Audition Tips and FAQs
Tips for Auditioning
If you are asked to present a song or monologue, prepare your piece well. Memorize your selection and practice it many times.
Remember that your audition for every show begins the moment you walk in the door. You may be perfect in the audition room, but rudeness or misbehavior in the lobby will be noticed.
We ask that you arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment so that all of your paperwork can be completed before you go in for your auditions. Arriving early also gives you time to relax and focus and not feel rushed.
It is great to see old friends and make new ones at an audition, but be sure to take some time to focus on your audition.
At Stages theatre Company, we always ask that actors come dressed for movement. This means you should dress in clothes that are comfortable and will not impede your movement, but still be neat, clean and nice looking. (Please, no flip-flops, boots, high heels, wheeled shoes, etc. Sturdy shoes that stay on your feet are a must. Dance shoes are appropriate).
When you walk into the audition room, tell us your name and the name of the piece you have prepared. This makes a good first impression.
While doing your audition, do not look directly at the people you are auditioning for, unless specifically directed to do so.
If you make a mistake, do not apologize. Remember that others may not even notice a mistake, but if you point it out to them, they will know for sure.
Don’t worry about being nervous. Just about everyone is nervous. Do your best to smile and have a good time.
Audition FAQs
Based on 40 years in the field, we believe age 10 is when most young actors begin to develop the skills and discipline it takes to participate in theatre at this level. Obviously, there will be exceptions, but we believe it is most fair to all participants to have a set age.
If you are cast in a production at Stages Theatre Company, you will be required to attend every performance. We understand that learning is first job of a young person. It is for each family to decide how to strike a balance between learning in the school environment and learning outside the classroom. If you are cast, we will provide information for you to bring to your school. We require that you return this form to us, with signatures, to show us that you have talked with your teachers and school and that they know you will be involved in performances on those dates.
We accept some conflicts with the rehearsal schedule. We do not allow any conflicts during the last ten days of rehearsals or for any performances. Conflicts are taken under consideration when casting.
Yes! We strive to be a comfortable place for your first audition. If this is your first time, you may want to read the Tips for Auditioning.
For each audition you should dress nicely, but in comfortable clothing that you can be free to move around in. You should not dress in costume. Please wear shoes that will stay on your feet and are easy to move in.
No, unless otherwise specified for a particular show.
For musicals, all actors will be required to sing at the audition. Shows and roles will vary as to how much singing will be required in the performance.
The best choice would be something that suits your age and type. It should be from a musical if possible. If you’ve auditioned for us many times, it’s always a good idea to prepare something new. Popular songs are usually not a good choice, as they do not show the same range and vocal qualities as songs written for the stage.
There is no piano or playback available for music. You will need to sing without accompaniment.
No. We will teach you a short dance combination at the audition.
You do not need to prepare a monologue unless specifically noted in the show audition information.
After the first two evenings of auditions, we invite back a smaller number of people back for a second audition. Getting a callback does not mean that you have been cast in the show. If do not receive a callback, you have not been cast in the show.
These auditions are for youth actors only. We do hold auditions for adult actors on an as needed basis. Please watch for our listings on the minnesotaplaylist.com.
Important!
All participants must agree to and follow these guidelines & expectations:
Expectations for Participants
Stages Theatre Company is committed to the enrichment and education of children and youth in a professional theatre environment that stimulates artistic excellence and personal growth.
Creating quality theatre is a collaborative effort that requires creativity, dedication and self-discipline. For actors and technicians alike, the experience of mounting a full-scale production can be tremendously rewarding, challenging and fun.
Our expectations for participants are based on common sense and respect, within the walls of the theater and beyond. It is important that each participant respect others in the process, whether they are fellow actors, staff or running crew. In the theatre everyone plays a vital role in the creation of great art.
- Be kind to your fellow artists. Support the work of others, elevating them to greatness. Put-downs are always destructive. Stages Theatre Company understands that the socialization of groups extends beyond the rehearsal room. We ask that you be respectful the in all interactions, including interactions through social media (for example-Facebook.)
- Be on time or early for rehearsals and performances. It is very important that you respect the time of everyone else involved by being prompt.
- Distractions get in the way of a good working environment. Please turn of cell phone ringers and other electronic devices. Texting, talking on the phone, etc. should not be done during a rehearsal. Please check messages only on break times. All electronic devices MUST be powered off or silenced ½ hour before a show begins. This is a time for preparation and focus. Electronics may be used again after the performance is finished.
