Picture this: You’ve just completed a tough audition class or open call. You’re sweaty, relieved, and ready to decompress—when suddenly, you’re pulled aside by the director or artistic staff for a quick chat.
Cue the nerves.
For dancers, the interview portion of an audition—whether formal or informal—can feel more intimidating than the dancing itself. After all, you’ve trained for years to show your artistry. But talking about it? That’s a whole different skill.
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to practice and prepare for potential post-audition interviews, so that when the moment comes, you speak with clarity, confidence, and authenticity.
Before you walk into any audition, you should know why you’re auditioning in the first place.
Ask yourself:
- What excites me about this company or school?
- How does their repertoire align with my strengths or interests?
- Is the location or size of the company a good fit for me?
- What would I hope to gain from this opportunity?
- Where do I see myself contributing and growing?
Knowing these answers helps you speak with intentionality—and avoids being caught off-guard if someone asks, “So why do you want to join us?”
This step is crucial—and it shows.
Take time to look into the company or school’s history, artistic leadership, style, and notable repertoire. If you’ve seen their work or know dancers who are part of the organization, reflect on how that influences your interest.
Consider sharing:
- Any connections to the company (shared training backgrounds, mutual coaches, etc.)
- Why a specific work or choreographer excites you
- How your values or artistry align with theirs
Bonus tip: Come prepared with thoughtful questions. Asking about rehearsal schedules, performance seasons, or company culture shows genuine interest and maturity.
Directors already have your headshot and resume—they want to get to know you.
Practice talking about:
- Your training background and how it’s shaped you as an artist
- Key lessons you’ve learned from mentors or past roles
- Any non-dance skills you bring to the table (teaching, social media, costume making, lighting, etc.)
BalletScout Pro Tip from Katie:
“In one interview, I was asked about my experience with social media and production. It wasn’t part of the core job—but it made me stand out. Sharing these skills can strengthen your relationship with a company and make you a more valuable team member.”
Grab a friend, coach, or mentor and do a practice run.
Common questions to rehearse:
- Why do you want to join our company/school?
- What are your short- and long-term goals?
- How do you handle correction or feedback?
- Tell us about a performance or role that was meaningful to you.
- How do you contribute to a positive company environment?
Practice answering these in a way that feels conversational—not scripted. The goal is to sound prepared, not rehearsed.
Interviews are a two-way street.
- Let the conversation flow. Don’t try to dominate it, but don’t hold back either. Be engaged, be curious, and be yourself.
- Speak with passion. Let your love for the art form come through in your answers. Talk about what drives you, what excites you, and where you want to go.
- Ask thoughtful questions. Wondering how rehearsal schedules work, how often the company tours, or what mentorship looks like? Ask! It shows you’re thinking seriously about life beyond the studio.
And always, thank the interviewer at the end for their time. Gratitude goes a long way.
Audition classes might be the heart of the hiring process—but interviews are the soul. They reveal who you are beyond your technique: your drive, your character, your mindset.
When you walk into a post-audition conversation, walk in as a whole person—not just a dancer.
Be genuine. Be informed. Be ready to talk about your dreams and how you plan to reach them.
Want more audition tips?
Subscribe to BalletScout Premium for access to professional seminars, mock interview prep, and all the tools you need to navigate your dance career with confidence.
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
TikTok