How do I recover from a bad audition?

by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder

I once walked into an audition for a role that I wanted and completely botched it. I got nervous, I got thrown off during my song and forgot half my monologue. I walked out of the audition room feeling like a complete failure and thought about never doing this again.

I’m sure many of us have had similar experiences. But rather than focusing on what went wrong, it’s important to talk about how we recover from it.

Recovering from a bad audition for theatre can be challenging, but it's important to remember that everyone has off days and setbacks are a natural part of any performer's journey. Here are some steps you can take to bounce back and move forward after a disappointing audition:

First, allow yourself to feel and process your emotions: It's normal to feel frustrated, disappointed, or even upset after a bad audition. Acknowledge your feelings and permit yourself to experience them. A friend advised that I take some time to be angry, sad, and disappointed. It validates the fact that this was important to me and I should care when things don’t go well. It's essential to allow yourself time to process and accept the outcome before moving forward.

Second, take some time to reflect on what went wrong during the audition. Consider factors like preparation, nerves, or unexpected circumstances. Be honest with yourself about your performance and areas where you could improve.

Third, if the opportunity presents itself, consider reaching out to the audition panel or casting director for feedback. Constructive criticism can provide valuable insights into areas where you can improve. However, be prepared for the possibility that you may not receive feedback or that it may not be entirely accurate or helpful. Remember that feedback is subjective, and it's ultimately up to you to assess its validity and usefulness.

Use the setback as motivation to redouble your efforts and work on improving your skills. Take acting classes, participate in workshops, join local theatre groups, or find opportunities to perform in smaller productions. The more you practice and refine your craft, the more confident and prepared you'll be for future auditions.

Finally, after all of that, KEEP AUDITIONING. The only way to improve your auditioning skills is through practice. Don't let one bad experience discourage you from pursuing future opportunities. Keep attending auditions, even if it feels challenging at times. Each audition is a chance to grow, learn, and showcase your talent.

Remember that success in the performing arts industry often requires resilience and perseverance. It's important to view setbacks as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. Stay dedicated to your craft, keep learning, and believe in yourself. With time and continued effort, you can recover from a bad audition and find success in the theatre world.