Audition Checklist
It’s that time of year again…AUDITIONS! Many of you will be auditioning this month for summer programs, whether with studios in the Twin Cities or with programs around the country. We’re here to help you make sure you have everything you need ready so you can enter your audition prepared and think only of your dancing. Follow our checklist and tips, created by our own professional dancers to ensure that your auditions are a great experience!
Tip #1 : Leotards
Wear leotards that are unique, beautiful and flattering for your body type. However, it is best to choose styles with a basic structure and clean lines that won’t distract from your technique. You want to be able to move well and feel confident!
Advice from the Pros: Try bringing a few different leotards with you to the audition – it’s nice to be able to see what styles other candidates are wearing before you decide which leotard to put on. Also keep in mind the style of the program you are auditioning for.
Tip #2 : Extra Tights & Shoes
It’s always important to have back-ups during auditions! The last thing you want to worry about before an audition is a run in your tights or a hole in your shoe. How you present yourself visually plays a big role in the audition process. Always bring an extra pair (or two!) of tights and shoes that are clean and in good condition. If you’ll need multiple types of dance shoes for your audition, make a checklist for that day so you make sure you have each pair with you!
Tip #3 : Pointe Shoe Options
If you are auditioning on pointe, make sure to have several pairs of pointe shoes with you that are at different levels in the break-in process. Depending on the type of audition, you may need a pair that is broken in to the point of being soft and flexible, or you may need a pair that is newer and stiffer for more support. Since your pointe shoes are essentially an extension of your foot, you want them to function well to best show off your beautiful dancing!
Tip #4 : Warm Up Before Registration
Experience has shown that while a break may be expected between registration and the actual audition, the registration process can often start late or take longer than expected and run right up to the audition start time. Plan ahead and allow yourself plenty of time to warm up and get everything in order before registration. This way, you won’t feel stressed or rushed to get a proper warm up in before the audition starts.
Tip #5 : Plan Ahead!
Look up the location, directions, audition time and any needed materials the night before. Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to get to the audition early. As they say, “life happens,” and a time buffer allows for traffic, parking, walking, finding the audition, etc. Plus, it will help you feel more relaxed and confident going into the audition if you feel prepared arriving.
Tip #6 : Hair & Makeup
As with choosing a leotard, basic, clean lines are best when doing your hair and
makeup for an audition. Hair should be in a clean bun – use hairnets and hairspray to control frizziness or fly-aways. Makeup should be nice, but not over-the-top – definitely not like your stage makeup! Use foundation or powder to even out your complexion and cover any blemishes. Keep eyeliner and eyeshadow basic and natural. You want to present yourself as a sort of “clean slate,” allowing your auditioner to focus on your dancing and visualize which level or role they would like you to fill.
Twin Cities Auditions
January 8th – Ballet Arizona: “Upper Division”
Minnesota Dance Theatre –
Registration – 6:30 pm; Audition – 7:00 – 8:30 pm
January 9th – Joffrey Ballet
Ballet Royale – 3:00 – 7:00 pm
January 10th – Kaatsbaan Ballet
Ballet Royale – 12:30 – 2:00 pm
– Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Minnesota Dance Theatre (see website: mndance.org)
January 16th – Kansas City Ballet
Ballet Royale – 5:00 – 7:00 pm
January 17th – Milwaukee Ballet
Metropolitan Ballet –
Registration – 1:30 pm; Audition – 1:30 – 3:00 pm
– LINES Ballet
TU Dance 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
January 23rd – Washington Ballet
Minnesota Dance Theatre –
Registration – 6:00 pm; Audition – 6:30 – 8:00 pm
– Boston Ballet
Minnesota Dance Theatre
Registration – 12:00 pm; Audition – 12:30 – 2:30 pm
February 6th – San Francisco Conservatory of Dance
TU Dance – 4:30 – 6:30 pm