by Catherine L. Tully

Many years ago when I was a full-time dancer I went to an audition I was especially excited about. A movie was casting dancers for roles–and the director was one I admired a great deal. I prepped for it, worked extra hard in class and outside of it for weeks, steadied myself mentally, and psyched myself up the best I could. When the day arrived, I felt totally ready.

After a short barre, a combination was taught and I picked it up right away. I was chosen to be in the first group, and positioned myself right in front. I performed it flawlessly. Things were going so well!

I got cut–on the first round.

I really felt crushed, and couldn’t understand why they had let me go. For weeks I beat myself up over it until a friend of mine heard my story and laughed out loud. “They wanted short dancers,” she said, “didn’t you read the notice?”

No, indeed, I had not.

What’s the point? Well, the point is, I hadn’t prepared properly–even though I thought I had. And there’s a lesson here too–sometimes you can dance perfectly–and just not be what they are looking for. It isn’t always your fault if you get cut. At times it comes down to a simple matter of genetics, or the preference of a particular director.

That said, with all my time in and around the dance world, I’ve picked up a few tips for auditions that I’d like to share with you today. Hopefully you will find something here to make your life easier the next time you try out for a gig. Here goes: [Read more…]