Auditions can be nerve-wracking, even for the most experienced actors. Whether it’s your first audition or your hundredth, the pressure to perform well can trigger anxiety, self-doubt, and physical tension. However, nerves don’t have to be a bad thing—if managed correctly, they can enhance your performance by keeping you focused and energized.
In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies to help you manage audition anxiety, stay confident, and deliver your best performance.
Understanding Audition Nerves
Before tackling audition nerves, it’s important to understand why they happen. Nervousness before an audition is a natural response to high stakes and uncertainty. Some of the most common reasons actors feel nervous include:
- Fear of failure or rejection – The thought of not booking the role can create anxiety.
- Self-doubt – Worrying about not being good enough or forgetting lines.
- Comparison to others – Seeing other talented actors in the waiting room can be intimidating.
- Uncertainty about the casting team’s expectations – Not knowing exactly what the director wants can be stressful.
- Desire to impress – Wanting to do well and prove yourself can create excess pressure.
The good news is that nerves can be transformed into excitement and focus with the right mindset and techniques.
1. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel. Lack of preparation is one of the biggest contributors to audition nerves. Here’s how to prepare effectively:
Know Your Material Inside and Out
- Memorize your lines thoroughly so that you don’t have to worry about forgetting them.
- Understand your stories motivations, emotions, and relationships in the scene.
- Research the script, director, or production style if possible.
Practice Under Pressure
- Rehearse in front of friends, family, or a camera to simulate an audition environment.
- Time yourself to ensure you stay within any given constraints.
- Practice with distractions (e.g., noise in the background) to build focus.
Warm Up Your Body and Voice
- Physical tension can increase nervousness, so stretch, shake out your body, and take deep breaths.
- Warm up your voice with articulation exercises to ensure clarity and confidence.
2. Shift Your Mindset: Reframe Nervousness as Excitement
Nervousness and excitement feel the same in the body—they both involve an increased heart rate, adrenaline, and heightened alertness. Instead of labeling your feeling as “fear,” try reframing it as excitement.
- Tell yourself: “I’m excited to show them what I can do” instead of “I hope I don’t mess up.”
- Use visualization: Imagine yourself nailing the audition and feeling proud afterward.
- Remind yourself: “The casting team wants me to succeed—they’re hoping to find the right actor, not looking for flaws.”
3. Control Your Breath and Body Language
Your breath and body are directly connected to your emotions. When you feel nervous, your body tends to tense up, and your breathing becomes shallow. To counteract this:
Breathing Exercises to Reduce Nerves
- Box Breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds. Repeat several times.
- Diaphragmatic Breathing: Place one hand on your belly and take slow, deep breaths, expanding your abdomen rather than your chest.
Power Poses and Physical Techniques
- Stand in a confident posture (shoulders back, chest open, feet firmly planted).
- Avoid crossing your arms or fidgeting—these can make you feel more insecure.
- Shake out any tension before entering the audition room.
4. Use Rituals to Calm Yourself Before Auditions
Creating a pre-audition routine can help regulate your nerves and give you a sense of control. Some effective pre-audition rituals include:
- Listening to calming or motivating music
- Repeating positive affirmations (“I am prepared and ready for this”)
- Doing a light physical warm-up to get into your body
- Reviewing your scene with focus, but not over-rehearsing
Having a consistent pre-audition ritual can signal to your brain that you are ready and in control.
5. Stay Present and Avoid Overthinking
One of the biggest mistakes actors make before an audition is overanalyzing and trying to predict the outcome. This takes you out of the present moment and increases anxiety.
How to Stay Present:
- Focus on one task at a time – Instead of worrying about the entire audition, focus on your breathing, your first line, or your connection with your scene partner.
- Practice mindfulness – Observe your surroundings without judgment. Notice the sounds, the feel of your feet on the floor, or the rhythm of your breath.
- Avoid checking out your competition – Comparing yourself to others in the waiting room will only create self-doubt. Stay in your own lane.
6. Use Emotional Preparation Without Overloading Yourself
If your scene requires strong emotions, you may need to use emotional preparation techniques. However, be mindful of not overloading yourself to the point where your nerves increase.
Techniques for Emotional Preparation:
- Use personal memories or imagination to connect with the emotional stakes of the scene.
- Create inner dialogue that aligns with your emotions and thoughts under the imaginary circumstances.
- Stay flexible – Allow yourself to adjust to whatever is happening in the moment rather than forcing emotions.
Balancing emotional preparation with spontaneity ensures that you stay emotionally available without feeling overwhelmed.
