2025 Acting Scholarship Auditions

General Information:

The Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship Auditions provide an opportunity for student actors to present a short audition package and receive feedback from respondents.

The Scholarship Auditions are open to all students both nominated by a production respondent or self-nominated.

Please note that all interested students must register for the conference online by Friday, January 3, 2025 by 11:59 PM.

Registration Information

Please follow this link to register for the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship Auditions. The link is for both show nominated and self-nominated participants.

https://airtable.com/appQqWf9DgGEwrmnf/shrkkclmZPQaQpjQN

More information on when and where the audition will take place will be distributed through email as well as at the Irene Ryan Kick Off event on Tuesday evening after the conference’s Welcome Ceremony.

For further information, please see below.

What to Prepare:

  • 1 monologue of your choosing
  • 1 scene (2-person scene)
  • Total time allotted to perform both is 4 minutes.
  • Slate is not included in those 4 minutes

What to Expect:

  • There will be 3 rounds.
    • Preliminary Round
    • Semi-Final Round
    • Final Round
  • Each round will be performed live at the conference.
  • All students who perform will receive feedback.
  • All who register may participate in the Preliminary Round
  • 32 students will be selected to participate in the Semi-Final Round
  • 16 students will be selected to participate in the Final Round
  • Those will be announced via social media once the round and feedback sessions are completed.

What Else Do I Need to Know:

  • The process is exactly the same for those who were show-nominated and for those who self-nominated.
  • Both the participant and the scene partner must be registered for the conference and have paid the conference fee.
  • Participants may partner with one other, but they must use a different scene for each audition package.

Selecting Material and Criteria for Evaluation:

Choose material (one monologue and one scene) that both showcases your talent AND you have fun performing. When rehearsing, consider the criteria that will be used to evaluate the auditions. 

  • Ability to urgently pursue strong, clear objectives.
  • Ability to partner.
  • Ability to make varied, specific and bold acting choices.
  • Mastery of an expressive and flexible vocal and physical instrument.
  • Demonstration of facility with language and a clear understanding of the text.
  • Ability to demonstrate range and contrast.

Material Selection Guidelines:

1. Carefully choose one monologue and one scene totaling no more than 4 minutes, not including your slate.

2. Ensure your pieces are sourced from published plays; self-written material is not permissible.

3. Verify that the publishing company allows performance of the selected play; contact them for clarifications if needed.

4. Prioritize material that authentically reflects your own experiences while respecting the playwright’s casting intentions.

KCACTF has relationships with many publishers/rights-holders, and very specific guidelines exist on what materials can and cannot be used for the Irene Ryan competition. Follow this LINK and look under “Royalties and Permissions” to determine whether your selection can be performed at KCACTF. https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/opportunities-for-artists/pre-professional-artist-training/kcactf/performance/ryans/irene-ryan-auditions-tips–suggestions/

Key Considerations for a Successful Audition:

1. Define Your Objective: It is imperative to establish a clearly defined objective for your audition. Understand precisely what you intend to elicit from your audience, whether it be another individual or yourself in the case of a soliloquy. Determine the desired response or action you seek upon the conclusion of your performance.

2. Impart Stakes and Urgency: Convey a profound sense of stakes and urgency in your presentation. Articulate to yourself the significance of delivering your message promptly and the consequences that may ensue should your objectives remain unmet. Allow this sense of purpose to serve as a motivating force, propelling you towards the achievement of your goals.

3. Comprehend Your Scene Partner: Cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the individual with whom you are engaging. Ascertain their identity and evaluate your emotions towards them within the immediate context. Furthermore, keenly observe and adapt to their responses as you engage in dialogue.

4. Embrace Fearless Auditioning: Approach your audition with unwavering commitment. Envision it as if you were performing the climactic scene of a play, rather than merely commencing an opening act. In short, relish the experience, for your enthusiasm will resonate with your audience and enhance their enjoyment.

Wishing you a successful audition and may your participation in the festival be thoroughly rewarding!