Quick Guide to Auditions for the Director and Student

Auditions, try-outs, whatever you call them, can be nerve racking for both the potential student and the director alike.  Having been through many myself on both sides of the coin, I am going to give both directors and students some tips to make them less stressful and an enjoyable experience.

Let's start from a student's point of view.  You want to join a performance team, but you wonder if you have what it takes.  You are nervous about what they will ask of you and if you'll be up to the task.  You don't want to be embarrassed in front of others, but you really want to be part of that team.  I remember getting that sick feeling in the pit of my stomach right before I would leave the house to go, it's stressful, but it's also an adrenaline rush that you can harness.

First off, start your day right.  EAT. DRINK. You won't last through a lengthy audition if your body is not fueled properly.  Try slow burning carbs to keep your energy level steady. Bring water or a sport drink to stay hydrated. Stay away from too much caffeine or energy drinks that will make you jittery.  Stretch, and warm up before you get to the studio and try to keep your muscles warm.  I frequently use sweatshirts, leg warmers and the like, even in the Florida summer to keep my muscles warm.  Dress appropriately for the audition.  Directors need to see you move and if you are wearing baggy/sloppy clothing, it will mask what you are really doing.  Ladies, wear makeup, and have your hair done or pulled back. Give a professional appearance even if you are in leggings, it really makes a difference.

Be a little early, but not too early.  Try to aim to get there 5-10 minutes beforehand.  Also research the location if you aren't familiar with it before the day of tryouts. Know where you are going. Directors like people who are prompt, it shows that they are taking things seriously. Smile and introduce yourself to everyone. Be friendly and outgoing.

During the teaching phase, be attentive and seriously try to catch on, even if you don't have it 100% just giving your all will usually be noted by the directors. Smile and "perform" as well as you can - give attitude to the piece. Most directors are looking for potential, to mold you into what their team is looking for, if you show that you learn quickly and perform it, even if not 100% it's a pretty good chance you will make the team or at least catch their eye.

At the end of the auditions, talk to the directors.  Ask them questions that you may have, make sure they put a name to your face and your dancing style.  Take notes even, especially if you are going to several auditions, and will have to choose between teams.

Now some tips I hope that other directors will find helpful, from the students point of view. 

Give information up front, what you are planning and what you are looking for. 
Start on time, nothing is more annoying than waiting around for more than 20-30mins
Be prepared on what you will be doing ahead of time
Keep an eye on the clock to not drag out auditions. 
Be organized and look professional 

Remember your potential students are nervous and their energy will peter out eventually.  A 2 hour audition should give you plenty of time to observe and determine what the student has or does not have.  Professional level students will be able to handle a more lengthy audition, but you as the director should know what you are looking for. Be cheerful and welcoming, if a student feels at home, they will usually perform better.  Answer any and all questions as best as you can.  Invite students to talk with you and have plenty of time available to meet with all of them if necessary.

These tips should help both sides have a successful audition experience and allow both the school and the student grow.