15 Questions You May Be Asked In The College Audition Room

Auditioning for musical theatre college programs?

Be prepared for anything and everything!

The college audition process will require much more of you than just singing, dancing and acting. Before making any decisions about your acceptance, musical theatre college programs want to get to know YOU as an individual.

I polled dozens of fellow actors about their experiences auditioning for college. Here are 15 of the most common questions you may be asked in the college audition room!

1. Tell us about yourself!

Ah yes, the dreaded question of all questions (and it’s not even a question!). You’ll be asked this in any job interview - theater industry-related or not. For the interviewer, it’s often an easy and open-ended way to start the conversation.

To avoid rambling, think of it as your elevator pitch.

In business, an elevator pitch is a short summary used to quickly and simply define a product, service, and its value. For college auditions, it answers the question: “Why should we accept you into my program?” Your answer should be concise enough to be delivered during a short elevator ride.

Simply tell them who you are, a brief summary of your experience in theater, and why you’re here!

2. Why are you considering our college theatre program?

Many schools will ask why you want to go to their program.

My advice? Be VERY specific with your answer. Maybe you like the class size, the location, the professors, the campus.

3. What’s your background in theatre?

Colleges ask this question to gain a better understanding of your experience.

Remember, they’re not looking for perfect resumes, Broadway credits or National Tours… they know you’re only in high school. So focus on a through line.

4. Why did you choose your audition song?

There is no wrong answer to this question.

Professors only ask this to see if you have a strong connection to your material. So when choosing your audition pieces, make sure you really love them! Don’t just choose a song or monologue because your audition coach gave it to you.

5. Why do you want to pursue theatre?

I encourage you to spend the time between now and auditions to understand why you want to pursue theatre. You will most likely be asked this question at one point or another during the college audition process.

6. What is something other than theatre that you enjoy?

College programs want to spend four years well-rounded individuals! So make a list of hobbies you really enjoy outside of performing.

Painting, sketching, photography, graphic design, writing, novels, poetry, baseball, make-up, fashion, fantasy football, magic, art, basketball, cooking, baking, blogging, knitting, ice skating, jewelry making, juggling, puzzles, karate, podcasts, nail art, sculpting, video editing, video games, yoga, snowboarding, gardening, fishing, driving, cycling, tennis, soccer, swimming, traveling, surfing, skiing, shopping, running, antiquing, comic books, vinyls, boxing, cheerleading, gymnastics, volleyball, wrestling, rock climbing, lacrosse… the list goes on!

7. What is your dream role?

What is a role you’re dying to play?

Forget how you THINK you should answer this question… just answer with your heart!

8. If you could create a new play or musical about anything, what would it be?

Having trouble answering this one?

Ask yourself this - what do you think audiences need to see right now?

Still having trouble? Think of your all-time favorite musicals and plays.What do you love about them? What themes do they tackle? What do they have in common? Work from that.

9. What other programs are you auditioning for?

Though you may never know why a program asks you this, I’m not sure there is a right or wrong answer.

Don’t be embarrassed to answer this honestly. Sometimes, colleges just want to know their competition. Other programs want to get a feel for where they fall in your list.

10. How did you hear about our program?

Let them know whether you were referred to the program through the internet, social media, a college fair, a friend or a coach. This is a great way to name-drop an alumni or professor you’ve worked with or admire.

11. Tell us a joke!

Show them your humor.

I’ve been asked multiple times in agent meetings, professional auditions, and even college audition to tell a joke. The lesson was learned; I always have one prepared!

12. What is your dance experience?

If you’re auditioning for a musical theatre program, you will most likely be asked to attend a dance audition (in addition to singing and acting). The professors will be able to get a feel for your dance experience based off that.

However, if you’re auditioning for an acting program that doesn’t require a dance audition, you may be asked this question. Answer as honestly as you can.

13. If you couldn’t be an actor, what would you be?

Just like the question about your hobbies, this is great question for colleges to get to know your other interests.

Maybe you’ve wanted to be an actor your whole life… I was the same way.

Can’t think of anything? Brainstorm careers within the theater that don’t require you to perform on stage - stage manager, director, choreographer, musical director, casting director, agent, producer, lighting designer, playwright… etc.

14. What’s your favorite book?

Though this is very specific, I’ve heard of colleges asking prospective students this question. Even if you don’t enjoy reading, I imagine you’ve read a couple of books during your time in school. Pick one and prepare a few things to say about it just in case!

15. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Where do you see yourself after graduation? Moving straight to New York City? Los Angeles? Chicago? Moving back home to save up some money? Pursuing your masters degree?

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