Audition Ettiquette

Greetings again theatre friends, "If they are filming around the same time". I assume by this statement that the original question perhaps refers to professional TV/Film work. If that is the case, the I would absolutely be attending as many castings and auditions as you or your agent can lay their hands on. In my opinion, live theatre is a different kettle of fish. 'What is the audition etiquette regarding auditioning for or accepting roles in multiple shows?' If this question is really asking 'will it piss people off if I jump ship?' Then I think the short answer is YES. I cannot imagine there would be too many actors, directors or companies out there who would tolerate with good humour such a move from an actor. Casting is a difficult process and a director needs to cast the whole 'picture'. Other castings in the show may have hinged on the assumption that you were going to be performing a certain role. Having done a lot of fringe and independant productions I am also aware that often the writer/director has invested a great deal of their own time and resources in developing the show and preparing for it's staging. Leaving people high and dry to chase a better offer, in my opinion, really is poor form. I do believe that it is legitimate to attend many auditions for practice or experience or so that you can meet several production teams before you find a show that suits. If this be the case, then some up front honesty with the audition panel will save much angst and stress - on everyone. Local theatre companies are well aware of what other rival auditions are occurring at the same time and would naturally expect that people will be hedging their bets. However, once you've accepted a part then I think that unless a major emergency occurs in your life, that you are obliged to see it through. Reputation and reliability is everything and you never know who you are impressing or pissing off. Tulipa.