Often young performers talk about their level of skill in terms of what other people say about them. "My music director / teacher / friends say I’m really good.

This demonstrates a tendency for us to calculate our self-worth based on what others say about us. Of all industries, the performing arts is the worst one to feel like this, since realistically the "no"s are often going to far outweigh the"yes"es. If you base your level of talent on what others think, then you are likely to feel very inadequate very quickly.

You may think yourself that you are very talented, but to say that would sound conceited, so we try to back it up by quoting testimonials from various friends, family, and educators. The problem is that what others think, in reality, matters very little to anyone but you. People like to form their own opinions. Then of course there is the fact that not all endorsements are created equal. Having a mother who says you are wonderful means sometimes nothing at all - let's face it, most mothers think their children are wonderful. If you insist on measuring your talent or skill, stick to those things that you can control. Training, experience, and the joy of performing - these are the things that matter and truly measure who you are as a performer.

This is especially important to remember when we "fail" to get the role we wanted in an audition. One of the most popular reactions to not receiving the role we were hoping for is to say that the audition process was unfair. We vent to our friends and family by bashing the director or whoever will be playing the part, harboring resentment that the directors should really have given the role to you. But is this really helping us to feel better, or is it just a way of avoiding the possibility that maybe we really weren't best for the role?

The sad reality is that it doesn't matter why you didn't get the role. The only reason you should be reflecting on why your audition was not as successful as you had hoped, is if you know that you did NOT do everything in your power to prepare for the audition. If the audition was done to the best of your ability and still did not meet your expectations, then you have two choices - wallow in self pity, or move on.

    While the single best way to overcome nervousness in an audition is to gain audition experience, there are a number of other things you can do to keep yourself calm and composed (or at least appear that way!).

        Know What to Expect at the Audition

        When you know what is expected of you, it is one less thing to worry about. Walking into an audition knowing that you have prepared the required materials and that you know what will be expected of you gives you confidence. No one wants you to be unprepared for an audition. It makes both you and the auditors uncomfortable, and it doesn't show off your talent, either. They want to see you audition well, because it gives them one more talented potential cast member.

        Be Prepared for the Audition

        Once you know what is expected of you, get ready! Choose your audition song and audition monologue appropriately. If they want to hear you sing a song, memorize the words. Same goes for a monologue or scene. Know the song inside out. When you get to the audition, if you know the song cold then it will be one less thing to worry about. If you will be doing a sight reading, read the play you are auditioning for, and ask yourself, "If I were a director, what scenes would I choose for auditions?" You'll be surprised how often you're right! Also, practice reading lines you've never seen before -- it doesn't matter what play they're from. This will increase your ability to act well the first time you read something. This is an important skill, because some auditions and most callbacks will ask you for a cold reading. Don't forget to warm up before the audition! There will be a lot of people to see, and the auditors won't have time to wait while you work the phlegm out of your throat.  

      
       The Audition Panel Is NOT the Enemy

        Try not to think of an audition as a war zone. It is not "them against you." Try to think of it as a chance to see if you and the directors would make a compatible team. Your song or monologue isn't the only factor deciding whether or not you will get the role. They also need someone who will be easy to work with. If you have any questions about the show, don't be afraid to ask them. It will show that you are genuinely interested in the production whether you get the role or not.

        Take Comments From Others With A Grain of Salt

        Yes, we should assume that all the people we will meet at an audition will be nice to us, but this isn't always the case. Remember that the people you meet in the waiting room may be auditioning for the same role as you, and may have personal reasons for saying things that might scare/anger/discourage you. Don't let anything that someone else says distract you from what is really important. When you are waiting for your audition, concentrate on being calm and prepared and avoid gossiping with other auditoners.

        Concentrate On The Audition As A Performance

        Remember that an audition is essentially just a performance for a very small audience, and you should think of it that way. Presumably, since you want a part, you actually enjoy performing, so try to bring that enjoyment to your audition. Also, make sure you are maintaining your focus by thinking in character. If you are thinking what the character you are portraying would think, you won't be critiquing and worrying about your performance.

        Also, make sure that your audition pieces are up to performance quality.

        Remember, however, that the audition panel has a job to do and they are not there to be entertained. Do not expect them to laugh or applaud.

        Be Realistic About The Audition Process

        Auditions are a nerve-racking experience for everyone. Come to terms with the fact that you are unlikely to give the performance of your life in an audition. Similarly, allowing yourself to stress over things that are out of your control (such as what "look" the audition panel is looking for, or how competent the accompanist is, or how tall you are) will cause you unnecessary nervousness because there is nothing you can do about it. Concentrate on doing your best in areas in which you do have control - memorizing your monologue, choosing an appropriate song, and preparing for cold readings. When you feel prepared, you will also feel confident.