Cold Reading, part 2

Cold reading in an audition

Even if you don't get your script sides until the moment before you're supposed to audition, try to take the time to read the script entirely through at least once. This way, you'll at least know what the scene is about, who the characters are, and which way the conversation will go. Don't attempt to memorize all the lines, just get a general overview of the scene.

If you have more time with the script, it might be a good idea to memorize your first and last lines. That way you will enter the scene already immersed in the character and leave the same way. With cold reading auditions, the personality of the character is more important than the lines.

Some tips on holding the script

While how you hold the script during a cold reading isn't nearly important as how you portray the character, it can have an effect on how you read the lines and how the Casting Director sees you.

The best way I've found to hold the script is in your off hand (left if you're right handed and vice-versa) at about chest level. If it's too high you'll be hiding your face and if it's too low you'll constantly have to bring it up in order to read it. And because it's in your off hand, you're free to gesture and point as you normally would.

Try to avoid waving the script around or using it as a prop. You don't have to pretend it doesn't exist, just try to think of it as a natural extension of your body. The less attention you draw to the fact you have a script in your hand, the better.

In closing

A cold reading audition naturally goes much slower and feels more awkward than a normal scene. Don't worry about it. The Casting Director doesn't expect you to know the lines... she just wants to see what kind of personality you bring to the character.

You may be the greatest actor in the world, but without at least some proficiency in the art of cold reading, you'll never get past your first film audition. So include it in your training and you'll be able to improve your auditions and start booking jobs in no time!

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