A while back I made a Pinterest board to motivate and inspire my acting tendencies. I was going through a bit of a performance funk, and these quotes helped me reset why I love this art so much. And with fall auditions coming up for university students, I thought I’d pick my favorites from that board and share them with you. Get those creative juices going.

“Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.” – Christian D. Larson

In this case, that obstacle is auditions. Auditioning can be terrifying, because you’re putting all of yourself out in front of strangers. But know that they are rooting for you to do well. They want good actors so they can cast their show. This is a great article about just that. And you’ve done this before. That right there is proof that you can rock your audition. Take a deep breath and tell yourself, “I get to perform. This is the one time that I get to make every decision about my performance. This is what I love to do. I have the strength and talent to conquer this audition and show the people behind the table that I’m meant to be cast.”

“There is really only one thing that I think all actors have in common. It is dedication.” –David Patrick Green

Think about all of the work you’ve done to get as far as you have. The rehearsals, the line-memorizing, those times you acted ridiculous in front of your improv class; it all contributes to every audition and every day you perform. We all decided at some point in our lives to pursue one of the craziest and most difficult fields, and damnit, we’re gonna succeed.

“Be so good they can’t ignore you.” – Steve Martin

It doesn't matter if you are right for the role; if you perform and get their attention, you did your job. Go in there and wow them with how crazy talented you are. Know your strengths, and play them up. Know your weaknesses, and tell them to back off. A confident auditioner is a successful auditioner.

“This industry is a tough one, and it’s important for all of us to surround ourselves with people who can help us think through tough experiences.” – Helenna Santos

Your professors and directors know what you’re going through, as do your fellow actors. Ask them for help. Somewhere down the line they will need you too, and personally, watching other good artists inspires me to be a good artist. Ask for advice. So maybe that monologue isn’t quite right for you. Better to have an honest friend tell you that than a director say you weren’t cast. Your support system is one of the most important and most valuable resources for you to survive this crazy world. Use it.