Audition guidance

We want you to prepare two contemporary (post 1960) monologues, one comic and one more serious.

These can come from plays or film and TV scripts. Avoid Shakespeare monologues.

They should each be 2 minutes maximum.

Choose monologues in which the character has a clear journey and something changes for them during the course of that journey.

Read the entire play/script that the monologues come from, so you understand what happens for the character throughout. We might ask you some questions about this.

Think about what has happened prior to the scene you are performing in each monologue, and what may change throughout your monologue.

Think about who you are speaking to. This will make a big difference to how you deliver your monologue.

Find more information about the monologues in the audition process section on the BA Acting course page. This is important as it will give you tips on how to rehearse and perform your monologues.

Carry out some research on the course and think about questions that you might want to ask during your audition.

Make sure you leave plenty of time to get to Norwich. Our auditions run on a tight schedule and if you arrive late it may not be possible to see you.

Arrive early! Plan your route – check for any travel disruptions or roadworks prior to starting your journey to the University

Make sure you have all the documents you need – we will ask to see a form of photo ID on arrival.

If you have completed your Level 3 qualifications such as A-levels, Foundation Diploma, Extended Diploma etc. make sure you have uploaded them to the Applicant Portal.

Eat at least half an hour before and bring water with you.

Dress in clothes you can move in and don’t wear jewellery that dangles.

If you have any additional support needs for the audition make sure you let us know in advance, you can email admissions@norwichuni.ac.uk.

Our audition begins with a group physio-vocal workshop. Be prepared to fully participate.

This part of the audition will last approximately 30 minutes.

This will be followed by an individual audition, which will last no longer than 20 minutes.

You will perform both of your monologues.  Be prepared to then work on one of your monologues with some direction and notes from the auditioners. Be open and curious to explore the direction suggested.

Following your monologue exploration, the auditioners will have a chat with you about the course and why you think it might be right for you.

The auditioners might want to talk about something you have written on your application form. Re-familiarise yourself with your personal statement and be prepared to elaborate on anything you’ve said.

Listen carefully to the questions and don’t be afraid to take some time to think about the answer or ask the auditioner to rephrase the question if you don’t understand it.

Take the opportunity to talk to Ambassadors, who are current students on the course, and other applicants. This is the time to find out about student life in Norwich!

You must record two monologues before your online audition.

Choose two contrasting contemporary monologues (post 1960). Please avoid Shakespeare monologues.

Find more information about the monologues in the audition process section on the BA Acting course page. This is important as it will give you tips on how to rehearse and perform your monologues.

Carry out some research on the course and think about questions that you might want to ask during your audition.

Check the date and time of your audition. If you are living overseas make sure you know what the time difference is.

Send the recording of each of your two monologues to admissions@norwichuni.ac.uk at least 2 working days before your audition.

First, ensure that your background is plain, and you have no personal items or ornaments in view such as family photos.  Use a plain background, such as a wall.

Check the positioning of your camera is at the appropriate distance to show you if you are standing or sitting.

Whether you’re using a cell phone, DSLR camera, or another high-quality device, make sure you orient your video camera in landscape (horizontally) not portrait (vertically).

Choose a room with natural daylight if possible, ensuring the window is behind the camera and not behind you. Otherwise, you will be in silhouette. If you are unable to use a room with a window, or the room is still too dark, place a lamp behind the camera to light you.

Try to find a quiet place to record so that the microphone does not pick up any background noise. A room with softer furnishings is ideal as it will absorb unwanted sound more easily.

We will contact you to request your monologue recordings.

Triple check your video before submission. Check technical aspects too, that the audio and visuals are fine.

Once we have these, we then arrange an audition for you.

Ensure that you have a plain background.

Dress as you would for an in-person audition. Wear clothing that is simple and plain and does not distract the viewer. Don’t obscure your face with clothing, accessories etc.

Ensure that you orient your camera to landscape style.

Audition in a quiet place to avoid interruptions.

Test your camera, microphone and internet connection and that you can access the meeting in plenty of time before the audition.

You should join the Microsoft Teams meeting at least 5 minutes before the start of your audition.

During the online interview, you will be asked to perform one of your chosen monologues. You will then be asked to work on one of your monologues with some direction and notes from the auditioners. Be open and curious to explore the direction suggested.

Following your monologue exploration, the auditioners will have a chat with you about the course and why you think it might be right for you. Listen carefully to the questions and don’t be afraid to take some time to think about the answer or ask the auditioner to rephrase the question if you don’t understand it.

The auditioners might want to talk about something you have written on your application form. Re-familiarise yourself with your personal statement and be prepared to elaborate on anything you’ve said.

The audition will last no longer than 20 minutes in total.

Don’t panic if there are technical issues during your audition. If you have provided a phone number then we will try calling you.