by Jami Wright

Created on: April 23, 2009   Last Updated: December 01, 2010

Ever wonder how it is that some people get those parts in the plays you go to see? Is it hard? Does it require dedication? Yes, being an actor is difficult and can really beat up on your psyche. Here are some tips I learned when I was acting back in the day.

First, get on all of the local theaters audition list. Most of them have a website and you can sign up to receive their audition calls. Others you may need to call and sign up. Most theaters advertise auditions in newspapers and on their voicemail recording as well. You can't audition if you don't know where and the theaters want the best person for the job so they do their best to advertise.

Next, there are two types of auditions for plays. Be prepared for either one.

One is a cold read, this is where the director will call you up with a group of actors or by yourself to read something, usually from the play. You will have to show your acting a ability as you read your script. The best way to prepare for this is to practice scenes from books you are reading. I write, so I sometimes act out those scenes to keep my acting ability sharp.

The second is a monologue. I would suggest having four different monologues in your head at any given time. Make sure you keep up with these monologues and continue to refresh them every couple of weeks. The best four are, a comedy piece, a shock piece, a drama piece, and a Shakespeare piece.

I can still recite and perform three of my monologues and I have not been to an audition for over seven years. They make for great party conversation.

When you find out about an audition, read everything you can on the play. If you can research the director as well. Going in blind is hard to land a part, but if you know what the play is about you can dress the part, if you like one character over the others you can read only for that character, if you know the director's style you can adapt your style to the directors.

Make sure that you have a resume and/or head shot(optional). Even if your resume is limited to school plays, it shows your commitment to the director. It isn't easy putting on a play. It takes an average of 6 week' rehearsals five nights a week, photo shots, costuming, and a ton of dedication.

Tips and Tricks:

Do the best you can do and be happy with what you did. If you don't get the part; it could have nothing to do with your acting ability and everything to do with what the director visualizes, they want a brunette instead of a blonde. They have worked with a particular actor before or seen that actors work and want to work with them.

Words of Warning:

Don't get discouraged if you don't get the part. If you are meant to be an actor, you will get the part that is right for you.

Do not compare yourself to the other actors. This can psyche you out.

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