Please submit a digital video recording which must include the following – in this order:

A)  One song selection from a musical. This selection must be performed first during your audition. Original material cannot be submitted.

B)  One spoken monologue from a play (classical or contemporary). No original material. This selection must appear after your song.

Excluding your introduction, you have four (4) minutes to complete your audition.

Guidelines for Recording Your Audition

• Announce your audition in the following manner: “My first piece is from (title of musical play) by (author). The role of (character). My second piece is from (title of play) by (author) composed by (composer). The role of (character).”
• Use a fixed point of view for your camera. Shoot straight on, leaving the camera in one location.
• The judges prefer to see full body shot or no less than ¾ of applicant’s body on screen.
• Do not pan, move the camera or follow the actor. Camera may be no closer than waist up.
• Record your audition in a clearly defined interior space. Do not record your video outside.
• All audition submissions must be memorized and in English.
• Accompaniment is limited to one piano (strongly preferred) or pre-recorded format without any vocals except yours.
• Do not perform songs a capella. A capella pieces are not allowed.
• Your entire audition submission cannot exceed four (4) minutes total.
• Props are limited to one stool, two chairs, and one table.
• Do not wear costumes or stage make-up.
• Utilize only the microphone on the video camera. Make sure the level of your piano accompaniment does not overpower the sound of your voice.
• Cuts between pieces are acceptable.
• Do not make video edits within the monologue or song. Do not use lighting changes, special effects, dissolves, fades, wipes, or sound enhancements.
• You should choose material appropriate for your age.
• Each piece should be presented “in character” and performed in context of the show’s plot.
• The back drop should be neutral free of creases, breaks and distractions.
• Before recording your pieces, film a test. Perform the first few lines of your monologue, then watch and listen to it on playback. Check the following important things:
• SOUND: Make sure the acoustics in the room are strong. Practice your piece in the space. If you hear an echo in playback, adjust the recording volume or choose someplace else to record.
• LIGHTING: Make sure the space is well-lit, but not too bright. Judges should be able to see your face clearly. Too little light and judges cannot see you. Too much light will leave you overexposed and judges cannot see your expressions.
• FRAMING: The camera should be set at a distance to frame your face and body clearly. If judges only see your face and shoulders, it’s too close. If judges can see the entire stage but your facial expressions cannot be seen clearly, it’s too far away.
• CLOTHING: Wear clothing that is simple, comfortable and tasteful. And remember, your clothing should never be more interesting than your audition. Check the space where you will be recording your pieces. Wear something that has a gentle contrast and will help us see you clearly. If you are recording against a black back drop, do not wear black.
• After you have recorded your pieces, watch them in playback to make sure you can be seen and heard.

Please note that the application fee is non-refundable even in the case of injury. You also must be free of injury to participate in YoungArts Week if you are chosen as a Finalist.