Auditioning is an important skill, not just an extension of acting, it’s a separate skill that can be developed in many acting classes in NYC. Working actors know that gaining experience is critical, and that won’t happen if you tend not to audition well. Developing auditioning skills may be up to you as some acting classes NYC don’t cover this thoroughly. Being prepared, with a deep set of auditioning skills is necessary if you expect to exploit every opportunity to audition that comes your way. Acting classes in NYC that specialize in Meisner acting, offer one of the most respected acting disciplines in the business. There is a known connection between the Meisner acting technique and professional, inspiring auditioning techniques.
There is no such thing as “failing” an audition unless you have fallen into one of these traps. Overconfidence in an audition can be killer. The second is if you are overly insecure or nervous. Directors and producers are used to seeing overly confident or insecure actors and this is not what will count against you. It’s actually the block that these types of feelings cause, which inhibits the emergence of an authentic arresting character.
Being “closed off” or self aware is a very bad acting habit, and one that threatens to get in the way of a great audition as well. Too nervous, and it’s too distracting to you and the auditors and you run the risk of not being open to the performance and the emerging character. The many layers of human traits, communicated in a thousand smalls ways is what must shine through, how you feel personally can’t inhibit this.
So, what about the slate? Remember this will be the first impression you make. It seems like a throwaway moment, just a way for the people conducting the audition to keep track. Here’s a shocking fact. Not all casting directors, producers or directors watch all the tapes past the slate. Actors must think about how many hundreds of other actors are also turning in tapes our auditions. When wading through these tapes, anything that helps them to more quickly find the best of the best is necessary. So, a quick dismissal of someone who doesn’t slate well gets them closer to their goal.
This is challenging for the actor, but challenging is what spurs growth. Learning to slate well is one way to get an advantage over some of the actors you go up against. Some acting classes teach tips for auditioning some don’t. When researching acting classes in NYC, research those that teach about slates and other auditioning skills. Acting classes in NYC in some institutions, may ask for a slate and audition tape for entry into their program. It’s something you can do on your own, and do quite well with a little help from a friend. Set up a camera, a good mic and then give it a try. Practicing slates isn’t easy. Communicate to someone, not the camera, which is an art form unto itself. This is something you can record, playback and assess. You can get feedback from people you trust, and keep working at it until you feel like your slate is a natural extension of who you are as an actor.
As for the information they want, it’s most often limited to your name and the agency that represents you. This is their first impression of you as an actor but the real deal should be saved for the audition. It won’t hurt in commercial auditions to put a hint of the character in your slate but avoid going over the top. If you fall short of their expectations they may hit the eject button before the actual tape. The goal of the slate is to present yourself as an actor and a person, not as the character. Then give them something they want to see more of: a brilliant and original character. if you want to know more, look into Meisner acting NYC, for tips on how to create character, emotional preparation and scene study for auditioning.
The Maggie Flanigan Studio provides meisner acting classes in New York City. For more information about acting classes nyc visit the studio website where you can get specific answers to any question you have.