Guildhall School Audition Guide
The Guildhall School of Music & Drama — located in the Barbican, known for producing versatile, industry-ready actors.
Official requirements
Guildhall requires two contrasting speeches: one Shakespeare and one contemporary (post-1956). Each should be a maximum of two minutes. First-round auditions are held at the Barbican and regionally. Recalls involve working with faculty on your speeches, group improvisation exercises, and a panel interview.
What panels look for
Guildhall looks for actors with strong instincts and genuine presence. They value emotional truth and the ability to connect with an audience. The panel is particularly interested in how you handle direction — can you take a note and integrate it immediately? They also look for physical awareness and vocal clarity without tension.