7. Let Go of Perfectionism and Be Willing to Play
Many actors put too much pressure on themselves to deliver a “perfect” audition. However, casting directors aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for honesty, presence, and commitment.
How to Let Go of Perfectionism:
- Accept that mistakes are normal – If you stumble on a line, keep going.
- Focus on bringing truth to the moment rather than trying to impress.
- Think of the audition as a collaboration, not a test – The casting team wants to see who you are, not a robotic performance.
When you allow yourself to play, explore, and take risks, your natural talent will shine through.
8. Reframe Rejection as Growth
A big source of audition nerves comes from the fear of rejection. However, rejection is a normal part of an actor’s journey. Even the most successful actors hear “no” more often than “yes.”
How to Handle Rejection:
- Don’t take it personally – Casting decisions are based on many factors beyond your control (e.g., look, chemistry, artistic vision).
- View each audition as practice – Every audition makes you a stronger actor, whether you book the role or not.
- Celebrate small wins – If you felt more confident, made a bold choice, or stayed present, that’s a victory.
Shifting your mindset from “I have to book this role” to “I’m here to grow and express myself” will help reduce nerves and improve your audition experience.
Conclusion: Turning Nerves into Power
Nervousness before an audition is natural, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. By preparing thoroughly, using calming techniques, staying present, and reframing your mindset, you can turn nerves into confidence and energy.
Key Takeaways:
Preparation is your foundation – Know your material, warm up, and rehearse under pressure.
Breathing and body language matter – Use breath control and confident posture to reduce tension.
Reframe nerves as excitement – Channel your adrenaline into a powerful performance.
Stay present and let go of perfectionism – Focus on truth and connection rather than impressing others.
Embrace the audition process – Every experience helps you grow as an actor.
By learning to manage audition nerves, you’ll free yourself to perform with authenticity, presence, and confidence—and that’s what truly makes an actor stand out.
Goals of Handling Nerves:
Nerves are there to inform us, just as feelings do. When you work past your feelings and go into your emotions, your nerves will lessen. You can achieve having less nerves by using Emotional Preparation and Emotional Activation.
Copyright 2025 Simon Blake
Preparing for an audition can be a nerve-wracking experience. You might feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as the day approaches. Understanding how to manage these nerves is crucial not only for your performance but also for your overall well-being. By learning effective techniques to calm your mind and body, you can approach your audition with confidence and poise, ultimately increasing your chances of success.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: The College Audition: A Guide for High School Students Preparing for a Degree in Theatre – $16.78
- Best Value: The Ultimate Actor’s Audition Log Book – $9.99
- Best for Self-Taping: Actor’s Guide to a Successful Self-Taped Audition – $2.99
How We Selected These Resources
When selecting resources to help you prepare for your audition, consider factors such as the comprehensiveness of the material, the author’s experience in the industry, and the specific needs you have as an actor. Look for guides that offer practical tips, exercises, and insights that resonate with your personal audition style.
The College Audition: A Guide for High School Students Preparing for a Degree in Theatre
This book is your go-to resource for navigating the often overwhelming college audition process. Tim Evanicki shares practical advice on everything from selecting the right schools to choosing audition materials. Whether you’re just starting to think about your future in theatre or you’re knee-deep in applications, this guide offers the tools and insights you need to shine. It’s like having a mentor by your side, guiding you through each step with relatable anecdotes and expert tips. Perfect for both daily reading and those late-night prep sessions before auditions.
What People Say
Readers appreciate how Tim Evanicki breaks down the complex audition process into manageable steps, making it less daunting and more approachable. Many have found his insights invaluable in helping their children navigate their theatre aspirations.
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Tim was a Godsend in our daughter Laura’s audition process and acceptance into three competitive BFA programs in Musical Theatre. He asked all the right questions and gave all the much-needed answers, including answers to questions we didn’t even know to ask.
– Lisa A. Degrenia
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- In-depth and practical advice
- Easy to understand and relatable
- Great for both students and parents
Cons:
- Some readers may prefer more advanced techniques
Why You’ll Love This Book
- Comprehensive guidance on the audition process
- Expert tips from a seasoned mentor
- Relatable anecdotes that make the advice feel personal
When to Reach for This Guide
This book is especially helpful during the stressful audition season, providing clarity and confidence when you need it most. It’s also a great resource for parents who want to support their aspiring actors.
Current Price: $16.78
Rating: 3.9 (Total: 10+)
The Ultimate Actor’s Audition Log Book
This handy log book is your companion for navigating the audition landscape, crafted by casting director Toni Cusumano. It’s designed to help you track your auditions, reflect on your performances, and identify areas for improvement. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the game for a while, this book is perfect for daily use or those moments when you need to prepare for a big audition. It’s like having a personal coach in your pocket, guiding you through the ups and downs of your acting journey.
