Dear Elcee,

I see that auditions are coming up for Shakespeare and Chicago. Can you give me some information on auditioning? What are the expectations?

Dear Reader,
That’s a fantastic question!!  There are many aspects to auditioning, Voice, Pacing, Flexibility, and, in the case of music theater, Singing.  All people auditioning will be provided, in advance, with a script and music (if singing is involved). Practicing these will improve your chances of being chosen for a part.

Let’s start with your speaking voice.  When a director hears you speak, they are listening to see if you can project from a stage.  Practice using your voice at a level that is louder than normal talking, but not shouting.

Pacing refers to the speed at which you speak your lines.  Directors are looking for people who can deliver their lines so that the audience can understand them.  If you speak too fast or slow, the listener won’t be able to keep up with you. Practice speaking your lines in front of a friend or family member to see that every word is easily understood.

Know the play and what part you are auditioning for.  It’s okay if you are open to all roles to indicate “open” that on the application form.  To increase your chance of getting the part that you want, you
should know the play.  Many of them are available on YouTube.

(Dear Elsee Continued)
We suggest that you watch as many versions as possible to help you get “into character” when doing the reading for the director.

Once you read through the audition piece, the director may ask you to read the part again, perhaps with a different thought in mind.  Flexibility is key! You don’t know how the director is seeing a particular role and it may be very different from what you were intending.  Stay flexible when taking direction and run with it!!

If you are auditioning for a musical, you will be asked to sing.  For LCTC, a selection of music will be available in advance for you to practice.  Try to sing the part “in character”. Sing it in front of a friend or family member.  Get comfortable with the music. After the song, the Music Director will test your voice for range and ability.  Don’t panic! That’s just to make sure that you won’t put stress on your vocal cords.

Remember, auditioning takes just as much practice as getting a part.  If you don’t audition, you will never get any better at it!

I hope this information helps!! Break-a-leg!!

(Do you have a question for Elcee? Send it in an email to: info@laketheatre.org)