Here Are 6 Quick Things You Should Do the Night Before an Audition
February 28, 2023
Most actors will think they’re audition-ready after learning the lines, working on their character and making creative choices. However, there’s more that can be done to make the most of any audition opportunity.
In the video below, Ajarae Coleman, founder of Acting Resource Guru, shares six basic but important practices to make audition day run smoothly. “We want to have as much energy available to rock out the performance,” Coleman says.
Here are six things actors can do the night before an audition.
1. Have your headshot and resume ready to go.
Depending on the casting director’s requirements, talent needs to ascertain exactly what to bring to the audition. Like self taped auditions, most headshots and resumes are shared digitally. However, there might be rare in-person instances when a paper headshot and resume are specifically requested. Check your printer for ink and have everything ready to go the night before the audition and you should be set.
2. Prepare your wardrobe.
“Make sure it’s clean and pressed and ready to go,” Coleman says. This includes gathering shoes, accessories and even a set of backup clothes to keep handy just in case of a spill or tear. These habits are sure to keep you looking sharp on audition day.
3. Research the project for which you’re auditioning.
“Make sure that you understand the tone of the show, make sure you know how your role fits within the story.” says Coleman “You just want to make sure you have all that nailed because if you don’t, that can severely affect your performance.”
As far as commercials are concerned, companies invest a lot in creating a brand, a specific look and a distinct feel. The company is likely to be searching for an actor who fits well into that established vision. Do your homework and determine how your role connects to that concept.
4. Research the casting director, producers and directors.
Casting directors come from all walks of life. It’s both prudent and respectful to learn something about the professional who’s invited you to audition.
“No professional would go into an interview without knowing who [he/she] was going to be meeting with,” Coleman says. “And we need to treat auditions the same way. Because actors audition so frequently, I feel like we tend to take them for granted and just sort of go, when they are job interviews, and we should be treating them as such.”
Should you land the part, it’s also important to familiarize yourself with the projects and personalities of the producers and directors you’ll be working with.
5. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early for in-person auditions.
In the event of an in-person audition, calculate the amount of time it takes to travel to the location of your audition. Anticipate additional factors such as traffic and parking, then add 15 minutes. This buffer will help keep you calm and ready to review all those valuable character insights you’ve already prepped.
6. Treat yourself well.
The way you treat your body the night before an audition can have a huge impact on your performance. Make healthy food choices, get a full night’s rest and avoid any substances that can diminish your energy level the following day.
By following these disciplines, actors can enter their auditions feeling unstoppable so they can really shine in the audition room.
Want to get your acting career started? Sign up or login to Casting Frontier and start auditioning today!
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