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“I had an epiphany that changed my life as an actor. I used to think that an audition was a job interview, but I realized I was giving up my power because I was going into an office wanting something from them. Whenever you want something from anyone, you have relinquished your power. Holding on to power in an audition is essential for an actor. You have to be able to do exactly what you want because that’s what’s required of you to impress someone with your uniqueness and what you could bring to a character. I was going in there to present an idea, an option for them. An audition became another opportunity for me to act.” 

__ Bryan Crantson

This is kind of everything isn’t it? Flipping the whole idea of auditions on it’s head. I love this way of thinking – to give them something – not the other way around. And this is exactly what casting directors want! It’s a wonderful approach and a great tool to have, whether auditioning alone at home, or in a room full of people.

I’m always emphasizing that you are there to show them what YOU can do. What Cranston says about showing them your uniqueness – what your version of the material is – without concern of what they might have for you, is dead on. It’s just a chance to perform and learn more about your craft from the experience. A great by-product of this is that working this way will give you an air of confidence that is so important to casting directors. (Yes, we can hear it) As my pal and fantastic actor John Webber likes to say : “Auditioning IS the job, Paying gigs are just gravy.”

Today’s little reminder: It’s important to get all of your technical stuff out of the way well before you need to use it. You don’t know how many times I’ve spoken to an actor after hearing a sub-par audition and they blamed it on their uncertainty of their recording set-up. Casting directors can hear it when your head’s not in the game, so get all of the stuff that might keep you from being present out of the way before you read. Test it and test it again – otherwise your read will sound like “I wonder if the microphone hooked up to the computer?”

I hope you find this useful! I’m happy to answer questions via email as time allows, so feel free to connect.

Best, Andy