You’ve worked hard to get to where you are. Every late night. Every sore muscle. It all comes down to that precious moment when you walk into the studio and take your place at the barre for your audition.
Preparing for a ballet audition can often feel overwhelming. The daily grind can take a toll on your body, mind, and spirit. If you’ve been to an audition before, you probably have a pre-audition ritual that allows you to get in the zone. For those who are preparing for their first ballet audition, we asked some tips on how to nail your audition as well as some advice from a few of our company dancers!
Audition Day:
First and foremost make sure you have everything you need – this starts with doing your homework by checking the school or company’s website. Some auditions require you to bring a résumé and photos, like a headshot or one in a basic position like an arabesque, so be prepared and show up with everything in hand. We also suggest you bring an extra pair of tights and a leotard for those emergency moments – no one wants a hole in their tights! For ladies, be sure to check if you will be en pointe and bring an extra pair of pointe shoes if you can.
Lastly, show up to the audition with enough time to register and warm up! A huge part of nailing your audition relies on you feeling calm, confident, and ready to go, you won’t want to head into the studio feeling frazzled. But most importantly, breathe! Remember you have spent years training, so take a deep breath and trust in your training.
P.S. ALWAYS say thank you to the instructor and the pianist when the audition is over!
Decision Time:
The audition is over, so now what? Depending on the school or company, you will find out whether you have been selected at the end of class or a couple days later. If you have been selected, congratulations! If you have not, don’t let this defeat you and remember that this is only one chapter of your ballet story. Embrace this moment as a learning opportunity and take the time to reflect on what you need to work on for your next audition.
Most importantly, whether or not you were accepted, be cognizant of others in the studio and be kind and graceful. If you are excited and full of energy celebrate your achievement – this is an exciting time! If you are feeling upset wait till you get home to let out your frustration in a healthy way. Trust us, we’ve all been there.
What happens if you get multiple offers? This can feel a little daunting since you want to make the right choice. We suggest talking with your teachers, a mentor, your parents, and your fellow dancers for advice. Also do some research, whether that’s reading reviews on past summer intensive experiences, or looking up a company’s repertoire and opportunities. Just remember, there are so many different programs and companies across the country, so make sure you are following what feels right for you!
Now for some advice from our dancers:
“It’s important to look professional and neat. Wear a flattering outfit with tidy hair. Ultimately you are selling yourself, so you want to do anything you can to look your best. Even though auditions can be nerve-wracking, remember to show your personality as a dancer. The people at the front of the room are humans and are not only looking for technically suited dancers but also eager, hungry, dancers who they can work with and mold into their own.” – Mimi Tompkins
“Be confident. This is a performing art, so even if you are feeling nervous or insecure, take a deep breath and focus on showing your own unique quality of movement.” – Kathryn Meeusen
“Don’t be so nervous about having a “perfect class” that you forget to show them who you are as a dancer and an artist, that’s just as important as clean technique.” – Lydia Relle
“Be ready for anything, be professional, be fearless, be yourself, take any opportunity that you’re giving to show yourself and enjoy it.” – Helio Lima
Checking out Summer Intensives to attend? Click here to check out The School of Ballet Arizona’s Summer Intensive Tour!
Interested in auditioning for Ballet Arizona? Click here for our Open Audition times & dates!
