Audition Advice | Samuel Opsal
As part of our Audition 101 series, we interviewed some professional dancers at Ballet 5:8 and share their insight from their personal audition experiences.
Last time, Company Artist Elizabeth Marlin shared with us. Next up, we have Solo Artist Samuel Opsal.
School of Ballet 5:8: How has your audition experience grown you as a dancer?
Sam: The process of auditioning has helped me find more consistency under pressure and persevere through rejection. There will always be auditions where you do not achieve the desired result and it is important to use those experiences as an opportunity to learn and grow instead of letting doubt and feelings of inadequacy creep in.
School of Ballet 5:8: What is one piece of advice you would give to dancers who are auditioning?
Sam: Stay calm and don't let the nerves take over. Everyone watching wants to see what you are capable of, which is not shown if you are a frazzled bundle of nerves!
School of Ballet 5:8: How do you handle nerves at an audition?
Sam: I like to think of taking an audition just like I take a class. The context and environment will add some adrenaline so rather than letting it take over, remind yourself just how many times you have taken class and learned choreography. I will note that the flip side is that when taking class it is important make sure that you are working with the same intention and clarity that you want to show during an audition.
School of Ballet 5:8: What is one word of encouragement you would tell your younger self at an audition?
Sam: Keep a positive attitude through the whole experience. Even if it seems that nothing is going right, still finishing with confidence and not dropping posture speaks volumes to anyone watching.
School of Ballet 5:8: Is there anything else you would like to share?
Sam: Don't wind yourself up too much into thinking a single audition is the sole opportunity for the rest of your life goals to be achieved. The pathway through Summer Intensives and Company auditions can be full of unexpected turns but all of the challenges can help you grow as an artist.