ASSOCIATED STUDIOS AUDITION GUIDELINES AND ADVICE
We are very much looking forward to meeting you at your audition. Please read these notes carefully as they will help you prepare to the best of your availability.
Once you have received your Audition time please let us know as soon as possible should you need to reschedule your audition. If we receive a week’s prior notice, there is no extra charge for rescheduling.
AUDITION REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL ASSOCIATED STUDIOS MUSICAL THEATRE COURSES
Please prepare two contrasting Musical Theatre songs.
Please prepare a short monologue/speech between 2-3mins in length.
An accompanist will be provided
A short interview will follow your audition to give us a chance to get to know you and give you a chance to ask any questions.
When you are auditioning for Associated Studios Musical Theatre courses you are automatically auditioning for ALL courses. The panel will advise you if they feel another course would be more suitable for you. The panel can also explain the different benefits and structure of each course you might be considered for.
AUDITION ADVICE
Monologues and Speeches:
Choose a monologue that speaks to you personally, that excites you and you find easy to identify with. There are books available full of monologues to be found in various theatre book shops. Make sure the monologue is no more than 3 minutes long and is a clear unit and that it has a definite beginning and end.
Consider and decide: What is the situation at the start and what is the situation by the end of the monologue (i.e. the change that takes place)
Make absolutely sure that you read and re-read the entire play!
Right from the start, think and refer to your character as ‘I’; not as he or she. This will help you identify with and live inside your character’s skin.
Introductory Questions:
Two contrasting Musical Theatre Songs:
Please choose and practice your songs well before your audition. Muscle memory takes roughly 3 weeks to be in place.
Most songs work better in an audition if you have had a chance to perform them at least once. This can be at an Open Mic night or even to family and friends.
When choosing your songs please be aware that in most auditions the panel is interested in two contrasting songs in two different vocal styles. For example one ‘legit’ or ‘head voice’ ‘classical musical theatre’ song and perhaps one slightly more contemporary, ‘modal voice’, ‘speech quality’, or belty song. One song might be an emotional ballad, one might be up tempo or a character song.
It is always a good idea to stay away from the ‘Mega musicals’ such as Wicked, Phantom, Les Mis etc.
If at all possible, go through the songs with a pianist at least once before your audition. If you have never sung the songs with the real piano accompaniments before, this can throw you at audition. Do seek advice from your Singing Teacher (if you have one).
Make sure you have the sheet music taped, or in a display book with cuts clearly marked.
Make sure you have practiced the song as it is written, rather than learned it from a recording as these are frequently in various versions and keys.
Do have a look at the performance history of the song. If the song is traditionally sung by a character who is 30 years older than you, or sung by the opposite sex, consider choosing a song which is a little closer to your casting.
Choose songs which show off your vocal ability. Try not to choose songs which are currently too challenging.
Try to practice your technique rigorously before your audition. Voices are like the rest of your body. To be vocally fit takes regular and disciplined practice.
Do get enough rest, drink plenty of water and leave adequate time to get to your audition so that you are not rushing.
Consider applying the acting notes above to your ‘acting through song’.
Do make sure you know the lyricist, the composer and the show the song is from.
The above notes are there to support you and guide you. Please remember that the panel is experienced enough to be able to tell potential.
Please remember that the audition should also be a positive experience for you, giving you the chance to perform, to meet some of the coaches at Associated Studios and to ask questions. The panel will be able to give you advice on which course is most suitable for you. An Associated Studios audition means that you will automatically be considered for all programmes.
The team at Associated Studios wishes you all the best with your preparation, and we look forward to meeting you at your audition.
