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Callback Audition: An Actor’s Guide

Andrew Koch — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:19:11 +0000

Congratulations! You made it through a nerve-racking preliminary audition. But now you’ve been asked to attend another round of evaluation: the callback audition.

If you’ve never been, callbacks can seem intimidating. Here’s what you should know ahead of time, and how you can make the most of it.

What Are Callback Auditions?

Most shows have auditions, for which actors might be asked to prepare a monologue and/or (if the show is a musical) a song. Casting directors and other members of the production team use auditions to evaluate actors’ potential and make decisions about who will fill each role.

A callback audition is a second wave of testing: an opportunity for directors to finalize a cast list. Quite literally, actors are “called back” to the audition space to continue vying for a spot in the production. For some directors, callbacks are merely a “final cut” for certain roles. Others use callbacks exclusively to fine-tune a cast list they’ve already made.

Who Gets a Callback?

Generally, actors who receive callbacks for certain roles are the finalists for those roles. However, some actors may be asked to read for multiple characters.

What Will You Be Asked to Do?

Unlike auditions, you likely won’t need to memorize any materials ahead of a callback. Most callbacks involve readings from the play or musical: You’ll be given the script and asked to perform certain scenes from the show for the production team, likely alongside other actors who have also been called back. Sometimes you’ll be given some time with the material, other times, you may receive the material at the callback and be asked to perform a “cold reading,” without much prep time at all.

Note you may be asked to read for a role you didn’t audition for. Follow the director’s request, even if you aren’t interested in that role; they may simply be experimenting, and you can always decline a role if you don’t want it. (Who knows? You might be surprised to find you like playing an unexpected character!) Mostly, you want to appear receptive to the creative process of the director, display an apt ability to make strong choices and take risks, and be game, willing, and pleasant to work with.

7 Tips for a Great Callback Audition

Much of the same audition etiquette advice also applies to callbacks. Be courteous and professional, arrive early, and bring your acting resume.

Specifically, keep these principles in mind:

A Thespian participates in Thespy adjudication at ITF 2023. Photo by David Slaughter

Carefully follow all instructions: Prepare any materials as instructed and stay active and engaged during the callback itself.
Know the show: Now that you’ll be performing lines from the show itself, it’s even more important to understand the show and your (potential) role in it. Familiarize yourself with the character(s) you’ve been asked to read for. You won’t be expected to know every nuance of a character yet, but study at least the basics: the character’s motivation, their brief biography, and their dramatic arc throughout the show. If you have time, read the whole script, or watch a recording of the performance. Of course, if the show is a brand new original work, you may not have the ability to learn much ahead of the callback. Do as much research as you can.
Be flexible: As in auditions, directors are evaluating how well you take criticism and can adapt to their vision. Listen to and incorporate their suggestions for how to read a line or approach a scene—even if you don’t necessarily agree with them. Try things various ways, if you get the opportunity to read more than once.
Support your fellow actors: If you’re asked to read with another actor, treat them courteously and respect their creative decisions. The casting director will likely be assessing how you and other actors interact—both your on-stage chemistry and your level of professionalism—so be open and respectful. (After all, they may soon be your castmate!)
A group of Thespians prepare for adjudication at ITF 2023. Photo by David Slaughter
Try not to be nervous: Receiving an invitation to a callback audition is a good sign! The director saw what they liked in your audition and wants to spend more time assessing you for a role (or multiple roles). While certainly not a guarantee you’ll be cast, a callback reflects you’ve passed the hardest part of the audition process: making a favorable impression on the casting director.
Stay true to yourself: Again, the casting director saw something they liked in your audition. Don’t suddenly present yourself differently from how you did then, and definitely don’t try to copy a famous actor’s performance of a role. (A casting director isn’t interested in your imitation of Hugh Jackman’s Harold Hill. They want your Harold Hill.)
Follow up: The production team will almost certainly confirm how they’ll inform you on their casting decisions. But if they don’t (or they haven’t contacted you in the time frame they originally announced), it’s appropriate to reach out for clarification. Just be sure to check all locations information may have been conveyed already, like a callboard or your spam folder!

What if I didn’t get a callback?

Don’t panic if you didn’t receive a callback. That doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be cast—the director may simply feel they’ve seen enough of your performance and resume to make a casting decision. Or perhaps the callbacks are only for certain roles or ensembles rather than the full cast.

Once you’re through the callback process, learn how to prepare for a table read or handle not getting the part you wanted.

Andrew Koch is a writer and editor from Cincinnati.

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Audition for Community Theatre

Andrew Koch — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 22:31:01 +0000

What are you doing this summer? Your love of theatre doesn’t have to end with the school year (or even with high school graduation). Acting opportunities are all around you—if you know where to look.

