It’s Audition Season!
For our first blog post, Artistic Director J. Matthew Gordon is going to break down some tips to make your submission and audition process run smoothly this season, whether for NCTC or beyond!
Audition Season is Upon Us!
Greetings, intrepid artists! It’s that time of year again—audition season! As we begin another casting journey here at New Canon Theatre Co., I have the great joy of reviewing a new slate of actors for our upcoming season. I’ve been an actor for over 20 years and a teacher of actors for almost 15, and I’ve picked up my fair share of wisdom through training, trial, error, and guidance along the way—and I’d like to pass a bit of that along to you! We want to see your best work, and I am a firm believer that your strongest advocate will always be yourself. So…here we go!
The Submission
Like any good actor, you have done the work. You’ve trained, prepped your audition materials, and are ready to find your next gig. You check out casting websites, stalk theatre company web pages (welcome!), and are pounding the proverbial (or literal) pavement. You find a play or a season you’d like to submit for, based on the company’s breakdown. In your excitement, you shoot off an email and send in every single audition piece you have ever filmed, your full showreel, your favorite headshot and current resume, and recent press clipping (rightly) praising your performance. The only issue is…we didn’t ask for all of that in the breakdown. We only asked for two specific contrasting pieces, a headshot, and a resume. It’s important to make sure you read the breakdown carefully, and submit only what casting has asked for. Why? Because we simply don’t have the time, bandwidth, or human power to review more than what we asked for. Casting begins at the submission—and if you take direction here, there’s a good shot we know you can take it in the rehearsal room. One other key point: make sure the file names on your material are labeled clearly with your FULL NAME, and what the material is (example: Jane Smith Headshot and Resume). This way we can easily access your materials when we actively start casting. When we open up our casting folder, and see “Blue Shirt 2.jpg,” it doesn’t help us to find you. Just like your choices on stage, please be specific in your submission.
The Audition Room
Be ready to perform. If you’re asked to prepare material in the breakdown, do exactly what the breakdown asks. A contemporary monologue and a contrasting Shakespeare in verse, all under 3 minutes total, means exactly that. Be memorized and rehearsed—preparation is always the guardian against nerves, and lets us know you are a serious artist that’s ready to work.
Bring a good attitude. Your audition doesn’t just start when you submit materials and then enter the room. How you’re received the moment you step through the door goes a long way, both in the audition space and in the waiting area. Be confident, positive, and approachable.
Arrive early. Plan to be at the audition at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. This allows you to complete any necessary paperwork (there’s ALWAYS paperwork) and get into the right headspace without feeling rushed.
Use your waiting time well. Socializing is fine, but don’t forget to center yourself and focus on the performance you’re about to give. A little preparation in the wings can make all the difference.
Dress the part. We’re big fans of practicality here at New Canon Theatre Co. Wear something neat, clean, and flexible enough to move comfortably. While comfortable and sturdy footwear are a plus, leave the flip-flops, high heels, and wheeled shoes at home (we’ve seen it all). We need to see you move freely and safely.
Tips and FAQ
Introduce yourself confidently. When you enter the audition room, take it in. Find your place (center of the room about 8-10 feet from casting is always reliable), and then let us know your name and the piece/pieces* you’ll be performing. This simple step helps set a positive tone, sure—but it also gives you a moment to settle into the room.
*No need to tell us the act or page number—title of the play and character are great.
Direct your focus thoughtfully. Unless otherwise instructed, avoid staring directly at the directors while performing. Choose an imaginary focal point that creates your “other” or “others*” instead, which helps keep the moment alive.
*Choose people you can easily visualize, here. It creates a strong connection. If you are speaking to multiple people, same rules apply. For “crowd” scenes, still pick 3-4 specific people you know to picture, while the crowd is behind them.
Don’t dwell on mistakes. Slip-ups happen. If they do, keep going as though nothing went wrong. Often, mistakes are more noticeable to you than to us. I wish I knew every line of every speech from every play—but I don’t. Sail through, and you’ll be great.
Embrace the nerves. Feeling nervous? That’s normal! The key is to channel that energy into your performance. Take a deep breath, smile, and enjoy the experience.
See You Soon!
We hope you found this useful, and if you plan on auditioning for us—we can’t wait to see you. If you don’t…why not? Check out our current notice for submission requirements, here. Thank you for being part of our growing community — you are all New Canon!
