January through April is the exciting, nerve-wracking, and crazy period that actors refer to as “audition season”. During these months, the majority of the auditions for the entire year take place. This trend is not limited to major theater hubs like New York City and London. In fact, this trend is primarily driven by summer stock theater.

Throughout the United States, many local theaters only operate during the summer due to budget constraints, tourism patterns, and scheduled programing. As a result, casting directors often hire actors to play in one or several shows during their summer season (summer stock), causing there to be an influx of auditions at the beginning of the year.

These auditions are frequently held in New York and at each local theater. Notices are
typically posted online first. Playbill, Actors Access, and Backstage tend to be the more popular sites to access auditions. Additionally, smaller theater communities are able to take advantage of social media to post notices.

However, in a new technological age where self-tapes and virtual submission are
becoming commonplace, audition season is not as clearly defined as it once was. Often shows need emergency replacements due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, leading to a steady stream of audition notices throughout the year. There is also a smaller influx of auditions around August because theaters are auditioning actors for their holiday season. However, January through April tend to be where the most auditions take place.

This time of year is also when educational and community theater starts to pick up
because it is the beginning of the second semester. In order for there to be a spring
musical, there must be a winter audition.

To add to the list, this time of year is also pilot season. This is the film equivalent to the
theater audition season. It is when new television shows/movies are being cast. Many actors are involved in both theater and film, so this is an incredibly busy time of year.

As you prepare for this season, remember to find joy in the audition process. Auditions are opportunities to showcase your talents and demonstrate to casting how you could be a good fit in their project. Remember that this is a time for opportunity and growth, and that this time of year is just another chance to perform. Celebrate the journey as much as the destination.