Acting Auditions

An audition is required for all acting majors.

We also ask for requirements listed below before your audition occurs. 

1. Apply

Submit the appropriate application: First-time students | Transfer students

2. Prescreen

Upload the following through your Admissions Dashboard, available after you've submitted an application to Nazareth: a resume, headshot, two contrasting monologues, and a "wildcard" video.

Headshot

Please provide a color photo that best represents you, ideally from the torso up. This photo does not have to be professionally shot. 

Resume

Please provide a one-page resume that includes any pertinent theatrical experience, skills, and applicable training. Examples include roles you've had, training, or education. 

Video Recording Details

All videos can be about 90 seconds or less. Each video can be recorded separately with an introduction "slate". A "slate" should state your name, the name of the play, the playwright or playwrights, and role you are playing. If you would like to include your pronouns, state them as well.

All videos should be uploaded as YouTube links for easier access. We recommend creating private, unlisted videos for privacy purposes.

Monologues

Please provide two monologues, contrasting in nature. Examples of contrasting include comedic and serious, physical and internalized, blatant and subtle.

One monologue should be contemporary (taken from a play that was written after 1980/1990 to the present) and one should be Shakespearean or realism (written before the 1980's). 

Other tips include:

  • Choose monologues about which you feel passionately, have a strong connection and have a strong need to perform.

  • Prepare and present monologues that are completely memorized and about which you feel prepared and confident.

"Wildcard" 

This video can showcase your personality or share something about you. This media can be ANYTHING you want — a special skill, an interesting story about yourself, a passion speech, etc. A short film you were in, a short film you created, or both.

Videos do not have to be professionally produced and does not need to include a slate.

3. Upon email invitation, schedule your audition

  • Auditions are required before applicant notification, as Nazareth accepts students directly to our programs.
  • Schedule your audition (below)
    • Timing: Auditions are held from fall to spring. All audition dates will close two weeks prior, so please register early.
    • Format: In-person (on campus or during Chicago Unified Auditions February 3-4, 2026), or virtual if you cannot make it to one of our in-person dates.

Schedule Your Audition

Select an audition date

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Virtual audition

Nazareth will coordinate with you a recorded audition. You will submit your recordings through your Admissions Dashboard using YouTube.

Please email Catherine Gregory, cgregor3@naz.edu, if you’d like to pursue this option.

Audition Process

On your audition day, please bring a printed headshot and resume. 

For your scheduled audition date, you will receive confirmation emails prior, but will not receive the full schedule until you arrive on your audition day.

Monologues

We require two contrasting monologues. Each monologue should be 90 seconds or less.

  • Monologues can be from a play or film. 
  • One of the monologues can be from Shakespeare, but it is not required
  • Expect to begin with a short conversation, followed by monologue sessions and a Q&A.

Audition tips

  • Our audition requirements are intentionally flexible. We want you to be successful in this audition (and in your career)! We are eager to meet you and experience your creative process.
  • Avoid trying out new material, underdeveloped monologues or performing something someone "told you to do." Choose material about which you are passionate. Choose a story that you need to tell us.
  • It is okay if that story is outside your age range. 
  • Use the optional "wildcard video" to share something with us you might otherwise be unable to share, or something you want to begin a conversation during your audition. 
  • Feeling nervous? That's OK! Turn that distraction into creative energy and then share it with us. Never come in the room trying to hide anything. We see you, and we want to see you!
  • If you have any questions, please reach out before your audition.

Questions?

For technology issues, questions about the admissions process, or questions regarding your application:

For questions related to the theatre & dance department or audition material:

Scholarships

Nazareth offers performing arts scholarships based on the quality of your audition.