Auditions for “High School Musical” have come and gone. No matter where you’re auditioning, they can be rather stressful. They do not always go as planned, and casting results can break hearts. No matter what happens, there are things you can do to make the most of your audition. Here are a few tips that will make things a little less stressful.

 

• Do NOT leave the stage, no matter what. Everyone gets nervous before auditions.

 

Do not let nerves get the best of you. Channel those nerves into energy, and use it to heighten your performance.

 

• Pick a song that suits your range and the genre of the musical you are auditioning for.

 

Don’t do something that will not benefit your voice. This will not do anything to help you. Pick a song that is a challenge, but still highlights the things you do well.

 

• Stand out.

 

Pick a song that no one else is doing and make it your own. Find something recognizable, but unique. You might end up doing the same song as someone else at an audition, and that is okay. Everyone does things differently.

 

• Don’t sing overused material.

 

If you think you have found the perfect song, make sure it is not something overused. There is an unwritten rule that there are certain songs that should be avoided at auditions. Do not sing “Popular” from Wicked-or anything from Wicked in general. It is just one of many shows that should always be avoided

 

• Please know the genre.

 

For example, do not sing a song from “Phantom of the Opera” for a “High School Musical” audition. Base your audition song off of something that suits the genre of the musical you’re auditioning for. If not, it can look bad

 

• Smile when you are on stage.

 

This goes a long way. Going as far as adding a little movement into your audition helps as well. Use your space, but do not do an entire dance number. Keep it strong but simple.

 

• Drink a lot of water and avoid dairy a few days leading up to the audition.

 

Dairy causes phlegm to build up, and drinking lots of water ensures you will be ready and hydrated. You want to feel, sound, and do your best.

 

• Do not just go on stage and “wing it.”

 

Pick a song that suits the show, and work on it. This will show the director you have put effort into your preparation, and it displays a good work ethic.

 

• Do not and make negative comments while others are singing.

 

Thoughts may go to your head, but keep them to yourself. Just watch politely and politely tell them a job well done. It takes a lot of courage to be that vulnerable.

 

• Know the material.

 

Even if you are not wanting anything more than an ensemble role, be prepared for anything. You may be asked to sing for a character or read from a slide.

 

• If you do not get a callback, it does not mean you will not be cast.

 

The director has a vision, and callbacks are only to see if there is chemistry between two actors or to see if someone fits a certain role. It is kind of like a fitting. The glass slipper will fit the right actress or actor, and it will not always be you.

Theatre can be stressful, and a lot of anxiety is built up the weeks leading up to the audition. There is nothing more an actor can do besides preparation. Just relax, breathe, and have fun.