COMMON AUDITION QUESTIONS

MUSICAL THEATRE

How should I prepare my song?
   Choose a song with lyrics you know well. Bring sheet music in your key. Music stores and libraries are resources for sheet music. Most students choose an up-tempo show tune. Ballads are difficult unless you have had a lot of vocal training. You need to put spirit, energy and emotion into your song. Always try to add some movement to your song even if it is just a step down stage or a few gestures. Musical theatre is the integration of acting and singing. Bring your sheet music with you and show the accompanist where to start.

How do I prepare for dance?
   Dancing is as important as singing in musical theatre. The choreographer is looking for students who can follow simple directions, show energy and spirit on stage. Being a really good dancer is usually not required unless you want a part with a dance solo.

How do I prepare for acting?
   Cold readings are part of the audition. Students are given a script and asked to read a character's lines. The director is looking for expression, diction, energy, body movement. Bookstores and libraries are resources for books about acting. Lessons with school drama teachers and private acting coaches are encouraged during the school year. Acting is very important for the lead parts. Supporting roles and chorus roles are also important training fields but less demanding on the younger actors.

How can I participate in the SBYT Orchestra?
Students who are currently of an advanced level, taking private lessons, and/or performing with or having had experience with other performing ensembles, may apply. Applications for an upcoming summer musical are due by April 31.

DRAMA

GENERAL

How do I know if I made call back or got a part?
   Call back invitations are given by phone calls the day after auditions. Once the cast has been selected the director will then contact the chosen students by phone and offer the part to them personally or leave a message. Phone calls are made during the following week after the audition. The cast is not official until everyone has accepted their role. This is way it often takes a week for the final cast list. Students who are not selected will receive a personal letter explaining their strengths and suggestions to improve their weak areas. The letters are usually sent during the second week after auditions. We also offer these students opportunities to be involved in other areas of the productions.

My audition was great, why didn't I get the part?
   Conflicts: If two students had great auditions, but one student's schedule conflicts with rehearsals or performance dates, the part goes to the student without conflicts.

   Training: If auditions are equal, the student who has been taking classes to improve their skill will get the part. Sometimes the characters in the show determine age of the cast.

   Behavior: The auditioning process begins the moment you enter the door until you leave. Many times students have a great audition for the Director, but do not follow instructions during dance routines, or do not demonstrate good courteous behavior while waiting with the other students. The SBYT staff might take this as a sign that the student will be difficult to work with.

Please print and complete the appropriate Application and bring it along to your audition.