What is a cold read?
A cold read is when an actor is asked to read from a script with little or no rehearsal or time to review it. This technique is used in theatre, television, and film auditions and sometimes rehearsals.
Usually, an actor is asked to do a cold read during an audition when the casting director, producer, or playwright wants to get a general idea of the actors’ performing capabilities. Cold reads can be especially hard for young actors, who are still perfecting their reading skills, so we’ve prepared some tips for your child to master cold reads!
Read read read!
It will be much easier for your child to handle cold reads if they feel confident reading new material out loud. So, encourage them to practice reading aloud every day as a way to strengthen the skills. You can even be their reading partner - it will help your child get more motivated if they don’t have to practice alone.
Prepare
While there’s no way to know which lines an actor is going to get during a cold read, they should prepare what they can. Meaning doing as much research about the project they’re auditioning for and, of course, arriving early to the audition. This will give your child a chance to compose themselves, concentrate before the audition, and maybe even get some extra time with the script!
Ask questions
Once your kid gets the script, they usually have a few minutes to run it through quickly. Encourage them to read it aloud before the audition starts. Teach your kid to ask the casting team questions beforehand if anything in the script is unclear.
Pay attention
During a cold read, your child should pay attention to their scene partner (if they have one). They shouldn’t frantically look into the script when their scene partner is talking. Instead, they should be looking at them and responding in character.
Relax
Cold reads are never perfect, nor are they expected to be. To make a mistake or stumble on a word is normal, so coach your child not to get discouraged if they make a mistake. In a case where your kid stumbles on a word, they shouldn’t stop reading, nor is it advised to start over. They should relax and recover, meaning keep reading in character.
Overall
Cold reads are tough for even the most experienced actors. Remind your child that their natural talent as an actor does not reflect their cold read. Instead, teach them that being good at cold reads is a skill that can be gained and improved. Practice, patience, and your support as a parent will help your child do their best in a cold read. Good luck!
