This past weekend I got to attend an Improv Auditions workshop with the amazing Carly Heffernan at Comedy Bar. She shared some great insights—no surprise, since she’s been on both sides of the audition process. I took a bunch of notes, and hopefully they’ll be helpful for anyone else looking to audition for improv or sketch programs.

Structure

Improv auditions usually have somewhat of a set structure, and it can vary slightly from school to school.

Intros

Intros are pretty standard. The panel will usually ask the following:

1. Your name
2. Your pronouns
3. Your access needs (if you aren’t asked, make sure to let them know!)
4. A fun fact about you
   • This bit is usually for them to see your hosting skills!
   • Make sure you have at least two prepared in case of callbacks

Line Games

The panel will usually do a line game to warm everyone up. For example, world’s worst {insert-profession-here}, I like my lover I like my {object}, etc.

My own feedback:

• I need to watch my body language when I deliver the line

Rapid Fire Scenes

These will be very short scenes, probably up to a minute max.

• Group scene math matters: do not pile on if a scene already has 2–3 folks in it.
• Be supportive!
• Aim to do at least 2 scenes: one as an initiator and one as a supporting character.
• Always give the first line to the one initiating.
• Match what the other person is doing.
• Be comfortable with silence!

Two Person Scenes

The panel will usually pair folks up for these. A couple of tips for these scenes:

• Accents are not characters!
• Focus on your point of view—for example, focus on the energy with your scene partner or have emotional reactions to what was said.

My own feedback that I got in this section:

• Know what you want; you get to make a decision.
• Never be afraid of stating what your character wants. When you do that, it makes it easier for your partner.

Feedback others got that I think is very valuable too:

• Do not bring conflict in too soon.
• Slow down and make shorter offers.
• A scene should always be about the characters and their relationship.
• Always assume you know something about each other.
• Find a way to be changed emotionally.
• It’s never a “may” or “might.” It should always be either a “yes” or “no.”

Montage

A montage will usually start with a suggestion from the panel. A few tips for this part:

• You don’t have to do every scene related to the initial suggestion.
• Try not to sprint across the stage. You can also use “cut to” or tag-outs for the edits depending on what the scene needs.
• Remember group scene math!
• The panel is also looking to see your editing skills.
• Get comfortable with silence.
• Watch your body language: avoid crossing your arms or putting them behind your back, and don’t lean back.

The advice about body language reminded me of neutral stance—having a better posture for the shoulders, looking across the horizon. Your body language ultimately should convey confidence, and that matters.

My own feedback:

• Try to be up there at least 2 times.

Closing Thoughts

Think of auditions as a place to get your reps in. If you get rejected, that’s not the end of the world. You never know what’s going on in the panel’s minds.

Something I need to keep in mind for myself: rejection is a redirection.