Audition tips for actors for face-to-face auditions

Prepare for your next live audition

Let’s face it — anticipating an in-person audition can be nerve-wracking!

Some actors would honestly prefer to chew glass rather than face a casting panel. But the good news? Auditions are your gateway to incredible roles, and with the right mindset and a few simple tips, you’ll walk in with confidence and be able to put your best foot forward. An audition is a chance to show off your skill as an actor.

First things first: landing a face-to-face audition usually starts with submitting your headshot and resume to the casting director, either by you or your agent. Then comes an invitation to audition.

As your first shot at a role, face-to-face auditions are more common in theatre than film and television. In contrast, the audition process in film and television is more likely to start with a self-tape (video or digital audition). Even so, once early auditionees have been eliminated from the batch of self-tapes, an invitation for a live audition will likely come to the actors they're most interested in, at some point. For this reason, as a screen actor, you still need to master your in-person audition skills - they're not just for theatre performers.

Occasionally, you'll see open call auditions advertised, where anyone can show up — but again, these are more common with local theatres or theatre companies than in screen. If you're interested in these, keep an eye out for phrases like "General Auditions" or "Open Auditions" at your favourite theatre company or venue. In Australia Bell Shakespeare has open auditions every two years, while Melbourne Theatre Co. has a regular program of general auditions for new graduates. In Canberra, The Street Theatre often has general auditions or CV call-outs which may lead to an audition. Some also take a less conventional approach to auditioning, through participation in a face-to-face workshop, like The Mill Theatre in Canberra.

Once you’re invited to an audition, you'll be given an appointment time and you’ll typically be sent some pages from the script (called “sides”) to prepare. In theatre, you might also need to have a monologue ready to go - so read the original casting call carefully so you know what's expected on the day.

Start by reading the script carefully and getting to know your character. Don’t worry about the lines just yet — instead, focus on who this person is. How old are they? Where are they from? How do they feel about others in the story? Where is the emotional journey for the character? What are the turning points, beats and objectives in the script?

Once you’ve connected with the character’s essence, then start working on the lines in a way that works for you. You should memorise your material, and come to the audition prepared to adapt how you've rehearsed it, too - on the day, the director may ask you to present your piece more than once, and give you some direction on alternative ways of presenting it. They want to see if you can change it up a little - that you're not stuck in your first interpretation of the script. Part of re-directing you is being able to see if they can work with you, and get the performance they want from you.

Next, dress the part! Choose an outfit that reflects the character you’re auditioning for. No need for a full costume — just a look that hints at the role. For example, if you’re playing a cowboy, think jeans and boots, and maybe a checkered shirt — not a business suit. A little thought in your outfit can go a long way. It helps the casting team to imagine you in the role.

Before you walk into the audition room, warm up your body and voice. Stretch, do a few vocal exercises, and run through your lines. Think of it like getting ready for a performance or a big game — don’t go in cold. A little prep helps calm the nerves and gets you in the zone. Your voice is more relaxed, too - it will help you get those words out, in character, rather than be strangled with anxiety.

When you arrive, sign in and take a deep breath. You might have to wait your turn, so stay focused and try not to get caught up in conversations with other actors. They’re likely just as nervous as you are — keep your energy for the room.

Once you’re called in, be ready for anything. Some casting directors might chat with you first, others will dive straight in. Either way, treat the audition like a real performance. Step into the character fully. This is your moment — make them believe you're the one. Remember, they want you to be the perfect fit. It makes their job easier!

A few things to avoid: don’t overdo the flattery. Don't be a fangirl or fanboy in the moment, if there's someone on the panel you adore. A genuine compliment is lovely, but too much can feel forced. Also, don’t touch the casting team — aside from a friendly handshake if offered. And whatever you do, don’t get carried away with the physicality of the scene and start rearranging their furniture. By all means if there's a chair on the stage you can use for your piece, and it's not where you want it, ask permission to move it before starting your delivery. But don't request a whole redo of the set that's there. Just... don’t be that person. The panel want to see your performance, not your skills as an interior designer.

After your audition, thank them, smile, and leave gracefully. No dramatic exits or lingering. If they’re interested, they’ll call you back. And if you do get a callback — amazing! Just repeat what worked. Wear the same outfit, give the same energy. They liked it the first time, so don’t reinvent the wheel.

Finally, keep a little audition journal. Jot down what went well, what felt off, and how you can grow. With each audition, you’ll get more comfortable, more confident, and more you.

Face-to-face auditions may start out feeling intimidating, but with practice and preparation, they become exciting opportunities. So go on — give it everything you’ve got!