Audition Advice | Sarah Clarke
As part of our Audition 101 series, we interviewed some professional dancers at Ballet 5:8, asking for audition advice based on their personal audition experiences. So far, we shared interviews with Company Artist Elizabeth Marlin and Solo Artist Samuel Opsal.
The third interview we're sharing is with Company Artist Sarah Clarke.
School of Ballet 5:8: How has your audition experience grown you as a dancer?
Sarah: I was 11 years old when I attended my first summer course audition. I was not prepared for the overwhelming number of nervous dancers crowding the hallways, all having perfectly slicked-back hair, stretching with whatever space they could scavenge, and carefully pinning paper numbers to their favorite leotards. It felt as if I had entered a completely different world!
My experience auditioning for summer programs has been an adventure. That audition was the first of many I attended throughout my training years. Each time I stepped into an audition I felt so small, surrounded by so many other beautiful dancers all of us desiring the same acceptance letter. Once the pianist began playing, everything was brought back into perspective. These experiences have been a crucial part of my growth as a dancer.
School of Ballet 5:8: What is one piece of advice you would give to dancers who are auditioning?
Sarah: Make sure you do your research. Familiarize yourself with the program, dress code, instructors, and their style/technique. Know who you are auditioning for.
School of Ballet 5:8: How do you handle nerves at an audition?
Sarah: The nerves are inevitable. Try your best to walk in with confidence. A healthy way of approaching an audition is to view it as a two-way audition. They are deciding if you are a good fit for the program, but you are also deciding if the program is right for you.
School of Ballet 5:8: What is one word of encouragement you would tell your younger self at an audition?
Sarah: Don't wait for the person at the front of the room to give you permission to enjoy it!
School of Ballet 5:8: Is there anything else you would like to share?
Sarah: Attending auditions is an important aspect of becoming a well-rounded dancer. Go into it with an open mind and leave having learned something from the experience.