How to Audition Without an Agent (Step-by-Step Guide)
Take Control of Your Musical Theatre Career
If you're auditioning without an agent, you're not alone. And you're not behind. Many performers—both new and experienced—build thriving careers by learning how to be their own agent. The key is understanding the tools, platforms, and mindset that put you in control.
Here's your complete guide to navigating the audition world independently, from submission strategies to self-promotion.
Use Actors Access as Your Submission Hub
Actors Access is one of the most powerful tools for performers today. With a free account, you can start browsing roles right away. Here's how to maximize it:
Set up your profile with clear, recent headshots and a polished resume.
Upload your reels, clips, and vocal demos.
Use filters to find the most relevant auditions for your location, experience, and union status.
Set alerts so you're always among the first to submit.
Be sure to read the breakdowns carefully. Understanding who the casting team is and what they're seeking will help you tailor your submission.
Tap Into Backstage for Even More Opportunities
Backstage is another essential platform, especially if you're non-union. You’ll find regional shows, tours, indie films, and more.
Create a profile and upload your materials.
Search and filter listings by pay, location, and project type.
Stay on top of daily listings to catch new opportunities.
The best part? Many listings allow for easy online submissions—no agent required.
Don’t Skip Equity and Playbill Listings
If you're an Equity member (or plan to be), make use of:
Equity's audition portal for Broadway, Off-Broadway, and regional work.
Playbill.com, which lists both union and non-union calls, workshops, and developmental projects.
Follow instructions closely on how to submit for each project. It may vary from sending a self-tape to filling out a submission form.
Build a Strong, Focused Profile
Regardless of platform, your online profile should work for you:
Keep your resume and training section current.
Add clips that show your range—vocal, acting, dance.
Choose headshots that reflect your current look and casting potential.
Tailor your profile for the roles you want.
Think of your profile as your storefront. When a casting team clicks your name, you want them to get a clear sense of what you offer.
Insider Tips for Success
Being your own agent means mastering the submission game. Here’s how to stay ahead:
Stay organized with a submission tracker or digital calendar.
Practice and polish your self-tape setup (lighting, sound, framing).
Keep training and networking. Take workshops. Follow casting directors.
Don’t wait for the "perfect" listing—submit regularly and strategically.
Consistency builds momentum.
When You’re Ready for More Support…
If you're feeling stuck or unsure how to level up your materials, I can help. I work 1:1 with performers to:
Strengthen their submissions
Clarify their career goals
Upgrade their audition materials
Book a coaching session to get tailored support that meets you where you are.
Free Resource: Audition Tracker Template
Want to stay organized? Download my free Audition Tracker Google Sheet to keep tabs on what you've submitted, callbacks, feedback, and follow-ups.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need an agent to start your career. What you do need is a system, a strategy, and belief in your ability to take the lead.
Every self-submission is an act of professional courage. And every time you show up, you’re building a career that reflects you.
Stay persistent, stay prepared, and keep showing up.
Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers thrive onstage and off. She brings over two decades of experience and a unique perspective from her bi-coastal lifestyle as a working artist. A former college professor, she now splits her time between performing, coaching, and creating digital resources to support other artists. Follow her on Instagram or check out the Musical Theatre Mentor YouTube channel for weekly career advice.
