Callback Tips


General Tips

  • If you don't receive a callback, that does not mean you won't be cast in the show. 
  • Be sure to get some REST before your callback. It's essential. 
  • The directors are there to help you do your best, so feel free to ask questions and clarify directions.
  • Give 150% to every role that you read and/or sing for, not just the role you want. You never know what opportunities might arise. 
  • Be flexible with your role expectations.
  • Don’t try to get into the minds of the directors. Trust us, it's a scary place. (That's a joke...kinda)
  • The number of times you read or sing is really no indication of casting thoughts. Sometimes directors need to see certain people more than others. 
  • Don’t give up! The day is long; don’t let yourself get discouraged by how you feel you are performing or how others are doing.
  • Give 150% to everything you do. Do your best! Have fun with the material. We don't want you to be perfect. Be you and bring every character to life.  
  • You are auditioning from the moment you walk into callbacks. Be respectful, helpful, and courteous. These attributes go a long way.
  • Often the directors will give you a description of the song, character or scene. Listen - this is essential information for you.
  • Be yourself! If you are called back for a role, there is something in your personality or performance that is in common with the character.
  • Come dressed appropriately and respectfully. A callback is still part of an audition and your appearance matters! Attempt to look your best.
  • If you have character shoes, wear them!



Singing Tips

  • If possible, listen to the music ahead of time. The more familiar you are with the material, the more confident you will feel. We often get asked, "Should we memorize the song?" What's the answer: "You should WANT to memorize the song. It will only help you."
  • Don’t worry if you mess up - try your best and keep going.
  • Even if you don’t think you can sing something, go ahead and try unless it physically hurts. Nobody needs that. 
  • Remember to breathe and articulate your words.
  • Don’t get deflated if you crack on a note or miss something. Once again, not looking for perfection. 
  • Don’t forget to act when you sing. Believe it or not...it's pretty important. 
  • Think about performing the song in the context of the scene. You don’t need to sing to the directors.
  • Try to think about the words you are singing and connect to the emotion of the song. 



Scene Reading Tips

  • Big, bold choices are essential. Be creative and ensure that your choices are in alignment with the character. 
  • As soon as you are given a script, start reading over the scenes with the character for which you are called back. Find the most important part of the scene. What does your character want out of the scene?
  • Physicality, vocal inflection, facial expressions, and non-verbals are important parts of your callback. Sometimes more important than what you're saying. 
  • Make the interpretation of the role your own. You shouldn’t do it the same way as the person in front of you. If they did the same thing you were planning to do...well, hopefully, you've taken improv! 
  • Don’t worry about stage directions or how you think a scene should be blocked, but don’t be afraid to add movement and follow the natural flow of the scene.
  • Connect with the person you are reading a scene with. This means you have to look up from the paper. 
  • Utilize every opportunity presented and don’t sabotage yourself.
  • Don’t play to the directors, play the scene. Looking at us the whole time is uncomfortable for you and us. 
  • If you are doing a scene with a partner that is struggling, don’t get frustrated. Help them by delivering a strong performance yourself.
  • If the role requires an accent, take your best stab at it.
  • Be engaged in the scene the whole time, not just when you are saying a line.



Casting Tips

  • The cast list is posted in your CYT account.
  • Casting is similar to piecing together a puzzle: it’s all about putting the pieces together with the people that you have. We look for the person that fits the role best at the time but also fits within the larger look and feel of the show.
  • Disappointment is inevitable because there are only a few featured roles. It is a natural reaction, but students are encouraged to embrace the opportunity to shine in the role they are given and come to rehearsals prepared to work and have a great experience. Remember: attitude is everything. Every role is important. We're not just saying that. We believe in being intentional around here.
  • Remember, the show is not about one person - the show is about the entire cast, and if one person is missing, the show is weaker for it.
  • Casting is a collaborative process among the artistic team. There is never one person who makes every decision.