If you want something more organized than a backyard performance but less professional than a regional theatre, community theatre troupes might be right for you. Though mostly made up of amateurs, community theatres perform shows for the general public and bring accessible theatre to your city.

Here are five reasons to audition for a local community theatre.

Get more acting experience

Quality may be better than quantity, but you’ll still want several roles on your acting resume. Your school likely has time to do only two or three shows in a year (and may be dormant over the summer). But community theatres can operate year-round, giving you additional chances to hone your craft.

Community theatres can also be a fresh start. You may regularly compete with other students for roles you want, but the pool of actors in your age group might be smaller at a community theatre. And you’ll work with a new director and a wider variety of castmates—including older actors who have valuable experience to share (more on this later).

Acting in community theatres can even open you up to a wider variety of roles. A local community theatre might be able to put on shows that your school can’t. For example, maybe you want to play a role from a show that’s too risque (say, Cabaret) or logistically difficult (say, Phantom of the Opera) for your school to put on, or a show for which the rights aren’t available.

Broaden your theatre knowledge

Many companies are volunteer-led, meaning everyone pitches in. In addition to your acting role, you could take on tech responsibilities that will help you round out your resume.

The troupe I’ve been involved with as an adult performs in a public park’s amphitheater. As part of the agreement between the troupe and park, everything must come down after each rehearsal and performance: lights, sets, props and even backstage tents that the actors sit underneath.

By helping out, I’ve expanded my theatre skill set and developed a greater appreciation for the hard work that goes into a show. Though I’ve only been credited as an actor, I’ve also:

taken down and put up set pieces
hung lights and curtains
edited and formatted programs
worked concessions
set up stands and chairs for the orchestra

You might also have an opportunity to assist with costuming, makeup, or marketing the show, or even direct!

Network with local directors and actors

If you’d like to act professionally, community theatres help you meet key people in the local industry, such as directors and actors. They can give you important feedback and expose you to different styles and techniques, and keep you informed of other opportunities (both educational and professional).

Building these relationships can also “get your foot in the door” for future shows. In addition, directors make helpful references for jobs, and can write letters of recommendation for colleges or scholarship programs.

Don’t forget to ask veteran actors for their advice. Some of my favorite memories of community theatre are killing time backstage by tapping the brains of actors who have been in the business for years, even decades—the different roles they’ve played, how the companies have evolved, and even the “drama” behind the drama.

Give back to your community

Local arts need participants, in addition to patrons! Support the arts by showing up in your community. Your troupe might perform free shows at places like nursing homes and schools, bringing theatre to audiences who otherwise wouldn’t have access to it. Or it might provide opportunities for actors who have disabilities or other life circumstances that prevent them from participating elsewhere.

You can also give back by being the mentor you always wanted. Take other new or young actors under your wing, and share what you’ve learned to help them grow.

Have fun!

Make lifelong friends and keep your love of theatre strong. Find a troupe that’s a good fit for you, and you’ll have a creative outlet that lasts—not just for summer vacation, but also after graduation and throughout your adult life.

For more, check out the American Association of Community Theatre and similar organizations for your region.

Andrew Koch is a writer and editor from Cincinnati. He performed in his first community theatre show at age 24.re

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Acting the Song for Auditions

Laura Enstall — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 23:34:41 +0000

When you’re acting the song for an audition, choose an appropriate genre for that show. If you’re auditioning for a traditional show like Guys and Dolls, choose a song from the Golden Age of Broadway. If on the other hand you are auditioning for a contemporary show like Freaky Friday, find a song with a fitting style for the time period.

Having classical and contemporary songs in your book that are performance ready will help you go into auditions feeling more prepared. “Performance ready” means you have done your prep work, understood the character, the intention behind the song, and have practiced it enough to truly perform it. This will all help you be in character and act the song better. If you learn a new song the night before, I guarantee, you will not be as connected to the character.

When you audition, you might only have 16-32 measures or 60-90 seconds to show ’em what you’ve got. This is why you must be prepared. I’ve had students tell me they have a difficult time connecting to a song when they have to do a cut rather than the entire song. Well, here’s the thing, that is exactly what you must be prepared to do to shine in the audition. You need to be able to “drop in” to the song and the character quickly at your audition, even if that means starting in the middle of the song. (Review part one of this story for tips.)

Pro Tips for Acting the Song in Auditions

1. Drop In
Learn the entire song so you have context for the whole story. Then if you’re asked to do just a cut, you can drop into character because of your thorough preparation. For example, when you get to your spot onstage or in the audition room you want to have a thought prepared that helps you quickly become the character. Practice quickly getting into the character’s mindset. The intro of the song (the starting notes the accompanist plays) can most certainly help you, but you should begin acting before the music starts.

