Do I need to memorize a monologue? Sometimes, but not always. After you sing (if the production is a musical) you may be given a copy of a scene from the play that you will be asked to read from. This is called a “cold reading.”

What are 16 bars of sheet music? If you look at a piece of sheet music, you will see that the notes are on a series of 5 horizontal lines. You will also see vertical lines that separate those lines into a series of groups of notes. Each one of those vertical sections is a "bar" of music. You can choose any 16 bars for an audition, so try to pick the 16 bars that show off your voice the best. Notate on the sheet music where the pianist should start and stop. If you are still having trouble, ask someone you know who can read music to show you on the music what it is and to help you pick 16 bars that will work for you.

Do I need a headshot (picture) and a resume? When you arrive you will be given an audition form to fill out. If you have a resume we will attach it to the form. If you do not have a resume you will need to fill out the space on the audition form that asks you to list any theatrical experience. A headshot is not required, but if you have a school picture or photo of yourself please bring it with you. It is a great way for the people who are casting the show to remember what you look like.

What happens if I cannot make the audition dates? If you cannot make the audition date then you will need to contact Adaire Theatre at (540) 250-3665 or adairetheatre@gmail.com in order to try and set up an individual or optional audition date.

What should I wear? An audition is much like a job interview, except in this interview you might be asked to dance or sing. You should try to look professional and bring an extra set of more comfortable clothes and shoes if you know there will be a choreography portion in the audition.

Will I have to audition in front of anyone else who is auditioning? Sometimes, yes. If asked to do a cold reading, you may be asked to read with other people for the scene.

What is a callback? The "callback" is a second or subsequent audition where the selection process becomes more specific. At a callback you will be asked to read additional scenes from the show, prepare music from the score and learn additional dance combinations. The callback is also an opportunity for the director to see and hear different combinations of actors.

What if I am not called back? Not being called back doesn’t always mean that you aren’t being cast in the show. Sometimes a callback is needed for a director to look at the way specific groups of people fit together.

What if I can’t make all rehearsals? A calendar with all the possible rehearsal dates and all performances is located on the back of the Audition Form. When you audition we ask that you mark any date that you can't rehearse and turn it back in with your form. We are often able to work around the availability of the actors we cast. Sometimes the availability of an actor is the final deciding factor in casting. Always be honest about your availability.

How will I know if I am cast in the show? If you are cast in the show you will be contacted following your audition for the show. You will receive an email if you were not cast in the show. Either way you will have an answer.