Sides

Definition

In the context of casting and auditions, 'sides' refer to the specific excerpts or scenes from a script that actors are asked to perform during the audition process. These selected pieces are designed to showcase an actor's ability to portray a character's emotions and dialogue, allowing casting directors to evaluate their suitability for a role. Sides are typically distributed to actors in advance of auditions, giving them time to prepare and rehearse.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sides are typically a few pages long, focusing on key moments that reflect the character's journey or relationship with others.
2. Actors may receive different sides for different roles they are auditioning for, tailored to highlight their strengths and fit for each character.
3. The choice of sides can vary significantly between productions, with some favoring emotional scenes while others may focus on comedic timing.
4. Casting directors may use the performance of the sides not only to judge acting skills but also to see how well actors take direction and adapt their performances.
5. In addition to acting, sides can help production teams assess chemistry between actors during callbacks or group auditions.

Review Questions

• How do sides function as a tool for casting directors during auditions?
  • Sides serve as a critical tool for casting directors by allowing them to assess an actor's suitability for a role through specific scenes from the script. By choosing particular excerpts that highlight emotional range or character dynamics, directors can observe how well actors interpret the material and embody their characters. This helps them make informed decisions about which actors will best fit the vision for the production.
• Discuss how sides might differ depending on the type of role an actor is auditioning for and the intended direction of a production.
  • Sides can differ greatly based on the role an actor is auditioning for, as they are often selected to showcase specific traits or skills relevant to that character. For example, dramatic roles might have sides that emphasize intense emotional conflicts, while comedic roles may focus on timing and delivery of humor. Additionally, a production's intended direction—whether it aims for realism or stylization—can influence the choice of sides, ensuring they align with the overall artistic vision.
• Evaluate the impact of well-chosen sides on an actor's performance during an audition and potential callback opportunities.
  • Well-chosen sides can significantly impact an actor's performance by providing material that resonates with their strengths and allows them to shine. If the sides effectively showcase an actor’s ability to connect with the character’s emotions or deliver engaging dialogue, it increases their chances of making a memorable impression on casting directors. This can lead to greater callback opportunities as directors seek actors who not only fit the role but also demonstrate adaptability and depth in their performances, showcasing their full potential for various aspects of the production.

Related terms

Cold Reading: The practice of reading a script or sides for the first time during an audition without prior preparation, assessing an actor's spontaneity and interpretation skills.

Monologue: A long speech delivered by a single character in a performance, often used in auditions to demonstrate an actor's range and depth.

Casting Call: An announcement or invitation for actors to audition for specific roles in a production, often detailing the characters and providing sides for preparation.