31
January
Posted by Rhiannon Pelletier under Advice
5 Tips to a Smooth Audition
 At my home, Maine State Ballet, even the Sugar Plum Fairy needs to pin on an audition number. I don't mind the formality in the least either because it's a humbling reminder of where we all started.  

But for those wringing their fingers as they approach the barre and are more uncertain of what their casting may be this year, it's nice to have a few tips in mind to ensure a smooth audition. 

One small mistake will not jeopardize your entire dancing career and likely not change the panel's view of you as a dancer, so get that out of your head. This will make tip number two much easier.

Oftentimes, the smile on a dancer's face can make the difference between a yes and a no in casting. I know in my own choreography for recital numbers and such, I oftentimes look for the dancer with good technique, but not necessarily the cleanest, and an outstanding acting ability or presence. That is what the director is looking for, the magic in a dancer's eye, the charisma, the je ne sais quoi that makes an audience member's gaze drawn to the dancer. 

Sure, sometimes we don't want to be "that girl" in class who’s always pushing things as hard as possible, darting to the front of the room, and aggressively fighting for the instructor's attention. But sometimes it's necessary to move forward and be noticed and this is one of those times. So give it all you've got!

So now that you're really pushing your dancing, leave it at that. You don't need to show up wearing a pound of glitter eyeshadow, cherry red lipstick, a giant bow in your hair, and a neon leotard. Those are the wrong reasons to stand out and it's not fooling anybody. Many auditions require a black leotard to be worn so choose one that you feel comfortable in and that flatters you, put your hair in a slick bun, and look nice. That's a word often used for audition appearances. Don't touch the nightclub eyeshadow palette, stick with neutral tones and a clean look.

A big part of the "presence" people are always talking about, is just referring to comfort. Directors will feel more confident about casting someone comfortable under pressure and in front of crowds. This is your first opportunity to show them that you can handle it.

Merde, everyone!


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