You've landed an audition and want to nail it. They've given you sides but not the whole script. What can you do to prepare? To begin with, ask yourself a few questions:

Who are you?

Search the sides for clues as to who your character is, where they're from, what they do. If some things are unclear and would be beneficial to know, either make a choice about them or make a note to ask during the audition.

What is your relationship?

This is in reference to the person you’re talking to and any person or thing that is mentioned in the scene. It can also include your relationship to the location of the scene.

Where were you right before this?

What happened before you got to where you are in the scene and how does that affect what’s going on? If you’ve just come from a fight, you’ll be more upset coming into the scene than if you’re coming from a long day of work.

What do you want from this person and how are you going to get it?

Use active and specific verbs to describe what you want from your scene partner and what you will do to get it. Change up your tactics throughout the scene to give it depth and variety.

What’s going to happen if you get it?

How will your character change if they succeed?

 Some other quick audition tips:

• Be as specific as possible when answering all these questions and any others that come up.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions in the audition room but keep them to a minimum and make sure they’re specific.
•  Be as familiar as you can with the sides so that you can actively listen to the reader, be in the moment and not worry about the words. Read the sides with a friend out loud or tape yourself doing the sides.
• Don’t end the scene before the director says “cut”. Also include a beat before the scene starts to put you in the scene.
• Wear an outfit to suggest the character but avoid full on costumes. A button down (and tie for a guy) and blazer is enough to denote a doctor.
• Be ready and open for adjustments. Don't take is as though you've chosen wrong. Most often directors just want to see if you're directable.