Navigating Auditions
A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your Young Performer
Auditions are thrilling but nerve-wracking for young performers—and for their parents! As a parent, your role is crucial but difficult to navigate as you provide support and encouragement to help to ensure your child feels confident and also prepared. I’ve written a number of blogs with advice for young performers who are auditioning however, I think it’s equally important to provide parents with guidance too.
Managing Nerves
Auditions often come with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Help them channel their nerves into positive energy with these strategies:
Practice, but Don’t Overdo It: Encourage regular practice leading up to the audition, but avoid last-minute cram sessions that can increase stress.
Stay Positive: Focus on effort, not outcomes. Praise their hard work and dedication rather than emphasizing the need to “get the part.”
Normalize Rejection: Remind your child that auditions are part of the journey and not every role will go their way. Each experience is valuable for growth.
Choosing the Right Material
Selecting the perfect audition material can make a huge difference. Here’s how to guide your child in choosing wisely:
Play to Their Strengths: Encourage your child to pick songs or monologues that highlight their vocal range, acting ability, and personality.
Pick Age-Appropriate Material: Avoid overly mature or cliché selections. Unique, lesser-known pieces can help your child stand out while staying true to their age and skill level.
Make sure they like it: At the end of the day, their opinion on the material is important and if they don’t enjoy performing it, that will come across to a panel.
Understanding Casting
Casting decisions can feel mysterious and sometimes frustrating. Help your child (and yourself) understand the process:
It’s (Often) Not Always About Talent: Casting directors look for a mix of factors, including appearance, chemistry with other actors, and suitability for the role. Your child’s talent may not always be the deciding factor.
Every Role is Valuable: Remind your child that every part, no matter how big or small, contributes to the success of a production and provides valuable experience.
Teach Resilience: Help your child view auditions as learning opportunities. Feedback, or even just the experience of performing, can be more important than the outcome.
Practical Tips for Audition Day
Help the day run smoothly with a little preparation:
Pack Essentials: Bring a water bottle, snacks, extra copies of their CV and headshot, and any required sheet music.
Dress the Part: Ensure your child wears comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement and reflects the character they’re auditioning for, without being in full costume.
Be a Quiet Supporter: Give your child space to focus, but let them know you’re there to cheer them on.
Celebrate Their Effort
After the audition, celebrate their bravery and hard work. Whether they land the role or not, acknowledging their effort helps reinforce a positive attitude toward auditions.
By creating a supportive, informed environment, you can help your young performer approach auditions with confidence and resilience. Remember, each audition is a step forward in their journey, filled with valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. And as a parent, your encouragement makes all the difference!