Acting Sequence
Setting Up Your Audition for Admission and Scholarships
Apply to the University and for an audition now! Or, learn more about our acting program.
Audition Information
Download the Undergraduate Application Form. Please fill out this form and bring it with you to your audition. (You do not need to submit it ahead of time.)
- When you come to audition, please bring a current resume and a headshot (or a recent photo that shows "who you are"). Do not send these to the department ahead of time — just bring them with you.
- Prepare two contrasting monologues. Total time for both monologues combined should not exceed two minutes.
- Timing begins when you start your first monologue.
- Each audition piece should consist of a single character speaking. Auditions must be memorized.
- At the beginning of the audition, state your name, the title of your pieces, and the characters you are playing.
- Do not explain the plot unless instructed to do so by the interviewer.
- There will be a chair for you to use if you choose.
- After your monologues, we may ask you some questions about your background and training and may even ask you to repeat a monologue with some specific adjustments.
Audition Tips
Choice of Material
- Choose something you like.
- Choose age-appropriate material.
- Avoid self-written monologues.
- Make sure the the character is in conflict!
- Cut material to fit easily into the two-minute time limit (including transitions between monologues).
- Examples of contrasting monologues are: dramatic/comic, contemporary/classic, sophisticated/unsophisticated, urban/rural, manic/depressed, etc.
- A classical piece is not required.
- Know the character you are playing. For example Laura in The Glass Menagerie is NOT extroverted; Oscar in The Odd Couple IS a slob.
Avoid
- Yelling
- Screaming
- Using dialects
- Phone call monologues
- Climax of the play
- Sexually explicit or extremely offensive material
Appearance
- Dress comfortably, but strive to make a good impression.
- Keep hair away from your face.
- Wear sensible shoes - no flip flops or extremely high heels!
- Avoid jewelry that is distracting, such as clanging earrings or bracelets.
Performing Your Monologues
- Remember that your audition begins with your entrance.
- Use the introduction to let us get to know you—speak clearly and take command of the room!
- Place your imaginary scene partner directly downstage from you, over our heads.
- Don't speak to a chair—it will cause you to focus on the floor.
- Don't rush the audition transitions. Allow yourself time to transition—after the introduction, between the pieces, and before you say "Thank you."
- Concentrate on pursuing what you want from your imaginary scene partner.
- Finally, do not try to make an impression or give us what you think we want. Be yourself!
If you have specific questions about your audition, please contact
Head of Undergraduate Acting.
