how can i stay calm when auditioning?

Question

I love acting so much but every time I audition for a show get really nervous. Practicing the material at home I can make it really good but once I get up there I mess it up! how do I keep my head when auditioning so I dont get nervous?

Answer 1

From http://www.musicaltheatreaudition.com/joomla/content/view/122/64/

In some ways, overcoming stage fright in a performance is very similar to overcoming nervousness in an audition. By far the most important way to avoid stage fright is to be fully prepared. If you are worried about blocking, remembering your lines, what scene comes next, choreography, etc, then who could blame you for being afraid? Put in the time and effort early on in the rehearsal process and you will feel more confident about your abilities.

Keeping yourself organized offstage can go a long way to avoiding panic as well. If you have a large role, keeping a chart of your responsibilities over the course of the show will keep you focused on what you have to do next.

Having butterflies before a performance is normal for all performers, even professionals, but if you have done everything you can to prepare and keep yourself organized and stage fright is still a serious problem, I think it is important to really think about why it is you continue to perform. Obviously there must be something you enjoy about it or you wouldn't continue - so concentrate on that, and try to address what specifically is making you nervous.

A link to more stage fright strategies: http://www.antion.com/articles/stagefright.htm

There are more available on the web of course.

break a leg!

Answer 2

here's doc's prescription: just remember that acting is playing and playing is fun and an audition is just another oppotunity to play and have fun. if you are doing a monologue, when called on, get up and take your place with energy and enthusiasm. then look out at everyone and say, "I love it up here" then introduce your self and your scene. Don't over do the intro. just say, I love it up here, I'm Joe Blow and I am Hamlet from Hamlet. Nothing more, When you finish pause a second, smile and say Thank you, I'm Joe Blow Then leave with energy and confidence.

Answer 3

Breathe. Take a few minutes before the audition to stretch, warm up your voice, and be by yourself.

Once you get up to read, trust your preparation. Don't rush or push too hard.

Remember that the auditors are on your side and want you to do well. They are just people like you.

Answer 4

Picture everyone naked!