How to enjoy your audition with GSA

Drama auditions can feel daunting, but they don’t have to be. Here’s some tips on how to make the most of and enjoy your audition with the GSA.

If you have a dream to go to drama school auditions can feel daunting, but they don’t have to be. At the Guildford School of Acting (GSA) we try to make our auditions as enjoyable as possible. We’re looking for potential, not perfection, and we want you to feel convinced GSA is the best place for your training. The audition process helps us to make informed choices about candidates and whether they’re able to take on the rigorous training we offer.

Audition tips

Take control of your audition with our helpful tips to improve your preparation and execution.

Get the simple things right first

• Choose monologues and songs that you can connect to, think about the words and really feel what you are saying to your audience
• Take time to prepare for your audition materials
• If you’re reading a monologue read the entire play and not just a monologue itself
• If you’re singing, present the songs in the original key
• If you’re playing an instrument, bring along any music in folders, amps and whatever you need for your performance on your chosen instrument.

Stay positive

Learn to develop a positive attitude and don’t be afraid of being appropriately playful, spontaneous or ‘in the moment’.

Don’t compare yourself to others

You’re unique, so learn from others and be supportive - a drama school panel is looking for both these skills and a good temperament.

Be yourself

Don’t be afraid to be yourself with the panel. Respect them, but also remember that they’re people too and aren’t there to scare you.

First impressions matter

Behave and dress appropriately, and turn off your phone in the studio. Good manners go a long way.

Do your research

Understand what the course involves and ask plenty of questions – it’s important that you choose the right place for you.

Let mistakes go and focus on what is coming next

The world won’t end if something goes wrong. The show must go on!

Treat the audition as a learning process

Be willing to take risks, make mistakes and really make the most of it.

Try not to over-think it

If the panel tells you to walk around the space, walk around the space. Don’t read too much in to anything.

Enjoy the day

Focus, have fun, relax and respect the people around you.

Lastly, remember that you’re auditioning us as much as the audition panel are auditioning you. Take a look around and ask yourself if you’ll be happy here – that feeling can take you a long way.

When are auditions held?

We recommend you apply early to make sure you can get an audition.

• Acting and Musical Theatre auditions are held between November and May each year.
• Actor Musician courses are held between January and April each year.
• Applicants interested in auditioning in the USA, Canada or Hong Kong should contact GSA for further details.
• Applicants from the EU and other countries are expected to audition in the UK.

What are the audition fees?

Applicants for all performance courses must pay an audition fee. This is currently set at £55 for BA/MA courses and £45 for Foundation courses.

The audition fee must be paid via your student portal. You will be emailed information on how to set up your portal once we have received your application.