Things Actors Shouldn’t Do in an Audition

Mr. PCN, who’s a casting director, has been busy the last couple months with several projects. While he loves what he does, he’s occasionally subjected to the crazy things some actors do in pursuit of the job. Having heard many of these anecdotes, I’ve compiled a helpful list of actions that actors should never take in the audition room.

1. Never disrobe, especially if the scene doesn’t call for it and no one asked you to.
2. If you’re Caucasian, do not try to pass yourself off as African-American or Asian.
3. If you’re in your 40s, do not pretend you’re 16. Pigtails won’t fool anyone.
4. Don’t say you’ve read the script if you haven’t. It’ll make you seem really clueless after you read a comedic scene as melodrama.
5. Don’t rip off moves and mannerisms from famous actors like Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson. Bring in your interpretation of the character.
6. Don’t bring a bag of props, especially if it includes your boxers, which you then place on the casting director’s desk. It doesn’t matter how clean your undies are.
7. Bold acting choices should not include actual violence.
8. Don’t crash the audition, beg to be seen, and then suck.
9. Don’t make the casting director hold your baby or pet while you audition.
10. If your palms are sweaty and clammy because you’re nervous, don’t offer to shake hands with the casting director.