Hi!
So this is a really dumb question and I’m sorry; but I hear a lot of times after auditions there’s an interview. After the interview is done, they’ll ask ‘Do you have any questions to ask us?’
I know that it’s pretty important to ask some questions because you get more time with the auditioners and you also get more insight on the program; but the problem is, I just can’t think of any questions to ask! I’ve already done a ton of research on all the programs, so I don’t really have any concerns/burning questions.
Anyone have any tips on where to start thinking up questions? I’m sure there are things I should be asking, but just can’t think of, so I appreciate any tips/questions you can offer!
Thank you!
Some things to think about:
- What makes a student successful in your program?
- What types of performance opportunities do underclassmen (freshmen?) have?
- What is a "day in the life of" like for students (could be very important if you are not familiar with the "BFA schedule")?
- What are the recent graduates doing?
- Does the program have relationships with outside (regional/equity) theaters? Can students earn EMC points prior to graduation?
- Do students get exposed to industry professionals (e.g., master classes, showcase, etc).
One question that my D ended up asking at nearly all her auditions was something like, “What is your favorite thing/class to teach in your program, and why?” She thought it gave her insight to the faculty that she otherwise wouldn’t have had, and it got a good reception from a lot of people.
I’d stay away from questions you can find out on websites, etc., unless you want clarification about something. You want them to know you’ve done your research well.
Always ask a question if asked if you have any! Fortunately, D learned that in a mock audition.
What don’t most people understand about your program? Are there any common misconception?
Love @artskids suggestions.
Another thing you can do is ask about opportunities of things you’re interested in. It simultaneously can show them more about yourself. For instance, “On top of acting, I really enjoy playing my guitar. Would I have any opportunities to develop my music skills within the program?”
I would also try to find things that specifically pertain to that school.
I remember that I asked Otterbein about their internship thing because they have that instead of a showcase. I asked Rutgers more about their Meisner approach, Carnegie Mellon about their study abroad, etc. Before each audition, I’d come up with 3 questions I had about the school and 3 things that attracted me to the school.
You’re smart to plan for questions. My D found most schools interviewed her, but the one big one asked if she had any questions and she didn’t! I think she was starstruck. Needless to say, she didn’t get in. Lesson learned. Happy ending though she is currently in a great BFA acting program!
Otterbein does have a showcase. 
I think it’s really wise, not just to have questions prepared, but to rehearse them. Maybe that sounds like overkill, butI I think it’s really easy to get nervous from the questions and for your brain to shut down, especially if they ask the questions after your monologues/songs. I know my D was like a deer in the headlights several times and I’m sure this didn’t help.