Audition FAQs with David McAllister
The June/July issue of Dance Australia includes our annual Audition Special. Here's a sneak peek at some audition advice from artistic director of The Australian Ballet, David McAllister.
Audition FAQs
Number of dancers in company? - Currently 77 full time dancers plus four Dance Educators visiting schools around the country.
Usual length of contract - Yearly contracts from Jan – Dec
Do you hold annual auditions? If so, what is the usual time of year? - No. We are constantly viewing dancers through our relationship with The Australian Ballet School as well as through private audition with dancers who are interested in working with TAB attending company class.
Do you audition individual dancers? - We will audition individual dancers after seeing a CV and preferably a link to a short show-reel of their work who we believe could be potentially a good fit for the company
What is the best way to apply to audition for your company? - Sending in a resume with photos and link to a short show-reel in the first instance
Type of dancer you are looking for? - We are looking for dancers who have a strong technique, show strong musicality and articulation in their movement and bring a sense of themselves to their dancing. We value a good understanding of placement and alignment, and an openness to constantly developing the understanding of their physicality and technique.
Your advice on how NOT to apply for an audition? - Don’t be late, and if you are delayed make sure you have a contact number to let the company know of your predicament. Makes sure you introduce yourself to the teacher taking class. Make sure you wait until the class is starting to take a place on the barre as many dancers will have a preferred place to stand at the barre and may arrive at the last minute. Don’t push forward in a company class and get in the way of the Principal dancers. Don’t wear too much make-up and crazy dancewear, clean lines and no ‘junk’ will always be appreciated. Ladies pointe shoes are a must for a classical ballet company.
Want to read more? See the June/July issue of 'Dance Australia'. Buy it from your favourite magazine retailer or purchase an online copy via the Dance Australia app or subscribe here.