Items for an "audition bag"

[Kenji]

I'm writing an article for Production Heads and thought I'd ask some of you for your thoughts.

What are things you think would be ideal to have in an "Audition Bag" of sorts. Things you want to bring with you.

To start off as basics would be:

• Multiple copies of your headshot and resume
• Water (keep yourself hydrated)
• Granola bar or snack food (in case you were in a rush and not able to eat. You don't want to have your stomache grumbling during an audition.)

What else, and why?

[Joci]

Ooh...this is great!

Some things I make sure are with me:

-Comb/brush (to fix hair after transportation)
-Makeup (of course for the ladies- and for the same reasons as above- touchups)
-The applicable wardrobe needed for the audition
-Prop (if needed for the audition)
-Sides (study again before going in, and to bring in to audition room)
-Measurements/agent's contact info- if not memorized, to fill out signin sheets

[nix]

Hi kenji
I'd add to the list...
All your agents contact details and all your personal details
ie:measurements /info. Adress and phone details (especially if your new to vancouver make sure all with you) for commercials anyways.

Change for parking meter, drink/snack machine, bus fare or taxi fare if your running late or bus is late and you have to grab a taxi.

If the character you're auditioning for requires a strong emotion maybe something that can trigger that for you. Piece of music,photo,object, to help you get there.

And otherwise just the confidence in yourself that you are at the audition in the first place because they believe you can play the role.

Hope that helps
N.

[Casper07]

In addition:

-Pens
-Highlighters
-Paper Pad
-Mirror (in the make up kit)

Enjoy the sun!!!

[Michael Coleman]

Clipboard - world's best universal prop.

[Roo.]

On the make-up note..always handy to have some oil-blotting sheets (or even extra napkin/paper towel) so you don't look really shiny. This is especially a good tip men can use as they don't have their own powder kits. Typically.
Say you rushed to an audition, or even just had a lengthy trip to the location and you're starting to sweat. You are then made to sit in an excessively hot waiting room or hallway, and maybe you're nervous. Right upon entering the audition room, you can give your skin a quick blot so you don't burn the director's retinas in person, and later the producer's on camera.

[Roo.]

Oh, and ladies..HAIRSPRAY. Especially to those who have side bangs like yours truly..an amazing thing to have!!

[Joci]

Oil-blotting sheets are great. Another trick I find handy is clear gel mascara- instead of using it on my eyelashes, I use it to tame any fly-aways in my hair.

[Roo.]

AH that's a killer idea! Damn them stray hairs. I need to hi-ho to a pharmasave..hah. Thanks girrrrl

[GaryGill]

- Sides

- An extra pair of sides with only my dialogue which I use during the audition. I Don't know why but I just like using sides with only my lines during the audition, maybe it cause it makes it so I have to listen to the other actor or it's easier to pull lines off the page, either way it works for me. When it's time to discuss something script related then I pull out the "Real" sides. I got no clue if anyone else does this lol

[Rocky Anderson]

Great list people! I always like to have some gum or mints. Just remember to spit out your gum before you go in. Also, turning off your phone before entering the waiting room is a good idea.

[Wide eyed]

And underarm deodorant!
Sometimes you can forget to put it on in the morning or sometimes you might need to reapply.
Hopefully your acting and your body odor will never stink.