What to Wear to an Audition

Auditions can be stressful and intimidating no matter what you’re trying out for, but dressing the part can make you feel more confident and ready to prove your skills. Even if you’ve perfected your lines, your first impression is usually based on how you present yourself during your audition. With that in mind, here are the basic guidelines of what to wear to an audition to make sure that you look just as good as you feel—and just as good as the rest of the cast. Of course, these tips are not hard-and-fast rules, so feel free to add or take according to your personal style and comfort level.

Tips Before The Audition

Before your audition, make sure to check if there are any specific directions regarding what to wear. For example, some auditions may ask you to come in athletic wear, formal wear, or an outfit that is specific to the part you’re trying out for. If not, dress to impress, but choose clothing that is appropriate for the type of audition you are going on. Though it may seem obvious, the first thing you should think about when deciding what to wear is what the audition is for. If it's a dance or singing audition, you'll need a different outfit than if it's a theatre or film audition.  If it's a comedy, keep it light and fun; if it's a drama, dress more serious and conservative. Also, be sure that what you wear won't distract from your performance. Make sure whatever you decide on is comfortable so you can look good and feel good. 

What to Wear

For the most part, what you wear to an audition is up to you. You can dress in something comfortable and practical, or put on your best Sunday clothes. The only thing that really matters is that you feel good about what you're wearing. However, there are some general guidelines to go by. For one, colors should be muted or pastel so that they don't take attention away from you. When in doubt, stick with a classic look that doesn't require too much thought but still looks refined.  Avoid anything that looks dated or overdone, like sequins or shiny fabrics (unless this is specifically called for).

After the Audition

When you get back from the audition, make sure you take a minute to analyze your performance and note the things you did well and what could use improvement. This way, you'll be better prepared for the next audition. If you make it past the first round, you might get a call for what's called callbacks. This is when the casting director will have a second audition with your group of actors. The callbacks are also sometimes used as a means of finding out who stands out in the group and who might not be right for the part.

About FB Playhouse

Since 1947, FB Playhouse has been an integral part of Sullivan County and the Catskills, offering summer theatre programs, musicals, cabarets, plays, and theatre academy. For more information, visit www.fbplayhouse.org or call 845-794-2005.