Postgraduate Diploma in Acting
for Stage, Screen and Radio

Audition Guidance

Audition Dates

Each year we hold first-round auditions in Cardiff, London, Manchester and Edinburgh between January and March for entry in September of the same year. 

In Cardiff, we normally hold auditions on Fridays throughout this period, and daily auditions across two weeks in mid February. 

The first auditions for entry in September 2009 will take place on 16th January 2009.  Provisional dates for auditions in other cities are:

  • London - Monday 9 March & Tuesday 10 March
  • Edinburgh - Monday 16 March
  • Manchester - Monday 23 March

Once we receive your application form we will use the information you have provided to arrange a suitable audition date for you.  We have a limited number of audition days within which to accommodate a large number of applicants who may apply from September onwards, and spaces are filled on a first come, first served basis. Please note that, whilst we try our best to accommodate your availability and preferred audition location, we are not always able to do so.

Your Audition

Acting candidates should prepare two contrasting speeches lasting no longer than two minutes each. One piece should be Elizabethan or Jacobean and the other modern/contemporary (20th/21st century).

Candidates will be taken as a group to a rehearsal room where they will be invited to perform their chosen pieces, in turn, to an audition panel comprised of members of the acting programme staff and external, professional practitioners. Please note that your speech may be interrupted if it runs over two minutes.

We will inform you in writing whether we are able to invite you to attend a recall audition.

Recall Auditions

Candidates attending recall auditions are required to undertake further preparation. You should prepare an additional two contrasting pieces in accordance with the guidelines above. You should also learn any one song, which you should be prepared to sing unaccompanied. You do not need to imitate the original artist. The song may be in any language but should last no longer than two minutes.

You will work with the panel on material which may include improvisation, your original speeches and previously unseen texts. You will also participate in a movement workshop, a singing workshop and a short, informal interview.

We will inform you in writing whether we are able to offer you a place.

Feedback

Due to the large numbers of candidates attending auditions, we regret that we are unable to provide individual feedback. The decision of the panel is final.

Advice to Candidates

The College places a high value on:

  • The ability to 'inhabit' a character - to understand and reveal their complex psychology
  • Willingness to take risks, but to exercise some sophistication in their execution
  • Generosity in working with others
  • Technical and expressive ability in voice, movement and singing
  • An active interest in, and knowledge of, theatre and related performing arts
  • Life experience - we encourage applicants from a wide age range
  • Applications from candidates whose first or second language is Welsh

We also make the following specific recommendations:

  • Make sure that you are secure in remembering the pieces you select
  • Avoid over-used speeches. If you have selected a piece from an audition book, the chances are that the panel may have seen the piece performed many times before
  • Avoid speeches by characters much older than yourself, unless the sentiments within it are universal
  • Avoid using an accent other than your own, unless you are absolutely secure in it
  • Avoid telephone speeches
  • Avoid using props unless absolutely essential
  • Wear appropriate clothing which will allow you to move easily and comfortably
  • Enjoy the experience!