Typical Movie Auditions

An audition refers to an interview for a role as a singer, actor, dancer, or musician and consists of a practical demonstration from the performer which presents their suitability and skill.

It typically involves the performer displaying their talent through a previously memorized and rehearsed solo piece or by performing a work or piece that is given to the performer at the audition or shortly before.

The audition is a systematic process in which industry professionals select performers, which is in some ways analogous to a job interview in the regular job market. In the audition, the employer will be testing the capability of the applicant to meet the needs of the job and assess how well the individual will take directions and deal with changes. After some auditions, after the performer has demonstrated their abilities in a given performance style, the audition panel may ask a few questions that resemble those used in standard job interviews; for example, regarding availability.

Auditions are required for many reasons in the performing arts world. Generally, employing companies or groups use auditions to select performers for upcoming shows or productions.

The purpose of an audition is to allow the employing company to choose the right fit for their show or production; this will allow the producers to try out many people until they find the perfect actor/actress. This is also a chance for an individual or group to demonstrate their talent and skill to the audience.

Actors and actresses who audition and get the parts are usually portrayed in a certain way; this could be either positive, negative or even both. They may play the role of a protagonist or antagonist which may affect how they are viewed by their audience. Each character is viewed and commented on differently to others. Based on their roles, and depending on the audience, the specific actor or actress may be viewed in a certain way in reality. Certain aspects may be viewed in certain ways due to the portrayals as sometimes things that are false could be seen to be true.