Once contact has been made with a university that interests you. Pay close attention to the information you are given and the deadlines set in these early stages when applying, responding, attending open houses and auditions, etc. It would be a good idea to have a ready list of questions ready to ask when you decide to make the initial contact. As often, auditions are held in-house and you may need to travel some distance to attend an audition which can be logistically expensive and timely. Therefore, you want to make sure that the university meets your needs and expectations when it comes to training you and developing your skill and technique which will ultimately propel you into the industry.
Some questions to consider;
1) When are the auditions?
2) What does the audition entail?
3) What is the hearing process?
4) What courses do you offer?
5) Where do students go to get contracts?
6) What qualifications and by whom is the school accredited and validated?
7) What information is available about pastoral care and accommodation?
Each college will have their own way of running an audition process, so it may be a good idea to create a spreadsheet if you intend to audition for 3 or more colleges. This means that you will be able to keep track of any information, application deadlines, responses and your own comments, for example.
Auditions for colleges come with a fee. Again, this fee can vary from university to university and also the cost of reserving days off work, school, travel and overnight stays that may need to be booked in advance all come into play here. Auditions often start early in the morning and can last most of the day, depending on the number of audition candidates that show up. You may also be offered a second audition, should your first audition be successful. This is known within the industry as a recall and therefore means that you now have to repeat the process again at a later date.
Some things in life are nice and simple and when you know what feels good, you just know it. Making such an important decision, however, is not only where to continue your training, but also knowing where the right place will be for you to excel. Choosing Somewhere you will feel happy and safe. All of these factors equate to performing “at your best” every day and enjoying being part of a university that can support you. There is some truth to the saying “blood, sweat and tears” and “the show must go on”