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You’ve practiced and practice and now it’s time to put everything you’ve learned to good use. Your first audition is just around the corner and you’re getting a little nervous. Whether you are trying out for your local theater or a spot in a very prestigious company you need to be prepared.

Not being prepared will not only seriously hurt your chances at making it to the stage, but you’ll be wasting valuable time and money. Here are some tips that will help you get through your audition and onto the stage.

• Arrive at least fifteen minutes early so that you have time to scope the place out and find a nice place to warm up. It’s never a good idea to rush right into the audition room. You’ll be flustered and those on the panel will not take your audition very seriously.
• Make sure you have practiced any combinations that you will need to know going into the audition. If you have a specific routine that you are going to be doing, make sure you know it inside and out.
• Check with the company your auditioning for and find out if they have any specific requirements when it comes to what you need to wear. If nothing is specified, a black leotard and pink tights is always a safe bet.
• Make sure you have a clean appearance. That means no holes in your clothing; hair that is clean and pulled back; and makeup kept to the bare minimum.
• Make sure you remove any watches, necklaces, bracelets, or rings. If you plan on wearing earrings make sure they are very simple and close to the ears; nothing that dangles.
• Be aware of anything that the company requires you to bring to your audition. Many places require an audition fee, letters of recommendation, and photos. If you do need photos, make sure you have them taken in advance and that you have several shots so you can pick the best one for the audition? Being ill prepared for an audition will guarantee that you’ll have to wait around till the next one for your big chance.
• After making sure you’re well prepared, one of the most important things you can do is look like you’re enjoying what you’re doing. There is a possibility that you will be on stage working with others in front of a large audience. An excellent candidate is someone who is enjoying what they’re doing; who smiles a lot and sincerely; and who appears to be at home on the stage. You’ve made it this far, shows them why.
• If your are required to wear Pointe shoes, which you most likely will be, make sure that you don’t wear that old ratty pair that are comfortable to dance in but look less than presentable. On the other end of the spectrum, it’s not a wise decision to wear a brand new pair because it will make your audition very uncomfortable and you won’t be able to give your best performance.
• Keep those things in mind and you should be fine. If all else fails, remember, there are many dancers auditioning and they can’t choose everyone. There will be a next time. Your first audition can serve as great practice and can help you better prepare for next time.