Hello! This is my first time posting. My name is Molly, I am 19 years old. I had only been to Halloween Horror Nights 18 before I was pretty much mesmerized as well as dead set on trying out for a scareactor role the next year (HHN 19). I did a lot of online research about the auditions, what to expect, when to arrive, etc. I found out that auditions began at 7pm on a certain day after recieving the audition dates through e-mail (you can set this up by going to the Universal audition page and inputting your e-mail with a request for the dates). From what I researched online, I found it recommended to arrive painfully early -- so I ended up getting to auditions at around 4. The wait really sucked, especially because it rained which was timely. But all in all not so bad. I was one of the first fourty people in for audition, and I am happy I was, because it increases your chances of getting a role SIGNIFICANTLY. These people are looking for all shapes and sizes, and once they have enough of each then they turn people away a lot.
Once we were let in the audition building, we were asked to take a polaroid headshot, were given a number, and were corralled into a room. We sat and listened to someone talk briefly about the event and what they were looking for in a scareactor. In addition, we filled out forms with our availability and what we would prefer to be selected as if selected (street or house) as well as if we wanted to be fully seasonal, active back up or on firecrew. Once all of our paperwork was finished, we were seperated into groups and lined up to go into the audition trailer. While I have heard many different stories as tosome had to scare the judges. It really is just a matter of chance what you will be asked to do - so the best advice is to just be yourself and try to be out there! This job isn't for shy people and the judges know that, you've got to really be passionate - so don't hold back!
After we all finished, they asked out to stand outside and wait while the judges deliberated. Some people were asked to come back in, for example a guy friend I had made was asked to come back in with another dude, only to be asked if he would be willing to shave his beard for a part they were considering them for. If you are asked back in for any reason don't be scared, they just want to see what youre willing to do. Next we were seperated into two groups - just like on American Idol, one group is told they are hired and one is told they just didn't make the cut. It's a pretty exciting experience, but I must say the whole audition will take up a lengthy amount of time - so don't be surprised. Finally if you do get hired, you will be asked to fill out an online job application for the company to make it official and will undergo a background check type of thing as well as will be asked to sign up for an orientation.
Now one thing many people wonder about is how do you find out what part you get? In my experience, I recieved a call and was asked if I would accept the role I was offered. It's all just very organized and you have a say in the matter. Of course if you say no to a part, i would assume they wouldn't offer you another.
And I will absolutely agree - don't lie about your availability it will bite you in your a**. 3 strikes and youre out when it comes to tardies, and while the event doesnt start until late, I was required to get there around 4:30. You must be on your feet for 45 minutes at a time and you get "45 minute breaks" (after getting out of the haunted houses and etc it feels like 15 minutes) and you definitely will lose weight, sweat and be tired a LOT. Not to mention you'll be dodging punches from inebriated guests. While all of this does sound awful , I tend to remember complaining so much during the event and yet I am anxious for auditions to start again. It's an addicting thing, you meet all varieties of people, and you just feel SO accmplished when you make a group of straight men hug each other from being so frightened. And while you are only paid minimum wage, the benefits (free park admission and discounts) is nice for only working for a month.
Well anyways - sorry for the length but I believe all this info is VERY important to know so you feel absolutely confident with auditions.
Good luck!
- Molly aka Combat Chuckie (The one with the cool machine gun) from Chucky Friends Til' The End 2009!