2. Focal Point
Having a focal point will also give you more direction. If you’re in a small room auditioning, consider looking above your audition panel’s heads. Don’t look too high, you don’t want to appear as though you’re looking up at the ceiling. But rather, find a spot on the wall on which to focus. You don’t need to stare at that spot the entire time. You can place the person you’re singing to, your “other,” on that spot and find the moments when you want to look back.

Use your space and move around if it makes sense. You can always go back to that focal point. It will help you to have direction and not wander. Rehearse this at home with a focal point on your wall. Find the moments when you move away from it and when you return to that spot. One other nice thing about a focal point, you know where to look and you don’t feel awkward wondering if you should look at the audition panel or directors while you’re singing.

3. Trust the work
Connecting to your song when you’re not feeling it can be a real challenge. There may be times when you have to audition and you’ve been sick or you had a tough day for other reasons. Trust the work you’ve already done to carry you through the audition. Trust the character study and the time you’ve analyzing the song. When the time comes to sing, tap into the lyrics and the music, think about what you’re saying. We often need to slow down and remember the words, feel the meaning of the words, and not just sing them. This brings authenticity to what you’re singing.

Definitely do not rely on your own emotions. If you’ve had a tough day, it might be a challenge to emote happily, for example. But it’s your job to think about the character and who they are. It’s about what the character is going through, not what you’re experiencing. Practice being in character no matter your own emotions.

Be sure to focus on your “other” as you are acting the song for auditions. Remember, you’re singing TO someone, even if that someone is yourself. Focus on the message of the song. Be clear about your reasons for singing this song to that person.

Acting the Song at Callbacks

When you have a callback, apply all of these same tips. Plus, here are a few more things to think about for callbacks that are different than for the audition. (Let’s not forget our virtual auditioning skills! Click that link.)

Study the show before you audition.
You might have cold reads and cuts of songs you’ll be asked to prepare or do on the spot. Make choices for acting the song for the characters based on the lyrics and the circumstances. This is why it’s important to study the show ahead of time.

If you get to take sides home or are sent them ahead of time, use this to your advantage. Study and show up prepared! Spend time making not only acting choices but physical choices (based on the character). Don’t be afraid to stand out (in a positive way).

Acting the song skills can be learned and honed to help you onstage, in auditions, and at callbacks. Invest your time in practicing these tips and honing your skills. You’ll be glad you did!

Laura Enstall, owner and founder of Audition Well. She helps students conquer audition fears, stand out in the audition room, and find the theatre program that’s a perfect fit. Follow Audition Well on Instagram for audition tips @auditionwell.

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4 Easy Steps to Successful College Theatre Auditions

Laura Enstall — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 18:20:20 +0000

WE’VE BECOME ACCUSTOMED to working, schooling, performing and even doing college theatre auditions virtually. The 2020-2021 college audition season was the first-ever done completely virtual. Students didn’t have the opportunity to audition for college theatre programs in person. The National Unified Auditions held annually in Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles were even virtual.

Just because we’ve been auditioning virtually recently doesn’t mean we’re used to it and it doesn’t mean that it’s easier than in-person auditions. Or that it’s more comfortable. It’s definitely a process that takes time to get comfortable going through. There are four simple steps you can take to set yourself up for successful college theatre auditions. (Plus, check out our 2021 College Guide for links to colleges looking for students just like you!)

STEP 1: SETTING UP YOUR SPACE

Dedicate a space for your auditions. It can even be your own bedroom. You want a peaceful environment for your college theatre auditions on a consistent basis. A room that you have unlimited access to and where you feel comfortable is perfect.

Set up a clean background that’s not distracting. While your background might not seem that important, it is! You want the viewer focused on YOU and not what’s behind you. A plain background is best.

How to focus on YOU

Put the walls to work: A neutral-colored wall works well. The wall in the room you’re using for your college theatre auditions doesn’t have to be white, a color is great! I’ve had students look excellent on camera with vivid wall colors behind them.

Choose a backdrop: You can use a cloth backdrop tacked to the wall or on a stand that can be purchased from Amazon. If you’re using a backdrop, it should be ironed or steamed so the wrinkles aren’t distracting. You can also purchase backdrop paper in a variety of sizes and colors. I like this option because it’s quick, easy, and you don’t have to iron. Plus, you can tape or tack this paper to the wall if you don’t have a backdrop stand. Be careful not to damage the wall.

Limit the noise around you: Quiet please! I realize it’s challenging with other people in the house to impose total silence on everyone. Remember, though, that any outside noises may be distracting to you and the auditors. Turn off all notifications on your phone and computer. The email/text notification, even if it’s not making a sound could interrupt music you are streaming.