What People Say
Users rave about how this log book transforms the audition experience into a more structured and reflective process. Many appreciate the space it provides for personal notes, making it easier to grow as an actor.
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This log book has been a game changer for me. I love how it allows me to jot down feedback after each audition, which has really helped me see patterns in my performances. It’s not just a record; it feels like a roadmap to improvement.
– ActingNerd92
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Encourages self-reflection and growth
- Easy to use and well-organized
- Great for actors at any level
Cons:
- Some may prefer digital tracking options
Why You Need This Log Book
- Track audition details and feedback
- Identify patterns to refine your technique
- Celebrate your progress and stay motivated
When to Use This Log Book
This log book is especially useful during audition season when nerves can run high. It helps you stay organized and focused, turning the audition process into a more manageable and less stressful experience.
Current Price: $9.99
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 25+)
Actor’s Guide to a Successful Self-Taped Audition
This guide is your go-to resource for mastering the art of self-taped auditions. Written by Versa Manos, it breaks down everything you need to know to create a standout audition tape that meets industry standards. Whether you’re preparing for a big role or just want to improve your skills, this book is perfect for both everyday practice and those crucial moments when you need to shine. It’s like having a mentor right by your side, offering practical tips and insights.
What People Say
Readers appreciate how this guide simplifies the self-taping process, making it accessible for actors at all levels. Many find the insights particularly helpful for overcoming nerves and enhancing their overall audition quality.
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This was a really thorough guide to producing a video audition. It covers just about every topic you could think of connected to self-tapes. It was obviously born out of industry experience.
– Robert
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive and easy to understand
- Great for both beginners and experienced actors
- Offers actionable advice for immediate improvement
Cons:
- Some may prefer more advanced techniques
Why This Guide is Essential
- Learn industry standards for self-taped auditions
- Practical tips for creating high-quality videos
- Boost your confidence and performance
When to Dive into This Guide
This guide is especially beneficial when you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming audition. It provides you with the tools and knowledge to approach your self-tape with confidence, turning what can be a stressful experience into an opportunity for growth.
Current Price: $0.00
Rating: 4 (Total: 1+)
FAQ
How can I calm my nerves before an audition?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous before an audition. To calm your nerves, try practicing deep breathing exercises. Inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. This can help center you. Additionally, visualize yourself performing confidently and successfully. You might also find it helpful to warm up your voice and body before the audition, as this can help you feel more prepared and in control.
What should I do if I forget my lines during the audition?
If you forget your lines, don’t panic. Take a deep breath and pause for a moment. It’s okay to ask for a moment to collect your thoughts or even to ask the casting director for a line prompt. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, and how you handle them can show your professionalism. Focus on staying in character and maintaining your composure, as this can often leave a positive impression.
Are there any resources that can help me prepare for auditions?
Absolutely! There are several great resources available. For instance, ‘The College Audition: A Guide for High School Students Preparing for a Degree in Theatre’ can provide you with valuable insights and tips. It’s designed to help you navigate the audition process effectively. You might also consider ‘The Ultimate Actor’s Audition Log Book’ to keep track of your auditions and notes. These resources can help you feel more organized and prepared, which can significantly reduce your nerves.
Wrapping Up
Handling nerves before an audition is a skill that can be developed with practice and the right resources. By utilizing the recommended books and guides, you can equip yourself with strategies to manage anxiety and enhance your performance. Remember, every actor experiences nerves; it’s how you handle them that can set you apart. Embrace the process, learn from it, and take each audition as a step towards your growth as an artist.
| The College Audition: A Guide for High School Students Preparing for a Degree in Theatre | The Ultimate Actor’s Audition Log Book | Actor’s Guide to a Successful Self-Taped Audition | |
|---|---|---|---|
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| Rating | 3.9/5 | N/A | 4/5 |
| Highlights | Comprehensive guide for high school students on auditioning for theatre programs. | A log book designed for actors to track auditions and performances. | Detailed guide on producing effective self-taped auditions. |
| Pros | Invaluable insights for navigating the audition process. | Helps organize audition details and track progress. | Thorough coverage of self-taping topics; industry experience. |
| Cons | May not cover advanced topics for experienced actors. | No rating available yet; may lack reviews. | Focused solely on self-taping; may not cover live auditions. |
| Price | $16.78 | $9.99 | $2.99 with 25% savings |
| See Pricing | See Pricing | See Pricing |
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