How to Ace Your Ballet Audition – Proven Strategies for Success
Ballet auditions can seem scary, but they don’t have to be.
At the end of the day, it’s still OK to be a little nervous. I was!
In this blog post, I will share invaluable tips and strategies to help you prepare for and excel in your upcoming dance auditions.
WHAT ARE BALLET COMPANIES LOOKING FOR IN A DANCER?
Ballet companies are often seeking a wide range of qualities in dancers. They might be looking for strong technique, an appropriate body type, musicality, versatility, artistry, confidence, or a combination thereof.
Auditions can be cut-throat. So it’s important to apply the right mindset from the get-go.
Think of it like this, If you only have one chance to shine, how could you make the most of it, and stand out?
Ask yourself,
While these questions might seem difficult to answer initially, you need to understand what makes your dancing unique.
In doing so, you’ll be ready to highlight your abilities and individual qualities during your ballet audition.
Remember first impressions are often lasting…
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A BALLET AUDITION IN 3 SIMPLE STEPS
Getting ready for a ballet audition can be broken down into three simple steps:
STEP 1 – WRITE A MEMORABLE CV
The first step is writing your CV. Your CV is your initial introduction, so take your time writing it.
I liken it to a nice, firm handshake that says I’m here for business!
As a minimum, I recommend you include the following in your CV:
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Outline your name, date of birth, nationality, height, and preferred contact details (phone number and email address).
TRAINING AND EDUCATION
Outline a brief overview of your training and dance education.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE AND REPERTOIRE
List your performance history including the roles you’ve danced and the companies you’ve performed with (include in order of most recent).
Also outline your repertoire, making sure to highlight any significant roles and repertoire you’ve performed, as well as any galas.
AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Include any awards or prizes you’ve received as a dancer. This isn’t to gloat but will give you some extra credibility.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
In this section, you’ll want to include:
Make sure to check out our free CV Template.
STEP 2 – CREATE AN EYE CATCHING AUDITION VIDEO
The next step is to create your audition video.
Remember to follow specific guidelines, as each audition may have distinct requirements.
Make sure the video is HIGH QUALITY.
There’s honestly nothing worse than distorted or shaky footage (trust me, there goes your first impression).
As a minimum, I recommend your audition video should include the following:
BRIEF INTRODUCTION
Include your name and nationality.
CLASS WORK
Incorporate footage showing your technique, particularly a short exercise of each of the following: adagio, pirouettes, jumps, and pointe work.
Please note that certain companies may prefer to see you wearing only a leotard and tights.
VARIATIONS
Choose a classical and contemporary variation that highlights your strengths as a dancer.
IMPROVISATION
You’ll want to confirm specific requirements, but definitely look to include a short piece to highlight your improvisation skills and artistry.
VIDEO RECOMMENDATIONS
Keep your video short and sweet (10 minutes MAX).
Companies receive numerous applications and don’t have time to watch a 30-minute audition video.
Make sure to upload or attach your audition video to YouTube or Vimeo, or you can attach it to your audition email depending on the file size.
STEP 3 – REHEARSE YOUR VARIATIONS
Prior preparation prevents poor performance!
Dedicate time to rehearsing your variations in preparation for your ballet audition.
Focus on the technical aspects as well as your artistic qualities.
I recommend rehearsing your variations in front of an audience to become accustomed to an audition environment, especially if you have butterflies in your stomach.
TOP 3 TIPS – HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT BALLET AUDITION AND GET YOUR COMPETITIVE EDGE
Our top three tips for finding the right ballet audition are:
I recommend using these tips as guidelines to help you find the perfect audition.
TIP 1 – DO YOUR RESEARCH
Thorough research is crucial when preparing for ballet auditions.
Look for companies that align with your dance style and training.
It might be harder for you to join a contemporary dance company if your background is primarily in classical ballet.
Consider realistic opportunities.
Explore various locations, not just major cities, or prominent and well-known dance companies. There are other opportunities out there too!
If it’s your first audition, don’t be afraid to look at some of the smaller companies that are just as good, if not better.
