How to Get Casted on Broadway?
Your Ultimate Guide to Navigating the Broadway Audition Process
(By Javier Guerra)
Understand the Broadway Audition Process
Getting cast in a Broadway show is a dream come true for many actors, but the path to this achievement is not simple. Broadway auditions are notoriously competitive, attracting thousands of actors from around the world. Understanding the audition process is the first step in making your dream a reality.
Typically, the audition process starts with an open call, where anyone can show up to try their luck. These auditions may be for a particular show, a general casting call for multiple productions, or even for specific roles within a musical. For example, when the casting team for Hamilton held auditions for the original Broadway production, they saw thousands of performers hoping to land a role in the groundbreaking musical.
During the audition, actors are usually asked to perform a song and a monologue from the show (if it’s a musical) or present a cold reading if the audition is for a non-musical. You may also be asked to perform a dance or movement sequence, depending on the production’s needs. Preparing for these auditions is key, and understanding what type of audition is taking place will help you be more prepared.
Take Acting and Voice Lessons
Before stepping into the competitive world of Broadway auditions, aspiring performers must ensure they are trained in both acting and singing. A strong foundation in acting is necessary to portray characters convincingly, while an excellent voice is essential for any musical role.
Many Broadway actors have honed their craft through years of acting and vocal training. Take Kristin Chenoweth, for example. Known for her role in Wicked, Chenoweth has an extensive background in both opera and musical theater, which gave her the vocal and acting skills necessary to land her breakthrough Broadway role.
Voice lessons help actors develop breath control, vocal range, and projection, all of which are critical for musical theater. Similarly, acting classes teach actors to embody different characters, work with a director, and perform on stage with confidence.
For any aspiring Broadway performer, investing in acting and voice lessons is crucial for building the necessary skills to succeed in a highly competitive environment.
Develop a Strong Resume and Headshot
A polished resume and professional headshot are essential tools for any Broadway actor. Your resume will list your acting, singing, and dancing experience, as well as any other relevant skills (such as accent work or special talents). A headshot, on the other hand, serves as your calling card and allows casting directors to get a glimpse of your physical appearance.
Take Hugh Jackman, for instance. Before he became an international movie star, Jackman got his start on Broadway in the musical Oklahoma!. His professional headshot and resume played a significant role in landing him a role in the show. He had previously worked in various theater productions, which were featured on his resume, making him a strong contender for Broadway auditions.
A professional headshot should capture your essence and be taken by a reputable photographer, as casting directors rely heavily on first impressions. Similarly, your resume should include all your relevant experience, including training, previous performances, and any other work in the performing arts. A comprehensive, well-crafted resume and headshot will help you stand out in a sea of applicants.
Attend Open Calls and Equity Auditions
Once you have the necessary training and materials, the next step is to start attending auditions. Broadway open calls are often held for specific roles or productions, and these are opportunities for performers to present themselves to casting directors. Equity auditions, on the other hand, are specifically for actors who are members of the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), the union for professional stage actors.
Attending open calls can be an effective way for young, unknown actors to get noticed. Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of Hamilton, got his start in theater through auditions. He famously auditioned for In the Heights through an open call, and his performance led him to become the show’s creator and star.
While open calls are open to all actors, attending Equity auditions is often a more direct path for those who are eligible. Equity auditions are typically more structured and competitive, but they also provide greater opportunities for established performers.
By attending both open calls and Equity auditions, you can increase your chances of being seen by the right people in the Broadway industry.
Prepare for Callback Auditions
A callback audition is an exciting step in the process because it indicates that you’ve made it through the initial selection. Callback auditions often involve performing additional material, working with the director or choreographer, and getting a more in-depth look at how you fit into the production.
During a callback, you may be asked to sing more songs, act in new scenes, or even participate in group choreography. It’s essential to be flexible and ready to perform under pressure. For example, when Andrew Garfield auditioned for the role of Peter Parker in Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, he was called back multiple times and had to sing, dance, and act under the scrutiny of the production team.
Being prepared for callbacks requires you to rehearse the material thoroughly, keep your energy high, and remain adaptable to new directions. It’s also important to show your personality during callbacks, as casting directors are looking for actors who can bring something unique to the role.
Showcase Your Dance Skills
Many Broadway productions require actors to have strong dance skills. Even if you’re not auditioning for a specific dance-heavy role, being able to perform basic choreography can set you apart from other candidates.
For example, the musical West Side Story features a large amount of choreography, and dancers are required to perform at a high level. Natalie Wood, who starred in the film adaptation of West Side Story, had to undergo extensive dance training to prepare for her role as Maria.
Broadway shows like Chicago, Fosse, and Mamma Mia! all require actors to dance, and being skilled in various styles of dance—such as jazz, ballet, or tap—can increase your chances of landing a role. Attending dance classes, taking ballet lessons, and practicing choreography are all excellent ways to build your dance technique.
By adding dance to your skill set, you can demonstrate your versatility as a performer and broaden the range of roles you’re eligible for in Broadway productions.
Get an Agent
Once you’ve gained experience and have a solid portfolio, securing an agent can be a game-changer in the Broadway world. An agent will represent you, submit you for auditions, negotiate contracts, and generally help navigate the often-complicated world of casting.
Many Broadway actors owe their success to having a reputable agent who has connections in the industry. For example, Idina Menzel, known for her role in Wicked, secured her Broadway debut as Maureen in Rent with the help of her agent, who submitted her for the role.
Getting an agent typically requires a strong resume, impressive training, and prior experience. Once you’ve built up a body of work and are ready to pursue Broadway seriously, an agent can help open doors for you and guide you through the audition process.
Stay Persistent and Keep Networking
The road to Broadway is not easy, and it requires immense perseverance. Rejection is common, and young actors need to keep pushing forward, learning from every audition experience. Networking with other actors, directors, and industry professionals can also increase your chances of landing a role.
Meryl Streep, known for her legendary career, faced many auditions and rejections early on in her career. However, she continued to hone her craft and build her reputation, ultimately earning the roles that would define her career.
In addition to attending auditions, young actors should take every opportunity to network with professionals in the industry. Attend industry events, theater festivals, and workshops to meet people who may help you in your career. By staying persistent and building a network of contacts, you’ll improve your chances of being cast in a Broadway production.
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