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19th March 2026
Auditioning is one of the most daunting parts of an actor’s journey. For some, the isolation of filming a self-tape in your living room can feel overwhelming. For others, it is the pressure of sitting in a waiting room full of equally talented actors, each one heightening the sense of competition. That is before stepping into the audition itself, facing a panel of acting industry professionals who could change your day, or even your career, in a matter of moments.
Then there is the self-tape process. Watching yourself repeatedly, searching for that elusive “perfect” take. Without guidance in self-tape audition techniques, it is easy to feel stuck or unsure of what casting teams are really looking for.
Actors are often thrown into the deep end when it comes to auditions. Developing your craft is one thing, but preparing for auditions, understanding the business, and applying practical audition tips are different challenges. Whether you are an actor at the beginning of your journey or working in the industry, the audition process can feel overwhelming.
Here are four tips to help you with your next audition:
1) Learn your lines – Propping your script on a chair in front of you, or pinning your script to the wall, won’t work in a self-tape. Likewise, forgetting your lines in-person could show unpreparedness.
2) Don’t be late – Be on time, or early, to give yourself time to breathe and go over your piece. Likewise, set yourself a time to self-tape when you have the most energy, there are no potential interruptions and are your best self.
3) Have the right equipment – Balancing your phone on a stack of books, hand-holding your phone and filming in a badly lit room will all hamper your chances of a successful audition. Likewise, your voice and body are also equipment – perform vocal exercises and move your body to ensure you’re physically and vocally prepared.
4) Choose the right piece – you might be tempted to perform a monologue that you know off by heart, but might not be relevant to the part you’re auditioning for. It’s important to fully understand the character you’re auditioning for.
Want to know more? We have launched a series of online acting classes and virtual acting workshops, designed to support you at every stage of your audition journey. Our acting masterclass online sessions give you access to expert-led training from anywhere in the world, bringing the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School standard directly to you.
Self-Tape & Screen Auditions
Led by BOVTS alumnus Jyuddah Jamees (recently seen on Sky’s Amadeus and Bristol Old Vic production Choir Boy), this session focuses on essential self-tape audition techniques for today’s industry. As virtual casting becomes the norm, strong screen audition skills are vital.
This practical audition coaching online course will guide you through performance techniques, technical set-up, and how to present yourself confidently on camera. Whether you are applying for roles or preparing for drama school, this session also offers valuable drama school audition advice to help you stand out.
The result is high-quality self-tapes that feel authentic, professional, and impactful.
Stage Audition Technique
While digital auditions are growing, theatre remains rooted in live performance. Our stage-focused session supports theatre audition preparation, helping you refine your voice, presence, and energy in the room.
This course is ideal for actors pursuing acting courses UK drama school entry, or professional stage work. You will gain practical acting audition tips, build confidence, and develop the tools needed to deliver a compelling live audition