“Cold Read” Tips During an Audition

The acting and modeling industry is one of the most competitive fields you can pursue.  There are millions of talented individuals all around the world that would love to make money doing what they love.  But with so many different people comes so many different opportunities.  There are hundreds of different outlets for you to get involved in.

Modern Acting

In our modern technologically advanced world, there are new jobs available in the acting industry that weren’t there for previous generations.  Netflix alone employs thousands of actors, producers, and writers every month.  Streaming services along with advancements in the internet allows aspiring actors unique ways to get involved.  Did you know that many websites seek actors for voice overs, promos, and modeling?  These type of jobs are often overlooked, but if you keep an open mind, you will eventually find your knack.

However, once you apply for these jobs, it is important to remember tips so that you can make the most of your auditions.  A great audition will get you the job and can jump-start your career to levels you’ve never seen before.

Cold Reading Techniques During an Audition

  • Sometimes during auditions, you will be required to do a “cold reading” of a script provided by the casting team.  A cold reading is a great way for casting to see your natural acting ability.  It is called a cold reading because you are not warmed up to the role in the script.  You are seeing the lines for the first time, and you have to improvise quickly so that you impress them.  They usually will give you 5 or 10 minutes to quickly glance over the lines, but if they don’t it’s not the end of the world.  Research strategies on how to improve your improvisational skills.
  • Improv is very important to becoming a successful actor.  Don’t panic when you see the lines, and do your best to recite and act as unique as possible.  It’s okay if you mess up a cold reading, but you will stand out if you are passionate and different than the other actors at the audition.
  • The most important thing to remember during a cold reading is to keep your composure while delivering an exciting, emotional, or funny performance.  It is perfectly fine to be overly dramatic during a cold reading because that will keep the casting teams attention.  The biggest mistake would to be underwhelming, dull, and boring.

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