The first thing you want to do is confirm if there are sides. If there are sides, try to get them in advance. Either familiarizing yourself with or memorizing your copy is a crucial key in nailing your next audition. The better prepared you are, the better the performance you will give, and the better the impression you will make on the casting director. Sometimes the copy or sides are available only at the casting—in which case you really should get there in advance, pick up the copy, and leave. If you’re lucky enough to get the copy or sides in advance—even just the day before, take advantage of that opportunity and learn your scene.
If you’re auditioning for the role of, let’s say a lawyer. when playing a lawyer. I have found that wearing a clean suit helps give the clients the illusion or a better idea of what you would look like if you were shooting the scene on set.
This is an important point I cannot stress enough. Don’t go to an audition with a messy hair or some patched up make up. Some actors think “Oh, it’s OK. If the client likes my audition I can look better on the callback.” Sorry, my friends. No. First impressions are important. A producer or director sees your audition as the best you’re going to look. You need to make sure you know how to wear natural camera-ready makeup and how to make sure your hair looks great. No stray hairs, no frizz. Think to yourself, How would I look if I booked this?
Referring back to the lawyer example: What things would a lawyer have on them? Props help make your character look more realistic. Thus, helping your audition stand out from your competition.
It’s always a good idea to get to your audition about 20 minutes prior to your appointment time. Don’t sign in until five minutes before your audition time though. If your name is on the sign-in sheet and the casting direction is going by the sign-in sheet, you could be called in earlier than expected. If you’re not prepared, this could hurt your audition. Instead, check your hair and makeup again in the restroom, then rehearse your sides.
Finally, before going in make sure you have at least two ways to present your character. Doing these will really give you the edge you need to impress the director and get that callback.