How To Find Equity and Non-Equity Auditions, Audition Tips, And More

Want to get a slot at the next Equity or Non-equity auditions in NYC, but don't know where to start? BroadwayWorld has got you covered.

You and many others believe you can be the next acting sensation, but at the moment, it doesn't seem like it, thanks to the obstacles that have stood in your way. Fortunately, this isn't how your story ends.

Without a doubt, making your mark in the acting world can be a tough ask at the beginning. You'd have to scale many hurdles, from finding auditions to preparing effectively for these auditions, so they give you a shot at making your dreams come true. Indeed, the life of a budding actor is quite the journey.

However, if you're exploring Equity roles or Non-equity openings, having an inside knowledge of the landscape and fine-tuning your audition skills significantly increases your chances of succeeding at the next casting.

So, in this post, we'll walk you through all you need to know to succeed, including where you can find Equity and Non-equity auditions, how to prepare effectively for auditions, and proven tips you can apply to stand out from the crowd in the audition room.

Let's get right into the details.

What is an Equity Audition?

Equity Auditions are professional casting calls arranged by the Actors' Equity Association (AEA) for U.S. union-affiliated stage actors and managers seeking roles in regional theater productions, touring, Off-Broadway, or Broadway productions.

These auditions are split into Equity Principal Auditions (EPAs) for leading roles and Equity Chorus Calls (ECCs) for dancers/singers in musicals. It's worth noting that the AEA website manages all EPAs and ECCs.

What's more, Equity auditions are held at designated audition centers in major cities, such as Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. Here, Non-union members who arrive early for these auditions get to make the unofficial list.

Hence, as a Non-union performer, you can increase your chances of securing an audition slot at EPAs by attending in person and joining the waitlist. However, you'll only get a look in if time permits or the list of union members gets exhausted.

Equity Auditions offer members of the AEA union:

• Priority Access: Union members get first access to available audition openings. It reduces the waiting times that are usually associated with open calls. As a result, it can be likened to a golden ticket to an EPA or ECC where you get to strut your talent before the casting directors, hoping your performance impresses them.
• Safety and Standards: All auditions and subsequent equity jobs are held in spaces that are aligned with Equity's Safe and Sanitary Standards, with established rules against any unsafe practice.
• Protection of Interests: Any role booked through these equity auditions offers guaranteed union salaries, secure working conditions, and benefits such as health insurance and a pension.

What is a Non-Equity Audition?

Non-equity auditions are casting calls for theatrical productions, such as community, independent, or regional theater, that do not require performers or professional stage actors to be members of the AEA union.

In other words, auditionees can perform their dialogue or scene to get roles in Non-equity tours, independent tours, and regional theater without needing a union card. Truth is, many performers in the AEA took on Non-equity roles before they transitioned into Equity roles later in their careers.

These roles often pay less, offer stipends, or provide nothing, with no union benefits. Nonetheless, they are the ideal building blocks for first-time performers aiming to build their resume, gain experience by attending an audition, or get involved in a gig.

As an actor, you can also audition to play characters that might not be your forte, as directors may interpret these characters differently. Most Non-Equity auditions are held by appointment or on a first-come, first-served basis, depending on the theater's choice.

Where to Find Equity Auditions

Finding equity is much easier for equity members, as they have exclusive access to audition updates through the Casting Call job board. However, if you haven't attained membership status yet, you can still work your way into the Equity audition room and give a good account of yourself with the right strategy. Here are some ways you can position yourself to get audition notices.

1. Visit Casting Websites

Members of the Actors' Equity Association (AEA) mainly check the AEA website for audition details by exploring the members-only section. This implies that Non-union members are not allowed access to such information on the site.

Therefore, they can alternatively visit industry trade publications and third-party casting sites like Actors Access, Backstage, Casting Networks, and Playbill to get updates on the next casting based on your union status.

• Backstage.com is a subscription-based platform globally used to find both equity and Non-equity auditions, costing about $120 annually.
• Playbill.com gives users who sign up to their platform access to a free database and information with filters for location, type, and union status.
• Actors Access is one of the go-to platforms casting directors use for union and professional work, with a yearly subscription plan that costs $68.
• Casting Networks is a subscription model that helps actors, models, and other performers to find work by making the casting process easier and providing their best-suited roles. The premium membership costs $299.90 per year.

2. Check Theatre Company Websites

Several professional theatres upload audition details on their websites. For instance, Broadway touring companies, Regional theatres, and Repertory theatres often post Equity audition calls on their sites.

Feel free to check these theater websites every now and then for general season auditions or local casting calls. Also, keep an eye out for sections like “Auditions,” “Casting,” and “Get Involved.”

3. Build Valuable Industry Connections

Oftentimes, the best opportunities are not published for all to see. This is when building relationships with industry insiders comes into play.

You can never go wrong with establishing communication with casting directors, directors, and your fellow actors. And one of the best ways to connect and have conversations with them is by attending classes, industry events, or workshops. By doing this, you'll more often than not be in the loop.

