Can someone give me some helpful tips on auditioning?

I'm going to have to audition in like a week for a play, but here's some info: It's a cold read...I don't need a monologue; I just basically want some tips on what to wear, how to fix my hair and makeup and probably how to stand out if everyone has to read the same piece. Also any tips you might think I need, please let me know...Oh and I don't have to sing...

Can someone give me some helpful tips on auditioning?

You've already received plenty of advice about wardrobe and makeup, and, since I'm a GUY...I don't know squat about those things for girls, anyway.

As far as your cold reading is concerned...

One of these days, you should try to pick up a copy of the very excellent book "Audition," by Michael Shurtleff. It's a terrific acting volume in all contexts, but has some particularly useful things to say about the audition process.

Bottom line: make a STRONG choice! Do not -- I repeat, DO NOT -- play it "safe." Read over the scene, formulate some ideas about it, and then play it as BOLDLY as you possibly can. Trust me on this one; I've cast dozens of plays, and actors who play it close to the vest at cold readings don't do themselves any favors.

If you think about it, it makes perfect sense. The director doesn't need to know whether you can play any particular role; if you're cast, you'll have ample time to work on that character. In the audition context, all he/she wants to know is that you're capable of STRONG PLAYING. So make a STRONG CHOICE...even if it's absolutely and totally wrong and/or misguided. A good director will see through that instantly, and will know that, with the proper directorial input, the actor who is capable of BOLD playing will serve the production better than someone who settles for a safe and comfortable reading during the audition.

Good luck.

Can someone give me some helpful tips on auditioning?

One tip about being professional about acting tryouts is to bring in a good, professional-looking, black-and white photo of yourself, to help the people remember you. Don't get TOO fancy with hair and makeup--that can be distracting. When you read the lines, don't just stare down at the paper--act like you're taking TO the person the character is talking to...if there is someone reading the other person's lines, make that person your focal point. If not, choose an imaginary focal point where the person you are talking to will be, and talk right to them. Don't behave nervous and sad, like "ooh please choose me or I'll be upset," because directors won't want to spend long hours working with someone who is going to be scared and sad if they get any criticism. Be professional and polite and assertive in your dealings with these people. My best advice on standing out when reading is to imagine you have the same emotions that the character is feeling, and show it in your voice and body language and expressions. Speak clearly but naturally, and relax. There may be some good websites somewhere with more tips--try a search engine search. GOOD LUCK!

Can someone give me some helpful tips on auditioning?

What is the play and what character are you going for? I'm sure we could tell you more specifically if we had that info. Of course, you don't come in costume, but that doesn't mean you can't dress 'toward' the character. If she's a business woman, come dressed more business-like. If she's old-fashioned, a calico print skirt and simple top or overalls... depending on how old fashioned, you know what I mean?

In general, don't over do anything. Don't come all glammed up, just nicely presentable. Stylish, but not over the top. If you have too many accessories or a loud pattern, etc. it will detract from them looking at you. I would pull my hair back away from my face (headband maybe?) and wear clean make-up, not "I'm going out tonight" smoky eyes, etc. Bright colors are definitely ok, but not so much that they need to put their sunglasses on to look at you. Something simple on top so they focus on your face. Figure out what neckline flatters you most.

Personally I think solid colors make the most impact. A nice pink or bright blue shirt with a solid skirt or capris and a bright happy smile looks great! This is just my personal opinion... but I can tell you when people come in with all their jewelry and too much make-up on you wonder what the person really looks like under all that junk! Sometimes it's distracting to the point that when you're done auditiong, we missed it because we were still looking at your god-awful ensemble :-)

Most important is your personality and your demeanor. Let them know that you've done your homeswork, you know the show and the character you're auditioning for. You are a nice, happy person who would be fun to work with. If they get that vibe from you and you nail your audition, you have a great shot!!

Oh, and if you mess up... keep going! If it's right in the begining and they seem like they're in a good mood you may be able to ask if you can start again, but not everyone is so kind about that. Keep your body language positive. Don't slouch :-)

Good luck!