Audition Guidelines for the Richland Light Opera Company

Every actor has a first-time for auditioning, and most remain nervous about auditioning even after years of doing so.  Don’t let the first-time jitters keep you from trying out for a stage role.  Directors are very understanding and will work with you at the audition to bring out your best.  They know you are nervous.  The following guidelines are offered by RLOC to help auditionees understand what is expected at our auditions and help them with their preparation.  RLOC auditions typically involve singing, acting, and stage movement.
 
1.  What role?  Know something about the show for which you are auditioning and any specific parts you are seeking. Audition forms typically ask for what parts you want to be considered.  Some people limit themselves to a specific role.  Others are open to whatever part the directors might select for them.  Directors especially like people to say “any part” because it gives them maximum flexibility in casting.  You may be surprised at what a director could have in store for you.
 
2.  Song selection is the auditionee’s choice.  The most important thing about your song selection is that it highlights your vocal capability.  Ideally, it should be from a musical production, though not necessarily the show for which you are auditioning.  Use something that showcases your range, and that you are comfortable singing.  It doesn’t need to be cutting edge or technically challenging.  Old standards are welcome.  You will probably be limited to about 2 minutes for your song.  If you go long, you may be cut off by the directors once they have heard your ability.  If you are cut off, don’t take it personally or as an indication that there is anything wrong with your audition.  It merely means that the staff believes they have heard you sufficiently to judge your musical ability for the roles being considered.
 
3.  Accompaniment.  Your vocal selection needs an accompaniment.  As part of auditions, RLOC provides a talented piano accompanist for auditions who will be happy to accompany you.  You may also bring your own accompanist.  A CD or tape may sometimes be used, but should not include background singers.  Directors consider it very important to hear how you work with a musical accompaniment for rhythm, timing, and pitch.
 
4.  Readings will depend on the part for which you are auditioning. You will probably have a chance to do several different parts unless you limit yourself.  Shows may have opportunities for non-singing parts for those who don’t sing.  (But you really should give singing a try as a bold step!)
 
5.  Stage movement (choreography or dance) will vary depending on the shows.  Some shows require highly specialized dancers for select numbers, whereas others may require little more than some movement in rhythm.  Dress comfortably in loose clothing and wear comfortable shoes in which you can move.
 
6.  The audition process may take anywhere from half-an-hour to a couple of hours, depending on the number of people auditioning and the format selected for auditions. 
 
7.  Call-backs.  You may be invited to a call-back following audition.  A call-back is where finalists for a role (or roles) are compared.  Directors may try out various combinations of cast members looking for the best match of vocal abilities, appearance, style, or stage chemistry.  Most cast members are cast without going through call-backs, but principal roles often have call-backs.  Call-backs are typically a day or two after auditions and some shows are cast without needing call-backs.
 
8.  Don’t wear strong colognes, perfumes or other scents to auditions or performances.  Actors don’t like to sneeze or have allergic reactions!  Who does?
 
RLOC holds open auditions, meaning anyone can audition. As a community theater, we seek the best person for each role and we give first consideration for all roles to those who audition.  We look forward to seeing you at a future audition.

 

A printable version of the guidlines can be downloaded by clicking here.

 

... in summary ...

• Learn about the show and the roles
• Select an audition song that highlights your vocal capabilities -- choose something you know
• Some shows have non-singing roles
• Using the provided piano accompanist is preferred
• Dramatic readings may be part of the process
• Stage movement and dance will vary on the show -- dress comfortably
• Auditions may take 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Call-backs and confirmation calls will follow auditions
• Don't wear stong colognes or perfumes