Avoid unnecessary and unpleasant surprises and reduce some of your pre-audition anxiety by carefully reading through audition materials provided by the ballet company. Know the date, time and exact location of the audition, determine if audition fees must be paid and when, and confirm that you have completed essential paperwork. Clarify if the audition will include dancing en pointe, partnering, performing a prepared solo and/or a personal interview. If you are required to bring a resume and photo, prepare these materials in advance of the audition date and store them in a clean file folder along with your application. Pack your supplies -- including tights, leotards, shoes, hair accessories, makeup, water and snacks -- the night before the audition to prevent last-minute panic.
Eliza Gaynor Minden writes in her book, “The Ballet Companion,” that dancers should choose their audition attire carefully. If a dress code is in place for the audition, follow it strictly. If the company does not specify, it is always safe to wear the classic combination of black leotard and pink tights. Gaynor Minden suggests wearing a leotard you feel is flattering, even if the color is somewhat bold. Wear pointe shoes that are broken-in and familiar-feeling. Opt for a light application of makeup that highlights your natural features and adds a bit of color. Avoid heavy stage makeup, such as dark eye shadow, thick applications of mascara and eye liner, and dark shades of lipstick. Pull your hair away from your face in a classic bun and stay away from elaborate hair pieces and jewelry.
Arrive early and warm up on your own. Most auditions are run like a typical ballet class, so you will probably have ample time to warm up during the barre portion of the audition. Nevertheless, taking 20 to 30 minutes to warm up and stretch before the audition begins might help you relax and feel more focused. If the audition panel distributes numbered cards to wear, attach yours to your leotard in a place that is visible to the panel, but that does not inhibit your movement. Gaynor Minden points out that most dancers position their number cards near the center of their chests. Behave in a professional manner from the moment you walk into the studio and begin stretching because the audition panel might already be evaluating you.
Ballet companies value dancers who learn choreography quickly and conform to company standards. Pay close attention when the instructor presents choreography, and do your best to maintain the integrity of her movement combinations. Avoid adding to or changing the choreography, which might suggest to the audition panel that you are not attentive to detail. Try to exude self-confidence, while appearing cooperative and eager to learn. If the instructor invites or allows questions, ask for clarification if necessary. Attempt to connect with the audition panel by smiling pleasantly and making eye contact periodically. Be gracious about accepting corrections from the instructor, listening carefully and attempting to correct your technique. Don't allow yourself to become flustered if you find the pace of instruction too quick. Fight hard to stay focused when the instructor demonstrates, and maintain a pleasant demeanor even if you make a mistake.