A dance audition is an opportunity to present your technique, performance strengths and improvisation skills to the dance judges. It could be used to get a scholarship, admission to a college course, or a role in a music video. In any case, you will need to prepare by gathering the required documents, wearing the appropriate clothing and choreographing a dance solo. Here are some ways to prepare for a dance audition.
Steps
Step 1. Ask about the requirements for the audition
A choreographer may ask you to bring with you a professional photographic portrait and a resume relating to your experiences in dance. The admissions committee for a dance class may have collected all the information in advance and simply ask you to introduce yourself in the appropriate dance attire.
Step 2. Bring a photographic portrait with you
Sometimes, in public invitation auditions, the presentation of a photographic portrait is required, which consists of a photograph of the face, generally measuring 20x25 cm. However, in the world of dance, dancers often pose for a full-length photograph that highlights their strengths in dance or their flexibility. Casting directors generally keep the photograph of the face, especially in case they plan to call you back for a second audition.
Step 3. Prepare a resume related to your dance experiences
Enter your name, contact information, and a list of your experiences. Add the names of the dance schools you attended, any degrees you have earned and the productions and companies you have worked for. Some employers also require a description of your hair color, weight, and height.
Step 4. Create a dance solo
If the audition requires you to perform one, prepare the choreography in advance.
Choreograph a solo that highlights your strengths, both as a dancer and as a choreographer. If you have training in different dance styles, choose one that is appropriate for the course or needs of the choreographer. For example, if you are applying for a ballet school, choreograph an example of this genre instead of hip hop, unless you are absolutely certain that versatility is a major advantage
Step 5. Put on the appropriate clothing for the dance audition
- Wear a leotard and tights. If it is a ballet, jazz or modern dance audition, leotards and tights are the standard attire. More conservative schools prefer defined colors (for example, a black leotard), so inquire about these details in advance.
- Bring the appropriate dance shoes. Put on ballet gilets for a ballet class and pointe shoes if you will be doing advanced moves. At a tap audition, wear tap shoes, while jazz auditions are generally in demand. At a modern or contemporary dance audition, people usually perform barefoot. In the case of hip hop, however, wear a pair of sneakers.
Step 6. Show up early to audition
To avoid getting nervous, give yourself enough time to find the audition location and warm up.
Before the start of the test, warm up. Avoid presenting yourself with cold muscles. As soon as you reach the audition venue, find a place to warm up. After you've warmed up your muscles, do some stretching to make them as flexible as you can
Step 7. During the audition, relax
Feeling nervous during the audition is a normal thing, especially if it's about getting a job you crave or a placement in a dance school. Most likely, you will be taught a dance number on the spot, with the request to learn it quickly and perform it, alone or in a group. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be for you to rely on your natural talent and the training you have undergone to impress the judges positively.