If you've interacted and built a substantial relationship with those who know the ins and outs of happenings in theatres, chances are you'd be privy to casting calling that were not publicly listed.

4. Use the BroadwayWorld Route

Finding equity auditions just got easier for Non-equity members. BroadwayWorld has a comprehensive list of Equity auditions, upcoming Broadway auditions, regional theater auditions and national tour theatre casting calls, with data provided directly by the Actors' Equity Association.

Here are some direct links to Equity auditions on the East Coast, Central USA, and West Coast! Never miss an audition by joining our email list for audition alerts! Subscribe here!

Get into the audition room with the help of BroadwayWorld updates and blow the minds of casting directors with the magic of your art.

Where to Find Non-Equity Auditions

Unlike Equity auditions, Non-Equity auditions are easier to access and more widely available. As a result, you won't struggle to get one. Regardless, let's give you a head start.

1. Visit Online Casting Platforms

There's no better place to start your search for audition centers than visiting an online casting platform. You can visit Backstage or Casting Networks to access these opportunities. While visiting, you'll stumble on available roles for commercials, film, student projects, and theatre. You simply have to take your pick.

2. Try Your Community and Local Theatre

Some local theater companies open their doors to performers looking to build confidence, expand their network, or gain stage experience by organizing open auditions.

This might be a good moment for you to talk the talk and walk the walk as a proclaimed actor/dancer/singer. Do well to check your community's bulletin boards or local arts sites for relevant details.

3. Look Out for Open Calls on Social Media

Many theaters share open-call invitations on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. For example, Facebook groups can be effective for anyone looking for community, local, or Non-union acting opportunities.

4. Film Schools and Student Projects

Some student filmmakers need performers who can bring their scripted characters to life with impeccable and passionate delivery. To get the attention of interested parties, they make online casting calls or use the university channels to create awareness. If opportunities like this pique your interest, go for them and get that on-camera experience in the bag.

5. Talent Agency for Entry-level

Talent agencies act as link between amateur actors and readily available Non-union jobs. If it's a legitimate agency, this is a good way to get acting gigs. However, some agencies put up a front, ruining the chances of budding performers. Make sure to do your research before joining any agency. Avoid any that demands for upfront fees so you don't get scammed.

6. Stay Updated with BroadwayWorld

With Broadway world, you get first-hand access to non-equity auditions and their dates. BroadwayWorld has one of the most detailed lists of non-Equity auditions on the web, with listings for auditions in more than 150 cities worldwide!

Indeed, tons of opportunities are available for performers of all levels! All you have to do is show up confident and perform, whether you dance, sing, or act.

Here are some direct links to non-Equity auditions on the East Coast, Central USA, and West Coast!

Never miss an audition by joining our email list for audition alerts! Subscribe here!

When To Transition from Non-Equity to Equity

At some point, your goal might be to take the big leap from non-Equity to Equity jobs, especially because this move comes with more protection and higher pay. Nonetheless, when you get to this bridge, here are a few things you should consider before crossing:

• Ensure you are already getting consistent theatre jobs.
• Ensure you're prepared to take on higher-level gigs.
• Ensure you're ready to say goodbye to non-Equity roles

How to Leave a Mark in Your Audition (First Audition or Not)

1. Get Your Audition Essentials

Knowing you've all you need in place helps you stay calm even when the tension hits its peak. So, before you step out for your big audition, tick all these boxes to be sure you didn't miss out on any essentials:

• A befitting attire for the audition
• Bottled water
• Digital notes or notebook
• Professionally printed headshots and resumes
• Properly marked sheet music (particularly for singers)

2. Prepare Effectively

The last thing you want during your first audition is to be taken unawares or overwhelmed by the moment. Thankfully, adequate preparation can help you handle the heat.

• Master your Material: Don't bank on having your script or songbook in your hand. Instead, ensure you know your lines inside out or can sing your songs effortlessly without missing a lyric. This way, you can focus more on your acting and delivery, and have fun while at it.
• Research your Audience for the Audition: This sets the tone for your success at the audition because what matters at the end of the day is impressing the casting directors. Hence, researching the film or show and the casting directors to know what they're looking for can hand you the role.
• Prepare for the Storm: You might have to make adjustments or improvise on the spot to save your face or improve your chances of getting the job. These unexpected situations can take you off course, and how you react to them goes a long way in shaping the casting team's opinion.
• Take Courses: Engage in courses that improve your acting or vocal techniques and boost your confidence. Some designated apps can help you achieve this.
• Get Enough Sleep: While you're working hard to memorize your lines or lyrics, don't sideline the idea of getting enough sleep. Make sure your sleep time doesn't suffer.

3. Don't Fret, Even if It's Your First Time

It's your first time, right? Like many others before you, it's okay to feel nervous during the audition even though you prepared the right way. However, no one needs to know.

