What is an Equity Audition?
For aspiring actors looking to take their careers to the next level, understanding the process of professional auditions is critical. One of the most important types of auditions in the theater industry is the Equity audition. If you’re an actor trying to land a role in a Broadway show, regional theater, or any major production, you’ll likely encounter the term “Equity” frequently. But what exactly does it mean, and how does it affect the audition process? This article will provide an in-depth explanation of what an Equity audition is, how it works, and how actors can navigate this essential part of their career development.
1. What is Equity?
Before diving into what an Equity audition is, it’s important to understand the term “Equity” itself. “Equity” refers to the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), which is the labor union that represents actors and stage managers in the United States. Established in 1913, the organization works to ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and proper benefits for its members. Joining Equity is a significant milestone in an actor’s career, signaling that they are a professional in the industry.
Becoming a member of Actors’ Equity often opens doors to higher-paying, more prestigious roles, as many productions—especially those on Broadway or in major regional theaters—require their actors to be members of Equity. However, only actors who meet certain criteria can join Equity, typically by accumulating the necessary “Equity points” through participating in specific theater productions.
2. What is an Equity Audition?
An Equity audition is an audition that is specifically for members of the Actors’ Equity Association, but it is often open to non-Equity actors as well. However, non-Equity actors generally have to wait for a certain period of time before they can be seen, as Equity members are given priority. These auditions are typically held for major productions in theaters that have agreements with the union.
Equity auditions are generally organized by theaters, casting directors, or professional agencies, and they serve as a way to evaluate actors for various roles in upcoming productions. These auditions are usually more formal and structured than non-Equity auditions, with clear rules and guidelines about who can attend and how they should prepare. It’s important to note that an Equity audition is not just for Broadway shows—regional theaters, touring companies, and even some smaller theaters also hold these auditions.
3. How Do Equity Auditions Work?
Equity auditions are typically organized in a few different formats, but they all share certain common characteristics. Here’s an overview of how they typically work:
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Open Auditions: These auditions are open to both Equity and non-Equity actors. However, Equity members are always given priority, meaning that they will be seen first. Non-Equity actors can only be seen once all the Equity actors have been auditioned.
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General Auditions: A general audition is often a large-scale audition where many actors are seen at once. These auditions may be open to a wide range of roles, and actors typically perform a short monologue, song, or a combination of both to showcase their talents. The casting director or production team may also ask for a cold read from the script.
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Callbacks: After an initial audition, a director or casting team may invite actors back for a callback. Callbacks are often more specific, where actors may be asked to read for particular roles or work with other actors to see how they collaborate. Callbacks are an essential part of the casting process, allowing the team to narrow down their options and find the best fit for a role.
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Seasonal Auditions: These auditions are typically organized by a theater company or casting director to fill roles for an upcoming season of productions. They may cover multiple shows, so actors should be prepared to audition for a variety of roles.
Example:
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The New York City Equity Principal Auditions are held regularly and are one of the most well-known events in the theater industry. These auditions are organized by the League of Professional Theatre and typically take place in large venues, where hundreds of actors audition in a single day for a wide range of roles in Broadway, regional, and touring productions.
4. How to Prepare for an Equity Audition
Preparation for an Equity audition is just as important as the audition itself. Actors need to be highly professional, organized, and ready to showcase their talents in a competitive environment. Here are some key steps in preparing for an Equity audition:
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Know the Requirements: Before attending an Equity audition, you must carefully read any materials provided by the audition organizers. These may include specific instructions on what to prepare, such as a particular monologue, song, or reading material.
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Choose Your Material Wisely: Whether it’s a monologue, song, or scene, it’s important to choose material that fits the role you’re auditioning for and showcases your strengths. For instance, if you’re auditioning for a musical, you’ll likely need to prepare a song, whereas if it’s a straight play, a dramatic or comedic monologue might be required.
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Rehearse: Rehearse your material thoroughly before the audition. It’s vital to be confident and polished, but also flexible enough to adjust your performance based on feedback or direction from the casting director. Practicing in front of a mirror or with a coach can be incredibly helpful.
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Dress Professionally: Dressing appropriately for an Equity audition shows respect for the casting team and the audition process. While you don’t need to wear anything too elaborate, make sure your clothes are clean, well-fitting, and reflect the type of role you’re auditioning for.
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Prepare Your Headshot and Resume: Equity auditions typically require you to submit a headshot and resume before the audition. Ensure your materials are up-to-date, and bring multiple copies of your headshot and resume to the audition, as the casting director may request extra copies.
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Be Ready for Cold Reads: In many Equity auditions, you may be asked to perform a cold read. This means you’ll be given a scene or piece of text you haven’t seen before, and you will need to read and perform it on the spot. Practicing your cold reading skills can help you stay composed and focused under pressure.
Example:
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Meryl Streep once mentioned that when preparing for auditions, she would choose a song or a monologue that felt right for the character, but always make sure it aligned with the tone and theme of the production. Even for her most iconic roles, Streep made sure her preparations were not only technically sound but emotionally honest.
5. Equity Audition Rules and Etiquette
Equity auditions come with a set of rules and expectations that all actors must adhere to in order to maintain a fair and professional environment. These rules are put in place to make sure that all actors are treated equally, and to ensure the smooth running of the audition process. Some key rules include:
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Punctuality: Arriving on time is critical. Audition slots are typically very tight, and delays can affect the overall schedule. Being late may cause you to miss your chance to audition.
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Respect for Other Actors: It’s essential to maintain a professional attitude and be respectful of other actors in the waiting room. Do not monopolize the casting director’s time, and avoid discussing your competition or criticizing others.
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Stay Professional: No matter the outcome of the audition, always remain professional. Thank the casting director for their time and leave gracefully, even if you don’t get the role. Positive relationships in the theater industry can help build your reputation and lead to future opportunities.
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Equity Audition Fees: Depending on the production and the terms of the agreement with the union, there may be a fee to attend an Equity audition, though it’s more common for these to be free for actors. It’s important to check the details before attending.
6. Examples of Successful Equity Audition Experiences
While many auditions are stressful, there are numerous success stories of actors who began their careers through Equity auditions. Here are some notable examples:
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Lin-Manuel Miranda: Lin-Manuel Miranda famously auditioned for a role in the original In the Heights production through an Equity audition. His audition was successful, and it led to his big break, eventually allowing him to become a Broadway legend.
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Kristin Chenoweth: Before landing her breakthrough role as Glinda in Wicked, Kristin Chenoweth participated in numerous Equity auditions. Her persistence and strong performances eventually led her to one of Broadway’s most coveted roles.
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Audra McDonald: As one of the most decorated performers in Broadway history, Audra McDonald found success after auditioning through Equity channels. Her role in Carousel marked one of the many productions in which her Equity audition led to her becoming a Broadway star.
7. Conclusion
Equity auditions are a fundamental part of the theater industry and an essential stepping stone for actors hoping to secure roles in professional productions. Whether you’re auditioning for a Broadway musical, a regional theater, or a touring show, understanding the process of an Equity audition and being prepared for the challenges it presents is crucial. Through careful preparation, professionalism, and persistence, actors can navigate the competitive world of Equity auditions and increase their chances of landing coveted roles on the stage.
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