Take your mark: Be sure the camera you’re using is set to your eye level. You don’t want to appear to be looking down during your college theatre auditions. You’ll most likely be using the camera on a computer. So, when you’re standing in your audition space set the camera accurately. You can easily prop your computer up to the correct height with books or by placing your computer on a shelf.

It’s a good idea to use masking tape on the ground to show your marks for a three-quarter shot and a tight shot from your shoulders up. With marks, you won’t worry you’re standing in the wrong place and be able to focus on your audition.

STEP TWO: CHOOSING THE BEST TECHNOLOGY

You don’t need to purchase a lot of fancy equipment to have a successful audition. However, these items can give you an advantage.

Ring light: Being properly lit for your auditions is necessary. You want to look your best. You’ll have many uses for a ring light as an actor. You’ll need to submit self-tapes and film prescreens, and a ring light can even be used for your online classes.

Stable internet connection: Test your internet well before you start the audition process. If your connection is unstable or it lags, see what you can do to fix the problems. Your auditions won’t be their best if there’s a delay in connectivity. You may need to get a signal booster.

Computer with a camera: A computer with a camera is a must for college theatre auditions. Some students have tried to audition from their phones, and it doesn’t always go well. While I can’t speak for every audition situation, sometimes the platforms on which you’ll be auditioning don’t work on a mobile device (at least this audition season).

Bluetooth speaker: If you’re auditioning for musical theatre programs, you’ll need a Bluetooth speaker on which to play your music. It won’t be loud enough if you play it on your phone and playing it on the same device on which you’re auditioning isn’t reliable.

External microphone: An external microphone can improve the audio quality. You want to sound your best. Having an external mic will certainly help pickup your vocals. Computer mics generally aren’t high quality.

STEP 3: DOING YOUR PREP WORK

Being completely prepared for your audition, whether it’s virtual or in person, speaks volumes. Your preparation shows that you care, you’re organized, and you want this.

An unprepared student is easy to spot. A student who knows their material and is prepared stands out from the crowd and shines.

If you’re singing, then have your music cued up and your Bluetooth speaker ready. Have all your songs and monologue performances ready in case you’re asked to perform.

Do your research ahead of time. Research the schools and the people for whom you’re auditioning. What you discover will help you understand who they are and what they do. You’ll feel more prepared and therefore more confident.

It’s a good idea to have a couple of prepared questions in case they ask: “Do you have any questions?” Questions about their previous programs or plans for the coming year are good in most situations. Also, if they’ve said something that isn’t clear to you, calmly ask for clarification. Asking for clarification shows maturity and inquisitiveness to fully understand situations.

STEP 4: CREATING A PRE-AUDITION ROUTINE (RELAX!)

Try to breathe deeply and slowly. This deep breathing will help your body relax and your mind to focus on the audition ahead. Just like an athlete who creates a pre-game routine which creates muscle memory, creating your own pre-audition routine will benefit you, too! Your routine will help you warm-up and be mentally prepared.

Know going into college theatre auditions process that the auditors want you to succeed. Whether you’re auditioning in person or virtually, they’re on your side! They’re not out to get you; they’re not sitting behind the camera snickering. They want you to do your best. The best fit for you may be that audition or maybe it won’t. Remember, each time you audition it’s an opportunity to perform.

Technology glitches happen and we all have to deal with them so remain calm. If you get kicked out of the waiting room or you receive the wrong link, it’s okay, you won’t miss your opportunity to audition. At this point, we all know that connectivity issues can happen (which is why it is important to do your best to have stable Internet), these things are beyond our control. Show up and do your best. Try not to let the uncontrollable factors throw you. I had a student who had an audition for an acting program and was in the waiting room and then was sent the wrong link for her actual audition, she finally made it to the right room and when she got there everyone was completely understanding.

COLLEGE THEATRE AUDITIONS: THAT’S A WRAP!

While the 2021-2022 college auditions season may not be 100% virtual, there’s a strong chance it will remain virtual or hybrid. Begin preparing for your college theatre auditions early so you’re ready and you shine!

Content written by Laura Enstall who creates confident, prepared actors. She is the owner and founder of Audition Well and is a well-respected St. Louis-based College Audition Coach. She specializes in college audition prep, acting and acting-the-song training for high school students in the United States and internationally. She is a CAP Certified Teacher with College Audition Project which means Audition Well students enjoy access to exclusive auditions. Laura is a proud member of AEA and an adjunct theatre professor for Lindenwood University and St. Charles Community College. Because she believes in giving back to the theatre community, she regularly shares her expertise, audition tips and other valuable, free content on Instagram, so be sure to follow @auditionwell

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