By: Marcus Moss
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (UWGB) Theatre Department recently completed auditions for its spring semester productions: The Angel Next Door and Page Turner.”
The first will be directed by Theatre Professor Alan Kopischke while the second, a stage-read play, will be helmed by student director Mia Bolyard.
Though auditions for these shows have closed, preparing early for future opportunities can be beneficial. For those unfamiliar with the audition process or seeking guidance, this article provides essential tips to help ensure your audition experience is as smooth as possible.
UWGB Theatre auditions typically last two days. The first day involves the audition, where performers present their prepared material. The second day, callbacks, is reserved for further evaluation by the directors. Before auditioning, participants need to secure a time slot and complete both an audition form and an intimacy disclosure form.
- The Audition Form: Collects contact information, outlines the skills and prior experience, and captures the role preferences. It also ensures awareness of theatre policies and schedules.
- The Intimacy Disclosure Form: Addresses the comfort level with intimate or mature scenes, such as kissing or simulated displays of affection, which are sometimes required in theatre productions
The type of production that needs to be prepared for the audition:
- For Plays: Prepare a one- to two-minute monologue and participate in improvisation exercises or acting drills.
- For Musicals: Same as an audition for a play, but also prepare a song, preferably classical or from a musical, and participate in a dance audition where the choreographer teaches a short routine to test how well performers learn and adapt the movements.
If participants are unsure about how to select a monologue, directors often provide suggestions, including character descriptions and excerpts from the play. These resources are available on the Theatre Department’s blog.
Kopischke said, “We generally provide a copy of the play and suggested monologues from both the play itself and other plays. We also provide descriptions of the characters and disclose any unusual demands on those characters, such as stage combat, stage intimacy, or special skills required.” Actors are also welcome to choose their own monologue if they feel it better highlights their strengths.
Kopischke advised, “Choose a 1-2 minute monologue that is in the style of the play and maybe even indicates a character you are interested in playing. Choose a character that fits who you are and what you do well. Reading the play/musical ahead of time can help give insight into what kind of monologue to pick and how to portray those characters from the play/musical.”
Thomas Campbell, associate professor in the UWGB Theatre & Dance, said, “It’s not appropriate to enter a conversation without knowing what people are talking about; it’s not a great idea to audition for a role if you don’t know what the character is saying in the larger context of the play.”
Auditions can be intimidating, particularly for those outside the Theatre Department. However, with the right preparation and resources, the process becomes more manageable. Whether someone is a seasoned performer or new to the stage, understanding the audition structure and expectations will help any actor shine when the time comes. Students are encouraged to watch for announcements on next year’s auditions and explore the Theatre Department blog for updates and tips
