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Extra-curricular activities

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Original poster

Auditions - West End musical

27 replies

QueenBlueberries · 19/03/2019 15:31

Yayks!!! A few weeks back, DS (11) sent his name/details/video to try and get an audition for a West End musical, and he has been called to audition properly!! obviously we supported him in his application but I really didn't expect him to get a call back.

He would be playing an instrument in the show, and I am sure that hundreds of kids have applied and loads are going to audition. Any tips on how to prepare, present, what to expect, etc. And also how to manage disappointment as I really honestly think he has a very, very slim chance of getting the part!

OP posts:
Original poster
QueenBlueberries · 19/03/2019 19:11

Thanks so much I will definitely look at that website. And also for your reassuring words. I have this vision of some nasty judges a-la Simon Cowell shouting 'you're fired' at the kids...

DS is strong minded and wants to wear his favourite old jogging bottoms! His music piece is coming along very nicely, it's challenging but not impossible. He is struggling for a song. Would you have any suggestions? He's not a great signer... it's so hard to find a good rock song that doesn't talk about a broken heart or girlfriends or kissing...

OP posts:
TheatreTaxi · 19/03/2019 16:42

I'm assuming this is for School of Rock from the details? Well done to your DS for getting an audition - yes, they see lots of children, but they absolutely wouldn't offer him an audition from an application that includes video footage if they didn't think it was worth seeing him. Lots of children apply but don't get as far as an audition slot, so it is an achievement in itself.

DS has been in a couple of WE shows but has never auditioned for School of Rock so I only know in general how auditions for the musicians are organised. I'd suggest taking a look at the website notapushymum.com. There is a thread on School of Rock in the Musical Theatre Auditions section which has lots of information from parents whose children have auditioned or been in the show (you'll need to create an account to access that section of the board).

In a nutshell, the first rounds of auditions are likely to involve playing his instrument, singing a rock or pop song, and acting out a monologue or short poem. The requirements will be listed in the audition information the casting team send out. For SOR I think they want songs and monologues to be performed in an American accent if possible (but don't stress too much if your DS can't manage one). It's best to choose age-appropriate content for songs and monologues. He should wear comfortable casual clothing.

There are lots of rounds and cuts along the way. The process is more drawn out with extra stages for the band members, including some workshop sessions for children who make it further along the process.

DS has been up in front of the same casting team for other shows several times, and they really do try to make it as fun and un-stressful for the children as possible. They are also very approachable and are happy to respond to email queries.

The trick is to go into it with realistic expectations and view the audition in as a great experience in itself, because the odds of being cast are small. Best of luck to your DS!