5 ways to stand out from the crowd at an audition – Screenwise Tips

Competition at auditions is intense; and standing out from the rest of the crowd can be one of the biggest challenges faced by any actor hoping to land their next big role.
Want to have the edge over the competition? The Screenwise Acting School has put together their expert advice of over 30 years experience to help you shine at your next big acting audition. Here are five ways to stand out from the crowd at an audition:

1. First impressions count

Regardless of how nervous you may be on the day, you should always remember to try and make a good first impression. This also applies to how you conduct yourself before audition day. If you are called or emailed prior to the audition, always remember to be polite and friendly, you never know who is on the other end of the line.
Even if you are suffering from a bout of last minute nerves, try to appear confident in your body language. Learn some breathing or relaxation exercises that you can do before you enter an audition to help prepare yourself.
Screenwise Tip:
“Build relationships – make eye contact, smile, and always be polite and courteous to everyone.”

2. Be Yourself

Once you get into the audition room, walk in with confidence. Make eye contact with the casting director and don’t forget to smile! It’s normal that you will be nervous, but make sure your passion and talent shines through.
Screenwise Tip:
“The rule to remember is confidence. Be open to direction, expect the unexpected and be yourself.”
Enjoy it! When you’re in an audition it can be easy to focus only on how much you want or need the job, forgetting about the fact that you are getting the chance to do something that you love! Casting directors are looking for passion, excitement, spark and a great attitude – relaxing into the audition and having fun with the role will help to portray your true talent. It also lets them know you will be great to work with on set.

3. Dress for the part

While you don’t need to audition in full costume, it’s a good idea to try and dress for the part. For example, if the role is for a schoolgirl or history teacher, then try and wear something that hints at the role. Try to wear clean, unmarked and unbranded clothing and girls, avoid wearing high heels and lots of make-up.

4. Avoid standing out for the wrong reasons

If your nerves get the better of you and you forget your lines – don’t panic.
Screenwise Tip:
“Either stay in character and just say to the reader ‘line’, and wait for the reader to give you the line…or stop and ask if you can start again.”
Once you have finished, don’t rush out of the room. It’s also advised that you never ask for feedback at the end of an audition. That’s a job for your agent – just thank the casting director courteously and leave.
Audition Often – Practice makes perfect 
As with everything in life, the more you practice, the more confident you will become – and this confidence will help to set you apart from others. One of the biggest things standing in the way of you and success at an audition is nerves. They can make you rush, mumble or forget your lines, and they can make you rely on the script and forget to act!
Take any opportunity you are given to perfect your audition technique, and if you are lucky enough to be given feedback, make sure you take it on board.

If you are interested in a career in acting and are looking to turn your passion into your profession, speak to Screenwise – Australia’s leading Film and TV School. They offer a wide range of acting courses from Screen Acting Diplomas to Short courses for beginners – visit the website for more information.