Choosing an Audition Speech – by former RADA Head of Acting Jennie Buckman
The world of theatre was saddened recently at the passing of former Head of Acting at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), and Artistic Director of Giants Theatre Company, Jennie Buckman. An absolute master of her craft, with an unmatched exuberance and passion for helping young performers develop their skill, Jennie sat on the panel for countless auditions over many years and had a hand in nurturing hundreds of actors over generations.
A couple of years ago, we were lucky enough to get some time with Jennie and asked for her top tips for drama school audition speeches. We believe this is invaluable advice and that Jennie would want us to continue to share her great knowledge. Here’s what she had to say:
Here are her top tips:
Don’t worry too much about finding something ‘they won’t know’. The audition panel will know it, but if you pick something merely because you think it’s obscure, chances are it’s not good material for an audition piece.
It’s more important to choose a character that suits your age than your gender. But if you have doubts about suitability of a piece, why not email/call the school and ask?
There are some brilliant contemporary playwrights but make sure you find a piece that is really well written. Avoid going for shock – or the dreary miserable.
YOU MUST….
- READ the whole play so that you
- KNOW the character
- ENJOY the speech: the language, sentiments, story
- RELATE to the given circumstances of the speech
- LEARN it thoroughly and accurately
And finally – remember you are there to tell us something honestly. Enjoy the opportunity!
MASSIVE THANKS TO JENNIE BUCKMAN FOR HER CONTRIBUTION. WE LOVE YOU.
You too can CONTRIBUTE to THE ACTORS PAD here: https://theactorspad.com/have-your-say/
This blog first appeared on the Giants website: www.giantstheatre.com
