Where do auditions actually happen? For many new actors and models, that is the first big question. The answer has changed a lot in recent years. Today an audition might take place in a casting office, a rented studio, a hotel ballroom, a theater, or your own living room. This guide explains the most common audition locations, what to expect at each one, and how to find opportunities near you.
Casting Offices and Studios
Professional casting directors often hold sessions in their own offices or in rented casting studios. These spaces usually have a waiting area with a sign in sheet and a small room with a camera, lights, and a chair for the reader. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, bring your headshot and resume, and be ready to slate on camera. Our walkthrough of your first audition, minute by minute shows exactly how a session flows.
Your Home: Self Tape Auditions
Self tapes are now the most common first round audition for film, television, and commercials. Casting sends sides and instructions, and you record and upload your read by a deadline. That means your home is one of your most important audition locations. A quiet room, a plain background, good light from a window or ring light, and a steady phone are enough. Follow our guide on filming a great audition on just your phone. Voice actors work the same way from a home booth, which you can build cheaply using our bedroom closet voice over guide.
Virtual Live Auditions
Some casting directors prefer live video calls so they can give direction in real time. Treat a video audition like an in person session. Set up your camera at eye level, test your connection, close other apps, and have a reader on hand if possible.
Theaters and Rehearsal Spaces
Stage productions usually audition in the theater itself or a rehearsal hall. You may perform on stage for a director seated in the house, so project your voice and use the space. Musicals typically include an accompanist, so bring clearly marked sheet music. For material, see how to choose and perform an audition monologue.
Open Calls at Hotels, Malls, and Event Venues
Open calls for reality shows, large productions, modeling searches, and talent showcases are often held in hotel conference rooms, convention centers, or shopping centers so they can handle crowds. Expect long lines, a registration form, a quick photo, and a brief interview or read. Bring water, a snack, your materials, and patience. For unscripted shows, read how to get cast on a reality TV show.
A word of caution: legitimate open calls are free to attend. If an event requires you to pay to audition, or pressures you to buy expensive photo packages on the spot, walk away. Our guide on how to spot a fake casting call explains what to look for.
Modeling Agencies
Many modeling and talent agencies hold scheduled open calls at their offices, often on a set weekday. You bring digitals and your measurements, and an agent meets you briefly. Some agencies accept online submissions only. Check each agency’s website for current instructions before showing up. Our guide to model digitals and comp cards explains what to bring.
Schools, Universities, and Film Programs
College film and theater departments cast student projects constantly, and many welcome actors from the community. These are excellent places to gain experience and footage for a reel. Look for casting boards in theater departments and student film groups online.
Regional Markets and Where Production Happens
Major production hubs in the United States include Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Chicago, and New Mexico, along with growing activity in many other states that offer production incentives. You do not have to live in a big city to start. Commercials, corporate videos, student films, and regional theater happen almost everywhere. If you live in the greater Philadelphia and South Jersey area, see our page on Cherry Hill acting and modeling auditions.
Your state film commission website is one of the best free resources for finding productions in your area. Many post lists of upcoming projects and local casting companies.
On Set: Background Casting
Background actors are often booked from photos and then go straight to set, which may be a street, a restaurant, or a studio lot. The “audition” is your submission. Learn the process in how to become a background actor.
Tips for Any Audition Location
- Confirm the address, time, and parking the day before.
- Bring printed headshots and resumes even if you submitted them online.
- Pack your sides, a pen, water, and a phone charger.
- Bring a parent or guardian if you are under 18.
- Share your location with a friend when attending an unfamiliar venue.
- Never go to a private residence for an audition unless you have verified the production and bring someone with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are most auditions in person or online?
Most first round film, TV, and commercial auditions are now self tapes. Theater, modeling, and callbacks are more likely to be in person.
Do I have to move to Los Angeles or New York?
No. Many actors build credits in regional markets first. Self taping also lets you audition for projects in other cities.
How do I find auditions near me?
Check reputable casting platforms, your state film commission, local theater companies, nearby universities, and licensed agencies. For a full overview of audition types, see our guide to acting auditions and modeling auditions.