First Impressions Matter: Etiquette Tips for Private Dance Auditions
Most dancers are familiar with open auditions. Also referred to as a “cattle call”, an open audition is literally open for anyone to walk into. While you may be able to pre-register, there is no pre-screening involved - you simply show up with your audition materials, register, get a number, and show your stuff!
Private auditions, on the other hand, are by “invitation only”. You send in your materials, and if the company is interested in you they will invite you to come take company class to see more.
There are some major advantages to private auditions:
✔ You know the company is interested in you before you invest time and money to travel
✔ You are able to take class with the company on a regular day in their space, giving you an opportunity to assess if it is somewhere you could see yourself dancing
✔ You will typically be one of only a handful of people (or the only one!) auditioning, so all eyes will be on you
✔ You may have the opportunity to speak to the Director or other dancers directly
Private auditions also come with their own set of rules and best practices. Unlike open auditions, private auditions are more intimate and exclusive, creating an environment that demands a heightened sense of etiquette and professionalism.
Mastering the art of navigating a private audition with grace and respect is crucial for leaving a lasting impression on directors and choreographers. Here are some essential etiquette tips to keep in mind when attending a private audition:
Bring a Polished Resume and Headshot
Have multiple copies of your resume, headshot, and dance photos on hand. Even though you sent them in previously to secure the audition, don’t expect the company to print them out. Keep extra copies on you at all times just in case.
Find an ally to ask questions
It can be intimidating walking into the often insular world of a professional dance company. There are likely unwritten rules the dancers all intuitively know that you are not privy to. Introduce yourself to the other dancers and find someone who seems personable to help you out. You’ll want to find out things like
“Where can I change?”
“Where should I leave my belongings?”
“Where should I stand at barre?”
Show that you have respect for their daily routines and recognize you are a guest in their space. It demonstrates a huge amount of mindfulness and professionalism and puts you on the right foot with the other dancers.
Dress to Impress
The company dancers will likely be dressed in their everyday cozy warm-ups and layers. While this will soon be you as well if you land the job, today is not the day to layer up. Dress as you would for an open-call audition - be prepared to ditch the warm-ups right away.
That said, it always helps to dress for the job you want. Ask a friend who dances with the company or do some social media sleuthing to see what dancers wear on a typical rehearsal day. For instance, when I auditioned for Missouri Contemporary Ballet I wore a leotard, biker shorts, and pancaked pointe shoes with just elastics. My ensemble allowed the Director to more easily picture me as one of the company dancers, and it made me feel more in character!
Show respect for the other dancers
This is a huge opportunity for you - a day that you will likely remember for the rest of your career. For the company dancers, this is just another day of work. They are focusing on getting themselves warm and on their leg for a long day of rehearsals ahead.
It’s more important to show that you would be a great addition to the team as a whole than to show off as an individual. You don’t need to push to the front of the room or go in the first group every time. Let the company dancers take the lead and show that you can integrate into the group.
Be prepared for an interview
While rare in an open audition, there is a very good chance you will get the opportunity to speak one-on-one with the Director or other staff following a private company class audition. This is a huge opportunity for you to show that you are personable, enjoyable to work with, and have what it takes to represent the company with poise beyond the stage.
Do your homework! Be prepared to talk not just about yourself and your background, but what you will bring to the company. Be familiar with their mission, their programming, and their repertoire - paint a clear picture of how you will not only make an impact on the stage but behind the scenes as well!
Also be sure to come ready with any questions you have about the company, the hiring process, contracts, etc. This is your chance to get the answers you need to make an informed decision should you be offered a contract.
Mastering the etiquette of private auditions is an essential skill for any dancer aspiring to make their mark in the dance industry. The dynamics of a dance company can go quickly awry if there is friction between the dancers - Directors are looking for a dancer who can seamlessly integrate into their existing group. By showcasing professionalism, respect, and adaptability, you will not only up your chances of securing a contract but also contribute to creating a positive and collaborative atmosphere in the dance community.
Meet the Author
Caitlin Sloan is a Dance Educator and Career Mentor based in Madison, WI.
Caitlin received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Grand Valley State University and Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Missouri.
She danced professionally for nine years with companies including Ballet Tucson and Missouri Contemporary Ballet (now Mareck Dance). Caitlin has taught at schools all over the Midwest, most notably serving as Director of The School of Missouri Contemporary Ballet and Youth Company Director for Central Indiana Dance Ensemble. She is currently on faculty at the School of Madison Ballet.
Caitlin founded The Brainy Ballerina® in 2019, a virtual resource providing support and guidance for aspiring ballet dancers. Follow @thebrainyballerina on Instagram for your daily dose of dance career guidance and inspiration.