- Listen carefully. Let others have their say before speaking your mind.
We also must respect the spaces we use to create theatre. As in the ancient days when theatre was used as community ritual and religious observance, we treat our stage with respect.
- Please only drink water in the theatre. Gum in rehearsal is an obstacle to good diction and can be messy if left on the floor.
- During breaks, be aware that others may be using the facility. Quiet voices show respect for others in the space.
- Destruction of space and equipment will not be tolerated. If something is not yours to use during the course of your work, leave it alone.
Finally, respect the art itself. We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to work in the theatre. Always be aware that as artists, we must show others that we respect our work and ourselves as artists.
- Unexcused absences from rehearsal can be cause for dismissal. If you are sick or will be late, you must call the stage manager.
- Keep track of your script, score and rehearsal schedule. Always come prepared to every rehearsal and performance with these materials, a pencil and a notebook.
- Tobacco, drugs and alcohol use are not permitted. Any violation of this policy will result in immediate dismissal.
If you have questions or suggestions about how to make your experience better, please contact Sandy Boren-Barrett at (952) 979-1122 or Melanie Salmon-Peterson (952) 979-1115. Thank you.
Social Media Guidelines for Cast, Crew, Production Teams, Interns, Contractors,Volunteers and Staff
Overview
Social media allows for conversation and interaction online, sharing digital words, sounds, and pictures. At Stages Theatre Company (STC), we use platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and Bluesky to engage with our community.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/stagestheatrecompany
Instagram: https://instagram.com/stagestheatreco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stages-theatre-company/
You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@StagesTheatreCo
Bluesky: @stagestheatre.bsky.social
Our social media guidelines are designed to ensure responsible communication that positively reflects STC’s image while respecting individual expression. These rules apply to all online activities now known or hereafter devised, whether on STC’s or personal devices.
STC Employees, contractors, cast members, crew, production teams and volunteers who engage in the use of online social media are expected to always follow STC policies. These policies include the following:
- You ARE permitted and encouraged to share all social media posts published by Stages Theatre Company’s established and verified accounts. Links above.
- You are NOT permitted to post any content with and/or of students, staff, interns, or teaching artists that are under the age of 18.
- You are NOT permitted to share/show any content from social media with students or interns under the age of 18 while engaging with STC programming.
- You are NOT permitted to connect/friend/comment on or communicate with any student or interns who are under the age of 18 on social media.
General Online Conduct
- Adherence to Policies: Online conduct must align with STC’s overall policies. Social media guidelines complement, but do not replace, existing policies.
- Consequences of Violations: Misconduct including, but not limited to, violation of the policies herein online, even off-duty, can lead to disciplinary actions, including dismissal.
- Public Nature of Posts: Online posts are public and can be monitored by STC.
- Monitoring Systems: STC reserves the right to monitor and access data on its systems.
- Confidentiality: Do not disclose confidential or proprietary information about STC or personal details or data of patrons, employees, or partners without consent.
- Parental Rights: Do not share media of minors without appropriate permissions.
Communicating About STC
Be Responsible
- Content Ownership: You are responsible for what you publish. Practice respectful and responsible free speech. Refrain from unauthorized use of any third-party owned content.
- Disclaimers: When discussing STC, use disclaimers if not speaking on behalf of the company, such as: “The postings on this site are my own and do not represent Stages Theatre Company’s positions, strategies or opinions.”
Be Authentic
- Transparency: Clearly state your name and connection to STC. Use the first person and clarify that you’re speaking for yourself, not STC.
Audience Awareness
- Consideration: Be mindful of your audience, including patrons, employees, and youth. Choose your connections wisely.
Exercise Good Judgment
- Professionalism: Avoid slurs, demeaning, disparaging, or inappropriate content. Protect STC’s confidential information.
Understand the Community
- Community Spirit: Recognize your association with STC in all online interactions. Foster a welcoming environment for engagement.
Bring Value
- Content Contribution: Enhance social media by sharing valuable content, advice, and discussions. Cite sources and link to related content when possible.
By following these guidelines, STC cast and crew can contribute positively to our online presence, fostering a supportive and dynamic community.
Connect with Us
Let’s Take the Stage Together
Have questions about our audition process, role requirements, or accessibility? Contact our team and we’ll help you every step of the way.