Should you even use props? When should you use them? Is miming better?
One thing we know for certain is that props should be the least of your worries in a self tape audition.
You’ve heard most CDs say things like, “props should enhance, not distract” and let that drive your decision.
But is it better to just mime something instead of risking a distraction?
Not always.
Many times miming can be just as distracting (if not more) than using the actual prop and it an actually take us out of the scene more than if you had just used the prop sparingly and minimally.
Some DO’s & DON’T’s to follow:
DON'T
– Use a prop just to use a prop. If the scene is set in a restaurant but the dialogue doesn’t pertain to you eating/drinking something, don’t use a prop
– Make the scene about the prop. This is your audition, not the wine glass’
– Let the prop cover your face or let it make any noise
DO
– Use a simple prop if the dialogue repeatedly refers to the object
– Take a bite of food if you need to. Chewing food is more watchable than chewing air 😉
– Use an actual cell phone instead of your hand for phone call scenes
What are some out-of-the-norm props you’ve used in auditions?
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