UNDERSTANDING EQUITY CHORUS CALLS & PRINCIPAL AUDITIONS
For actors navigating the professional entertainment industry, Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) is a big name that many have heard. It is crucial to understand the various audition formats as you are beginning your career or considering joining the union. Two of the most common types of auditions are Equity Chorus Calls (ECC) and Equity Principal Auditions (EPA). While both of these are prominent in casting process for productions, there are facets to each that differentiate which you might consider going to if you are looking for auditions. In this article, we are going to cover what each entrails and how they differ from each other so you are equipped as you begin to shine in the audition room.
EQUITY CHORUS CALLS (ECC)
An Equity Chorus Call is an audition specifically designed for ensemble roles and chorus parts in musicals. Here’s what you need to know:
ROLE FOCUS: ECCs are primarily aimed at casting singers and dancers for ensemble positions. This includes parts that may not have significant lines but require strong vocal and movement skills.
CALL FORMAT: Typically, an ECC is an open call, meaning that all eligible AEA members can attend. Non-Equity performers may also be allowed to audition, depending on the production's requirements.
AUDITION STRUCTURE: Dance ECCs usually begin with a dance call where participants showcase their dance abilities. Following the dance portion, actors may be asked to sing a short selection (often a specific cut from a song). Singer ECCs usually have a group of singers assigned to a time slot where they will come in and sing a short song in the style of the show.
GROUP SIZES: Because ECCs are for ensemble roles, the number of actors in the room is much larger than that of EPAs where you are going in the room one at a time.
EQUITY PRINCIPAL AUDITIONS (EPA)
An Equity Principal Audition is tailored for casting principal roles — the leading characters in a production with a substantial presence in the show. Here are how EPAs differentiate from ECCs…
ROLE FOCUS: EPAs are specifically for actors auditioning for leading or supporting roles in a production. This includes characters with substantial lines and character development.
CALL FORMAT: Unlike ECCs, EPAs are typically organized on an appointment basis. Actors must book a time slot to audition, which helps ensure a more manageable number of participants for the casting team.
AUDITION STRUCTURE: During an EPA, actors generally present a song selection from their book (or the show) showcasing their acting and vocal abilities. They could also be asked to prepare a monologue (or scene from the production) for plays.
GROUP SIZES: Since EPAs are more focused on principal roles, the number of actors auditioning is usually smaller than at an ECC, allowing for a more intimate audition setting.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Below are additional resources where you can find specific auditions and breakdowns for upcoming productions.
Actor’s Access
Playbill
Broadway World
Actor’s Equity Association
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