How to get cast in Musical Theatre
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Bring copies of your headshot and resume. Just as you would enter a job interview with a resume, you must always bring a headshot and resume to an audition. Many photographers specialize in headshots. Check several photographers' websites to compare rates and quality. If you're on a budget, check your local online listings or call a school with a photography program to ask about students trying to build a portfolio.
Your photographer will supply you with a CD that you can bring to a print shop. In order to get the best rates and quality, opt for a company that specializes in headshots rather than general photo printing.
Reference a resume template to be sure that yours follows basic guidelines. Keep it to a page, including your name and contact info at the top. Staple your resume to the back of your headshot, facing outward. Trim your resume page to 8 by 10, the size of your headshot, before attaching. - 2
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Find an audition to attend. There are several online and print listings of local auditions whether you live in Los Angeles, New York, or even Hoboken, New Jersey. Backstage is a popular trade listing and can be found at newsstands and online at Backstage.com. Expect to find both paid and non-paid opportunities.
On a smaller scale, most schools and many churches have a theater department of some kind. Ask someone at the church or school about any upcoming audition opportunities. - 3
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Prepare to sing an appropriate song. For most musical theater productions, your song is a vital part of your audition, though you may also be asked to dance or read sides.
Your audition song should fit the show you are auditioning for. Do not prepare to audition for an opera by singing a pop song. Do not audition for a classic musical from the 1940's with a song from the newest show on Broadway.
Prepare a cut of 16-32 bars, depending on the specifications of the company, and ensure that your sheet music is in the correct key. If possible, have a friend or teacher accompany you beforehand so that you know what to expect. - 4
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Be prepared to dance. The dance you might expected to perform may vary greatly from show to show. There are musicals that require all performers to tap dance or to be able to perform a complicated combination. Conversely, there are several shows with minimal choreography. Attend a series of beginners' dance classes to prepare yourself; focus on learning jazz, ballet and tap. - 5
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Be on time for the audition! If you have an audition appointment, show up at least 15 minutes ahead of time. For shows that list an open-ended time, show up by the beginning of that time. Be prepared to wait to be seen.
Dress appropriately. Upscale-casual is the norm for auditions. Bring clothes that you can dance in, and appropriate dance shoes.
Remember to "sell it." You are your own secret weapon.
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