​​Welcome, Parents!

​The journey of participating in theatre auditions can be exciting, but it can also be an emotional rollercoaster for your child. Whether your child is elated with the results or feeling disappointed, it's essential to provide them with the support they need to navigate these emotions. This page is designed to give you tools, techniques, and information to help your child process their feelings positively and professionally.

Understanding the Audition Process

Why a Show is Cast the Way It Is:

• Artistic Vision: Directors cast shows based on a specific vision for the production. This includes how well actors fit the characters physically, vocally, and emotionally.
• Ensemble Fit: Sometimes, a talented child may not get a particular role because the director is looking for a specific balance or chemistry within the cast.
• Growth Opportunities: Directors often consider giving roles to those who need more experience in certain areas, helping them grow as performers.

How Casting Decisions are Made:

• Audition Performance: The way a child performs during auditions, including acting, singing, and dancing abilities.
• Preparation and Professionalism: How well your child prepared for the audition and their demeanor during the process.
• Past Experience: Previous roles and performances may influence casting, but directors also look for growth potential.
• Audition Team:  A Panel of 5 Directors makes the decisions regarding casting. No single teacher is responsible for casting. It is a collaborative and democratic process.

2. Tools and Techniques to Help Your Child Process Their Emotions

• Acknowledging Their Feelings:
  • Listen Actively: Encourage your child to express how they feel, whether it's joy, disappointment, or confusion. Listening without immediately offering solutions can help them feel heard and understood.
  • Validate Their Emotions: It’s okay for your child to feel sad, frustrated, or even angry. Validating their emotions by acknowledging that it’s normal to feel that way after an audition can be comforting.
• Encouraging a Growth Mindset:
  • Focus on Growth, Not Just the Role: Help your child see auditions as learning opportunities, regardless of the outcome. Discuss what they did well and areas where they can improve for next time.
  • Set New Goals: Encourage your child to set goals for their next audition or performance. This could include improving a specific skill, learning a new piece, or working on stage presence.
• Practicing Gratitude:
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Whether they got the part or not, there are always small victories to celebrate, like learning a new song, gaining confidence, or making new friends.
  • Thank-You Notes: Encourage your child to write a thank-you note to the director or audition panel. This practice helps them focus on the positive aspects of the experience and builds professionalism.

3. How Parents Can Support Their Child Positively
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• Be a Role Model for Resilience:
  • Stay Positive: Your reaction can greatly influence how your child feels. Staying calm and positive, regardless of the outcome, teaches your child resilience.
  • Avoid Overreacting: Whether your child is cast in their dream role or not, maintaining a balanced perspective helps them do the same.

• Provide Constructive Feedback:
  • Be Specific: If your child asks for feedback, focus on specific actions they can take to improve. Avoid generalizations that can feel overwhelming or unhelpful.
  • Highlight Strengths: Always start by highlighting what your child did well before moving on to areas of improvement.

• Encourage Continued Participation:
  • Keep Them Involved: Encourage your child to stay involved in the production, even if they didn’t get the role they wanted. Being part of the ensemble or helping behind the scenes can still be a valuable experience.
  • Explore Other Opportunities: If your child is passionate about performing, look for other audition opportunities, workshops, or classes to keep them engaged and motivated.

4. Additional Resources for Parents

• Books and Articles:
  • "Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child" by John Gottman
  • "The Drama-Free Way to Handle Disappointment" – A guide on helping children manage expectations
  • "The Growth Mindset Playbook" by Annie Brock and Heather Hundley

• Workshops and Webinars:
  • Online webinars on emotional resilience and growth mindset for kids in performing arts.

• Professional Support:
  • School Counselors: Reach out to school counselors for additional support if your child is struggling emotionally after audition results.

Final Thoughts:

Remember, the audition process is a small part of your child's overall growth and development in theatre and life. By providing them with the tools and support they need, you're helping them build resilience, confidence, and a love for the craft that will last a lifetime.
Thank you for being a supportive part of your child's journey in the arts!