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For many actors, the most difficult part of acting is the audition process. Even the most experienced actors still get butterflies before they walk in that casting door. Some become physically ill, but this does not stop them from their goal. Nerves are natural. We all respond to stressful situations differently, but when entering that office or theatre for the purpose of furthering your creative career, you must be artistically prepared. The more prepared you are then the less the nerves will overpower you. Some nerves boost' heighten the experience, which can be good, however you must learn to tame them, as you would a new puppy.

Understand that the director, casting director, writer and producer would like you to be the one' for the part just as much as you do. However does not always work out that way. Despite the odds, you can still put forth a successful audition no matter what it is for and no matter how short the time you have. You may not get the part, but learn to allow the confidence you felt in that room to carry you through to the next audition and the next.

1) Have a solid repertoire of monologues available; at least 5-6 good ones that suit you perfectly. One classical (Greek or Roman), at least two Shakespeare or perhaps one Shakespeare and one of his contemporaries, and two modern' speeches, a comedic one and serious one, from well-known playwrights. An extra speech to have is one that goes against your type'. You are normally cast as a tough guy/girl or character' type? Then chose a piece that, while difficult for you, shows that you are not afraid to approach that kind of roll. An example could be a girl next door' actress delving into the mind of a seasoned prostitute. The rest of your portfolio should include other shorter pieces that are easy to memorize and enhance your personality and creative ability. This way when the casting crew says thank you, have you got anything else?' you can say yes I do' with absolute confidence.

2) If you are having trouble with Shakespeare, as many actors do, keep a copy of the cliff notes handy to help you better understand the context of the speech you are studying. The more you have the ability to relate it to your present mind', the better you can connect to the emotion underlying the piece. For Greek and Roman plays, there are several different translations. Do not just pick up the first one you see on the shelf. Translators have their own creative style. Deciding on which to choose is like deciding which

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