Recently I had my first audition for Seussical the Musical Jr.! I wanted to share some things that I wish I’d have known before doing it.

10. Have your back track prepared

When my karaoke started playing, my sound was off, so I had to start over, which threw me off. Don’t let this happen to you!

9. Turn your nervousness into excitement

Just tell yourself that you’re excited, not nervous. You can’t get rid of energy, so just turn it into something else!

8. Picture yourself in a place you are comfortable performing

You might be freaked out if you think about how you are auditioning in a place you’ve never even sung before, so instead imagine you’re in the shower or someplace you love to act and sing.

7. Be supportive of others

Not only could word get to the director if you’re mean to someone, but you are working with these people for months if you get in. Plus, don’t you want to be lifted up before your audition? Help others that same way!

6. Be prepared

Know your song and your monologue inside and out. Make sure that even if you totally freak out, you’ll still be able to showcase your talent even if it is shaky. I was so nervous that I probably would have totally not even done my song if it wasn’t so drilled into me.

5. Study your character and the show

Make sure you know lots about the show you’re auditioning for! If you act your monologue out completely how it wasn’t intended, it will definitely affect your chances. Plus if you’re auditioning for the part of a really happy person and you act your song like someone just died, it won’t showcase what you’re capable of!

4. Pick an appropriate song for your audition

I’m not just talking about language or suggestive content, but make sure your song fits. Don’t choose a funeral march for the happiest musical in the world! Make sure you could also play the character who’s song you’re singing. For example, girls, don’t sing Gaston because there is no way you could ever get that part.

3. Follow the rules!

If the audition guidelines are, pick a broadway song and sing thirty seconds of it, don’t sing all of Bad by Michael Jackson. Make sure to prepare everything too. Don’t just prep your song and not a monologue or vice versa.

2. Pretend you already have the part

This will give you unmatched confidence. What do you mean I’m trying out for the part of Sharpay from High School Musical? I’m already her!

1. It’s not a big deal

At the end of the day, you have a life outside of theatre and being in this musical, hopefully. Take it easy, your life doesn’t depend on this!

Good luck on your next audition!