Study the company’s repertoire and artistic vision closely.
Look at the current dancers, and watch videos of their performances. See if their aesthetic qualities, movements, and artistry match yours.
Following these steps will bring you one step closer to a successful ballet audition.
TIP 2 – TAILOR TO YOUR BALLET STYLE
Begin your audition journey by understanding your strengths and style as a dancer.
Are you drawn to classical ballet, contemporary, neoclassical, or another specific ballet style?
With this in mind, you can pinpoint auditions and eliminate those that may not be the right fit for you.
Ask yourself, ‘Can I see myself dancing here?’.
If the answer is no, just move to the next one on the list.
Seek advice from other dancers, be open to new opportunities that pique your interest, and identify companies whose repertoire you see yourself dancing.
This approach can help you narrow your audition search and increase your likelihood of finding a job.
TIP 3 – DON’T BE AFRAID TO START SMALL
Don’t be afraid of starting small when it comes to ballet auditions.
While the desire to audition at numerous locations around the world may be tempting, it’s important to be patient and consider a more strategic approach.
Attempting auditions all over the place cannot only break the bank, but also leave you physically exhausted from constant travel, lack of sleep, and poor preparation for your auditions.
To get the most out of your audition experience, take time to research and plan.
Begin with a select few, and go from there.
Who knows, you might even nail that first audition.
AUDITION SUCCESS STORIES AND ADVICE
Experiencing rejections can be disheartening.
Yet, drawing inspiration from success stories and professional advice can be a powerful way to reignite your motivation and prevent your hope from fading.
Don’t blow out the candle just yet!
Every professional dancer had to start somewhere, and most have been in your shoes.
BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING
Ballet auditions are tough, especially for the mind.
It’s easy to compare yourself to other dancers and wonder “what makes them better than you?”.
Facing rejections is hard, and let me tell you, I had my fair share of struggles.
But there came a moment when I said to myself, “why am I taking this personally?”.
After that moment, I made a conscious effort to let go of any self doubt, and I stopped dwelling on what might or might not happen.
I began to look at every audition as an opportunity, and surprisingly, I started to enjoy them.
Then came another tough moment.
Do I accept a short term contract or keep trying for something more permanent?
I decided that any contract was better than nothing. Despite it not being exactly what I wanted, I took this as a victory.
I decided that any contract was better than nothing. Despite it not being exactly what I wanted, I took this as a victory.
It gave me the chance to pursue my passion, work within a professional company, and perform on stage – something every dancer aspires to achieve.
When the shorter contracts end, use them as motivation to push harder and fight for your dream.
Plus, you now know that it’s possible. You’ve done it before and can do it again!
Dancer, Arianna Marchiori
FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER
A lot of dancers focus solely on technique during an audition which of course is important.
But Directors are also looking at personality.
They want somebody who can fit in well with the dancers in their company and someone who has great stage presence. Both of these things you can’t really teach.
A ballet master can fix your turns but they can’t fix an emotionless dancer.
I remember one time, having taken a 5am flight to go straight to an audition, I wasn’t on my legs nor was I getting exercises as quickly as I normally would.
But I didn´t let it bother me. I even smiled when I went a little wrong in an exercise, which made the ballet master chuckle.
I’m not saying I got the job because I made mistakes but the Director could feel a warm personality shining through, and could see that I could cope quickly with mistakes.
My best advice to anyone auditioning would be to not take everything personally.
A lot of the time, Directors are looking to fill a slot in the company. Maybe a tall female dancer got injured, and they need to replace her position immediately, so they don’t need to adjust costumes or spacing.
It’s not personal. It’s just business.
Directors don´t have time to think of each dancer in an audition as a person with feelings. They are literally trying to get a company full and ready to go on stage.
But by making a good first impression and always trying your best, Directors will remember you for the next time when there is a position that suits you.
A good piece of advice is to chat to other dancers in the audition. You never know what information they might have, like a contract somewhere else, or a project that might have your name written all over it.
