How to Get Rid of Audition Nerves

Let’s be honest: auditions can be terrifying.Your stomach races, and your body feels as if it forgot all the training. You’re standing in a room full of dancers with different styles, training, experiences, and stories—and you can’t help but think you aren't good enough.

But here’s the truth: auditions are not just about getting in.

Yes, you want to do well. Yes, you may want to get accepted into the school or company. But if you think of an audition only for the result, it hinders the magic of the audition experience.

Shift Your Mindset

When you walk into an audition, set your intentions. Instead of seeing it as something to prove you’re enough, think of it as a chance to share how much you love ballet—that's the magic. You’ve worked so hard. You’ve sacrificed time, energy, and probably your fair share of toenails for this art form. So let it show, and enjoy yourself. Dance in a way that reminds you why you fell in love with ballet in the first place.

Be Open to the Learning From Other Dancers

One of the most beautiful things about auditions is the exposure to new people and new styles. You're dancing alongside people from all over—some with Vaganova, Balanchine, or Cuban training. Although an audition has many parallels to a ballet class, it’s not just a class. This is a one-time experience where you get to watch and learn from others, which is just as valuable as performing in front of the panel.

Notice how they play with the music. How they exaggerate certain movements. How they add sharpness or softness. There is so much to learn from other dancers.

Nerves Are Natural—But Don’t Let Them Steal the Moment

It’s okay to be nervous. It means you care. But don’t let those nerves take away the joy you have from dancing. Take deep breaths. Ground yourself. Maybe even smile at someone in the room.

And remember: you belong there.No matter your background or level, you earned your spot in that room just by showing up.

Final Thoughts

An audition isn’t just something to prove yourself—it’s an opportunity. A place to learn, and to show why you love dancing. So the next time you’re in one, try to let go of the outcome. Focus on the moment, the movement, the music, and most importantly, why you dance.

Maybe what you learn in the audition is more remarkable than the acceptance letter.