Audition Techniques for
Marginalized Performers

Saturday, September 19^th
12pm-5pm

Auditioning is a specialized skill—and for performers from marginalized communities, it often comes with additional challenges. This intensive one-day workshop is designed to equip emerging and established performers with the practical tools, confidence, and industry knowledge needed to excel in today’s film and television audition landscape.

Led by acclaimed actor, director, producer, mentor, and ACTRA National DEIB Chair Mariah Inger, participants will explore every stage of the audition process, from interpreting casting breakdowns and preparing self-tapes to delivering compelling in-room auditions. Through practical exercises, on-camera coaching, and industry discussion, performers will strengthen both their technical audition skills and their professional confidence.

OVERVIEW

Participants will learn how to:

• Understand the complete audition process, from casting notices to callbacks.
• Analyze scripts and prepare stronger, more authentic audition performances.
• Master self-tape techniques, including eye lines, framing, body positioning, and connecting with a reader.
• Make a strong first impression in the audition room.
• Recognize and navigate microaggressions and identity-related challenges that may arise during the casting process.
• Advocate for themselves professionally when audition material raises concerns around race, culture, gender, disability, or other aspects of identity.
• Determine when an audition may be worth declining—and when to move forward while protecting their well-being.
• Develop healthy strategies for managing rejection and moving confidently from one audition to the next.
• Build the confidence to bring their authentic selves into every audition while remaining competitive in today’s evolving industry.

Mariah Inger is an acclaimed actor, director, producer, educator, and mentor with more than 30 years of experience across film, television, theatre, voice, radio, and video games. A passionate advocate for equity in the entertainment industry, she serves as the National Chair of ACTRA’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) Committee and has dedicated her career to mentoring emerging artists from marginalized communities. Through her work as an educator and industry leader, Mariah has developed and led professional training programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives across Canada, empowering performers with the practical skills, confidence, and advocacy tools needed to build successful, authentic careers.

Classes will be held in the DARC Loopspace in the Arts Court at 2 Daly St.

Class size limited – only register if you are fully available

ASL provided upon request (Must confirm prior to Sept.4)