Dancer, Emily-Joy Smith
LET YOUR PASSION SHINE THROUGH
Even when things aren’t easy, let your dancing speak for itself.
Sometimes auditions aren’t about how good you are. They’re just about being in the right place at the right time.
Things aren’t always in your control.
So it’s important to always work hard, even when you lose hope. You just never know what beautiful surprises the future will bring.
I always found that wearing clothes that made me feel good and confident, helped make the auditioning process easier.
When you feel good, the positive vibes transmit through your dancing and to the people watching.
Honestly, don’t be afraid of auditions.
The most important thing is to enjoy yourself, because dancing isn´t about seeking approval or attention from others; it’s about expressing your individuality and your love of dance.
Dancer, Mario Charlo Sobrino
ESSENTIAL BALLET AUDITION CHECKLIST
Prepare for your ballet audition stress-free with our essential Ballet Audition Checklist.
From packing your dance bag to arriving at your destination, this checklist will help you stay organised on the big day.
BALLET AUDITION FAQs
WHAT TO EXPECT AT A BALLET COMPANY AUDITION?
When attending a ballet company audition, expect to see a large number of dancers, all sharing the same goal, A PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT!
Just picture everyone in the supermarket trying to find the last roll of toilet paper during Covid. Give it to me, no, give it to me…
Auditions can be like cattle calls, but don’t let this overwhelm you.
Alternatively, there might be a select number of dancers or even just one solo audition within a company class.
Typical auditions begin with a ballet class, and cuts are generally made during or after the class.
If you proceed beyond the class, you’ll likely be asked to perform a classical and contemporary variation.
In some instances, you might even participate in pas de deux exercises or even company repertoire.
Don’t be alarmed; approach it as a performance, and keep your nerves at bay (everyone is in the same boat).
Directors aren´t always looking for perfection.
Some are looking for a unique spark and presence. The key is to enjoy the process and let your training and hard work shine through.
Remember, success isn’t guaranteed in your first audition. However, every audition offers valuable learning experiences that contribute to your growth as a dancer.
With each attempt, you get closer to securing your first professional contract.
WHAT TO WEAR AT A BALLET AUDITION?
When it comes to what to wear at a ballet audition, the goal is to stand out for the right reasons.
I recommend:
Maintain a clean and professional appearance. This reflects your readiness and preparation to work in a professional company.
Remember to tailor your attire to the audition requirements.
If a ballet skirt is permitted, feel free to wear one, but remember not to conceal your body. It’s crucial to showcase your physique and lines because dance is all about expressing movement with your body.
HOW TO STAY MOTIVATED WHILE AUDITIONING?
Staying motivated throughout the ballet auditioning process can be challenging.
Sometimes it can seem like a real test of your willpower, especially if you encounter repeated rejections.
Remind yourself that not every company will be the perfect match for your unique style and talent. Finding that ideal fit is a journey.
If a dance career is your true passion, persevere and keep your end goal in sight.
Your hard work will eventually pay off, leading you to a company that appreciates your talent and style.
With your determination and resilience, you´ll reach your desired destination in the dance world, but it may take time.
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE WHEN AUDITIONING OVERSEAS?
It’s a good idea to invest in travel insurance when auditioning overseas, especially for extended periods.
Travel insurance safeguards your health and travel arrangements while also providing you with the peace of mind that you’re covered in unforeseen circumstances.
Travel insurance can be a valuable safety net in the event of lost luggage, or cancelled flights.
I’d hate to lose a suitcase of your favourite Pointe shoes and leotards before the big day.
WRAP UP
In the world of ballet auditions, success is the result of unwavering dedication, relentless practice, and belief in yourself.
The key to standing out lies in your ability to express your individuality and artistry while mastering the fundamentals.
Remember, the journey might be challenging, but every audition is a valuable stepping stone in your path to achieving your dreams of becoming a professional dancer.
So, don’t let rejections stop you. Let them fuel your determination to become the best dancer you can be. Embrace each audition as an opportunity to grow, learn, and highlight your passion for dance.
The right ballet company is waiting to welcome you with open arms.
