Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to audition and select suitable performers for screen productions.
It applies to individuals who work with a high degree of autonomy on relatively large-scale screen productions that require a full cast of performers. They undertake detailed analysis of scripts to develop character profiles that are used as the basis for auditions. They apply high-level analytical skills and collaborate with directors and key production personnel in the selection of suitable performers.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare for auditions | 1.1 Clarify production requirements and timelines in consultation with relevant production personnel 1.2 Develop comprehensive character profiles from script materials to facilitate selection of appropriate performers 1.3 Assess resumes of performers who may match character profiles 1.4 Schedule and advertise auditions at different times to maximise availability of potential performers 1.5 Confirm whether applicants receive audition information prior to, or at auditions 1.6 Arrange venue and facilities for conducting auditions and recording performers |
2. Audition performers | 2.1 Establish performance criteria to be used in assessing performers at audition 2.2 Create an environment conducive to achieving optimum performance from those auditioning 2.3 Brief performers on required characterisation and scene context to assist them in their performance 2.4 Check performers provide relevant slate details for audition tapes, including the part they are auditioning for 2.5 Allow performers sufficient time and repeats to develop character and refine their performance 2.6 Provide feedback to performers during and after auditions |
3. Select performers | 3.1 Review screen tests and notes to determine most suitable performers for production 3.2 Consider performers' ability to take direction, interact with other performers and their previous work in making selections 3.3 Arrange additional auditions or call backs as required 3.4 Select performers for required roles and notify all applicants of audition outcomes 3.5 Organise to contract selected performers in collaboration with relevant production personnel |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
use scripts as the basis for compiling character profiles
manage scheduling and advertising of auditions, and distribution of information to applicants
communicate character requirements clearly to performers auditioning for roles
conduct auditions in a way that brings out the best in performers
assess and select performers based on established performance criteria
notify unsuccessful applicants and complete contractual arrangements with successful applicants.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
outline different ways actors approach character development
describe techniques for creating an audition environment conducive to optimum performance by performers
explain circumstances where call backs, additional auditions and screen tests would be used
identify typical problems that arise during the auditioning and selection process and briefly describe solutions.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to:
audition venues and equipment
screen productions for which auditions are required
script materials
performers.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.2, 1.3, 3.1 | Interprets and analyses complex text to establish and review requirements |
Writing | 1.2 | Documents detailed descriptive text to inform work role |
Numeracy | 1.4, 2.5 | Performs calculations needed to estimate timeframes for scheduling and performances |
Oral Communication | 1.1, 2.3, 2.6, 3.4 | Participates in a verbal exchange of ideas and solutions, and uses detailed and clear language to clarify and present information according to requirements and audience |
Navigate the world of work | 2.2, 2.5, 3.3, 3.5 | Observes practices and protocols for managing auditions and outcomes within given timeframes |
Interact with others | 1.1, 2.3, 2.6, 3.4 | Establishes and uses effective communication practice and protocols to conduct discussions and provide feedback with production personnel and connect with performers to convey requirements Facilitates an environment where performers can demonstrate their skill to the best of their ability |
Get the work done | 1.3-1.6, 2.1, 2.4, 2.5, 3.1-3.4 | Organises and sequences own workload and that of others involved in preparation for auditions, and manages required communication Analyses and compares audition performances using established criteria and some intuitive judgements to make final choices |
Sectors
Media and Entertainment Production – Directing