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Acting Auditions for MainStage and SecondStage Productions

The process of casting MainStage and SecondStage productions requires students to participate in both general acting auditions and a callback process.

During the general acting auditions, students are asked to prepare a short monologue. The callback process generally consists of cold readings from the play’s script but may also include other exercises including movement, vocal, and/or improvisational work. In semesters when an opera or musical is being done, students may also be required to participate in a singing audition. Expectations for singing auditions are posted at the time of sign-up.

FAQ

  1. Where are auditions held?
  2. Who may audition?
  3. How do I sign up for auditions?
  4. What should I do to prepare?
  5. What should I bring to the audition?
  6. How will I know if I've been called back for a production?
  7. What should I do if I have a question or concern?
  8. Where can I find more details about the auditioning process?

When are auditions held?

Acting auditions for MainStage and SecondStage productions are held at the beginning of each semester, usually in the week before classes begin. Exact dates and times are announced during the final week of classes in the previous semester. Information is made available through the School of Theatre Main Office, Centennial West 212. Information regarding the fall 2008 auditions (pdf) can be found on this website.

Who may audition?

Any ISU student enrolled for 6 or more hours (minimum of 3 non-practicum hours) may audition for School of Theatre productions after achieving second semester freshman status (9 or more completed hours). To audition, a student must be in good academic standing as stipulated in the University catalog.

Acting majors are required to participate in acting auditions and must accept any assigned role in a MainStage or SecondStage production. Other students may limit their availability to particular shows, but acceptance of a callback for a show indicates a willingness to accept any role in that production.

You must attend the General Acting Auditions to be considered for a role in any MainStage or SecondStage production.

How do I sign up for auditions?

All interested students must sign up for a general audition time. Sign up sheets are posted in the Main Office of the School of Theatre during the last week of the previous semester. If you've already signed up, you can find out your audition times on this website. (Acting audition times.)

What should I do to prepare?

For general acting auditions, prepare a monologue – maximum length: 1½ minutes (including introduction). Short audition pieces are not only acceptable, but often allow you to concentrate your efforts better.

The requirements for singing auditions differ from semester to semester. You should check the audition information available when you sign up for an audition time. (Directors of musicals commonly ask for 16 bars from an up-tempo song. Directors of operas may ask you to prepare an aria.)

You can prepare for callbacks by reading the plays for which you are auditioning. This will help you put readings in context and give you valuable knowledge about characters and their relationship to others in the play. Information regarding the 2007-2008 season selection of plays can be found on this website.

What should I bring to the audition?

Bring a current resume and snapshot to the audition. (An 8 x 10 glossy is acceptable but not required. Bring any photo that represents you well.) Photos and resumes become the property of the School of Theatre. If you do not have a resume, you may fill out a resume form.

You will also be asked to fill out a brief information form and will need to bring information concerning any potential conflicts. Theatre majors must also complete a major update form listing all classes and activities for the past semester. Arrive early so you have time to complete these forms.

How will I know if I’ve been called back for a production?

First callback lists are posted in the Westhoff Lobby after general acting auditions are completed. Second callback lists are posted after all of the first callback sessions are completed. Keep an eye of the callback board throughout the audition and callback process. You may be asked to audition during the second round of callbacks even if your name is not mentioned on first callback lists.

What should I do if I have a question or concern?

Please notify the School of Theatre Office (309-438-8784) if you know in advance that you will not be able to attend a scheduled audition time due to an emergency. You may be allowed to reschedule your audition. If you do not attend the general auditions, you will not be allowed to attend callbacks.

Where can I find more details about the auditioning process?

All procedures and policies relating to auditions, casting, rehearsals, etc. are included in the School of Theatre Production Handbook (pdf). By auditioning, you agree to follow the policies in the handbook. This handbook is also available in the School of Theatre Main Office, Centennial West 212.