Frequently Asked Questions

Industry FAQs: For Aspiring + Working Actors

What is Actors’ Equity Association?

Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) is the labor union that represents professional stage actors and stage managers in the United States. Joining Equity gives you access to union protections like:

• Minimum salary requirements

• Health and pension benefits

• Safe working conditions

• Audition access to Equity Principal Auditions (EPAs) and Equity Chorus Calls (ECCs)

You can join by being offered an Equity contract or by earning points through the Equity Membership Candidate (EMC) Program.

Want the pros and cons of joining Equity? Listen to this podcast episode or read our breakdown on the blog.

What do I need to prepare for college theatre auditions?

College auditions for BFA/BA Musical Theatre and Acting programs typically require:

• Monologues: 1-2 contrasting monologues (60–90 seconds each)

• Songs: 1-2 contrasting musical theatre songs (usually 32 bars)

• Dance: Either a live combo or a pre-recorded video

• Pre-screens: Most top programs require video submissions before inviting you to campus

You'll also need:

• A professional theatre resume

• A headshot

• Letters of recommendation

• A solid list of schools that match your goals

Need help organizing everything? Check out our blog for college audition tips:

What is an audition book?

An audition book is a binder or digital folder that includes all your go-to audition materials. Think of it as your portable rep library. It should include:

• Multiple 16–32 bar song cuts (ballads, uptempos, legit, pop/rock, golden age, etc.)

• Monologues (comedic + dramatic)

• Full sheet music, properly marked for accompanists

• A table of contents or labeled tabs for easy access

Actor Aesthetic helps you build an audition book that actually feels like you.

Download our rep book template here.

How do auditions work in NYC?

Auditions in NYC typically fall into one of these categories:

• Equity Auditions (EPAs/ECCs) — for union members (non-union can attend as walk-ins)

• Open Calls — available to anyone, usually announced on Backstage or Playbill

• Appointments/Submissions — for actors with agents or by request

• Self-tapes — more common now post-2020, especially for tours and TV/film

Be prepared to:

• Wake up early (yes, sometimes 5 AM)

• Wait in holding rooms

• Bring your book, headshot, and resume

• Be flexible (auditions move quickly)

For a full guide to auditioning in NYC, listen to this.

How do I choose the right audition song?

A great audition song should:

• Show off your voice and range

• Reflect your type and age range

• Match the tone/era of the show you're auditioning for

• Be cut cleanly to 16–32 bars

• Not be overdone (or done just because it’s trendy)

Actor Aesthetic has curated audition song lists by:

• Voice type (soprano, mezzo, tenor, bari, etc.)

• Style (contemporary, golden age, pop/rock)

• Show vibe (Disney, jukebox, comedy, etc.)

Explore our best-selling audition song guides here.

Do I need to live in NYC to work in musical theatre?

No. While NYC is the Broadway capital, there are thriving theatre scenes in:

• Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Washington D.C., and Boston

• Regional theatres and national tours

• Cruise lines, theme parks, and international contracts

Many actors live outside of NYC and travel for contracts. That said, being in NYC does provide easier access to auditions, networking, and classes.

Want to audition in NYC without living there? Listen more on the podcast.

How can I prepare for a career in musical theatre?

Here’s how to prepare long-term:

• Train: Voice, acting, dance (and audition skills)

• Build your audition book: Diverse and personalized rep

• Get experience: Community theatre, school shows, workshops, intensives

• Network: Follow casting directors, attend masterclasses, connect with peers

• Create materials: Headshot, resume, reels, website

• Stay informed: About Equity, contracts, and the industry

Actor Aesthetic is built to support this journey, from high school to professional life.

Is a BFA in Musical Theatre worth it?

It depends on your goals. A BFA offers:

• Conservatory-style training

• Faculty connections and senior showcases

• Time to develop your craft in a focused environment

But it’s not the only path. Many successful actors:

• Attend BA programs with flexibility

• Train at studios in NYC or LA

• Learn while working professionally

Actor Aesthetic helps you weigh your options so you don’t waste time or money.

Want us to answer more questions on the blog or podcast?
Email hello@actoraesthetic.com or DM us on Instagram.