Video transcript
Art Bites - Top tips for auditioning - 01. All auditions

(Intro music)

JORDAN LOVEGROVE: So, you've heard about how amazing The Arts Unit is, correct? But, no matter how the arts has influenced your life, welcome to the top tips for anyone auditioning for The Arts Unit, or any local program, that you might not have already known. But, The Arts Unit is a part of every NSW public school, and you've probably participated in it already. So, welcome to the 7-tip expedition and let's explore.

Tip Number 1. Be familiar with all of the audition requirements. Many audition notifications have guidelines ranging from casual to super duper strict. Those could be what to wear, or any specific details about the content, such as what scene to read, or song to sing.

But, before you even choose what piece to perform, read through the notification until you've memorised every detail. Having all the facts about what's required of you, off the top of your head, is a big advantage to you if you want to give off a professional vibe. So, take that on board.

Tip Number 2. Consider the content of the work you're presenting in terms of, well, appropriateness. Specifically, avoid pieces that may be considered "taboo" or that you wouldn't want to perform in front of parents or teachers. (WHISPERS) So embarrassing. So, if you are performing it for your family, and their reaction is less than desirable, it may be time to choose a new piece.

Select material that demonstrates your best skills and strengths, especially if it shows a range of emotion that's relevant to the role you're going for. Show them what you can do, not what you want to do. So, basically, choose content that's appropriate for your age, shows off your talent, and you're halfway there. You've got this.

Tip Number 3. Rehearse. (LOUDLY) Rehearse. (LOUDER) Rehearse.

MALE VOICEOVER: (SINGING IN BARITONE) Be prepared.

JORDAN LOVEGROVE: What he said. A good chunk of your overall body language is confidence, and confidence lets the panel know that you know what you're doing. And, what better way to feel confident than to be 101% prepared for this. Rehearse in front of family, friends, or even the mirror.

[Suspenseful music]

They will then give you feedback on how to improve, as having an outside eye helps a lot. This will also combat nerves, and develop confidence. So, never perform something for the first time in front of a panel. Always be way more prepared and confident than you think you need to be.

Tip Number 4. Dress for success.

[Music - Roxette, 'She's Got the Look']

ROXETTE: (SINGING) She's got the look. She's got the look.

JORDAN LOVEGROVE: Have fun dressing up in outfits appropriate to the style and purpose of the role you're going for. If you project yourself into a role, most likely, the panel will see you in that role too. Check if there are any specific costume guidelines mentioned in the requirements. Check out what the final product looks like. What would the drama, music, or dance piece look like being performed? If you can picture it, you can wear it.

Tip Number 5. Warm up. Whenever you are auditioning, make sure you're well and truly warmed up beforehand, so that you hit your peak during the process. This goes for all walks of the art life, whether you're a dancer, a musician, speaker, debater, or actor. This also relates to being prepared on the day. Getting yourself in that zone is hugely important, and you mustn't let anyone, or anything, spoil that zone. Stay focused in your own space.

Tip Number 6. Expect to be nervous. I know it sounds crazy, but everybody gets nervous. The best way to overcome this is to, again . . .

MALE VOICEOVER: (SINGING IN BARITONE) Be prepared.

JORDAN LOVEGROVE: Be prepared. Whenever you're about to step out on to that stage, play that first note, lace up that ballet shoe, or go over that final line in your head - try to control your breathing. There are fantastic instructions online about breath regulation, and, yes, it is that important.

Perhaps try meditation, and know that a "less than perfect" audition is not the end of the world, although it really feels like it at the time. But, don't worry. There will be many more opportunities like this in the future. A life in the arts is a life in auditions, so learn to breathe through them.

And, finally, tip 7. The audience is your new best friend. Don't be shy. Reach out and connect with them. I know you may feel vulnerable, and even a bit embarrassed all in that spotlight. But remember, you are more than welcome here, and they want to see you, and get to know you. Make sure you're facing the audience directly, and allow them to see your expression and your personality. Your personality, no one else's.

When you begin that audition, this is your moment. You are a star. This is your time, right here, right now, and you're going to make the whole world know it. Don't forget to use performance quality and engage with your audience, [crowd cheering] even if it is imaginary.

And, most importantly, have fun. If you're having fun and relishing in this moment, your audience will too. At the end of the day, just give 101% of your energy, attention, and effort during that audition, and you are sure to shine.