Audition Requirements
What To Expect From Your Academy Audition
This is your opportunity to showcase your acting ability. You will be assessed in several ways to ensure that The Academy's training program is the right fit for you. The Academy's program is unique, intense, and requires a very specific skillset. A number of factors go into the decision-making and selection process; a key component is the audition.
IMPORTANT: You can schedule your audition online once we have received your application, and both a personal and dramatic letter of reference.
See all Audition DatesAudition Requirements:
When you apply to the Two-Year Conservatory Program, you will choose one of two training tracks:
- Acting for Theatre, Film & Television
- Acting for Musical Theatre
Each focus has slightly different audition requirements:
Acting for Theatre, Film & Television AND Acting for Musical Theatre
Please prepare:
- Two contrasting monologues from published plays
- About 2 minutes each
- Both pieces must be fully memorized
- "Contrasting" could mean:
- One comedic, one dramatic or
- One contemporary, one classical
Cold Reading:
- In some cases, students may be asked to perform a short scene or monologue provided during the audition
Acting for Musical Theatre
Please prepare:
- The same two contrasting monologues as described above
- Two contrasting singing selections (60–90 seconds each)
- An up-tempo and a ballad are preferred, but there are no genre restrictions—choose pieces you love and that highlight your strengths. - You may also be asked to do a cold reading as described above.
The Audition Process
You will be called into the live or virtual audition room by an Academy assistant or your audition reviewer. The atmosphere will be friendly and professional.
This is the time to introduce yourself and ask any questions that you may have. Once introductions have been made and questions answered, your audition reviewer will invite you to begin your monologues.
Whether auditioning in person or virtually, your session will also include a short interview with a faculty member. This may happen before or after you perform your monologues. They may ask about:
- Your interest in acting and The Academy
- Past performance experience
- Creative or artistic interests and goals
There’s no preparation required for this segment—just be yourself!
This is your chance to share your passion and let us get to know you as an artist.
You will be prompted to announce your pieces. Typically, the adjudicator will ask you to state the title of the play and the name of the character you will portray.
After you have finished your first piece, take a moment then announce your second piece in the same way. Adjudicators may do things slightly differently, so be open and flexible and remember that this is an opportunity to do what you love.
The focus of your audition is, ultimately, your acting, so remain truthful to the spirit of your pieces. Perform at least one of your pieces standing so that the adjudicator may observe your movement, posture and the physicality your character. When performing, avoid making direct eye contact with the reviewer, and instead visualize the person to whom your character is speaking.
Once you have finished your interview, presented your two memorized monologues, and completed your cold reading (if applicable), the audition portion of your application is complete.
You may be asked to repeat a monologue and make slight adjustments to your performance to see how well you are able to take direction. Listen carefully and follow the directions to the best of your ability.
Applicants for the Acting for Musical Theatre area of emphasis should review Step 4 for information on required video submission of self-taped musical selections.
Applicants to the Acting for Musical Theatre track must submit two self-taped singing selections via the Applicant Portal. Each piece should be recorded and uploaded as a separate video. Standard recording devices such as smartphones or tablets can be used. Instructions:
- Prepare two contrasting singing selections, each 60 to 90 seconds in length. An up-tempo and a ballad are preferred, but there is no genre requirement—choose music that you love and that best showcases your voice.
- Before each performance, clearly state your name, the song title, and the show it is from (if applicable).
- All selections must be performed with musical accompaniment—either live or pre-recorded. A cappella submissions (without accompaniment) will not be accepted.
- Videos should be framed in a ¾ shot, meaning your image should show from the top of your head to your knees.
Your audition is just one part of the application process. Your completed transcripts, personal essay, and your letters of recommendation also play an important role in the overall evaluation of your application.
Once all materials have been received, your file will be reviewed by The Academy’s Selection Committee. In most cases, you can expect a response within four weeks. If you have any questions during the application or audition process, please don’t hesitate to contact the Admissions Office—our team is always happy to assist you.
Audition Components
Audition Photo
Once you apply, you will be able to upload your audition photo as part of your application process. Your audition photo is needed solely for identification at your audition and is not used for determination of acceptance to The Academy.
Your Appearance
You do not need to dress formally, but aim for a polished, professional appearance:
- Wear neutral clothing appropriate for your material (no costumes)
- Hair should not cover your face
- Remove any piercings that could interfere with speech
- Choose clothing that allows for full movement—especially if your monologues are physical
Props and Sets
You may bring a small prop to use in your presentation, although it is by no means required. A chair will be available upon request, however, we ask that at least one performance be standing, if physically possible. Please do not bring a person as a prop or focal point. This audition is about you, so scene partners will not be allowed in the audition room. The Academy will not provide sets or additional props during the audition process.
Monologues
Be ready to perform two well-prepared, memorized monologues from published plays. Each monologue should be about two minutes in length. They must be contrasting pieces: one dramatic and one comedic, or one classical and one contemporary. Monologues should represent your current range, i.e., age, type or character. Read both plays in their entirety as you may be asked contextual questions relating to the monologues, or the plays as a whole. For a list of sample plays, click here.
Cold Reading
In some cases, applicants may be asked to perform a short scene or monologue provided during the audition. This is not a reflection of how the audition is going, it is simply a way for the adjudicator to see how you take direction and handle new material.
If asked to do a cold reading, you will have a little time to review the material and ask questions. No advance memorization is required.
Personal Interview
You will be asked questions related to your desire to pursue acting and your interest in training at The Academy, as well as specific questions about your performance background, roles you have played, creative endeavors, and general questions about yourself. There is no preparation required for this section of the audition; just be yourself and be genuine. The faculty member conducting your audition is eager to get to know you.
What We’re Looking For:
Senior Academy faculty members conduct the admission auditions. They look for candidates who would benefit and grow from The Academy's training. In your audition, they are looking for:
- A passion for acting
- A commitment to the rigorous training program
- Emotional connection to the text
- Comprehension of the text
- Truthful use of the body
- Clarity of speech
- Vocal audibility
- Memorization and general preparedness
- Ability to cold read