Non-scripted, commercial scene auditions present major challenges even for the best trained actors. With a script, commercial auditions are demanding enough. When improvising on your own or with another actor(s) so much is unpredictable. These auditions can be problematic even when actors are skilled "improvisers".

In every Commercial Improv scene audition whether it is with a partner, several other actors and/or kids, the preparation process I suggest is very similar:

• Carefully review the posted written scenario or the directions given by the casting director or assistant.
• Determine (if not given) your: who, what, where and why.
• Find your partner(s) and get comfortable with them especially when working with a child or teen.
• Determine what your contrast/difference is relative to the other actor(s). Since most commercials don't have a conflict, how one actor differs from another (personality and/or energy difference) makes the audition dynamic and helps each actor to stand out. Whatever you choose to do make sure it is a character or approach that works for you. Choosing a contrast or character just to be different or to stand out will usually hurt your audition.
• For scenarios, create and practice several beginning, middle and endings.
• Make appropriate choices for the scenario. Think about what you might want to say or do in a few key moments.
• Know what's “at stake”, - your objective.
• Remind yourself before you go into the audition room "whatever happens is a gift". You have prepared. Enjoy the experience.

In the audition:

• Listen carefully to any additional direction given by the session director. Don't get stuck figuring out how to use it. Trust that you heard and got it.
• Be willing to let go of everything that was created and/or rehearsed when your instincts take you in a more organic direction. - Commit to your instinctual choices in addition to those you planned (when motivated).
• Whenever the other actor(s) says or does something you weren't expecting, go with it. To deny and impose your ideas or what was rehearsed is a major mistake. Use the primary improvisation rule of "Yes-And" and build on whatever is said.
• Give and Take. Listen and respond. Good improv does not mean non-stop talking.
• Never play beneath you or your character's intelligence in order to be funny. Play the truth of the character and the situation.
• Be positive when speaking about the product unless directed otherwise.
• Be specific with names, dates, locations. i.e., either use your partner(s) name or give them one. Know and use the environment.
• Motivate toward camera as much as possible so you can be seen. Many actors upstage themselves in these kinds of auditions.
• Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Auditions, especially improv commercial scene auditions, are unpredictable and daunting. Choose to enjoy whatever happens.
• Remember, everything, I mean everything is a gift.

Auditioning with talented actors who are good improvisers is helpful but it is not the only way to do good work. It is challenging to do good auditions when working with inexperienced or nervous actors, - but very doable.

Here are some tips:

Never judge the actor. It makes you unlikable and gives you nothing to work with. Work with everything they do or say a gift.

If necessary, be prepared to lead the scene. Be sure to involve and support the other actor(s).

Play the truth. i.e.: If an actor won't stop talking, -have fun trying to get a word in and play with your frustration; If an actor says something that doesn't make sense, ask what was meant or make it work; When he/she denies, simply ask (in character and with no attitude) "why do you keep disagreeing with me"?; If they forget to do something that they were directed to do, remind them in character.

Bottom line, the best preparation is the combination of training with your commercial, acting and (most importantly) improvisation classes. The tips offered here and your good training should give you the tools and experience to be freed up and confident at commercial improv scene auditions so that you can do your best.

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