BWW Blog: Patti Meadors - 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First College Audition

I just spent this fall season at five different colleges every weekend, auditioning for BFA musical theatre programs and I have learned a lot along the way. Here are 10 things I wish I knew before I embarked on this journey.

1. Finding an "audition outfit" that you think will make you stand out is what every other person is thinking as they shop. You will see another girl with a similar red dress, or a boy who is also wearing a lilac shirt that you thought was so original. Your outfit choice is not the only thing that distinguishes you.

2. That being said, your "audition outfit" should be something you are comfortable and confident in. Don't wear crazy high heels all day and not bring an extra pair of shoes to walk around in -- trust me, you can sacrifice style for being able to walk around longer and not look like a newborn deer when you walk into your audition.

3. Find current students (they are often around helping with audition day) and don't be afraid to ask questions! They went through the process too, and could have helpful hints and good answers to questions.

4. Always be on your A game, no matter what. Be fresh faced and smile as much (but be natural!) as possible! Don't have a look of dread on your face, because this may make you seem difficult to work with. Remember, you are advertising yourself to these people.

5. They really do want to see you do your best! I have yet to go to a dance call where the goal is to see you suffer because you can't do 10 pirouettes into the splits. Have fun! Enjoy yourself.

6. You are auditioning the school as much as they are you! Ask questions to yourself, like could you really see yourself study at this institution for 4 years, do you hate the way the buildings look, or is the dorm room way too far from the music and theatre building? Asking yourself questions makes sure that you get a good experience and end up with a good fit.

7. Expect the unexpected. A lot of schools ask questions after you perform your monologue and your songs. Do not expect a certain question (unless they tell you what they will ask) or you may get psyched out and not do as well on your audition itself. The questions are often to get to know you as a person and fellow human being.

8. Wear dance clothes you are comfortable, confident and warm in! You will be travelling between places, and most places you will have to go outside and it probably will be cold! And even if it does not seem cold, you don't want to risk catching cold, or hurting your body by shocking it with temperature change. Staying healthy is one of the most important things you can do.

9. Don't be afraid to make friends. Ask the person next to you where they are from, or what shows they have recently done if you are feeling nervous and don't know what else to say and you don't want to be stuck in your own head in the silence.

10. HAVE FUN! No matter what, you are auditioning to continue doing what you love on a professional level! Being nervous is okay, as long as you don't let it consume every waking moment! Find joy in auditioning, because that's what the rest of your life will be like!

I hope you have learned something from these, and if you are auditioning soon: Break a leg!

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