9 Audition Bag Essentials We Swear By

Are you an up-and-coming performer ready to take the stage? Are you feeling the pressure of putting together the perfect audition bag? Don’t worry, you are not alone. Auditioning for roles is a daunting process, and for many actors, the most nerve-wracking part is preparing the bag of must-haves for a successful audition.

Being prepared is half the job. When you bring the right items in your bag, your audition goes smoother than when you wish you had brought a pen to scribble on your sides.

To help ease the pressure, here are 9 essential items recommended by seasoned performers and acting coaches that every audition bag should include. From music and recordings to water and snacks, these must-haves will make sure you’re ready to put your best foot forward. With these 9 audition bag essentials in tow, you will be well-equipped to slay your next audition and increase your chances of landing the role of a lifetime!

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Audition Bag Essentials: The Big Must-Haves

Some items are more important than others to bring with you. And some items you must have on you, no matter what. That’s why we consider them “essentials.” Below are a few must-haves you want to make sure to always have in your audition bag.

1. An Extra Copy Of Your Headshot & Resume

As much as most processes have gone digital, it is still safe to have a hard copy of your “actor package” with you. You never know. Especially if they did not specify that you don’t have to bring a copy. Remember: some casting directors and some producers are old-school. They would prefer to have a physical copy of your resume to write down their notes about your audition.

[Read also: Self-Tape Gear Must-Haves]

2. Your Audition Sides

“Sides” is what a portion of the whole script is called. Casting may use actual scenes from the show they are bringing actors to audition for. Sometimes, though, they use “mock sides,” particularly when that audition is for a big show that they don’t want to accidentally leak information about.

If casting sent you sides before the audition, bring them with you. It’s best to have the pages printed, so you can write down any notes you get. In addition, it is common practice to let the actor hold their sides while auditioning, even when they are off-book (completely memorized). Don’t be afraid to hold your sides. It puts casting at ease that you will take a glance at the page rather than having a nervous breakdown if you forget a line.

3. A Highlighter Pen

In some auditions, casting will give you sides on the spot. Whether that is because the audition process is secretive or rushed, or maybe because they are giving you a couple of “cold readings.” A cold read or first-sight read is common when you could fit different roles that they want to see you try out.

In any case, a highlighter is very handy. Use it to mark your lines so you can memorize them faster. Also, having your lines highlighted helps when there is dialogue or multiple characters in a scene. You don’t want to skip your lines because your eyes trick you. Or, accidentally say someone else’s lines during the audition. A highlighter will help you with all of that.

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Audition Bag Essentials: The More Specific Items

Aside from the top three items we listed, some essentials are to musical theater auditions. Here’s what you must have in your audition bag if you are a musical theater actor.

4. Your Audition Book

An “audition book” is a binder type of folder where you have a clear print of the music sheets of the songs you prepare or frequently sing at auditions. Some actors also carry copies of their best off-book monologues, just in case we are asked to perform something on the spot. When auditioning for a musical, make sure to have your book with you, so the accompanist can read from it while playing the piano for you to sing. [Check Out This Great Binder on Amazon]

5. A Pencil

It seems like a no-brainer but we must include this on the essentials list because some of us will forget to bring a simple pencil to the audition. A pencil is better than a highlighter when you need to explain something to your accompanist, and maybe write it down on your music sheet.

Sometimes a pianist likes writing notes on the sheet, such as “Begin Here” and “Key Change.” And, here’s a tip: it’s always best to have your music in a folder without plastic. Not only the pianist can annotate when there is no plastic covering the sheets but they don’t have to worry about lights reflecting on the paper.

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6. Clothes

Dancewear

If you have a dance call, water comfortable clothes, or dancewear. And remember to bring your dance or character shoes.

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A towel…

because you WILL sweat!

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A change of clothes…

in case you want to drive home not feeling like you are still auditioning. Or, even worse, smelling.

7. A Make-Up Bag With Some Extras

Below are some essential toiletries and extras for your make-up bag:

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Deodorant…

…because dance calls can be long and full of waiting breaks. And, when your sweat starts drying, your body odor might get uncomfortable. Be prepared for that.

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A hairbrush…

…because of all of the above reasons, your hair will get a little messy!

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A little make-up…

…whatever you always reach for. Whether it is lip gloss, chapstick, or maybe a little powder to refresh your face. Make sure to bring your must-haves in your audition bag.

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Scrunchies…

…Don’t let your hair get in the way of your performance. Make sure to have something to hold it up if you need it.

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8. Water And Snacks

While some auditions are a quick “in-and-out,” some may be a long wait. Bring your water to stay hydrated throughout the day as part of your audition bag essential. And, bring a couple of your favorite snacks to make sure your stomach doesn’t complain while you wait.

9. Handy Gadgets

EarPods

Speaking of waiting, why not listen to your favorite music or podcast without making noise that would disturb the other actors?

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A portable phone charger and cord…

…because, depending on the wait and when you charged your phone last, you might run low on battery.

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The 10th (bonus) item to bring: Confidence!

We know that is not a physical item, and it will not be in a purse. But we want to make sure you remember to bring your A-game to every audition.

Conclusion…

No matter the role you are attempting to secure, having the right items in your audition bag can make all the difference. From your favorite audition outfit to a just-in-case supply of snacks, being prepared allows you to focus entirely on the performance. By following the tips and essentials outlined in this article, you can be sure that your audition will be remembered for all the right reasons. So go forth, and may the talent be with you.

“Your talent is your best asset. It can never be stolen or taken away. It must be nurtured and developed.” Mahatma Gandhi

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9 Amazing Audition Bag Essentials We Swear By

9 Audition Bag Essentials We Swear By

Audition Bag Essentials: The Big Must-Haves