What to Wear to a Community Theatre Audition
You’ve learned your song, you know the show, and now you’re standing in front of your closet wondering what to wear to your community theatre audition.
The good news: there isn’t one perfect audition outfit. There are no industry-wide rules about what you can or cannot wear. And you will probably want to make different choices for different auditions.
Here’s the quick answer of what to wear to a community theatre audition:
- Follow any requirements. You can ignore this entire post, if the audition notice gave you specific details on what you should wear!
- Choose clothes that are neat, clean, and help you feel your best. Business casual is a good general rule — no need to be overly formal, but you should present yourself well.
- Wear something you can move comfortably in. If there’s a dance call, bring dance shoes and clothes to change into, or wear something that’s versatile enough for both a singing and dance audition.
- Don’t show up in full costume, though a subtle nod to the show or character can be a nice touch.
What should you wear to a community theatre audition?
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For a play or singing audition
Think of an outfit you’d wear to meet someone you want to make a good impression on: a favorite top with trousers, a dress, or clean jeans with a button-down, for example.
Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident, and also which you can stand, sit, and move in. You never know what you might be asked to do!
If you’re auditioning for a period show, a small nod to its style can be fun, but it isn’t necessary.
Need an audition song?
Get some divine help. See our picks for every major character in the show, or let the Audition Song Finder match you with songs based on your role, voice, age, and style.
For a musical with a dance call
If you’ll sing first and dance later, bring dance clothes and shoes to change into. Check the notice for any specific footwear requirements. Pack a hair tie or clip and a removable layer if they’ll help you move comfortably. Pack everything in your audition bag so you can change quickly between rounds.
If you’re a beginner, or the show only has basic movement and no heavy dance, you might be okay wearing a pair of sturdy sneakers that give you support and grip the floor.
But, even for beginners, we strongly suggest investing in a pair of jazz shoes. These are made for dancing and are a good, general choice of shoe for most dance auditions. Also, they are not expensive!
The audition notice may specify a certain type of shoe for the audition. If so, you should get them if you can. They might ask for jazz, tap, or character shoes. Here are some examples:
If you don’t know whether you’ll have time or a place to change, arrive in something that works for both singing and movement.
Should you dress like the character?
We think it’s a good idea to wear something that suggests the character you’re interested in, or to match the overall style of the show. But, you never want to show up in full costume. It’s a rookie mistake and will definitely be clocked by the other auditionees.
Here are some examples of how you might suggest the show or character with your outfit:
- Mean Girls or Legally Blonde: A trendy outfit with a pop of pink is a perfect fit.
- 9 to 5 or How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying: A simple dress, slacks with a button-down, or a shirt and tie can suggest the office setting.
- Fiddler on the Roof or Into the Woods: A peasant-style blouse or a long skirt could suggest a villager or storybook character.
- Dear Evan Hansen or The Prom: Jeans, a casual top, and sneakers are great for a modern, young character.
I always think through the show and carefully select an outfit that might help the casting team visualize me in the roles I’m interested in. Depending on the show, I might choose something that makes me look a little younger or a little older, more professional or more casual, more straight-laced or more of a rebel. It can be a lot of fun picking out just the right pieces!
Should you wear all black?
Wearing all black to auditions is something that is taught and practiced in some schools, but it’s not a rule I’ve ever personally run into. Most community theatres will not expect auditionees to wear all black. If they do, they should specify that in their audition notice. If you’re unsure, just ask!
Hair, makeup, and accessories
Keep your face easy to see at all times! If your hair falls forward when you sing or read, pin it back or bring a hair tie.
Wear natural makeup that helps you look your best. There’s no need to wear stage makeup for an audition.
Skip accessories that jingle, snag, or demand your attention. Nothing should distract from your performance!
Try your outfit before audition day
Put on the whole outfit, including shoes, and do a run-through of your song or monologue. Sit, bend, lift your arms, and walk across the room. If there’s dancing, make sure you can stretch and turn.
Notice anything you keep adjusting: a slipping shoe, a restrictive sleeve, a hem that creeps up. Make changes to your outfit plans if necessary.
The before-you-leave outfit check
Take one last look at the audition notice, then ask yourself:
- Did the theatre specify a dress code or shoes for the dance call?
- Can I sing, speak, sit, and move comfortably in these clothes and shoes?
- Will my outfit stay in place, and can the team see my face?
- If I need to change, are my other clothes and shoes easy to access?
If the answer is yes to all of the above, you are ready to rock that audition!
What’s your favorite audition wear? Share your tips in the comments!
