General Rules of Thumb

      Audition Details: Prepare 2 contrasting one-minute monologues (have a third available) according to the school's instructions. This includes time limits, specific instructions on material choices, etc. This information is usually listed on the department website. Take the time to look at each University's guidelines and prepare accordingly.

      Contrasting Pieces: This basically means two characters who speak differently, move differently, and have a different set of values. Try to avoid thinking of pieces as dramatic and comedic. This usually leads young actors to emotionally driven bad acting. Think instead of contrasting situations and/or styles of writing. If a school specifically states they would like a classical and contemporary piece, do it. If not, choose Shakespeare or material from other classical plays only if you feel connected to the material.

      Introduction: Your introduction should include ONLY the following: your name, the title and playwright of the selections. This is our first impression of you. Practice this so you feel confident. If you are unsure of how to pronounce the play and/or the playwright-find out from a reliable source. Those auditioning will be writing down your monologue titles-speak clearly.

      Focus: On the introduction and when you say "thank you" at the end, make eye contact with those for whom you are auditioning. During the monologue, do not use the auditioners as your audience. Choose focal points slightly above and to the side. You should have a different focal point for each piece. Do not say "scene" at the end of your pieces. Practice your introduction and moving from one piece to the next.

      Exit: Regardless of how you feel about your work, graciously say "thank you" at the end of your audition.

Guidelines on Choosing Material

      Where to Look: Choose monologues that are well written-this means monologues from published plays. Avoid monologues from movies, monologue books, musicals and the internet. Never attempt an audition monologue without reading the entire play and understanding your character in the context of the play. Monologues should have a beginning/middle/ end with a journey/discovery/change.

      Which Characters: Choose characters that are within 5 years of your playable age range. Choose material that you connect with, and that you want to say. Those for whom you are auditioning are looking for you to create honest relationships with clear given circumstances outlined by the playwright.

      Avoid: Do not choose monologues that require accents, eccentric characterizations, props or costumes. Portray one character per monologue. Avoid material that is overly sexual, offensive, cynical, negative, about suicide or abortions. Avoid climactic material that requires great depth or intensity of emotions. There is not enough time to achieve these emotional peaks effectively and honestly.

What to Wear

      Professional: Choose clothing and shoes that are simple and comfortable. Be sure clothes fit well and are not too baggy or embarrassingly tight. Clothes should be clean, ironed, and allow us to concentrate on your work rather than your outfit. Women avoid large jewelry, fashion extremes, ridiculously high heels, and revealing necklines. Men and women make sure your hair is tied back so we can see your face. Shower and brush your teeth.

     Practical: Be aware of your audition schedule. Choose clothing that allows ease of movement-this includes shoes. You may be spending the entire day in this outfit, through the audition, warm-up and interview-prepare accordingly. Make sure you practice in the audition outfit.

The Interview

      Research the Program: This is a time for the faculty to find out a bit more about you. Chances are you will be asked what you are looking for in a program, why you're interested in this program, and questions you may have. Research accordingly so you don't ask anything you might have found out on the website. Creating a list of questions you ask every university for which you are auditioning may allow you to compare programs more specifically.