How to Audition for Burlesque Part I
Posted by Jana Edele | Filed under News
Here is another question that's been posed frequently to the Kittens: how to audition in burlesque. Auditioning for a performance opportunity in a burlesque show is no different than auditioning for any type of show in the performance arts. Whether it's singing, dancing, acting or comedy, here are a few guidelines to help out any new burlesque artist starting out in the show biz industry.
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If you are auditioning with a solo piece:
~Prepare! Prepare! Prepare!
No matter how many jitters you have at an audition, preparation helps to build confidence, and muscle memory can often times supersede your nerves.
One of the best sayings I've encountered upon is the definition of an amateur and a professional in the arts: Amateurs rehearsal until they know their material, while professionals rehearse until they can't possibly make a mistake.
Rehearse your audition piece as though this was the final performance, and ultimately your audition is showing the producers what they can expect from you on the stage. Rehearse in front of people; get used to auditioning in front of an audience. Show your audition piece to an industry professional for guidance prior to auditioning.
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If you are auditioning for a specific role in an ensemble show:
~Be sure to research the particular entity hosting the auditions. Read up on background information, and if possible see one of the shows. Be honest with yourself whether or not you meet the qualifications listed in the audition information. Be prepared to spend the equivalent amount of time rehearsing at home as you do in each show rehearsal. Most importantly, be ready to be a team player. Ensemble shows are collaborative projects, and these performers don't have interest or time to deal with diva personas. The objective of an ensemble cast is working together toward the final project.
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Advice for all auditions:
~In burlesque or any variety show you can contact the organizer or producer and ask for specifically what they are looking for from their performers or for their show if it isn't stated in the audition information.
~Before the audition, be sure you have all the information you need to the find location, contact numbers, headshots/resumes if requested, etc. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the audition early, and run through your material before the audition.
~If you make a mistake during the audition, don't ask for a do-over. Soloists: know your material well enough to "vamp" or "freestyle" until you can recognize a familiar spot in your act. No one will know you messed up unless you show it. If you flub a group audition, smile with confidence as though you're not making a single mistake, and jump back into the audition number as soon as possible.
~If you are stopped during an audition, it doesn't mean you aren't doing well. It may mean the producer/director has seen what they need to in order to make a decision, or would like to add direction to your number.
~After the audition, thank those who auditioned you for the opportunity.
~Always, always, always maintain professionalism! If you're not right for one particular show, you could be called in for a future show or be recommended for another. Don't spread blame or be negative. There are countless reasons why someone may not be cast. Don't take it personally.