Audition Tips and Advice

Musical Theatre Auditions Musical Theatre Program

At Sam Houston, the B.F.A. in Musical Theatre is a competitive, a challenging degree program meant for students with discipline, motivation, sincerity, stamina and of course – talent. Admission into the program is competitive. Admission is based on admissibility to Sam Houston and your ability to demonstrate professional potential at the audition.

Maximizing your audition

Since admission is based on a successful audition, it makes sense to thoroughly prepare and present yourself as your best. The successful audition begins with careful, intelligent material selection. Here are some guidelines

  • Pick material that is appropriate for you. It is better to choose songs and monologues that fit your personality and age. We are interested in your connection with the pieces not your ability to showboat.
  • Pick material that you do well. The material that you love is not necessarily the best material for you. Choose material that shows you at your best.
  • Take time to mark your cuts clearly. An accompanist will be provided for your audition. Be prepared to give your tempo by singing the beginning of your cut for him. For a successful audition, avoid complex ensemble songs from composers like Jason Robert Brown, Sondheim, Adam Guettel, etc.
  • Make sure that key signatures, time signatures, top and bottom staves, etc. can be seen clearly. Please do not bring lead sheets. Remember, the accompanist will play what you provide. Also make sure that your music is in either a book or binder.
  • Avoid loose leaf pages. Singing the first time with an accompanist at an audition can be difficult and frightening. Find someone who can play the music that you will provide to our accompanist and make sure everything is clear and that you are comfortable leading the songs.

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Department of Theatre & Musical Theatre
Box 2297, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX 77341-2297
Phone: (936) 294-1329 | E-mail: theatre@shsu.edu