Audition Guidelines

All programs require an audition, yet the type of audition varies by program. DVD
auditions are encouraged and receive as much consideration as in-person auditions. Ask Pillow staff about audition and application procedures: 413.243.9919 or info@jacobspillow.org.

1. DVD Audition

Submit a DVD (American NTSC or European PAL) for each program to which you are applying. Recordings, at least 20 minutes in length, must be of clear quality and cued,

and must contain content relevant to the program for which you are applying. Label DVD and case with your name, program to which you are applying, and date recorded. Enclose a table of contents with descriptions, listing choreographer(s) for work(s) shown, as applicable.  Ballet, Contemporary, Cultural, and Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance DVDs should be shot no more than six months prior to submission.

Organize as follows:

1) brief verbal self-introduction;

2) sampling of basic technique presented in center floor-Ballet, Contemporary, and Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance must include grand pliés, rondes-dejambes, extensions, and balances; Cultural Traditions dancers should demonstrate a range of rhythmic structures using palmas and footwork;

3) across-the-floor progressions, including turns, jumps, and leaps;

4) all applicants should culminate the audition with one to four solo dance combinations, repertory excerpts, or improvisations, demonstrating range of dynamics, levels, and tempos. Ballet applicants must also include adagio, pirouettes, petit and grand allegro, and conclude with at least one full variation. Pointe shoes are required for females.

Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance applicants must also include two songs from published musical theatre works, using microphone on video camera only (8-minute combined
time limit).  Choreographers Lab applicants need only submit examples of work created in past two years; preferably one to three full-length work(s) with accompanying programs and artist notes.

2. In-Person Audition

See the Audition Schedule. Led by professional artists, auditions are open to advanced dancers age15 and up. Expect a fast-paced dance class with emphasis on center and across-the-floor combinations. Arrive one hour prior to the audition class to register and warm up. Professional dance attire required. Parents, teachers, and friends are not permitted to observe.

If an audition class for the program you are interested in, is not listed at one of the sites listed on the Audition Schedule, phone 413.243.9919, x17 to inquire if a special appointment with the Director of Education is possible.

 

“Dancing is something that has become more sacred and beautiful
and richer from this experience.”
– Marisa Martinez, Cultural Traditions Program

 

Students performing on the Inside/Out stage,
Photo: Christopher Duggan