Audition Tips

All the hard work you put into your classes is about to pay off -- you are at an audition, hoping to be selected for the cast of a production, and aiming for a good role!

A successful audition starts before you leave your house:
  • Be sure you have everything required for the audition, including any forms, fees, or photos.
  • Pay attention to your personal hygiene -- use a reliable deodorant/anti-perspirant. No perfume!
  • Wear the proper leotard -- be sure it's clean!--and choose clean tights without runs.
  • For auditions at Ballet Conservatory and Destin School of Music and Dance, you should wear your appropriate class leotard and pink tights. Do not wear any jewelry.
  • Your presentation reflects how you will perform on stage -- today's the day to be extra careful putting your hair in a ballet bun. Remember to divide it into sections and pin it properly with a hair net, and use gel or hairspray to control wispies. You want your bun to be completely secure and reliable so you can concentrate on your performance!
  • Light makeup (not stage makeup) will bring out your sparkling eyes and bright smile. Look and feel your very best!
  • Dancers en pointe should bring both technique shoes and pointe shoes. If you don't bring your pointe shoes to an audition, you are telling the director that you are unprepared, irresponsible, and not good enough to dance a pointe role.


At the studio:
  • Plan to arrive early so that you have time to complete your audition registration and take some time to warm up on your own.
  • Please leave cell phones on silent or vibrate in your bag so as not to disturb other dancers.
  • Don't bring food or drinks into the studio or waiting room. Do not chew gum. You may bring a water bottle.
  • Do not enter the audition room wearing extra t-shirts, leg warmers, etc.
  • Be alert and attentive in the audition. Don't be afraid to politely ask questions if something isn't clear 
    to you. It shows that you want to do your best.
  • Do not lean on barres, walls, or mirrors. Never stand with your arms crossed, either at auditions or 
    in class. 
  • Behave professionally -- show respect for your fellow dancers and treat them as you’d want to be treated.
  • Breathe deeply and focus before you begin a combination. 
  • Stand tall, relax your shoulders back and down, pull in your tummy, and SMILE!
  • Try not to worry about those butterflies in your stomach -- those nerves let you know that you have some extra adrenaline which you can use to jump higher, spin faster, and perform at your peak. Cover those nerves with a bigger smile, and do your best!
After your audition session is completed, thank the judges and move along to make room for the next group of performers who are preparing for the following audition session. Be polite to and supportive of everyone.

Casting is based on your performance during the audition, not on what you think the director and other judges may already know about your abilities. This is your time to shine!