Acting Audition Tips - ArtsEd

Acting Audition Tips

21.05.2026

Struggling to figure out how to prepare for your next audition? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

Our experienced Acting staff have shared their top tips and expert advice to help you approach auditions with confidence and ease. From preparation strategies to what you can expect during the process, these insights will set you up for success.

Advice and tips from; Sam Gibbs, Foundation Acting Course Leader, Marnie Baxter, Head of Film & TV and Joint Head of Third Year & George Richmond-Scott, MA Acting Course Leader.

How to pick an audition piece?

 

  • Preparation is key. Do the work!
  • Read and / or watch some plays, try to pick character’s that are around the same age as you, think about what impression you want to make, if you love a speech – trust your gut and go for it.
  • Look for a speech you connect with or that sparks your imagination, find contrasting speeches that both have a journey. Avoid changing your accent, we want to hear YOU.
  • It is not about making an ‘alternative’ or ‘interesting’ choice, it’s about finding something you connect with, you can relate or connect to.

What to Expect?

 

  • Take direction. Be ready to listen to the panel and make quick changes to your performance in the room, based on the notes given.
  • This is YOUR moment, so be brave enough to find your centre before you begin the scene. Take your time, remember to breathe.

Self-Tape Tips

 

  • Shoot in landscape, have a plain background.
  • Consider a three takes and done mantra, don’t get into your head, if you shoot three takes it is highly unlikely any extra takes will get what you feel you are missing.
  • Find the journey of the scene, find the shift, how is your character different from the start to finish? What is the environment of the scene? How does this effect the character?
  • Look at speeches as thoughts rather than lines.

What should I wear?

 

  • Wear clothing you are comfortable in and can move freely in. If you feel comfortable it will help you in your performance(s).
  • It is helpful if there is no text or strong images on your clothing, mainly because this can draw focus away from you and your performance.

Remember

 

  • Enjoy the process, this is an opportunity to show your work, allow it to be joyful.
  • During all in person auditions, the panels will want you to do the best you can. They are not trying to trip you up, or catch you out, so head into those audition rooms knowing we are rooting for you!

Applications Open

 

Applications for our Acting courses are open! Find out more below and take the first step to your acting career with us.

 

Foundation Acting BA (Hons) Acting MA Acting