Muriel discusses that when you go to an audition, that you look your absolute best. Your outfit must be clean, and free of holes. Do not wear any warm ups during the audition. Before the audition, it is ok, but when you start, be sure to remove your leg warmers and anything else. If a certain attire is asked for the audition, make sure that you wear it. For girls, pink tights and a black leotard is always appropiate, and for guys, black tights and a clean, white t-shirt tucked in is good. For girls, black tights are unacceptable, and outrageous looking leotards are not looked highly upon for a classical ballet audition. Make sure that the leotard you do wear is flattering, with your favorite neck line and cut. I want to add to what Muriel said that make sure the leotard fits you comfortably, so you are not pulling at it throughout the audition. If a certain leotard is not asked, wear the one with the most flattering color, sleeve length and back cut. Hair should be neat and secure. For ballet, make sure it is pulled back into a secure bun, whether it's straight back, or low in a Spanish-styled bun, make sure that it won't come out. A colored ribbon is also fine for your bun. Light make up is appropiate as well. Don't forget to bring the appropiate footwear. Girls should bring pink ballet slippers, and if old enough, pointe shoes. Pointe shoes should not be brand new, but not too dead. Shoes should not be dirty, and all shoes should be free of holes. Make sure not to wear dangly jewelry, but small earrings are fine. No watches, rings, or necklaces should be worn though.
Make sure that you know ahead of time what the audition fee is going to be. If there are any audition requirements, like certain photographs, make sure that you have taken those pictures ahead of time. When taking these pictures, take a couple of one required picture (for example, first arabesque on pointe) so you can choose from the best picture. American Ballet Theatre is requiring two letters of recommendation for its audition. If you have more than two teachers, get the recommendation from the two teachers that are going to say the best about you. Some of this information is common knowledge, but I figured that I should add it anyways.
Again, here's the obvious: Do your absolute best. Make sure you pay attention to the combinations. You don't want to be one of those people who rely on others to know it. Because when you know it, you can focus on the artistry and dancing full out, not wondering what step is next. Use your head, smile, don't look scared (even if you really are!). Summer programs look for dancers who make good students, those who are disciplined and eager. If you make a mistake, keep going. Don't sulk over it. And don't stop. The auditioners might think you're a quitter, and schools don't want quitters. Be polite to others there. Muriel was asked for things that she looks for in an audition. She looks for dancers who love to dance, those who bring quality to their movement, make the movement their own without changing the steps, and can capture someone's attention. Good luck auditioning!!
I've been to several auditions in the past years, so if you have any other questions that haven't been answered, feel free to post and ask them. Maybe other friends that you know have been to certain auditions where they can help you out. I would also check out www.danceart.com and www.balletalert.com. Make sure you know the combinations, too. If you can, don't be afraid to ask questions...I think they would like a person who wasn't afraid to ask, and wants clarification. I hope that all my notes have helped you out. Don't be discouraged by all those other girls at the audition (I know I was discouraged once I saw those skinny long-legged girls, with gorgeous feet and very high extensions!), just do your absolute best.
Good luck to all of you who are auditioning this season!
