Training

Believe It Or Not, Sending A Video Audition Has Its Perks

December 4, 2018

Not being able to attend the in-person audition at your top college can feel like the end of the world. But while it’s true that going to the live audition is ideal, you can still make the best out of sending a video. Here are some of the perks:

Calm your nerves.

A group of young women at a ballet audition, standing in fifth position with their audition numbers on their leotards.
A typical audition setting is nerve-wracking for many dancers. Photo by Evolve Photo Video, Courtesy NYCDA

Unlike at an in-person audition, you aren’t performing in front of a panel, so relax!

Get a do-over. 

A timelapse image of a man in a black outfit dancing onstage.
With video, you can film the combination multiple times and pick the best run. Photo by Ahmad Odeh via Unsplash

Totally blow a combination? Film it again. Just keep in mind that faculty members are well aware that they probably aren’t watching the first take. Don’t get wrapped up in aiming for absolute perfection.

Choose your own material.

A woman stands in a high first arabesque, with the lower half of her body illuminated by light coming through a window, the rest of her in shadows.
Choose simple steps that you know you’re good at. Photo by Jesse Ballanty via Unsplash

Pick combinations that you’re comfortable with and that show off your range. Don’t try to impress the faculty with anything overly complicated, says Susie Thiel, director of dance at University of Kentucky.

Use an outside eye.

A woman stands facing a camera in an empty room, and a man holds a camera, filming her.
Find a buddy to film with who can give you feedback. Photo by Jakob Owens via Unsplash

Have a teacher or trusted friend coach you as you film, suggests Elizabeth Ahearn, dance program coordinator at Goucher College.

goucher college dance university of kentucky dance