React, Adapt, and Move Forward: The Exciting Future of Auditions

COVID-19 has taken a toll on the arts and entertainment industry. Learn how we have reacted, adapted, and moved forward to an exciting future of auditions.

Coronavirus has changed many things in our lives, with almost no business going untouched. That includes the arts and entertainment industry. 

But people still need to be entertained (perhaps now more than ever!) and actors and actresses still need to get paid. How have auditions for these roles changed in the time of COVID?

As with anything, adapting and moving forward is the goal. And since Australia still recommends social distancing, an audition may not look like it used to—but that's okay. Part of being in this industry is being innovative!

In this article, we discuss the exciting future of auditions so that you can prepare your child or teenager to excel.

Use What You've Already Got 

When you're getting ready for an in-person audition, you might have more time or resources to prepare—such as buying wigs, clothing, make-up, props, etc., that's in line with the part.

You may not have the same opportunity to do that now. With products getting sold out left and right, you'll have to improvise.

Peruse your closet and use what you have that honours the part you're auditioning for. You're bound to find something that matches the theme of the role. It's okay if it's not perfect, but it's essential to show some effort.

Get Comfortable With Self-Taping

Your child may have performed in front of a person with no problem—but getting taped adds an element of anxiety, for some.

Like anything, the more you do it, the more comfortable it becomes. You can even practice ahead of time by hosting fake auditions.

Remember that anything around you will be a part of the video, too. So, set the stage!

Remove any unnecessary objects or clutter from the picture, consider adding a white backdrop to the audition, and keep everything as professional as it would be in-person. That might even look like having someone distract the dog for the duration of the audition.

Whatever you need to do, make sure it's all figured out before audition time.

Troubleshoot Your Connection

Don't wait until something goes wrong with your internet connection before you think of this one!

If you're filming a tape and sending it in, this point isn't as crucial. But, if you're doing a live virtual audition, it's essential to have a high-speed, working internet connection.

Test it ahead of time, consider potential pitfalls, and have ways of recovering if something goes wrong.

Prepare as You Would for In-Person Auditions

It's a virtual audition, so no need to get dressed, have your breakfast, and get a good nights' sleep, right?

Wrong. Prepare for the future of auditions the same as you got ready before.

Whatever that used to look like for you, do it still. Keep auditions ritualistic, getting yourself ready in precisely the same way. Your auditions may not look the same, but that doesn't mean they're an excuse not to train, organise, and work hard.

It's Time to Shine

Now that you're prepared for the future of auditions, what's the next step?

Put these tips into action.

Adam Jacobs is the Managing Director of Bubblegum Casting, the longest-running agency specialising in babies, children, and teen talent in Australia and Hunter Talent the fastest growing talent agency in Australia. Adam works with some of Australia's biggest brands, media properties, and agencies to secure talent kids and adults work in Television, Film, and Modelling roles.