Auditioning — What To… and What Not To… • August 7, 2024

Jim Christian is a veteran Actor, Director and Choreographer, and Playwright

What To… and What Not To…

After sitting through 18 hours of auditions and callbacks filled with over 350 exciting and talented actors, a few thoughts keep resonating through my head.
First, it is important for those auditioning (anywhere) to recognize that the process of assembling a cast is a collective effort between the director, music director, choreographer, producer, and management staff. All are actively involved in the decision-making process and final selections are made with full consensus.
Second, for those who are not selected for the cast and wanting to know why, the answer always boils down to exactly the same response: for that particular production…of that particular show…at that particular venue…by that particular company…at that particular time…for that particular purpose…someone else was the best fit for the role. It’s that simple. That simple.
Finally, it is never the responsibility of the production team to provide feedback on your auditions unless they are your paid instructor or private coach. It is neither appropriate nor fair to expect them to have to justify their selections to you. You auditioned. They chose. Again, that simple.
Remember every time that you were cast in a production and someone else was disappointed? You felt justified in your success. Aren’t other people entitled to that same experience?
It is the role of the actor to accept casting decisions with grace and professionalism. An audition is a job interview…and we typically don’t get every job for which we apply.
Thank you to all who ever audition for anything anywhere. It is a challenging and emotional experience and not for the faint of heart. I genuinely appreciate every one of you who embarks on this journey. You have my admiration and respect.

by Jim Christian

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