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Unit in Distance Learning Curriculum

Mock Audition

Created by Lindsay Price

12 lessons

In this Mock Audition Unit, students will discuss the audition process and make connections between their personal views and the process. Students will apply the steps of auditioning from putting together a resume to choosing a piece based on provided information to audition etiquette to the actual audition itself.

A final reflection and rubrics are provided for use at the end of this unit.

A short play is included that can be used as the source material for your audition. You can also choose your own play for this process.

Start here
The overview lays out the structure of the unit, outcomes, time management and materials.
  1. 1
    Lesson 1
    Introduction to the Audition Process
    In order to partake in the audition process, students need to identify and comprehend the necessary steps in that process. What is the auditioning process? Why is it used? Is the process fair? Why or why not? The class ends with students playing director in the “Who Would You Cast?” Exercise.
  2. 2
    Lesson 2
    The Acting Resume
    An actor needs two documents when they audition for a role: a resume and a headshot. What should go on an acting resume and what should stay off of it? What is an auditioner looking for? Students will discuss the purpose of an acting resume, review a model, and reflect on the process. Students will use this template when they create a resume for their mock audition.
  3. 3
    Lesson 3
    Becoming a Professional Actor - Headshots
    While the Mock Audition does not require students to bring in a headshot, it is an essential document in the “real world” audition process. A good headshot will help a director remember an actor. A bad headshot can get an actor rejected before they step through the door. Students will complete exercises that respond to the question What makes a good headshot?
  4. 4
    Lesson 4
    Audition Etiquette
    Students will continue their journey toward the Mock Audition by exploring audition etiquette. How can an actor’s attitude and behaviour affect an audition?
  5. 5
    Lesson 5
    Choosing a Monologue 1
    Students will continue their journey toward the Mock Audition by exploring what goes into choosing an appropriate audition monologue.
  6. 6
    Lesson 6
    Choosing a Monologue 2
    Students will continue their journey toward the Mock Audition by reading and choosing a monologue for their mock audition.
  7. 7
    Lesson 7
    Monologue Prep 1 - Character Profile
    After students choose their monologues, the next step is to prepare. More often than not, students think that preparing means learning the lines and throwing in a few moves. When students do this in an audition, it shows. The character is one-dimensional and the movement looks out of place. You want to see three-dimensional characters brought to life both physically and vocally. In this session, students are given time to practice their monologue and start working on the who, what, when, where, and why.
  8. 8
    Lesson 8
    Monologue Prep 2 - Physical Profile
    Students will continue their journey toward the Mock Audition by exploring what they can do to prepare their monologue. Once students have completed the Character Profile, have them complete the Physical Profile. This will solidify how the character stands, gestures, and moves.
  9. 9
    Lesson 9
    Monologue Prep 3 - Voice Profile and Slate/Thank You
    Students will continue their journey toward the Mock Audition by exploring what they can do to prepare their monologue. The last profile students complete will be the Vocal Profile. This will solidify how the character communicates orally.
  10. 10
    Lesson 10
    Monologue Prep 4 - Audition Setup
    Students will continue their journey toward the Mock Audition by exploring what they can do to prepare their monologue. They will practice their monologue and talk about dealing with nerves. This is the final lesson before the Mock Audition. You will review the audition procedure with the class, and students will sign up for their audition slot.
  11. 11
    Lesson 11
    The Mock Audition
    Today is the Mock Audition. In this lesson, you will play director and audition students for one of four roles in the play Jealousy Jane. Use the Mock Audition Rubric to assess their performance.
  12. 12
    Lesson 12
    After the Audition
    How did students feel about their audition? Did they get a part? What is their response if they didn’t? This wrap-up lesson allows students to unpack their experience with this unit and participate in a final reflection.

Standards Addressed

Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade 6

Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade 8

Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade HS Proficient

Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation - Grade HS Accomplished

Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation - Grade HS Proficient

Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation - Grade HS Accomplished

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 6

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade 8

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade HS Proficient

Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work - Grade HS Proficient

Refine new work through play, drama processes and theatre experiences using critical analysis and experimentation - Grade HS Accomplished

Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural, and historical context to deepen understanding - Grade HS Advanced

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