We all know how nerve-wrecking it is to go for an audition or an interview. You start creating scenarios in your head of how it will go and, if you’re the nervous type, you might overthink yourself into a panic attack. Mix all of this with self-doubt and you have a recipe of disaster (“What if I forget my opening lines? What If I freeze? Should I even Go? arghh!”)

Another thing that gets us very nervous is the mingling we do before auditions, where we see others practicing and we start doubting our capabilities because we’re now comparing ourselves to others.

There’s also the issue of intimidation. The “I heard” brigade, who might get in to your head. You know those people, “I heard they already have someone in mind” or “I heard they’re not looking for guys this year.” These kinds of comments can throw you off your game and make you lose focus -- which is especially what you need to have before going into your audition/interview.

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Spending time around people (who are also nervous- mind you) is detrimental to one’s focus before an audition and I would always carry earphones and listen to my music so I can center myself and flush out the distractions and nerves. Your nerves will also be over the roof if you have not prepared well, so that is why going to the audition you should know your script and not feel pressured to memorise it a few minutes before your audition as this will really make you nervous.

When it comes to auditions we tend to forget the fun aspect of them and just focus on getting the role, one has to remember that we will be auditioning for most of our careers, so you have to learn to love it.

It's a chance to play, to disappear into another world, to be present and be someone else for a few minutes. Always remember that nobody is forcing you to be there, and nobody is holding a gun to your head. Treat it like this fun little hobby.  If you get the job, cool. If not, that's okay too.  You don't have to be Ayanda Makayi or Given Stuurman, just be you, and be okay with not being the best actor on the planet.  All you can control is how prepared and present you are. It all boils down to being focused.

We spoke to some experienced actors who shared some words of wisdom on how to overcome nerves for your MTV Shuga audition.

Lwazi Pinyana:

Relax, stay come and put out your best, focus your mind on the script, think it through and the person you’re talking to, it’s a dialogue so always remember to listen and respond!

Sanele “Sunny” Sibiya:

And some short advice for overcome nerves and low-self confidence before your big audition.

What helps me overcome nerves is to be prepared and to breathe!! I always make sure I practice my lines and understand the content, context, and character so I can go into the audition room with my best foot forward. It's also important to know that deep slow breathing before and audition helps you focus and concentrate a little better!

I have a mantra: nerves are not so bad, it just means you're really excited to do well!

https://twitter.com/MTVShuga/status/1027138751691202561

Bubu Mazibuko:

My advice is “Slow down, breathe, breathe again and have lots of fun”

This advice comes from people who have worked and thrived as actors, it is amazing that they still remind you to have fun and always be yourself.

Steven John Ward:

Regarding Nerves: Those auditioning should try to forget about the 1 shot chance. We WANT them to get the job. We’re on their side. Focus on what you’re giving us. If they just breathe they will do great. It takes 1 deep breath before you start to relax.

While waiting in the queue before you go in, stretch and yawn. It relaxes your muscles and nerves make you tense up. Use the basics of your body to relax yourself.

Tiny Mungwe:

Concentrate all your focus on preparation for the audition; practice your breathing and make sure you use that practice during the audition. On the day, lead with confidence and listen attentively

ICYMI: Uzoamaka Aniunoh knows a thing or two about overcoming audition nerves: 

https://twitter.com/MTVShuga/status/972132130930208768

What advice would you share with anyone going to the auditions? Let us know on social media by tagging #MTVShugaAudition