What to expect in a dance audition: a guide for urban dancers

What is a dance audition?

A dance audition is your chance to showcase your skills and prove you’re the right fit for a professional dance gig. The judges are there to evaluate your talent, adaptability, and stage presence to decide who gets the role(s).

Many auditions start with an online pre-selection process. You may be asked to submit a motivation letter along with a dance video that highlights your abilities. Based on these submissions, the judges narrow down the candidates and invite a select group to the in-person audition.

Once you arrive at the audition, expect to be placed in a room with other dancers, where you'll take on a series of tasks and challenges. These might include:

• Learning and performing a choreography on the spot.
• Freestyling or improvising to test your creativity.
• Choreographing a solo to showcase your unique style.

In some cases, you may also have to perform individually in front of the judges. They won’t just be watching your moves: they will also evaluate your posture, effort, confidence, and overall stage presence.

At the end of the day, auditions aren’t just about skills. They’re about how well you fit the role, your energy, and how you carry yourself. So bring your A-game, stay confident, and make every moment count!

How to join a dance audition

If you’re serious about landing a dance audition, you’ll need to actively search for opportunities. They won’t always come to you. Luckily, the internet is packed with listings for all kinds of gigs, from theater productions and film projects to music videos and commercial dance shows.

Here’s where to look:

• Theater companies, film production agencies, and artist management teams often post open auditions.
• Dance agencies can help connect you with exclusive auditions you might not find on your own.

Many dancers apply to a dance agency for ongoing opportunities. However, agencies usually have their own audition or application process. To get accepted, you may need to submit a dance résumé, a professional dance video, or even audition in person.

Once you're signed with an agency, they will actively scout auditions that match your style and skillset. In return, you typically pay a small fee for their support and connections.

What to expect in a dance audition

At a dance audition, judges are assessing your skills, adaptability, and overall fit for the role you're auditioning for. The audition format depends on the type of project. Below we give you an overview of what to expect for every type of dance audition.

Theater & creative productions

If the audition is for a theater piece or creative project, expect a variety of tasks designed to test your abilities as a versatile dancer. These may include:

• Learning & performing a choreography on the spot.
• Choreographing your own sequence to showcase creativity.
• Improvising a solo to demonstrate musicality and adaptability.

Judges want to see if you can quickly absorb direction and use your dance skills in dynamic, creative ways.

Auditions for music artist shows

If you’re auditioning for a show with a music artist, the focus is often on how well you can pick up choreography. After all, this is crucial for backup dancers. However, some auditions may still test your improvisation skills in case something unexpected happens on stage, like a sudden technical issue requiring quick adaptation.

Being able to stay composed and adjust on the spot is a major plus in the industry!

Audition length

The more versatile the role, the longer the audition process:

• For bigger productions, auditions can last multiple days (2-4 rounds), where dancers are gradually eliminated.
• For smaller roles, auditions may wrap up within a few hours.

What else are judges looking for?

Beyond your dance ability, judges pay attention to:

• Your attitude & effort. Are you engaged and giving your best?
• Your focus & professionalism. Can you perform under pressure?
• How you interact with others. Are you respectful and adaptable?

Talent alone won’t secure the role. Your energy, work ethic, and personality play a big role in making a lasting impression. Stay sharp, be adaptable, and bring your best self to the audition!

Below you can watch an example of a choreography by the Royal Family.

What to bring to a dance audition

A dance audition can be unpredictable, so being well-prepared is key. Pack your bag carefully, so you are ready for any scenario. Here is everything you need:

• Pen & notepad. You may need to take notes during the audition.
• Towel. Stay fresh and presentable by wiping away sweat.
• Medical supplies. Bring muscle ointment (like tiger balm), bandages, painkillers, and any personal medications.
• Extra dance clothes. Pack backup outfits in different styles and colors, in case of wardrobe changes or malfunctions.
• Your resume & portfolio. Include your dance experience, headshots, and action photos in a neat folder.
• Snacks & water. Stay energized and hydrated throughout the day.
• Confidence & positive energy. You’ve prepared for this: step in with full confidence and own the room!

With the right preparation, you will be all audition-ready!

How to prepare for a dance audition

Preparing for a dance audition starts with understanding exactly what you’re auditioning for. Research the organization or company behind the audition, and find out:

• What type of gig is it? (theater, commercial, tour, etc.)
• What urban dance styles will be required?
• Are there existing materials available online? (choreography, past performances) 

Get ahead of the competition

Here are some tips to get ahead of the competition:

• Check if the choreography from the show is available online. If so, learn it in advance! There’s a good chance you will have to perform it at the audition. Being familiar with the material will put you one step ahead of other dancers.
• Dress appropriately. Research past productions and match the company’s style. However, comfort is key. Wear something that allows you to move freely.
• Stay in peak physical shape.
• Get at least 8 hours of sleep and rest properly in the days before.

Be early & ready to go

Arrive early to give yourself enough time to warm up and mentally prepare. When the audition starts, you will already be loose, focused, and ready to give it your all!

With the right preparation, you will step into the audition room confident, prepared, and ahead of the game!

Dance audition tips

Beyond talent, your attitude and professionalism play a huge role in your success. A positive and respectful presence makes you stand out. Not just as a dancer, but as someone people want to work with. Here are key reminders to bring your best self to the audition:

• Be on time. Or better yet, early. Arriving ahead of schedule gives you time to settle in, warm up, and mentally prepare.
• Respect everyone involved. Treat judges, staff, and fellow dancers with courtesy and professionalism.
• Maintain positive energy. Keep your emotions in check. Don’t let stress, frustration, or nerves show. Confidence and composure go a long way!
• Be coachable. Listen actively, take direction well, and show that you can adapt and improve quickly.
• Use the opportunity to network. Use the audition to connect with other dancers, choreographers, and industry professionals. The more people you know, the more doors will open for future opportunities.
• Be in top shape. Physically and mentally prepare to give your best performance.
• Do your research. Know what’s expected of you. Study the company, the role, and the audition format to walk in fully prepared.

A great attitude combined with strong skills makes you memorable and desirable in the industry. Show up as the dancer they want to work with!

What happens after the audition?

Once the audition is over, the judges review each dancer’s performance, attitude, and overall fit for the gig. They then select the final cast and notify all participants, usually via email or phone within 48 hours.

Receiving the results

If you get the gig: congratulations! You will receive details about rehearsals, contracts, and next steps.

If you don’t get selected: don’t be discouraged! Many factors influence casting, and it doesn’t always come down to talent alone.

Decide if the gig is right for you

An audition isn’t just for the judges. You are also evaluating whether the gig is a good fit for you. If the work atmosphere wasn’t ideal or you didn’t connect with the choreography, you can always decline the offer.

Using feedback to improve

The person delivering the results may also provide personal feedback on your audition. Take it as constructive criticism, not a personal rejection. Use it to refine your skills, improve your approach, and grow as a performer.

With the right mindset and continuous improvement, it won’t be long before you land your spot in the cast!

Improve your dance skills

Preparing for a dance audition means mastering the required styles, and MyGrooveGuide is the perfect place to sharpen your urban dance skills. With online classes in popping, hip-hop, house dance, and breaking, taught by top industry professionals, you can train anytime, anywhere, without the high cost and time commitment of studio classes. Elevate your skills, gain confidence, and step into your next audition fully prepared. Start training with MyGrooveGuide today! See our overview of classes.