Truth is, you can be nervous without showing the nerves to your auditioners. Set out to make a professional impression. Now, here's how you can achieve this:

• Look the Part: As they say, “Dress the way you'd like to be addressed.” Simply put, dress appropriately. Wear clothing that suggests the profession or style of the character you'll be depicting. It paints a picture in the heads of the casting team. Also, your confidence goes up a notch when you know you picked the right outfit.
• Step Into the Room Confidently: It's important that the casting team notices your positive energy as soon as you step into the room. Avoid peeking through the door, as it can pass a message that you're low on confidence.
• Be Simple and Clear: Introduce yourself like a pro. Go straight to the point by telling your name and the role you're playing with confidence.
• Be Polite and Brief: Display your talent professionally within the allotted time and give them something to think about without the need for any nervous chatter.
• Take a Deep Breath: Once you notice the nerves caving in, take some time out to breathe. It helps to manage the situation and keeps you in check.

4. Blow Minds with Your Presentation

Allow your personality to shine through during your performance. Get the casting directors on the edges of their seats with your laudable delivery.

Whether you are embracing action, showing a variety of emotions, finding love, playing opposites, or delivering your character's objectives doesn't matter. All that matters is how well you execute roles. Put on a show that gets you the role.

5. Be Open to Suggestions and Feedback

It's your first audition and it might not be perfect. Therefore, the casting team may have some comments to give you. Be open to what they have to say as it will come in handy. Every piece of advice or feedback you act on takes you a step closer to acing your next audition.

How to Prepare for an Audition

Preparation can make or break your chances of success at an audition. It is the tone setter. Want to start your audition on the right foot? Below are steps you can take to set yourself up for success.

1. Pay Close Attention to the Breakdown

The more attentive you are to your breakdown, the greater your chances of seeing the bigger picture beneath the surface. By doing this, you get to understand the character's description, requires skills (accents, gestures, singing), and the tone of the project. With this understanding, you can easily tailor your performance to fit into the role.

2. Handpick the Right Material

If you will be presenting a monologue, go for a unique one that suits the style of the production you're going for and stays within the time limit. However, if it's a musical audition, it's best to choose songs that are ideal for the role and showcase your vocal range.

3. Practice Without Becoming Robotic

You want to be prepared for whatever your auditions may throw at you. At times, it feels like you've probably rehearsed to the point where it feels like second nature to you. That's impressive.

Nonetheless, amidst all of the perfection birthed from your continuous practice, ensure you come across as natural when you perform your art. Create room for clear storytelling, emotional truth, and flexibility for direction.

4. Know Your Lines

In most auditions, cold reads — where you read a script on the spot with little or no rehearsals — have become a thing.

When this happens, you are expected to go with the flow, listen to instructions, interpret the scene, and bring the character to life. Getting a hang of your lines as quickly as possible can be a lifesaver in moments like this.

On the other hand, you might be given sides or script excerpts in advance, learn them well, and exceed expectations when it's time for your presentation. This reflects your professionalism and respect for the casting directors' time.

The Ideal Etiquette for the Audition Room

How you act immediately you step into the room is as important as your performance delivery. Hence, you need to make every second count.

1. Be Polite and Professional

Your audition starts once you walk into the premises, and every gesture counts, including how you greet the creative team. Ultimately, when you step into the audition, greet the panel confidently with your head held high.

Smile and maintain eye contact to establish a connection with your auditioners. As the audition builds up, there may be times when you need to follow instructions carefully, but do well to go with the flow. In addition, don't jump the gun. Always wait for the cue from the panel before delivering your lines

2. Go Hard with Your Choices

Don't play small during the auditions. Go all out to display your authenticity, creativity, and confidence. These are the things casting directors look out for.

It's important to note that casting decisions are often dependent on factors you can't control. So, enjoy the audition experience and express yourself without holding back. Stay 100% committed to the choices you've made during your preparation and double down on your execution.

3. Take Directions Well

At certain times, you might need to make slight changes to your delivery or receive suggestions to apply in real time. See this as an opportunity to adapt quickly, listen carefully, and stay open-minded.

If you are asked to deliver your audition differently, it is a mostly a positive sign that they are interested in seeing how versatile you can be. Moments like these are often more significant than your initial read.

4. Don't Make a Meal Out of Your Mistakes

Mistakes happen. If you make a mistake, don't break the moment and allow it define you. Instead, keep going and stay in character. Don't apologize for the mistakes. Make lemonades out of the lemons.

How to Build Your Resume as a Performer

Your resume is your professional snapshot. It should include your relevant experience and other information, like your:

• Acting credits in film, theatre, and TV shows
• Contact information
• Special skills
• Trainings

Final Words

Persistence, preparation, and resilience are undoubtedly the major ingredients for success in finding auditions and delivering the goods. Whether you're aiming for Equity or Non-equity jobs, your auditions will always serve as ladders for your growth and talent displays.

So, start where you are and keep refining your craft. Rejections may come, but you'll take it on the chin, bounce back stronger, and knock on more audition room doors. Ultimately, your consistency, dedication, obvious approach to auditions, and patience will be rewarded.

We're rooting for you every step of the way. However, if you're still not sure how you can gain visibility as a non-Equity performer at Equity auditions, you will find this guide helpful. Cheers!

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