fit the needs of the show. -Anonymous

Music Related:

The audition notice says "prepare 16 bars." Is that absolute?

No. When asking for only 16 bars, the directors are basically trying to keep things brief, but sometimes 16 bars can leave you aborting your music selection in an odd place. Sometimes you simply need an extra two bars to finish the phrase. Sometimes the bars pass so quickly, you could really do 32 bars, and still have an appropriately brief selection. Remember, the directors won't be reading your music and counting the bars, so as long as it's brief, you're good. - Paul

The audition notice called for 16 bars of music. I really need to sing my whole song. Does it matter if I sing more than 16 bars?

Auditions are timely but important for the directors to see different talents. To be fair for everyone, it is important to keep on a tight schedule and for everyone to sing the same amount. Choose your songs wisely and it is possible to show the scope of your talent in 16 bars. - Anonymous

How do I select which 16 or 32 bars to sing?

Make your selection from the most interesting part of the song. With 16 bars, this usually means singing the last verse, so you can make a grand finish on the high note! With 32 bars, you can often back-up to the bridge (or contrasting middle section) where the melody often peaks with anticipation of the grand finale. Simply put, start counting bars from the end, and see where it gets you. - Paul

Is it okay to talk with the piano accompanist before I sing?

Please do! There are so many songs in the world, it's likely the pianist will be unfamiliar with yours. Since they'll be sight-reading your music, any tips you share will guide them towards your success. Make sure they know which measures (bars) you're singing, how fast you want it played, etc. Better yet, sing a little bit of the song to them. That way they can hear what you mean, instead of trying to guess at what you're explaining in words. Above all, make sure they know what you're using as an introduction. (Nothing takes the wind out of your sails faster than a faulty start!) If you're not sure about what to use as an introduction, ask the pianist for suggestions, and have them play it for you. Don't be shy. Take the time. Consider the pianist as your teammate. - Paul

I don't know how to read music. Will that keep me from getting into a musical?

Not at all. Amazingly, some of the best singers can't read music. What's vital is that you have a good ear for music. The music director will teach you what you need to know. That being said... singers who can read music have a huge advantage. - Paul

Is it taboo to sing a song from the show you're auditioning for? For example, if I'm auditioning for "Annie" is it okay to sing "Tomorrow"?

Traditionally, singing from the score is considered taboo. This probably originated from the directors' aversions to hearing the song "Tomorrow" over and over. However, in the end (after cuts and call-backs) the directors aren't going to hire you until they hear you sing "Tomorrow." If you're sure you can nail it, why not cut to the chase? Go ahead and sing from the score if you think it will serve you in the long run. The wisest option would be to separate yourself from the crowd by singing something that's not from the show, but close in musical style (so that the directors know you have the capability to sing "Tomorrow" without having to hear you sing "Tomorrow.") - Paul

I sang a really good audition but I didn't get a call back. What's wrong with me?

Directors hear many many good voices that could sing well in a show. However, directors have an image in their minds of what they want the characters to look like, how the different characters should look with each other and and what limitations the set and costumes provide. Also different voice qualities are needed, for example if a woman has a really good show belt, but the show calls for a more legit sound, then the belter isn't right for that show. - Anonymous