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Getting into drama school is very competitive and can be an emotionally draining experience. Literally thousands of "hopefuls" audition for drama schools every year, so here's some essential tips to ensure you get the very best out of each audition.
Some questions you may need to ask yourself.
Have you researched the drama schools that will best suit your needs?
Have you looked carefully at the syllabus? Is the focus on classical acting, musical theatre, physical theatre?
Does the drama school offer foundation courses, degree courses, scholarships and so on?
Have you noted the cost of each audition (this will vary from school to school but usually about £40-£50 per audition)
Is the drama school accredited. Less well known ones may not be.
Have you considered how you will finance your three year course?
Have you thought about accommodation if you are going to be living away from home.
Do you believe you have the talent, passion and dedication to get into drama school?
Can you sing and dance? (this is important as most drama schools will want you to have a strong capacity in all three disciplines)
Have you selected audition pieces that show you at your best?
Have you read and researched the play and do you have a very clear understanding of your character objectives and his/her relationship with the other characters in the play?
What will happen on the day?
You may well be asked to take part in a practical workshop where the auditioners will be looking for your ability to work as part of a team, your skill in adapting to different characters and situations. Often drama schools will select a certain number of students from this workshop to perform their prepared pieces. Sadly not everyone will even get to perform their pieces, so it is important to make an impact in the workshop.
When you perform your pieces you may be asked to re-perform them in a variety of different ways - for example jogging in a park, in a crowded train, or a howling gale! This is to test your versatility and your capacity to think on your feet!
Most drama schools will have a system of "recalls" before offering places. The amount of recalls will depend on the school.
I would be delighted to help you with your practical preparation. Please don't hesitate to contact me for an informal chat to see if you think I might be the person to help you on this challenging journey.......................
Final tip:
When auditioning don't wear masses of makeup or jewellery. Dress in loose, comfortable clothes and soft shoes. Keep your hair off your face. They want to see the real you. Remember it is not a beauty/fashion contest, it is an audition!!!
